Cameroon

Country Flag Details

three equal vertical bands of green (hoist side), red, and yellow, with a yellow five-pointed star centered in the red band; the vertical tricolor recalls the flag of France; red symbolizes unity, yellow the sun, happiness, and the savannahs in the north, and green hope and the forests in the south; the star is referred to as the “star of unity”

note: uses the popular Pan-African colors of Ethiopia

Background

Cameroon resulted from the merger of former French Cameroon and British Cameroon in the early 1960s. The country has generally enjoyed stability, permitting the development of agriculture, roads, railways, and a petroleum industry.

Geography

Area

total : 475,440 sq km
land: 472,710 sq km
water: 2,730 sq km

Climate

varies with terrain, from tropical along coast to semiarid and hot in north

Natural resources

petroleum, bauxite, iron ore, timber, hydropower

People and Society

Population

total: 30,966,105

Ethnic groups

Bamileke-Bamu 22.2%, Biu-Mandara 16.4%, Arab-Choa/Hausa/Kanuri 13.5%, Beti/Bassa, Mbam 13.1%, Grassfields 9.9%, Adamawa-Ubangi, 9.8%, Cotier/Ngoe/Oroko 4.6%, Southwestern Bantu 4.3%, Kako/Meka 2.3%, foreign/other ethnic group 3.8% (2022 est.)

Languages

24 major African language groups, English (official), French (official)

Religions

Roman Catholic 33.1%, Muslim 30.6%, Protestant 27.1% other Christian 6.1%, animist 1.3%, other 0.7%, none 1.2% (2022 est.)

Population growth rate

2.71% (2024 est.)

Government

Government type

presidential republic

Capital

name: Yaounde

Executive branch

chief of state: President Paul BIYA (since 6 November 1982)
head of government: Prime Minister Joseph NGUTE (since 4 January 2019)

Economy

Real GDP (purchasing power parity)

$138.191 billion (2023 est.)
$133.843 billion (2022 est.)
$129.022 billion (2021 est.)

Real GDP per capita

$4,900 (2023 est.)
$4,800 (2022 est.)
$4,800 (2021 est.)

Exports

$8.641 billion (2022 est.)
$7.447 billion (2021 est.)
$6.124 billion (2020 est.)

Exports – partners

Netherlands 21%, France 14%, UAE 13%, India 9%, China 8% (2023)

Exports – commodities

crude petroleum, natural gas, gold, cocoa beans, wood (2023)

Imports

$9.759 billion (2022 est.)
$9.025 billion (2021 est.)
$7.212 billion (2020 est.)

Imports – partners

China 43%, France 6%, India 6%, Belgium 4%, UAE 4% (2023)

Imports – commodities

garments, refined petroleum, plastic products, wheat, rice (2023)

Export structure by product groups in 2023 ( % of total export) (UNSTAD)

The export profile of a nation reflects the diversity, composition, and economic significance of the goods and services it trades on the global stage, providing essential insights into the overall health of its economy, its competitive advantages, and its developmental status. In Cameroon, this profile showcases a strong blend of mineral fuels, agricultural products, and raw materials, with a notable reliance on crude oil and cocoa exports. These sectors are pivotal in shaping the nation’s economic landscape, highlighting a concerning lack of diversification that is critical for sustainable growth and future development.

Poverty and vulnerable employment in Cameroon (World Bank)

Vulnerable employment refers to a state characterized by a lack of job security, low wages, and inadequate social protections such as health insurance, pensions, and labor rights. This category primarily includes Own-Account Workers, who work independently without employees like street vendors and small-scale farmers, and Contributing Family Workers, who engage in family businesses or farms without formal remuneration. In 2023, approximately 68 percent of total employment in  Cameroon comprised vulnerable jobs. Such employment is frequently informal and unstable, lacking essential benefits, which makes these workers especially susceptible to economic shocks, exploitation, and the harsh realities of poverty.

Understanding poverty level significance at $2.15 per day

The poverty level at $2.15 per day (measured in 2017 purchasing power parity, or PPP) is a key global benchmark used by the World Bank to define extreme poverty in low-income countries. It indicates:
1. Basic Survival Threshold
• People living below $2.15 per day struggle to afford essential needs such as food, clean water, shelter, healthcare, and education.
2. Economic Underdevelopment
• A high percentage of a country’s population living below this threshold suggests low economic productivity, high unemployment, and weak social safety nets.
3. Inequality and Social Vulnerability
• It reflects deep income inequality and a lack of access to opportunities for upward mobility.
• People in this category are more vulnerable to shocks like food price increases, climate disasters, or health crises.
4. Policy Challenges
• Governments need targeted interventions such as social welfare programs, job creation, and improved access to education and healthcare to reduce poverty. In 2023, over 6 million people in Cameroon lived in poverty at $2.15 per day.

A country's export structure is a reflection of its level of development and productive capacities

The export structure of a country refers to the composition, diversity, and value of the goods and services it sells to other countries. It provides key insights into the country’s economic health, competitiveness, and level of development. Productive capacities of a country refer to its ability to produce goods and services efficiently and sustainably over time. These capacities are shaped by various factors, including human capital, natural resources, infrastructure, private sector, development, technology & innovation,  institutions & governance, financial systems trade & market access.

Here’s  what the export structure and productive capacities of a country  typically indicate:

  1. Level of Economic Development
  • Developed economies usually export high-value manufactured goods, technology, and services.
  • Developing economies often rely on raw materials, agricultural products, or low-value manufactured goods.
  1. Industrial and Sectoral Strengths
  • A strong presence of high-tech or industrial goods (e.g., machinery, electronics) suggests a well-developed manufacturing sector.
  • A dominance of commodities (e.g., oil, minerals, agricultural products) indicates reliance on natural resources.
  1. Export Diversification
  • A diverse export base (multiple industries) makes a country’s economy more stable and resilient to global price shocks.
  • A concentrated export base (few key products) makes it vulnerable to market fluctuations.
  1. Trade Partnerships and Dependence
  • If exports are heavily dependent on a single country or region, the economy is more exposed to geopolitical and trade risks.
  • A wide range of trading partners indicates stronger global integration.
  1. Competitiveness and Value Addition
  • Exporting mainly raw materials (e.g., crude oil instead of refined petroleum) suggests limited industrial processing capacity.
  • A high share of finished and high-tech goods suggests strong value addition and competitiveness.

Cameroon-Sanitation

Cameroon – Proportion of population served with at least basic sanitation

In 2022, the proportion of the population served with at least basic sanitation in Cameroon was 43.1 %. The proportion of the population served with at least basic sanitation in Cameroon increased from 38.3 % in 2000 to 43.1 % in 2022, an absolute change of 4.8 percentage points increase.

Cameroon – Proportion of urban population served with at least basic sanitation

In 2022, Cameroon’s urban population served with at least basic sanitation was 58.2 %. The proportion of urban population served with at least basic sanitation in Cameroon increased from 54.8 % in 2000 to 58.2 % in 2022, an absolute change of 3.4 pp increase.

Cameroon – Proportion of rural population served with at least basic sanitation

In 2022, the proportion of the rural population served with at least basic sanitation for Cameroon was 21.7 %. Proportion of rural population served with at least basic sanitation of Cameroon fell gradually from 24.5% in 2000 to 21.7 % in 2022, an absolute change of 2.8 pp decrease.

Cameroon – proportion of population served with at least basic sanitation: A Global Perspective

In 2022, only 43.1% of the population in Cameroon had access to at least basic sanitation, a modest increase from 38.3% in 2000, indicating an average annual growth rate of 0.59%. In stark contrast, countries like China, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Vietnam boasted significantly higher access rates, with figures reaching 95.9%, 88.2%, 95.1%, and 99.0% respectively. Access to safe sanitation is not just a figure; it is a fundamental human right crucial for health, dignity, and overall well-being. These statistics highlight the pressing need for collective efforts to create sustainable and inclusive solutions that ensure safe sanitation for every person in Sub-Saharan Africa. We must unite to cultivate healthier and more resilient communities.

Cameroon- Proportion of the rural population with at least basic sanitation services: A Global Perspective

Unsafe sanitation is a silent crisis, claiming hundreds of thousands of lives each year and underscoring the urgent need for safe sanitation as a fundamental human right. Alarmingly, in 2022, only 21.7% of Cameroon’s rural population had access to at least basic sanitation services. This marks a troubling decline from 24.5% in 2000, illustrating a concerning trend that demands our attention. In stark contrast, countries like Thailand, Indonesia, and Sri Lanka boast impressive figures, with 98.4%, 83.6%, and 94.9% of their rural populations enjoying access to sanitation facilities, respectively, in 2022. (See chart below for a visual comparison.)

Cameroon-Water Supply

 

Cameroon – Proportion of total population served with at least basic water

In 2022, the proportion of the population served with at least basic water in Cameroon was 69.6 %. The proportion of the population served with at least basic water in Cameroon increased from 56.3 % in 2000 to 69.6 % in 2022, an absolute change of 13.3 pp increase between 2000 and 2022.

Cameroon – Proportion of urban population served with at least basic water

In 2022, the proportion of the urban population served with at least basic water in Cameroon was 81.6 %. The proportion of the urban population served with at least basic water in Cameroon fell gradually from 82.7 % in 2000 to 81.6 % in 2022, an absolute change of 1.1 pp decrease between 2000 and 2022.

Cameroon – Proportion of rural population with at least basic water

In 2022, the proportion of the rural population served with at least basic water in Cameroon was 52.5 %. The proportion of the rural population served with at least basic water of Cameroon increased from 34.2 % in 2000 to 52.5 % in 2022, an absolute increase of 18.3 pp increase between 2000 and 2022.

Cameroon – proportion of total population served with at least basic water: A Global Perspective

In 2022, 69.6% of Cameroon’s population had access to basic water services, a rise from 56.3% in 2000, showing an annual growth rate of 0.92%. This contrasts sharply with the 100% access in South Korea and Thailand, where safe drinking water is assured. These disparities go beyond numbers; they highlight real challenges that affect health, education, and quality of life. We must recognize these inequalities and promote sustainable solutions and infrastructure to ensure everyone has access to this essential resource.

Cameroon-proportion of rural population served with at least basic water: A Global Perspective

In 2022, 52.5% of Cameroon’s rural population had access to at least basic water services, up from 34.2% in 2000. This is significantly lower than access rates in Bangladesh, Thailand, and Vietnam, where rates reached 98.3%, 100%, and 97.2%, respectively. Access to safe drinking water is a fundamental human right that must be upheld for all. Sustainable governance is essential for ensuring the long-term availability of this vital resource through partnerships among local communities, government, and international organizations. Together, we can aim for a future where every rural resident enjoys reliable access to safe drinking water, and we must support initiatives that address current challenges while building a more equitable and sustainable water future for all.

Cameroon-Access to Electricity

Cameroon-Access to Electricity (% of population)

In 2022, proportion of population with access to electricity for Cameroon was 71.0%. The proportion of population with access to electricity of Cameroon increased from 41% in 2000 to 71.0 % in 2022, an absolute change of 30 pp increase between 2000 and 2022.

Cameroon-Access to Electricity (% urban population)

In 2022, proportion of urban population with access to electricity for Cameroon was 94%. The proportion of urban population with access to electricity of Cameroon increased from 79% % in 2000 to 94% in 2022, an absolute change of 15 pp increase between 2000 and 2022.

Cameroon-Access to Electricity (% rural population)

In 2022, proportion of rural population with access to electricity for Cameroon was 25 %. The proportion of rural population with access to electricity of Cameroon increased from 9.2 % % in 2000 to 25% in 2022, an absolute change of 15.8 pp increase between 2000 and 2022.

Cameroon – Proportion of the total population with access to electricity: A Global Perspective

In 2022, only 65.5% of Cameroon’s population had access to electricity, a notable rise from 41% in 2000. This 25% growth reflects the resilience of the Cameroonian people but also reveals ongoing challenges. In contrast, regions like Asia achieve nearly 100% electricity access, while the global average is 91.4%. This disparity highlights critical gaps in energy availability that affect daily life and economic progress. It is essential for all stakeholders to unite in addressing the urgent need for better energy infrastructure in Cameroon. By collaborating, we can ensure that everyone has reliable access to electricity, improving their quality of life and fostering growth.

Cameroon-Proportion of the rural population with access to electricity: A Global Perspective

As of 2022, only 25 percent of rural Cameroonians have access to electricity, a notable increase from 9.2 percent in 2000, marking a 15.8 percent change over twenty years. Nonetheless, this still lags behind regions like South Asia and East Asia and Pacific, where all rural residents enjoy reliable electricity. This disparity hinders daily life and economic development, underscoring the need for collaboration among government, NGOs, and businesses to enhance energy infrastructure in Cameroon. By working together, we can close this gap and empower communities for a brighter future.

Cameroon – Health Outcomes

Cameroon-Life expectancy: A Global Perspective

The global average life expectancy for newborns has surged from just 47 years in 1950 to an impressive 71 years in 2021. Yet, the story is not the same everywhere. In Sub-Saharan Africa, progress has been modest, with Cameroon seeing an increase from 35 years in 1960 to 61 years in 2022. Meanwhile, Maldive has achieved an extraordinary transformation, with life expectancy skyrocketing from 39 years in 1960 to a remarkable 81 years in 2022. Dive into the details with the chart below and uncover the trends that distinguishes Sub-Saharan Africa countries from countries in other developing regions.

Cameroon- Mortality Rate, under-5 (per 1,000 live births): A Global Perspective

The under-five mortality rate indicates the chance per 1,000 live births that a child will not reach age five. In 2022, Cameroon had a child mortality rate of 69.8, a marked decline from 179 in 1980. Since 1950, global child mortality has decreased significantly due to better living conditions, healthcare, nutrition, and access to clean water. Europe and North America have achieved rates under 4 percent, showcasing notable progress. Although nations in South America, Asia, and North Africa are improving, Sub-Saharan Africa still faces significant challenges. For instance, while child mortality rates for Cameroon and Bangladesh were 179 and 206 in 1980, by 2022, Bangladesh improved to 29, while Cameroon reported about 70. We encourage you to review the detailed statistics in the chart and collaborate with us to bridge the gaps between Sub-Saharan African nations and other developing areas, as your participation can make a meaningful difference.

Cameroon-Maternal mortality ratio: A Global Perspective

The maternal mortality ratio represents the number of women who lose their lives due to pregnancy-related complications while pregnant or within 42 days following the termination of pregnancy, calculated per 100,000 live births. In 2020, Cameroon recorded a maternal mortality ratio of 438 deaths per 100,000 live births. This figure reflects a gradual decline from 651 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2000 to 438 in 2020. In stark contrast, countries such as China, Sri Lanka, and South Korea reported significantly lower maternal mortality rates, with figures of 23, 29, and 8 deaths per 100,000 live births respectively in 2022. The issue of maternal health is critical and demands urgent attention. It is essential to prioritize comprehensive healthcare services, education, and community support to ensure that every woman has access to the necessary care. By committing to maternal health initiatives, we can foster healthier families and contribute to a more sustainable future for Cameroon.