About Govoir
What is Govoir?
Govoir is a classifieds platform that lets private individuals and professionals publish, search for, sell, and buy items in Cameroon. Govoir connects sellers and buyers. Govoir does not buy or sell the items published by users.
How does Govoir work?
A seller publishes a listing with information about their item. An interested buyer can then contact them directly through Govoir messaging to ask questions and, if needed, arrange a meeting. The transaction is then completed directly between the seller and the buyer.
Buying on Govoir
How do I buy an item?
When you find an item you are interested in:
- contact the seller through Govoir messaging;
- ask for the information you need about the item;
- agree a meeting in a suitable place;
- inspect the item carefully;
- pay only when you are satisfied with its condition.
Can I pay directly on Govoir?
No. Govoir does not currently offer online payment. You must therefore never enter your banking or Mobile Money details on Govoir to buy an item. Payment is made directly between the buyer and the seller, usually when the item is handed over.
Does Govoir recommend paying before receiving the item?
No. We strongly recommend not paying for an item before you have seen and checked it. Where possible, meet the seller, inspect the item, and make sure it matches the listing before you pay.
How should I check an item before buying it?
Take time to check in particular:
- its overall condition;
- how it works;
- whether it matches the photos and description;
- any defects;
- the accessories that were advertised;
- its serial number or documents when those are relevant.
For valuable items, do not hesitate to ask for additional proof.
What if the price looks too good to be true?
Be especially careful. An abnormally low price can be a sign of fraud. Ask the seller questions, check the item before paying, and do not let yourself be pushed into paying quickly.
Messaging and safety
Why use Govoir messaging?
We recommend keeping your exchanges in Govoir messaging, especially at the start of a transaction. This limits how much personal information you share and also makes it easier to report suspicious behaviour. See also our safety tips.
Do I have to give the seller my phone number?
It is not necessary at the start of the discussion. We recommend not immediately sharing your phone number, home address, or other private information. Use Govoir messaging first and only share your details when you feel it is necessary and you have enough trust in the other person.
A seller is asking me to continue the discussion immediately on WhatsApp. What should I do?
You are free to do so, but we recommend staying in Govoir messaging for as long as possible. Be especially careful when someone insists on leaving Govoir immediately or asks you for personal information.
Can Govoir ask for my Mobile Money code, banking code, or password?
No. Never share:
- your password;
- your PIN;
- your Mobile Money code;
- a code received by SMS;
- your banking credentials.
Govoir will never ask you for this information in a transaction between users.
Meeting a seller or a buyer
Where should I meet the seller?
Prefer a public, busy, and safe place, especially when you are meeting someone for the first time. For an expensive item, you can also take someone with you.
Do I have to go to the seller’s home?
That choice is yours, in particular when the nature of the item requires checking it on site. Still take the necessary precautions and, ideally, tell someone you trust about your trip.
What if the seller refuses to let me check the item?
We advise you not to continue the transaction. A buyer should be able to inspect the item properly before deciding to buy it.
Selling on Govoir
How do I sell an item?
Publish a listing with:
- a clear title;
- an accurate description;
- real photos;
- the price;
- the location;
- the item’s main characteristics.
Buyers will then be able to contact you through Govoir messaging.
Should I mention defects in my item?
Yes. A listing must describe the item honestly. If the item has a defect, a repair, or an important particularity, say so clearly in the listing or before the transaction.
How do I receive payment?
Payment is arranged directly between you and the buyer. Govoir does not collect the sale amount and is not a financial intermediary between users. Before handing over your item, make sure the agreed payment has actually been made.
How do I check a Mobile Money payment?
Check the balance or history of your own account directly. Do not rely only on an SMS, a screenshot, or a transfer receipt shown by the buyer. Do not hand over your item until you have yourself confirmed that the payment was received.
Fraud and suspicious behaviour
How can I recognise a scam attempt?
Be careful in particular when a user:
- asks for payment before you can see the item;
- systematically refuses a meeting;
- pressures you to pay quickly;
- offers an abnormally attractive price;
- asks for your personal codes;
- sends you a payment link presented as coming from Govoir;
- asks you to pay “Govoir fees” to unlock a sale;
- uses inconsistent information.
Does Govoir send links to receive payment for a sale?
No. Govoir does not currently handle payments between buyers and sellers. If someone sends you a link claiming that you must enter your banking or Mobile Money details there to receive or make a Govoir payment, do not use it.
How do I report a listing or a user?
Use the reporting feature available on Govoir when it is offered. You can also contact our team at contact@govoir.com. Give as much information as possible so we can review the report.
What if I think I have been scammed?
Keep the exchanges, the listing information, and any evidence you have. Report the account to Govoir immediately and, when necessary, contact your payment operator and the competent authorities.
Responsibility and transactions
Does Govoir guarantee the items that are listed?
No. Listings are published by users. Govoir cannot systematically guarantee the existence, condition, origin, authenticity, or quality of the items offered. That is one reason we recommend that buyers see and check the item before paying.
Is Govoir responsible for the payment?
No. Govoir does not receive or hold the money from transactions between users. The choice of payment method and the payment itself are entirely between the seller and the buyer.
What should I do if there is a problem after a purchase?
First contact the seller to try to find a solution. You can also report the user to Govoir when behaviour contrary to our rules is suspected. Govoir can take action on an account or a listing, but cannot systematically settle financial disputes between buyers and sellers.
Listings
Can I publish any product?
No. Some products or services are prohibited or regulated. Published items must comply with Govoir’s Terms of use and applicable law.
Why might my listing be removed?
A listing may in particular be taken down when it:
- breaks Govoir’s rules;
- concerns a prohibited product;
- appears fraudulent;
- contains misleading information;
- infringes a third party’s rights;
- was published in the wrong category or in an abusive way.
Account and support
Do I need to create an account to use Govoir?
Some parts of the site can be browsed without an account. However, an account may be required to publish a listing, contact a seller, or use certain features.
How do I contact Govoir?
For any question, support request, or report, write to us at contact@govoir.com or through the Contact us page.
What is the most important safety rule on Govoir?
Talk on Govoir first. Meet the seller. Check the item. Pay only when you are satisfied.