In view of making the economic climate accessible to foreign investors, the Cameroonian government allows foreign individuals and entities to purchase and own land in the country. However, there are certain restrictions andregulations that need to be followed.
Foreign land ownership in Cameroon is governed by the LAW NO. 80-21 OF 14TH JULY 1980 TO AMEND CERTAIN PROVISIONS OF ORDINANCE NO 74-1 OF 16TH JULY 1974 TO ESTABLISH RULES GOVERNING LAND TENURE, which outlines the procedures and requirements for land acquisition.
Foreigners who wish to own land in Cameroon must obtain permission from the Ministry of Land and State Property.
1. The provisions of Article 10 (new) of ordinance N°.74-1 of 6 July 1974 to establish rules governing land tenure, as amended by ordinance N°.77-1 of 10 January 1977, are hereby amended and replaced by the following new provisions:
10 (new). – Natural persons and corporate bodies of foreign nationality or incorporation wishing to invest in Cameroon as well as diplomatic and consular missions and international organizations may conclude lease agreements or purchase landed property, except in the border areas.
Deeds drawn up for this purpose shall be null and void unless they bear:
– The endorsement of the minister in charge of lands as concerns private individuals;
– The endorsement of minister of foreign Affairs and the minister in charge of lands as concerns the diplomatic and consular missions and international organizations.
The process typically involves submitting an application along with supportingdocuments, such as a copy of the purchase agreement or lease agreement, proof of funds, and other relevant paperwork. The application will then be reviewed by the ministry, and upon approval, the foreign individual or entity will be granted ownership rights.
Furthermore, it is important to note that the ownership of land by foreigners in certain sectors, such as the border or agricultural land, may be subject to specific regulations and limitations.
IMPORTANCE STEPS TO FOLLOW WHEN BUYING LAND IN CAMEROON
Here we shall discuss the steps to take before buying land in Cameroon and the importance of legal advice when buying land in Cameroon.
PHYSICAL INSPECTION OF LAND
Before you buy land in Cameroon, a physical inspection is usually conducted on the site where the land is situated in order to determine whether the proposed property described is accurate and genuine. Such an inspection would also reveal whether is any adverse warning such as “caveat emptor” placed on the land.
CONDUCT A SEARCH
Before you buy land in Cameroon search is to be carried out on the specified land. The search is essential to determine if the vendor is the rightful owner of the land or has the right to sell the land. The search will also reveal whether the title document presented by the vendor is genuine and whether the property is not under dispute or subject to any government acquisition.
EXECUTE A DEED OF CONVEYANCE
When it has been confirmed that the title of the vendor is not defective before you buy land in Cameroon a deed of conveyance can be executed. This occurs when both parties (buyer and seller) complete and sign the Deed of conveyance and payment is made for the land.
PROCESSING OF SURVEY PLAN
A survey document is an official document that clearly identifies the particular plot of land purchased and also describes the precise measurement. The survey is very relevant and important in every property transaction. Clear proof of the identity of the land plot is needed thus, the need for a survey plan as approved by the town planning authority. The survey plan gives the coordinates of the plot and must fit into the official map of the region. It also identifies the boundaries of the property.
STAMPING OF DEED OF CONVEYANCE.
The deeds are then presented for stamping at the Stamp Duties Registry including receipts confirming payment of stamp duty.
In conclusion, it can be emphatically stated that the procedure for acquiring land or landed property in Cameroon is a very tasking one. The importance of legal advice when buying land in Cameroon is that the interested buyer may seek legal assistance from property lawyers to navigate such transactions and understand what it takes to buy a land.
If you are interested in purchasing land in Cameroon as a foreigner, it is recommended to consult with a local lawyer or a professional real estate agent who can guide you through the process, provide the necessary legal advice, and help with the required documentation.
