The objective of this article is to contribute to a better understanding of the contribution of ethics in banking governance. The field of investigation is Cameroon. The study covers three subsidiary banks with predominantly Pan-African capital. The empirical material results from an approach marked by documentary study and the realization of semi-structured interviews with managers and bank customers. The results of the analysis show that the banks surveyed see ethics as a governance tool that enables them to improve their image and reputation. They open a reflection on the governance model capable of promoting the consideration of ethics within the banks surveyed.

Since the 1990s bank reforms, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has continued receiving many meanings. Currently, it is one of the major concerns for banks looking out for competitiveness in their business sector, for which banks seek to play a key role in society, proclaiming their citizenship. As financial institutions, they are aware of how important it is to maintain long-term relationships with stakeholders. However, the variety of reflections upon this issue makes it difficult to uphold a universal logic among banks. This article’s objective is to examine the suitable governance model that can foster social responsibility in bank milieu in Cameroon. Empirical studies were conducted using the triangulation method characterised by desk review and semi-directive interviews with managers and clients from nine (09) banks. The results demonstrate that the necessary and suitable governance model that can foster banks’ Corporate Social Responsibility takes into account endogenous and exogenous aspects integrating economic, social and environmental dimensions.