Cameroon Facts

Cameroon, State of Central Africa; 475,000 km², 25.2 million residents (2019).Cameroon borders Nigeria in the northwest, Chad in the northeast and east, the Central African Republic in the east and Congo (Brazzaville), Gabon and Equatorial Guinea in the south. The capital is Yaoundé (2.8 million residents, 2015).

Country facts

• Republic of Cameroon / Republic of Cameroon
• Country abbreviation: CM
• Area: 475 000 km²
• Population (2019): 25.2 million residents
• Capital: Yaoundé
• Main languages: English, French, pidgin language
• State: Republic
• Head of State and Head of Government: Paul Biya (President)
• Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 1,527
• GNI per capita (2018): US $ 1,440
• Currency unit: 1 CFA franc = 100 centimes
• Currency code: XAF
• Country number (telephony): 237
• Internet domain name: cm
• Time difference compared to Sweden: 0
• National Day: May 20 (Republic gets joint constitution, 1972)

Nature

• Land use: forest (57%), agricultural land (15%), other (28%)
• Highest mountain: Cameroon mountain (4 070 m above sea level)

Population

• Population density (2019): 53 residents per km²
• Natural population growth (2019): 2.7%; birth rate 37 ‰, death rate 10 ‰
• Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (43%), 15-64 (54%), 65- (3%)
• Life expectancy (2019): men 57 years, women 60 years
• Infant mortality (2019): 48 per 1,000 live births
• Population forecast 2050: 55 million residents
• HDI (2017): 0.556 (place 151 of 189)
• Urbanization rate (2019): 56%
• Most populous cities (2015): Douala (2.8 million residents), Yaoundé (2.8 million)

Business

• Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture (17%), industry (26%), service (57%)
• Exports (2017): US $ 4,732 million
• Main export products: oil, timber, cocoa
• Main exporting countries: Netherlands, France, China
• Imports (2017): US $ 4,812 million
• Main import products: machinery, transport, food
• Main importing countries: China, France, Thailand
• Railway network (2014): 1,000 km

Geography

Location and Borders

Cameroon is located in Central Africa, bordered by five countries: Nigeria to the west, Chad to the northeast, the Central African Republic to the east, the Republic of Congo and Gabon to the south, and Equatorial Guinea to the southwest. Additionally, the country has a coastline along the Atlantic Ocean to the west. Cameroon is often referred to as “Africa in miniature” due to its diverse geography, encompassing coastal plains, mountains, rainforests, and savannahs, which represent much of the continent’s varying climates and ecosystems.

The country spans approximately 475,442 square kilometers, making it the 55th largest country in the world. Its location between the Sahel and the equator results in a variety of natural features and ecosystems, which have been significant in shaping its history and economy. Cameroon is strategically located, serving as a hub for both regional trade and cultural exchange, as it connects Central Africa with West Africa and has access to international sea routes via its ports, particularly Douala, the country’s largest city and commercial center.

Topography and Natural Features

Cameroon’s landscape is incredibly varied, with its topography ranging from the coastal plains along the Atlantic Ocean to the mountainous regions in the west, and to the savannahs and rainforests in the central and eastern parts of the country. The western region of Cameroon is dominated by the Cameroon Highlands, which includes several notable peaks such as Mount Cameroon, the highest point in West Africa, reaching 4,040 meters (13,255 feet) above sea level. This volcanic mountain is an active volcano and a major landmark in the country, drawing both climbers and tourists.

In the central and eastern parts of Cameroon, the terrain becomes more rugged, characterized by dense rainforests that are home to many species of plants and wildlife. These forests are vital for the country’s biodiversity and contribute to its agricultural base. To the north and east of the rainforests, the terrain transitions into the dry, grassy savannahs and semi-arid zones that make up much of the country’s northern regions. This transition zone is more sparsely populated and experiences a different set of challenges compared to the lush southern regions.

Cameroon also has an extensive network of rivers, with the Sanaga River being one of the major rivers in the western region. The country’s rivers and lakes, including Lake Chad in the far north, play crucial roles in transportation, agriculture, and fishing. These water bodies help support the livelihoods of millions of people in the country, especially those living in the rural areas, while also contributing to the country’s hydroelectric energy resources.

Climate and Seasonal Variations

The climate in Cameroon is as diverse as its geography, with a tropical climate along the coast, a more temperate climate in the highlands, and a semi-arid climate in the north. The central and southern regions experience a typical tropical climate, characterized by a hot, humid environment with two distinct seasons: the rainy season from May to October, and the dry season from November to April. The rainy season brings heavy, consistent rainfall, which is essential for agriculture but can also lead to flooding in some regions.

The coastal areas, particularly the cities of Douala and Limbe, are heavily influenced by the humid tropical climate, with temperatures ranging from 22°C (72°F) to 32°C (90°F) year-round. Further inland, the climate changes as you reach higher altitudes. The Cameroon Highlands, where cities like Buea and Bamenda are located, have cooler temperatures and more moderate rainfall, making them important agricultural areas for crops such as tea and coffee.

In the northern regions, the climate becomes more arid and continental, with a distinct dry season marked by high temperatures and low rainfall. This region, which borders the Sahel, experiences average temperatures between 28°C (82°F) and 38°C (100°F) in the hotter months, with the rainy season from June to September being brief and limited. This makes the northern part of the country more suitable for nomadic pastoralism and agriculture suited to drier conditions, such as millet and sorghum.

People

Population and Demographics

Cameroon is home to over 27 million people, making it the 21st most populous country in Africa. The country has a relatively young population, with a significant proportion of its citizens under the age of 30. The population is spread unevenly, with urban areas like Douala, Yaoundé, and Bamenda being more densely populated, while rural areas in the north and eastern regions are less populated. The capital city, Yaoundé, is located in the central part of the country and is home to several government institutions, making it the political hub of Cameroon.

Cameroon’s population is ethnically diverse, with over 200 different ethnic groups. The largest groups include the Beti, Bamiléké, and Fulani. The Beti people are mainly found in the southern and central regions of the country, while the Bamiléké reside in the western highlands. The Fulani are primarily located in the northern regions. These groups, along with others, contribute to the country’s rich cultural diversity, with each ethnic group having its own distinct language, customs, and traditions.

Urbanization has been on the rise in Cameroon, particularly in the coastal and central regions, driven by internal migration from rural areas and immigration from neighboring countries. The country has seen growing cities like Douala, which is the economic capital, and Yaoundé, the political capital. These urban areas have become hubs for commerce, culture, and education, though challenges like rapid population growth, infrastructure deficits, and unemployment persist.

Languages

Cameroon is a multilingual country, with over 200 languages spoken across its diverse ethnic groups. The official languages of Cameroon are French and English, inherited from its colonial history when parts of the country were ruled by France and the United Kingdom. French is the most widely spoken language, used by the majority of the population, particularly in the west and central regions, while English is predominantly spoken in the northwest and southwest regions, which were once part of British Cameroon.

Aside from French and English, there are numerous indigenous languages spoken throughout the country. Some of the more widely spoken indigenous languages include Ewondo, Duala, and Bassa, but there are many other languages that reflect the ethnic diversity of the country. The use of these languages varies depending on the region and the ethnic groups present.

French and English are used in government, education, and official communication, and they are taught in schools. However, the majority of the population speaks their native languages in daily life, making Cameroon one of the most linguistically diverse countries in Africa.

Religion

Christianity is the dominant religion in Cameroon, with approximately 70% of the population adhering to either Roman Catholicism or various Protestant denominations. Christianity was introduced to Cameroon during the colonial period and has since become deeply entrenched in the country’s culture. Churches and Christian festivals play a significant role in the lives of many Cameroonians, with Christmas and Easter being widely celebrated.

Islam is the second-largest religion, with around 20% of the population following Islam. Islam is most prevalent in the northern regions of the country, where the Fulani people and other Muslim communities reside. Islam in Cameroon is generally practiced in a peaceful and moderate manner, and there are strong interfaith relations between Muslim and Christian communities, although there are occasional tensions in certain areas.

Traditional African religions are still practiced by a small portion of the population, particularly in rural areas. These religious practices often involve ancestor worship, nature spirits, and other indigenous beliefs, and they coexist with Christianity and Islam in many parts of the country.

Economy

Overview

Cameroon’s economy is diverse, with significant contributions from agriculture, industry, and services. Historically, Cameroon has been heavily reliant on agriculture, particularly the cultivation of crops such as cocoa, coffee, bananas, and cotton. The country is one of the leading exporters of cocoa in Africa, and its agricultural exports play a crucial role in the economy.

In recent decades, the government has worked to diversify the economy, particularly by investing in infrastructure and attracting foreign investment. The oil sector, which has seen significant growth, is another key component of the economy. While Cameroon remains heavily dependent on agriculture and natural resources, the country is making efforts to industrialize and develop its manufacturing sector.

The economy has grown steadily in recent years, though it faces challenges related to infrastructure, corruption, and political instability. The ongoing conflict in the Anglophone regions, where some communities are fighting for greater autonomy, has affected the economy, particularly in the northwest and southwest.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

Agriculture remains the backbone of Cameroon’s economy, with more than 70% of the population engaged in farming. The country’s fertile soil and favorable climate provide the foundation for the cultivation of a variety of crops. Cocoa and coffee are among the most important export crops, with Cameroon being one of the top producers of both in Africa. Other key crops include bananas, cassava, maize, and plantains. These crops are grown in both small-scale family farms and larger commercial operations.

The oil sector is another significant contributor to the economy, with Cameroon being a net exporter of crude oil. Oil production has been important for generating revenue, though production has declined in recent years due to depletion of reserves and lack of investment. The country also has large mineral resources, including bauxite, aluminum, and diamonds, although the mining sector remains underdeveloped compared to other industries.

Services and Industry

The service sector in Cameroon has been growing, driven by sectors like telecommunications, banking, and tourism. The country’s strategic location as a regional hub for trade and commerce has contributed to the development of a service-oriented economy. The telecommunications sector, in particular, has seen rapid growth with the introduction of mobile networks and internet access, particularly in urban areas.

The manufacturing sector in Cameroon is still in its early stages, with industries such as food processing, cement production, and textiles being the main areas of growth. However, the country remains reliant on imports for many consumer goods, and the industrial sector is still developing.

Tourism is an emerging sector, driven by Cameroon’s rich cultural heritage, wildlife, and natural landscapes. The country’s national parks, including Waza National Park and the Lobeke National Park, attract tourists interested in wildlife and eco-tourism. Despite challenges like infrastructure limitations and occasional political instability, Cameroon’s tourism sector holds significant potential.

Government

Political System

Cameroon is a republic with a presidential system of government. The President, who is both the head of state and government, holds significant executive power. The current president, Paul Biya, has been in power since 1982 and is one of the longest-serving leaders in Africa. His presidency has been marked by authoritarian governance, with limited political freedoms, a tightly controlled media, and opposition parties facing significant challenges.

The government of Cameroon operates under a multiparty system, though in practice, the ruling Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM) has maintained a strong grip on political power. Legislative power is vested in a bicameral parliament consisting of the National Assembly and the Senate. The National Assembly is directly elected, while the Senate is appointed. The legislature plays a limited role in policy-making, as the executive branch retains significant control over the political system.

Legal System

Cameroon has a legal system based on a mix of French civil law and English common law, due to its colonial history under France and the United Kingdom. The judiciary is nominally independent, but in practice, the system faces challenges related to corruption, inefficiency, and lack of resources. Human rights organizations have raised concerns about the judicial system’s ability to protect citizens’ rights, especially in the face of political repression.

Foreign Relations

Cameroon’s foreign relations are shaped by its strategic position in Central Africa. The country has close ties with France, which was its colonial power, and it is a member of several regional organizations such as the Central African Economic and Monetary Community (CEMAC) and the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS). The government has also maintained strong relations with neighboring countries like Nigeria, Chad, and Gabon, particularly in terms of trade, security, and regional cooperation.

Cameroon is a member of the United Nations and has participated in peacekeeping missions, particularly in Africa. However, its foreign policy is often shaped by its internal political dynamics, including the management of domestic conflicts, particularly in the Anglophone regions. Relations with Western countries have been strained at times due to concerns about human rights and political freedoms within the country.

Culture

Arts and Music

Cameroonian culture is a blend of diverse ethnic traditions, with each region contributing its unique practices, music, and art forms. Traditional music, which incorporates instruments like drums, balafons, and flutes, plays a central role in Cameroonian culture. The country is known for its vibrant musical styles, including makossa, bikutsi, and highlife. Cameroonian musicians like Manu Dibango and Richard Bona have gained international recognition, and their work has played a significant role in popularizing African music worldwide.

The visual arts in Cameroon include a rich tradition of sculpture, weaving, and painting. Traditional art often reflects the spiritual beliefs of various ethnic groups, with masks, carvings, and textiles being important cultural symbols. Contemporary art in Cameroon also thrives, particularly in urban areas, with painters, sculptors, and photographers gaining recognition on the global stage.

Cuisine

Cameroonian cuisine is diverse, reflecting the country’s ethnic and regional diversity. The food culture is based on staple ingredients such as maize, cassava, yams, rice, and plantains, often prepared with a variety of meats, fish, and vegetables. Some popular dishes include ndolé (a bitter leaf stew with peanuts), mbongo tchobi (a spicy fish dish), and poulet DG (a chicken dish often served with plantains).

Street food is also a significant part of the culinary landscape in Cameroon, with vendors selling items like brochettes (grilled meat skewers) and boudin (sausage). Traditional beverages, such as palm wine and millet beer, are also widely consumed, particularly in social gatherings and ceremonies.

Festivals and Traditions

Cameroon celebrates a wide variety of cultural festivals throughout the year. Traditional ceremonies, such as the annual Ngondo Festival among the Sawa people, showcase dance, music, and ritual practices that highlight the country’s ethnic diversity. The Festival of Traditional Arts, held in Bafoussam, and the Muna Bado Festival are among other notable cultural events that celebrate Cameroonian heritage and artistry.

Christian holidays like Christmas and Easter are widely celebrated, and Muslims in Cameroon also observe important holidays like Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. These festivals are marked by feasts, music, and family gatherings, reflecting the country’s cultural fusion of traditional and religious practices.

History

Early History and Kingdoms

The history of Cameroon dates back to ancient times, with evidence of early human settlement in the region. The area was home to a number of powerful kingdoms and empires, including the Kingdom of Bamum in the west, which flourished for centuries, and the Kingdom of Douala along the coast. These kingdoms engaged in trade, agriculture, and craftsmanship, and their rulers played a central role in the development of the region’s social, political, and economic systems.

Colonial Period and Independence

Cameroon was colonized by Germany in the late 19th century, and it remained under German control until the end of World War I, when it was divided between France and the United Kingdom. French Cameroon became a French mandate and later a French colony, while British Cameroon was divided into two regions: one administered as part of Nigeria and the other as part of the British colonial administration.

Cameroon gained independence from France on January 1, 1960, and became a republic with Ahmadou Ahidjo as its first president. The British-administered regions later voted to join the newly independent republic in 1961, and the country became the Republic of Cameroon.

Post-Independence and Modern Challenges

Ahidjo ruled Cameroon as a one-party state until 1982, when he resigned and was succeeded by Paul Biya, who remains in power today. Under Biya, Cameroon has faced political and economic challenges, including a stagnant economy, corruption, and regional tensions, particularly in the Anglophone regions where a separatist movement has led to armed conflict in recent years.

Despite these challenges, Cameroon remains a key political and economic player in Central Africa. The country has made strides in infrastructure development, regional diplomacy, and economic diversification, although the legacy of political repression, internal conflict, and economic inequality continues to affect its growth and development.

Cameroon Map