Introduction
Whether you’re hiring your first employee or managing a growing workforce, employment law is one area you cannot afford to get wrong. Cameroon’s Labor Code outlines clear obligations for both employers and employees—and violations can lead to costly lawsuits, reputational damage, or sanctions from labor authorities.
At Footprint Attorneys, we help companies build fair, compliant, and legally sound employment systems—from drafting contracts to resolving disputes.
1. 📝 Employment Contracts: What’s Legally Required
Cameroonian labor law requires a written contract for every employment relationship. There are two major types:
➤ Fixed-Term Contract (CDD)
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Specific start and end date
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Often used for projects or temporary needs
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Can be renewed only once before converting to indefinite
➤ Indefinite Contract (CDI)
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No expiration date
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Subject to ongoing obligations and protections
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Termination requires strong legal justification
🚨 Oral contracts are legally binding but difficult to enforce or defend in court.
📎 Our firm drafts employment contracts tailored to sector-specific needs while protecting your business from future disputes.
2. 💼 Employer Obligations: From Onboarding to Termination
Hiring in Cameroon isn’t just about offering a salary. Employers must:
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Register employees with CNPS (social security)
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Declare contracts with Ministry of Labour (MINEFOP)
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Pay mandatory contributions (CNPS, insurance, etc.)
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Provide work schedules, payslips, and leave benefits
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Respect health, safety, and anti-discrimination laws
📌 Many small businesses ignore these steps until fined during labor inspections. We offer preventive compliance audits to avoid such surprises.
3. 🔁 Termination & Dismissal: Avoiding Wrongful Dismissal Lawsuits
Termination must be:
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Based on just cause (economic, disciplinary, etc.)
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Documented clearly and procedurally sound
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Accompanied by notice or severance, depending on the contract
Improper dismissals can lead to:
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Reinstatement orders
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Salary arrears
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Court-imposed penalties and damages
🛑 Never terminate without legal advice—Footprint Attorneys can guide you or handle employee exit procedures.
4. 👩🏫 Employee Rights & Workplace Protections
Workers in Cameroon have rights protected by law, including:
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Paid annual leave (minimum 18 days)
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Maternity leave (14 weeks minimum)
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Medical coverage and safe work conditions
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Protection against unfair dismissal
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Right to unionize and collective bargaining
We advise HR departments and company founders on how to design compliant HR policies and internal regulations.
5. ⚖️ Resolving Employment Disputes
Disputes can arise from:
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Unpaid wages
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Harassment or unfair treatment
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Contract termination
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Work-related accidents
We offer:
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Representation before labor inspectors and tribunals
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Mediation and negotiation
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Risk assessments before formal action is taken
📂 We’ve helped clients resolve disputes without going to court—and when necessary, we litigate effectively.
Why Work With Footprint Attorneys?
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🧑⚖️ Lawyers experienced in employment litigation, audits, and advisory
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🛠️ Practical, business-friendly solutions for HR teams and entrepreneurs
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⚖️ Strong track record at Labor Tribunal and Court of First Instance
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🎓 Training services for employers on legal hiring practices
Final Word
Employment law isn’t just about compliance—it’s about creating workplaces where business can grow without legal risk. At Footprint Attorneys, we help companies build smart HR systems backed by solid legal structures.
Need HR Legal Support? Let’s Talk
📞 Call us: +237 671 169 950 | +237 654 267 274
📧 Email: tidzemedwin@gmail.com | bongyiij@gmail.com
📍 Offices: Douala, Bamenda
🖱️ Schedule a Labor Law Consultation – [Book Here]