How to secure your VAS Declaration in Cameroon within 30 Days.
By Banyong Fonyam Jonie Jr
To legally operate Value-Added Services (VAS) in Cameroon such as SMS-based services, mobile payments, content streaming, or premium call services,you must obtain a Declaration of Value-Added Services (DVAS) from the Telecommunications Regulatory Board (Agence de Régulation des Télécommunications, ART).
Definition of Value-Added Services (VAS) in Cameroon
VAS refers to non-core telecom services offered alongside standard voice/data services, including:
✔ SMS/MMS-based services (e.g., voting, alerts)
✔ Mobile financial services (USSD banking, mobile money)
✔ Premium-rate numbers (paid calls/SMS)
✔ Content services (music, video, gaming)
A common misconception we encounter with international clients and local startups is that launching a Value-Added Service (VAS) in Cameroon requires a complex telecommunications license. In many cases, the efficient and correct path is actually a Declaration Regime.
Understanding this distinction is the first critical step to a compliant and successful market entry. Here’s what you need to know…
As your strategic legal partner, Fonyam & Partners is positioned to guide you through this precise regulatory landscape, ensuring your venture is compliant, efficient, and poised for success.
The Governing Legal Framework
The operation of VAS is primarily regulated by:
– Law No. 2010/013 of 21st December 2010 governing electronic communications in Cameroon.
– Decree No. 2012/1639/PM of June 2012, which fixes the modalities of declaration and the conditions of operation for networks under the declaration regime.
The Declaration Process: Key Requirements
Pursuant to Section 5 of Decree No. 2012/1639/PM, an application for a Receipt of Prior Declaration must be submitted to the Telecommunications Regulatory Board (ART) in five (5) original copies. The dossier must include the following exhibits:
* A duly completed and signed application form (provided by ART).
* The company’s full name and complete address.
* The Company’s Articles of Association.
* A duly certified copy of the Trade and Personal Property Credit Register (RCCM).
* A duly certified copy of the Taxpayer Card (Numéro d’Identification Fiscale – NIF).
* A detailed statement on the origin of funds allocated to financing the project, including the identity of the providers.
* A comprehensive description of the service’s object, characteristics, and nature.
* The modalities for launching the service.
* The intended coverage area and a provisional implementation calendar.
* An attestation of localization for the business premises.
* Financial projections (forecasts of expenses and revenues) for a period of two to five years.
* Documentation of relevant experience in telecommunications, including technical partners and their previous achievements.
* The nature and technical characteristics of the equipment to be deployed.
* Proof of payment of the non-refundable fees for the technical review of the application file to ART.
Conditions for Approval: Adherence to Specifications
Under Section 10(3) of Law No. 2010/013, the issuance of the Receipt of Prior Declaration is contingent upon compliance with specifications relating to critical areas, including:
* The nature, characteristics, and coverage area of the proposed service.
* Service continuity and neutrality concerning transmitted messages.
* Health, environmental protection, and town planning regulations.
* National defense and public security obligations.
* The free routing of emergency electronic communications.
* Service interoperability requirements.
* Submission to regulatory controls and audits by ART.
* Transparent contractual conditions and robust consumer protection measures.
* The duration, conditions for revocation, and renewal of the authorization.
* The calculation of required contributions, including those to universal service.
Outcome and Timeline
Upon successful application, the operator receives a Receipt of Prior Declaration alongside the binding Tender Specifications.
Processing Time: The Telecommunications Regulatory Board (ART) is legally bound to respond to a complete application within 30 days of receipt.
How Fonyam & Partners Can Assist
Navigating this declaration process requires meticulous preparation and an understanding of regulatory nuances to prevent delays or rejection. Our firm provides comprehensive legal support, including:
– Regulatory Advisory: Clarifying the specific VAS categories and applicable rules for your business model.
– Documentation Preparation: Ensuring your application dossier is complete, accurate, and compelling.
– Liaison with ART: Acting as your authorized representative to manage all communications and follow-ups with the regulatory body.
– Compliance Review: Auditing your technical and operational plans against the mandated specifications for pre-emptive compliance.
Investing in Cameroon’s digital economy is a venture filled with potential. Allow our expertise to serve as the foundation for your compliant and prosperous entry into the market.
For a detailed consultation tailored to your specific VAS project, please contact us.
Banyong Fonyam Jonie Jr.
Managing Partner, Fonyam & Partners
+237 675 859 695
fonyamlaw92@gmail.com