For approximately twenty-five years following its independence, Cameroon’s economy was regarded as one of the most prosperous in Africa. This period of relative economic success was marked by steady growth and diversification, supported by a combination of natural resource wealth and agricultural productivity. The country’s economic structure during this era was heavily reliant on the export of key commodities, which played a central role in generating foreign exchange earnings and fueling development initiatives. Cameroon’s strategic position and resource endowment allowed it to achieve a level of economic stability and growth that distinguished it from many of its regional counterparts. The principal exports that underpinned Cameroon’s economy included petroleum, cocoa, coffee, and cotton. Petroleum emerged as a particularly significant contributor to export revenues following the discovery and development of oil fields, which provided a valuable source of income and foreign currency. Cocoa and coffee were traditional agricultural exports that had long been cultivated in Cameroon’s fertile regions, benefiting from favorable climatic conditions and established farming practices. Cotton also formed an important part of the export basket, supported by domestic production and processing industries. Together, these commodities constituted the backbone of Cameroon’s trade, linking the country to international markets and shaping its economic trajectory. However, the mid-1980s marked the beginning of a challenging period for Cameroon’s economy, triggered by a significant decline in commodity prices for its key exports. The global downturn in petroleum prices, coupled with falling prices for cocoa, coffee, and cotton, severely impacted Cameroon’s export revenues and foreign exchange earnings. This external shock exposed the vulnerabilities of an economy heavily dependent on a narrow range of primary commodities, making it difficult to sustain previous levels of growth and fiscal balance. The decline in export earnings placed considerable strain on government finances and the broader economic framework. Contributing to the economic decline was the persistence of an overvalued currency, which undermined export competitiveness and exacerbated balance of payments difficulties. The overvaluation made Cameroonian goods more expensive on the international market, reducing demand and limiting the country’s ability to generate foreign exchange through exports. Additionally, widespread economic mismanagement, including inefficient public sector administration, poor fiscal discipline, and inadequate policy responses, compounded the adverse effects of external shocks. These internal weaknesses hindered efforts to adjust to changing economic conditions and implement reforms necessary for recovery. As a result of these combined factors, Cameroon experienced an extended economic downturn that culminated in a recession lasting approximately ten years. This prolonged period of contraction reflected deep structural problems and the cumulative impact of declining commodity prices, fiscal imbalances, and policy shortcomings. The recession manifested in reduced economic output, rising unemployment, and deteriorating living standards, challenging the country’s development prospects and social stability. The sustained nature of the downturn underscored the difficulty of reversing adverse trends in the absence of comprehensive economic reforms. Between 1986 and 1994, Cameroon’s real per capita gross domestic product (GDP) decreased by more than 60%, illustrating the severity of the economic crisis. This dramatic decline represented a significant erosion of individual income and purchasing power, with widespread implications for poverty and welfare. The contraction in real per capita GDP reflected not only the fall in total economic output but also demographic pressures, as population growth continued during this period. The magnitude of the decline positioned Cameroon among the countries experiencing some of the most pronounced economic reversals in sub-Saharan Africa during the late twentieth century. During this same period, Cameroon’s current account and fiscal deficits widened substantially, further exacerbating economic vulnerabilities. The current account deficit, driven by a decline in export revenues and persistent import demand, placed pressure on the country’s foreign exchange reserves and balance of payments position. Simultaneously, the fiscal deficit expanded as government expenditures outpaced revenues, partly due to efforts to stimulate the economy and maintain social services amid shrinking resources. The growing deficits necessitated increased borrowing and contributed to macroeconomic instability, complicating efforts to restore fiscal and external balance. Consequent to the economic deterioration and fiscal imbalances, Cameroon’s foreign debt increased significantly during the recessionary period. The accumulation of external debt was driven by the need to finance persistent deficits and support development projects in the face of declining domestic revenues. Rising debt levels raised concerns about debt sustainability and the country’s capacity to meet its external obligations. This debt burden constrained fiscal space and limited the government’s ability to invest in critical sectors, thereby impeding economic recovery and long-term growth prospects. Despite these considerable challenges, Cameroon retained a strong endowment of primary commodities, which provided a foundation for potential economic revitalization. The country’s oil reserves remained a valuable asset, offering opportunities for revenue generation and export earnings as global energy markets evolved. In addition, Cameroon’s favorable agricultural conditions, characterized by diverse agro-ecological zones and fertile soils, supported the continued production of key crops such as cocoa, coffee, and cotton. This natural resource base endowed Cameroon with comparative advantages that could be leveraged to stimulate economic growth and diversification. As a result of its resource wealth and agricultural potential, Cameroon continues to be recognized as one of the best-endowed primary commodity economies in sub-Saharan Africa. This status reflects the country’s substantial natural capital and the strategic importance of its commodity sectors within the regional context. While economic challenges have tempered growth and development, Cameroon’s endowment provides a critical platform for future economic strategies aimed at enhancing productivity, expanding value-added activities, and integrating more fully into global markets. The country’s experience underscores both the opportunities and risks associated with reliance on primary commodities in the sub-Saharan African economy.
In 2018, Cameroon emerged as a significant player in global agricultural production, particularly in the cultivation of staple crops that are vital to both domestic consumption and export markets. The country produced approximately 5 million tons of cassava, positioning it as the 13th largest producer worldwide. Cassava, a root crop that serves as a primary source of carbohydrates for much of the Cameroonian population, thrives in the country’s diverse climatic zones, contributing substantially to food security and rural livelihoods. This production volume reflects the importance of cassava in Cameroon’s agricultural landscape, where it is cultivated extensively by smallholder farmers across various regions. Plantain production in Cameroon was notably high, reaching about 3.9 million tonnes in the same year. This output ranked the country as the third largest producer globally, trailing only behind the Republic of Congo and Ghana. Plantains are a staple food and a key source of income for many rural communities, especially in the humid forest zones of the country. The cultivation of plantains benefits from Cameroon’s favorable agro-ecological conditions, including ample rainfall and fertile soils, which support year-round production. The prominence of plantain in Cameroon’s agricultural sector underscores its role in both nutrition and trade within the Central African region. Palm oil production also represented a significant agricultural sector, with Cameroon producing approximately 2.6 million tons in 2018. This volume placed the country as the seventh largest producer of palm oil worldwide. Palm oil is a crucial commodity in Cameroon, used extensively in cooking, food processing, and industrial applications. The sector is characterized by both large-scale plantations and numerous smallholder farmers, with production concentrated mainly in the southern and coastal regions where climatic conditions favor oil palm cultivation. The growth of palm oil production has been driven by increasing domestic demand and export opportunities, contributing to the country’s economic diversification efforts. Maize, another staple crop, saw production levels of around 2.3 million tons in 2018. As a fundamental component of the Cameroonian diet, maize is grown in various agro-ecological zones, from the highlands to the savannah regions. The crop’s versatility and relatively short growing cycle make it a preferred choice for many farmers. Maize production supports food security and provides raw materials for animal feed and industrial uses, highlighting its multifaceted role in the national economy. Taro production in Cameroon was approximately 1.9 million tons, ranking the country as the third largest producer worldwide, following Nigeria and China. Taro, a root vegetable rich in carbohydrates and dietary fiber, is predominantly cultivated in the humid forest zones where soil moisture and temperature conditions are optimal. The high production volume reflects taro’s cultural and nutritional importance, particularly among rural populations. Its cultivation contributes to dietary diversity and offers a source of income for small-scale farmers engaged in subsistence and commercial agriculture. Sorghum production reached about 1.4 million tons, underscoring its role as a drought-resistant cereal crop suited to the semi-arid regions of Cameroon. Sorghum is a key staple food in the northern parts of the country, where it is used for human consumption, animal feed, and brewing traditional beverages. The crop’s adaptability to less fertile soils and erratic rainfall patterns makes it vital for food security in areas prone to climatic challenges. Banana production was recorded at approximately 1.2 million tons, reflecting the crop’s significance both as a food source and an export commodity. Bananas are cultivated mainly in the western and central regions of Cameroon, where the climate supports their growth. The crop contributes to local diets and income generation, with some production destined for regional markets. Sugarcane output also reached about 1.2 million tons, highlighting the importance of this crop in Cameroon’s agro-industrial sector. Sugarcane cultivation is concentrated in the western highlands and the coastal plains, where irrigation infrastructure supports year-round production. The sugar industry plays a crucial role in the national economy, providing raw materials for sugar processing factories and generating employment opportunities. Tomato production in Cameroon was roughly 1 million tons, ranking the country as the 19th largest producer globally. Tomatoes are widely grown across various regions, both in rainfed and irrigated systems. The crop is essential for domestic consumption and is a key ingredient in many traditional dishes. Despite challenges related to post-harvest losses and pest management, tomato cultivation remains a vital component of Cameroon’s horticultural sector. Yam production stood at approximately 674,000 tonnes, making Cameroon the seventh largest producer worldwide. Yams are predominantly grown in the western and central regions, where they form a staple part of the diet. The crop is culturally significant and is often associated with traditional festivals and ceremonies. Yam cultivation supports rural economies by providing food security and income through local and regional markets. Peanut production reached around 594,000 tons, reflecting the crop’s role as both a food source and an oilseed. Peanuts are cultivated mainly in the northern regions of Cameroon, where they contribute to soil fertility through nitrogen fixation. The crop is used for direct consumption, oil extraction, and as animal feed, making it an integral part of the agricultural system in these areas. Sweet potato production was approximately 410,000 tons, highlighting the crop’s importance as a nutritious root vegetable rich in vitamins and minerals. Sweet potatoes are grown in various agro-ecological zones and serve as a food security crop, especially during periods of food scarcity. Their relatively short growing cycle and adaptability to diverse soil types make them a valuable crop for smallholder farmers. Bean production was about 402,000 tons, underscoring the significance of legumes in Cameroon’s agricultural portfolio. Beans are cultivated across multiple regions and serve as a vital source of protein for the population. They also play a role in sustainable agriculture by improving soil fertility through nitrogen fixation, thus supporting crop rotation practices. Rice output was approximately 332,000 tons, reflecting ongoing efforts to increase domestic production and reduce reliance on imports. Rice cultivation occurs primarily in the northern and southern lowlands, where irrigation systems have been developed to support intensive farming. The crop is increasingly important in urban and rural diets, and government initiatives have aimed to boost productivity through improved varieties and farming techniques. Pineapple production reached roughly 310,000 tons, demonstrating the crop’s role in Cameroon’s fruit production sector. Pineapples are grown mainly in the western highlands and coastal regions, benefiting from favorable climatic conditions. The fruit is consumed domestically and exported regionally, contributing to income generation for smallholder farmers. Cameroon produced approximately 307,000 tons of cocoa in 2018, ranking it as the fifth largest producer worldwide after Ivory Coast, Ghana, Indonesia, and Nigeria. Cocoa is a major cash crop for Cameroon, with cultivation concentrated in the southern and western parts of the country. The cocoa sector is a critical source of foreign exchange earnings and employment, supporting millions of smallholder farmers who depend on it for their livelihoods. Potato production was around 302,000 tons, reflecting the crop’s importance in the highland regions where cooler temperatures favor its growth. Potatoes serve as a staple food and are increasingly cultivated for commercial purposes. The crop contributes to dietary diversification and income generation in rural communities. Onion output was approximately 301,000 tons, highlighting the crop’s role in both domestic consumption and trade. Onions are grown in various parts of the country, often in irrigated areas to ensure consistent supply. The crop is a key ingredient in Cameroonian cuisine and supports livelihoods through market sales. Cotton production reached about 249,000 tons, marking its significance as a major industrial crop. Cotton cultivation is concentrated in the northern regions, where it supports the textile industry and provides income for farmers. The sector has historically been important for export earnings and rural development. In addition to these major crops, Cameroon produced smaller quantities of other agricultural products, including coffee with 33,000 tons and natural rubber with 55,000 tons. Coffee, primarily grown in the western highlands, has been a traditional export crop, although production levels have fluctuated due to various challenges. Natural rubber production, concentrated in the southern forest zones, supports both domestic industries and export markets, contributing to the diversification of Cameroon’s agricultural economy. These diverse crop outputs collectively illustrate the breadth and depth of Cameroon’s agricultural sector, which plays a pivotal role in the country’s economic development and food security.
Cameroon’s financial system stands as the largest within the Economic and Monetary Community of Central Africa (CEMAC) region, reflecting its relative economic prominence among member states. Despite this status, access to financial services remains notably limited, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which constitute a vital segment of the economy. This limited access is partly due to the traditional banking sector’s preference for engaging primarily with large, well-established companies, which are perceived as lower risk and more creditworthy. Consequently, SMEs often face significant barriers when seeking financial support, a situation exacerbated by the regulatory and fiscal environment governing lending practices. Loan interest rates for SMEs in Cameroon are capped at 15 percent, a ceiling intended to make borrowing more affordable for smaller businesses. However, these loans are also subject to heavy taxation, which influences banks’ willingness to extend credit to this sector. The combined effect of interest rate caps and taxation has led to conservative lending behaviors among banks, which tend to allocate a disproportionately small share of their credit portfolios to SMEs. As of 2006, bank loans to SMEs accounted for less than 15 percent of the total outstanding loans in the country, underscoring the limited financial support available to these enterprises (Molua, 2002). This situation has contributed to a persistent financing gap for SMEs, hindering their growth potential and broader economic contribution. Financial inclusion in Cameroon is strikingly low, with less than 5 percent of the population having access to a bank account. This low level of banking penetration highlights significant challenges in extending formal financial services to the wider population, including rural and underserved communities. In response to these limitations, the microfinance sector has gained increasing importance as an alternative means of financial intermediation. Microfinance institutions (MFIs) provide critical services to individuals and small businesses that are often excluded from traditional banking. However, the growth and effectiveness of the microfinance sector are constrained by a lax regulatory and supervisory framework, which has impeded the sector’s development and limited its capacity to offer sustainable financial products. The banking sector in Cameroon is characterized by a high degree of concentration and is predominantly dominated by foreign commercial banks. Among the eleven largest commercial banks operating in the country, six are foreign-owned, reflecting the significant presence of international financial institutions in the Cameroonian market. This foreign dominance is further illustrated by the fact that the three largest banks collectively hold more than 50 percent of the total assets within the financial system. The concentration of assets among a few large banks has implications for competition, market dynamics, and financial stability within the sector. Foreign banks operating in Cameroon generally maintain strong solvency ratios, which serve as indicators of their financial stability and ability to absorb potential losses. These institutions benefit from robust capitalization and risk management practices, often supported by their parent companies’ resources and international expertise. In contrast, domestic banks in Cameroon tend to be relatively weaker, with capitalization levels falling below the regional average for banks within the CEMAC zone. This disparity in capitalization reflects differences in access to capital markets, operational scale, and risk exposure between domestic and foreign banks. Profitability also varies significantly between domestic and foreign banks. Domestic banks report profit margins of approximately 2 percent, a figure that pales in comparison to the roughly 20 percent profit margins achieved by foreign banks operating in Cameroon. This stark contrast underscores the challenges faced by local banks, including limited market share, higher operating costs, and greater exposure to credit risks. A major factor contributing to the financial fragility of domestic banks is the high level of non-performing loans (NPLs), which reached 12 percent in 2007. Elevated NPL ratios indicate difficulties in loan recovery and asset quality deterioration, which undermine banks’ earnings and capital buffers. The prevalence of non-performing loans has led most banks in Cameroon to maintain large amounts of excess reserves relative to their deposits. This behavior reflects a cautious approach to liquidity management, as banks hold substantial unutilized liquidity to safeguard against potential credit losses and financial shocks. While this strategy enhances short-term stability, it also constrains the banks’ capacity to extend new credit and support economic growth, thereby perpetuating the cycle of limited financial intermediation. In 2018, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) recommended that Cameroon broaden its tax base as a means to offset financial losses stemming from regional instabilities, particularly in the North-West and South-West regions. These areas have experienced ongoing socio-political unrest, which has disrupted economic activities and reduced government revenues. The IMF’s advice aimed to strengthen fiscal resilience by diversifying revenue sources and improving tax collection efficiency, thereby supporting the country’s overall economic stability. Cameroon’s financial system has also been impacted by several additional economic challenges. The country has faced a loss of oil revenue, a critical source of government income, due in part to declining production from mature oil fields. This decline has been compounded by the failure to develop port facilities adequately, which has constrained trade and logistics capabilities. Together, these factors have exerted pressure on the financial system’s stability and revenue generation capacity, highlighting the need for structural reforms and diversification to enhance economic resilience.
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Cameroon became an oil-producing country in 1977, marking a significant transformation in its resource base and economic structure. The discovery and exploitation of oil introduced a new revenue stream that had profound implications for the country’s fiscal policies and economic development strategies. However, the management of oil revenues has been characterized by a high degree of opacity. The authorities managed “off-budget” oil revenues with total secrecy, placing these funds in accounts located in financial centers such as Paris, Switzerland, and New York. This lack of transparency facilitated the diversion of several billion dollars, benefitting primarily oil companies and regime officials rather than contributing to broader national development. The influence of France in Cameroon’s economy remained substantial well after independence, a situation that persisted into the early 1980s. African Affairs magazine noted during this period that French nationals “continue to dominate almost all key sectors of the economy, much as they did before independence.” This dominance was particularly evident in the modern sector of the economy, where French nationals controlled 55% of economic activities. Their control extended comprehensively to the banking system, which was described as being under total French dominance. This economic influence was a legacy of colonial ties and continued to shape Cameroon’s economic landscape, affecting investment patterns, trade relations, and the structure of key industries. By March 1998, Cameroon was engaged in its fifth International Monetary Fund (IMF) program, a three-year enhanced structural adjustment program approved in August 1997. This program was reported to be on track, signaling progress in the country’s efforts to implement economic reforms aimed at stabilizing and restructuring the economy. A critical component of this progress was Cameroon’s successful rescheduling of its Paris Club debt under favorable terms, which improved the country’s debt sustainability and provided fiscal space for development initiatives. From 1995 onward, Cameroon’s gross domestic product (GDP) grew at an average rate of about 5% annually, reflecting cautious optimism about emerging from a prolonged period of economic hardship and stagnation. The IMF’s Enhanced Structural Adjustment Facility (ESAF) agreement with Cameroon emphasized a comprehensive set of reforms designed to enhance macroeconomic planning and financial accountability. Among the key measures was the privatization of nearly 100 remaining non-financial parastatal enterprises, which aimed to reduce the state’s direct involvement in the economy and improve efficiency. The program also called for the elimination of state marketing board monopolies on exports of key agricultural commodities such as cocoa, certain varieties of coffee, and cotton, thereby promoting greater competition and market liberalization. In addition, the reform agenda included privatization and increased price competition within the banking sector, the implementation of the 1992 labor code to regulate employment practices, improvements in the judicial system to enhance the rule of law, and political liberalization measures intended to attract both domestic and foreign investment. France continued to play a pivotal role in Cameroon’s external economic relations, remaining the country’s main trading partner, the primary source of private investment, and the largest provider of foreign aid. This enduring relationship underscored the deep economic and political ties between the two countries. Meanwhile, Cameroon also maintained bilateral agreements with the United States, including an investment guaranty agreement designed to protect American investors. U.S. investment in Cameroon was estimated at about $1 million, predominantly concentrated in the oil sector, reflecting the strategic importance of hydrocarbon resources in bilateral economic relations. Inflation in Cameroon was brought under control over time, contributing significantly to macroeconomic stability. This achievement was part of broader stabilization efforts that sought to create a predictable economic environment conducive to growth and investment. The country articulated an ambitious goal of becoming an emerging economy by 2035, reflecting a long-term vision focused on structural transformation, diversification, and integration into the global economy. Beginning in the late 1980s, Cameroon embarked on a series of economic reforms supported by the World Bank and IMF, which involved difficult and sometimes painful measures. One notable example was a 65% cut in civil service salaries in 1993, a drastic step aimed at reducing public expenditure and addressing fiscal imbalances. In January 1994, the CFA franc, the currency shared with 13 other African states, was devalued by 50% as part of stabilization efforts designed to improve competitiveness and correct external imbalances. Despite these reforms, Cameroon failed to meet the conditions of the first four IMF programs, highlighting the challenges faced in implementing structural adjustments and the complexities of economic management in a context of political and institutional constraints. The gross domestic product (GDP) at market prices, as estimated by the IMF in millions of Central African CFA Francs (CFAF), demonstrated a general trend of steady growth from 1980 to 2022, with notable fluctuations reflecting economic cycles and external shocks. In 1980, Cameroon’s GDP was approximately 1,600,186 million CFAF, equivalent to around 209.20 million USD at prevailing exchange rates. By 1985, GDP had increased to 4,355,977 million CFAF, or about 471.12 million USD, indicating rapid nominal growth during this period. However, by 1990, GDP had declined to 3,804,428 million CFAF (~300.65 million USD), reflecting economic difficulties in the late 1980s. Recovery ensued, with GDP rising to 4,686,286 million CFAF (~518.62 million USD) in 1995 and further to 6,612,385 million CFAF (~658.21 million USD) in 2000. In 2005, GDP reached 8,959,279 million CFAF (~527.29 million USD), although the nominal USD value reflected exchange rate volatility and inflationary pressures. By 2010, Cameroon’s GDP had expanded significantly to 57,200,000 million CFAF, with a nominal USD equivalent of approximately 27.53 billion. When measured in terms of purchasing power parity (PPP), GDP was estimated at 57.2 billion USD, with a per capita GDP of 2,814 USD PPP, indicating improvements in living standards and economic output. In 2020, Cameroon’s GDP was reported at 102.7 billion USD, with a growth rate of 0.5% and inflation at 2.5%, reflecting the impact of global economic conditions and domestic challenges. By 2022, GDP had further increased to 123.3 billion USD, accompanied by a growth rate of 3.8% and inflation rising to 4.6%, signaling a recovery phase and moderate inflationary pressures. From 1980 to 2022, Cameroon’s GDP in USD PPP terms increased dramatically from 11.1 billion to 123.3 billion, while GDP per capita rose from 1,263 USD PPP to 4,419 USD PPP. This long-term growth trajectory was marked by fluctuations in the real GDP growth rate, with notable declines during the late 1980s and early 1990s due to economic crises and structural adjustment challenges. However, the general trend in recent years has been upward, reflecting improved macroeconomic management and reform implementation. Inflation, which had spiked to 12.7% in 1994 following the CFA franc devaluation, stabilized to below 5% from 2003 onward. Although there were occasional brief increases, inflation remained largely contained within low single digits throughout the 2010s and early 2020s, contributing to economic stability. Government debt as a percentage of GDP showed a significant decline from 68% in 1998 and 1999 to 14% by 2007, reflecting successful debt management strategies and rescheduling efforts. However, after this period of fiscal consolidation, debt levels gradually increased, reaching 47% of GDP by 2022. This upward trend in debt ratios underscored ongoing fiscal challenges and the need for continued prudent economic management to maintain debt sustainability while supporting development objectives.
Douala stands as one of Cameroon’s foremost economic centers, distinguished by its strategic position as a major port city on the Atlantic coast. It serves as a critical hub for commerce, industry, and transportation, underpinning much of the nation’s trade activities. The city’s port facilities accommodate a wide variety of cargo, ranging from containerized goods to bulk commodities, facilitating both imports and exports that are essential to Cameroon’s economy. Beyond its maritime significance, Douala’s urban landscape is characterized by a dense network of commercial enterprises, financial institutions, and manufacturing industries, all contributing to its reputation as the country’s economic powerhouse. Situated along the southwestern coast, Limbe is renowned as a notable touristic destination within Cameroon, drawing visitors with its scenic landscapes and rich natural attractions. The area is celebrated for its volcanic beaches, lush botanical gardens, and proximity to Mount Cameroon, the highest peak in Central Africa. Limbe’s tourism sector benefits from its unique blend of coastal charm and ecological diversity, offering opportunities for hiking, wildlife observation, and cultural exploration. The town’s historical sites, such as remnants of colonial architecture and local museums, further enhance its appeal, making it a prominent location for both domestic and international tourists seeking leisure and adventure. In the capital city of Yaoundé, the Yaoundé Sport Palace functions as a prominent venue for sports and large-scale events, playing a central role in the city’s cultural and recreational life. This multipurpose arena hosts a variety of activities, including basketball games, volleyball matches, concerts, and national celebrations. Its modern facilities accommodate thousands of spectators, providing a platform for both local and international sporting competitions. The Sport Palace also serves as a gathering place for community events, exhibitions, and political assemblies, reflecting its importance as a versatile public space within Cameroon’s administrative capital. The pastoral traditions of northern Cameroon are vividly illustrated through the depiction of a Fulani herder driving his cattle across the region’s expansive landscapes. The Fulani people, known for their nomadic and semi-nomadic lifestyles, have long engaged in cattle herding as a primary economic activity. This practice involves seasonal migrations in search of pasture and water, adapting to the Sahelian climate and terrain. Cattle rearing not only supports the livelihoods of Fulani communities but also contributes to the broader agricultural economy of northern Cameroon. The herders’ expertise in animal husbandry and their cultural heritage remain integral to the social fabric and economic sustenance of the region. Douala International Airport serves as Cameroon’s principal international gateway, facilitating the movement of passengers and cargo between the country and global destinations. As the busiest airport in the nation, it handles a substantial volume of air traffic, connecting Cameroon to major cities in Africa, Europe, and beyond. The airport’s infrastructure includes modern terminals equipped to accommodate both domestic and international travelers, as well as cargo facilities that support the export of perishable goods, manufactured products, and raw materials. Its role in enhancing connectivity has been pivotal in promoting trade, tourism, and investment, thereby contributing significantly to Cameroon’s economic development. Intercity bus services, exemplified by operators such as the Touristique Express, provide essential transportation links between major urban centers in Cameroon, often operating during nighttime hours. These buses offer an affordable and accessible means of travel for a diverse range of passengers, including commuters, traders, and tourists. Nighttime operations maximize efficiency by allowing travelers to cover long distances while minimizing daytime congestion and capitalizing on cooler temperatures. The intercity bus network complements other modes of transport, facilitating the movement of people and goods across the country’s varied geography and supporting economic integration among regions. The interurban passenger train system in Cameroon plays a vital role in connecting key cities such as Douala, Yaoundé, and Ngaoundéré, enabling efficient rail travel across significant distances. This rail link supports both passenger and freight services, contributing to the reduction of road traffic and offering an alternative mode of transportation that is often more cost-effective and environmentally sustainable. The trains traverse diverse landscapes, linking the economic hub of Douala on the coast with the political capital Yaoundé inland, and extending to Ngaoundéré in the northern part of the country. The rail infrastructure not only facilitates commerce and mobility but also fosters regional development by improving access to markets and services. The Douala Seaport is a cornerstone of Cameroon’s maritime infrastructure, handling a substantial share of the nation’s imports and exports. As the principal seaport, it manages a diverse array of cargo including petroleum products, agricultural commodities, manufactured goods, and container shipments. The port’s facilities encompass deep-water berths, container terminals, and logistics zones designed to accommodate large vessels and streamline cargo handling operations. Its strategic location on the Gulf of Guinea enables it to serve as a gateway for trade not only for Cameroon but also for landlocked neighboring countries. The efficient functioning of Douala Seaport is critical to maintaining the flow of goods, supporting industrial activities, and sustaining economic growth. The transportation and distribution networks within Cameroon are exemplified by the movement of goods such as beverages, with trucks regularly transporting beers to various localities across the country. This logistical activity reflects the broader supply chain mechanisms that ensure the availability of consumer products in urban and rural markets alike. The trucking industry plays an indispensable role in bridging production centers with points of sale, navigating Cameroon’s road networks to deliver goods efficiently. The distribution of beverages, including locally produced and imported beers, highlights the interconnectedness of manufacturing, retail, and transportation sectors, underscoring the complexity and reach of the country’s internal commerce.