Republic of Cameroon – Country Review (2024)

Geographical Overview
The Republic of Cameroon is located in Central Africa and bordered by Nigeria to the west, Chad to the northeast, the Central African Republic to the east, and Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, and the Republic of the Congo to the south. Cameroon has a diverse geography that includes coastal plains, mountains, and rainforests, contributing to its rich biodiversity. The capital city is Yaoundé, while Douala serves as the economic hub and largest city.

Political Structure
Cameroon operates as a unitary republic with a semi-presidential system. President Paul Biya has been in power since 1982, making him one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders. The political landscape is heavily dominated by Biya’s Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM). Despite holding regular elections, opposition parties face significant challenges due to government control over key institutions, media suppression, and limited political freedoms. International observers often criticize the lack of transparency in Cameroon’s electoral process.

Anglophone Crisis
A significant political issue facing Cameroon is the Anglophone Crisis in the Northwest and Southwest regions, where separatist groups seek independence for the so-called “Ambazonia.” These regions have historically felt marginalized by the Francophone-dominated central government. The conflict, which escalated in 2017, has led to violence, human rights abuses, and mass displacement. Government forces and armed separatists continue to engage in clashes, and civilians often bear the brunt of the fighting.

Economy
Cameroon has a mixed economy, with agriculture, oil, and natural gas as primary contributors. The country is a leading producer of cocoa, coffee, cotton, and bananas. Oil remains the largest export product, but economic diversification efforts are underway, especially with the development of infrastructure and the exploitation of natural resources such as timber and mining.

Despite its resource wealth, Cameroon’s economy faces challenges. Poverty is widespread, with nearly 40% of the population living below the poverty line. Youth unemployment and underemployment are also pressing concerns. The country is pursuing economic reforms under the guidance of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), focusing on improving fiscal discipline and economic governance.

Key Sectors

  • Agriculture: Employs around 70% of the population, producing key exports like cocoa and coffee.
  • Oil & Gas: Significant contributor to GDP, though production has declined in recent years.
  • Timber: Cameroon has one of Africa’s largest rainforests, and logging is a major industry.
  • Mining: Potential growth sector, with deposits of bauxite, iron ore, and gold.

Infrastructure Development
The Cameroonian government has prioritized infrastructure development, especially in transport and energy sectors. Projects like the Lom Pangar Dam and road construction are aimed at improving access to electricity and transportation for rural areas. The country also seeks to strengthen its position as a regional hub, with the Douala port being a key entry point for goods into landlocked neighboring countries.

Human Rights and Governance Issues
Human rights in Cameroon remain a major concern for the international community. Key issues include:

  • Freedom of Expression: The government maintains strict control over media, with journalists facing harassment, detention, and threats for covering sensitive topics like corruption and the Anglophone conflict.
  • Corruption: Widespread corruption hampers economic development and erodes public trust in institutions. Anti-corruption efforts have seen some officials prosecuted, but the problem persists at all levels of government.
  • Civil Liberties: Arbitrary arrests, unfair trials, and the use of military courts to prosecute civilians, especially in the Anglophone regions, have drawn significant criticism.
  • Gender Equality: Women and girls in Cameroon face gender-based violence, child marriage, and limited economic opportunities. However, efforts are being made to address these issues through various international and local initiatives.

Security Challenges
Cameroon faces a range of security threats, including:

  • Boko Haram Insurgency: The northern region of Cameroon is affected by Boko Haram’s activities spilling over from neighboring Nigeria. The group conducts sporadic attacks, kidnappings, and bombings in the Far North region, leading to widespread displacement.
  • Internal Conflicts: The Anglophone crisis in the west and separatist activities continue to pose serious security challenges. Both the military and armed groups have been accused of human rights violations.
  • Cross-border Crime: Illegal arms trafficking, smuggling, and poaching are prevalent along Cameroon’s porous borders.

International Relations
Cameroon maintains diplomatic ties with several countries and international organizations, including the United Nations, the African Union, and the Economic and Monetary Community of Central Africa (CEMAC). The country plays a crucial role in regional stability, particularly in efforts to combat terrorism in the Lake Chad Basin.

Relations with the United States focus on counterterrorism, economic growth, and health initiatives, while cooperation with France, its former colonial power, remains strong, especially in trade and military assistance.

Social and Cultural Overview
Cameroon is often referred to as “Africa in Miniature” due to its diverse geography, ethnic groups, and cultural heritage. The country is home to more than 250 ethnic groups, each with its own languages, customs, and traditions. The major linguistic divisions are between the Francophone majority and the Anglophone minority, which has been a source of cultural and political tension.

Religiously, Cameroon is a diverse country, with Christianity and Islam being the two dominant faiths. Traditional African religions are also practiced, especially in rural areas.

Outlook for 2024 and Beyond
Cameroon’s future will largely depend on how it addresses its internal conflicts and improves governance. Economic reforms, if successfully implemented, could improve fiscal stability and foster growth. However, resolving the Anglophone crisis remains critical to ensuring long-term peace and national unity. The international community continues to call for dialogue, transparency, and respect for human rights as Cameroon navigates these complex challenges.