Global Health Advocacy Incubator has released a new report on Cameroon's landmark civil registration reform, highlighting its technical assistance involvement in the process.
-- A report documenting Cameroon's civil registration modernization has been released, detailing the successful five-year collaboration between the Global Health Advocacy Incubator and government stakeholders in drafting the comprehensive identity documentation reform. The report highlights GHAI's technical assistance role in creating Law No. 2024/016, which modernized the country's outdated 1981 civil registration framework through digital processes and universal coverage provisions approved by the National Assembly on December 23, 2024.
To learn more about civil registration systems, go to https://www.advocacyincubator.org/news/2025-06-09-cameroons-new-civil-registration-law-a-victory-for-social-and-health-and-development
One of the biggest challenges facing many African nations today is civil documentation. Nearly half of children under five lack birth certificates, limiting their access to education, healthcare, and other essential services. This new law introduces digital civil registration certificates and a Unique Personal Identification Number system to streamline documentation processes in Cameroon.
"This modernized system will provide the government with reliable data for evidence-based public health planning while protecting inheritance rights for widows and children," explained a GHAI representative involved in the law's development.
Key provisions outlined in the report include free registration and first-time certificate issuance, extended 90-day birth registration windows, and decentralized service delivery through health facilities. The law establishes universal registration of births, deaths, and marriages while improving data protection standards for personal information.
It documents how GHAI began providing technical assistance for the legislation development in 2020, with recommendations incorporated into subsequent drafts, strengthening provisions for vital statistics collection and data protection protocols.
The report mentions a collaborative workshop in November 2021 that brought together stakeholders, including the National Bureau of Civil Status, Ministry of Public Health, National Institute of Statistics, and international partners like GIZ and UNICEF. This multi-stakeholder approach ensured the legislation met international standards while addressing requirements specific to Cameroon.
GHAI highlights that threform benefits both government operations and citizen rights protection. Government agencies gain access to comprehensive vital statistics for policy development and resource allocation. Citizens, particularly vulnerable populations, receive enhanced legal protection for education, inheritance, and citizenship rights.
About the Global Health Advocacy Incubator
For the past decade, the Global Health Advocacy Incubator has supported communities and decision-makers in advancing stronger public health protections. Its collaborations with grassroots organizations and national leaders have contributed to policy that touches the lives of more than 4 billion people in 32 countries. Beyond advocacy, the Incubator equips partners with technical know-how and practical frameworks that anchor health policies in local leadership and long-term sustainability. The organization operates from its headquarters in Washington, DC.
To read the full report, visit https://www.advocacyincubator.org/news/2025-06-09-cameroons-new-civil-registration-law-a-victory-for-social-and-health-and-development
Contact Info:
Name: Jen Patterson
Email: Send Email
Organization: Global Health Advocacy Incubator
Address: 1400 I Street Northwest Suite 1200, Washington, DC 20005, United States
Website: https://www.advocacyincubator.org/
Source: PressCable
Release ID: 89169105
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