Cameroon is a country located in Central Africa, 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. It also has a coastline along the Bight of Bonny of the Atlantic Ocean to the southwest.
Geography
Climate
Cameroon’s climate varies from tropical rainforest in the south to semi-arid and savanna in the north. The coastal regions experience high temperatures and humidity, with heavy rainfall during the wet season from March to October. In the northern regions, the climate is more arid, with a dry season from November to March.
Fauna
Cameroon’s diverse ecosystems support a wide range of wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, lions, leopards, and various species of monkeys and birds. The country is also home to the critically endangered Cross River gorilla, as well as chimpanzees and other primates.
Longest Rivers
The two longest rivers in Cameroon are the Sanaga and the Benue. The Sanaga River, originating in the Adamawa Plateau, is approximately 918 miles (1,479 kilometers) long and is one of the country’s most important waterways. The Benue River flows from the Adamawa Plateau to Nigeria, with a length of about 870 miles (1,400 kilometers).
Highest Mountains
Mount Cameroon, an active volcano and the highest peak in West Africa, dominates Cameroon’s landscape. It rises to an elevation of 13,435 feet (4,095 meters) above sea level and is a popular destination for hikers and climbers. Other notable mountains include the Mandara Mountains in the north and the Adamawa Plateau in the central region.
History
Prehistory
Evidence of human habitation in Cameroon dates back thousands of years, with archaeological sites revealing the presence of early hunter-gatherer societies. The region was later inhabited by Bantu-speaking peoples who migrated from West Africa around 3,000 years ago.
Early Kingdoms
Cameroon’s history is marked by the rise and fall of various kingdoms and chiefdoms, including the Tikar, Bamum, and Bamileke. These kingdoms developed sophisticated political and social structures and engaged in trade with neighboring societies.
Colonial Era
In the late 19th century, Cameroon became a German colony known as Kamerun. After World War I, the territory was divided between France and Britain under League of Nations mandates. The French-administered territory gained independence in 1960, followed by the British-administered territory, which became the Federal Republic of Cameroon in 1961.
Modern Age
Since gaining independence, Cameroon has experienced periods of political stability and unrest. The country’s diverse ethnic and linguistic groups have contributed to its rich cultural heritage but have also led to tensions and conflicts. Despite challenges, Cameroon has made progress in areas such as economic development, infrastructure, and healthcare.
Demographics
Cameroon is a diverse country with over 250 ethnic groups, each with its own language and cultural traditions. The two official languages are French and English, reflecting the country’s colonial history. The largest ethnic groups include the Bamileke, Fulani, and Beti-Pahuin.
Administrative Divisions
Cameroon is divided into 10 regions, each with its own administrative capital. These regions are further subdivided into departments, arrondissements, and communes.
Administrative Divisions and Population (2022 estimate)
- Adamawa Region – Population: 3,065,000
- Centre Region – Population: 4,905,000
- East Region – Population: 3,849,000
- Far North Region – Population: 4,662,000
- Littoral Region – Population: 4,051,000
- North Region – Population: 3,945,000
- Northwest Region – Population: 3,820,000
- South Region – Population: 2,892,000
- Southwest Region – Population: 1,823,000
- West Region – Population: 3,748,000
10 Largest Cities by Population
- Douala
- Yaoundé
- Garoua
- Bamenda
- Maroua
- Bafoussam
- Ngaoundéré
- Bertoua
- Limbe
- Edea
Education Systems
Education in Cameroon is based on the French and British systems, with primary education being compulsory and free. The country has made efforts to improve access to education, but challenges remain, particularly in rural areas. Some of the top universities in Cameroon include the University of Yaoundé I, the University of Douala, and the University of Buea.
Transportation
Airports
Cameroon has several international airports, including Douala International Airport, Yaoundé Nsimalen International Airport, and Garoua International Airport. These airports serve as major hubs for domestic and international flights.
Railways
Cameroon’s railway network is operated by Camrail and connects major cities such as Douala, Yaoundé, and Ngaoundéré. The railway system plays a crucial role in transporting goods and passengers across the country.
Highways
The country has an extensive road network, with major highways linking urban centers and regions. The Trans-Cameroon Highway, also known as National Route 1, is the main artery connecting the northern and southern regions of the country.
Ports
The Port of Douala is Cameroon’s main seaport and serves as a key gateway for international trade. It handles a significant volume of cargo, including imports and exports of goods such as oil, timber, and agricultural products.
Country Facts
- Population: 27 million
- Capital: Yaoundé
- Languages: French, English
- Religion: Christianity, Islam, traditional beliefs
- Race: Various ethnic groups including Bamileke, Fulani, and Beti-Pahuin
- Currency: Central African CFA franc (XAF)
- ISO Country Code: CM
- International Calling Code: +237
- Top-level Domain: .cm