Story, Louvier Kindo Tombe
Some of the different threats faced by Cameroon at the moment include targeted disinformation campaigns, insidious influence operations, unfair competition surrounding strategic assets, illicit access to sensitive data, and regulatory manipulation designed to undermine national sovereignty.
To address these challenges, the country has embarked on a bold initiative, redefining its national security architecture to include a sharp focus on economic warfare.
A landmark partnership between the Directorate General of External Research (DGRE) and the African Centre for Competitive Intelligence (ACCI) has positioned the nation as a proactive actor on the international economic stage.
According to the DGRE’s Director General, “the institution’s traditional responsibilities—focused on surveillance and early warning—must now be complemented by a robust economic intelligence function geared towards protecting Cameroon’s strategic interests.”
The Presidency of the Republic spearheaded this transformation, calling on the expertise of Dr. Guy Gweth, a renowned authority in competitive intelligence in Africa.
His appointment as chief instructor for the DGRE’s training program that recently took place in Yaounde is emblematic of the country’s decision to place its trust in homegrown excellence and African intellectual leadership.
As Dr. Gweth brings his expertise to the table, it’s clear that “it’s not only a question of capacity building—it is a declaration of strategic autonomy and economic patriotism.”
Between June 30 and July 4, 2025, the DGRE hosted a week-long intensive training session in competitive intelligence, delivered to a select group of 50 military, police, and civilian agents.
The training marked a significant shift in the DGRE’s mandate, expanding its focus beyond traditional security concerns to address emerging forms of economic conflict.
In this new era of economic warfare, Cameroon recognizes the importance of being proactive.
By cultivating a close collaboration between the DGRE, ACCI, and the Ministry of the Economy, Planning and Regional Development, the country is sending a clear message to its partners and competitors alike: “the country is fully committed to defending its economic sovereignty with intelligence, sophistication, and resolve.”
Building strength from within
This partnership between DGRE and ACCI reflects the government’s determination to confront the realities of economic conflict with tools specifically adapted to the continent’s strategic interests.
With the tools now in place, Cameroon equips itself not only to anticipate threats and capitalize on emerging opportunities but also to influence international power dynamics in ways that serve its long-term interests.
This marks the dawn of a new era – an era in which Cameroon is not simply reacting to external pressures but actively shaping its strategic environment.
