Country Profile: Cameroon
Cameroon is a Central African nation known for its diverse geography and rich cultural heritage. Bordered by Nigeria and Equatorial Guinea, it features a range of terrains from coastal plains to mountainous regions. With an estimated population of over 31 million people in 2025, it is home to numerous ethnic groups and languages, reflecting a vibrant societal fabric. The economy, the largest in the Economic and Monetary Community of Central Africa (CEMAC), is driven by agriculture, petroleum, and various industries, though it faces challenges from political instability and corruption. The country operates as a presidential republic, characterized by a centralized governance structure under President Paul Biya.
Geography
Cameroon, located in Central Africa, has a varied terrain that includes coastal plains, plateaus, and mountains. Its strategic position is often referred to as the "hinge of Africa." The country has a total area of approximately 475,440 sq km, making it slightly larger than California. It also enjoys a diverse climate that ranges from tropical along the coast to semiarid in the north.
- 5,018 km of land borders with six countries.
- 402 km of coastline along the Atlantic Ocean.
- Highest point is 4,045 m at Mount Cameroon.
People and Society
With a population projected at 31,518,954 in 2025, Cameroon is home to over 24 major ethnic groups, with the largest being the Bamileke and Biu-Mandara. The country’s median age is relatively young at 19.4 years. A significant portion of the population is urbanized, with 59.3% living in urban areas as of 2023. Major languages include French and English, reflecting the country's colonial history.
- 41.5% of the population is aged 0-14 years.
- Religious composition includes 33.1% Roman Catholics and 30.6% Muslims.
- 72.6% literacy rate as of 2018.
Economy
Cameroon boasts a diverse economy with significant natural resources, including petroleum and agriculture. The country's GDP (PPP) is estimated at $143.264 billion for 2024, with a growth rate of 3.7%. The GDP per capita is around $4,900. However, the economy is hampered by political unrest and corruption, particularly in the northern regions.
- 17.4% of GDP is attributed to agriculture.
- Exports were valued at $8.353 billion in 2023.
- Unemployment rate is approximately 3.6% in 2024.
Government
Cameroon is a presidential republic with a strong executive branch, led by President Paul Biya since 1982. The country has a mixed legal system based on English common law and French civil law. Political power is centralized, and while there is a bicameral legislature, real political reform has been slow.
- Capital city: Yaoundé.
- Next presidential election is expected in October 2032.
- The constitution was last amended on January 18, 1996.
Military and Security
The Cameroon Armed Forces, which include the Army, Navy, and Air Force, play a crucial role in maintaining national security. The military spends about 1% of GDP on defense, focusing on counter-terrorism efforts against groups like Boko Haram.
- Armed forces are estimated at 40-50,000 active personnel.
- The country has deployed around 750 troops to the Central African Republic for peacekeeping.
- The military service age is between 18-23 years.
Energy
Cameroon has a significant energy sector, primarily powered by hydroelectric sources which account for 63.1% of its installed generating capacity. However, energy access remains a challenge, particularly in rural areas.
- 71% of the population has electricity access.
- Total petroleum production is 64,000 bbl/day as of 2023.
- Electricity consumption reached 6.161 billion kWh in 2023.
Environment
Environmental issues in Cameroon include deforestation, soil erosion, and desertification. The country is a party to various international environmental agreements, showing commitment to addressing climate change and biodiversity challenges.
- 20.9% of land is used for agriculture as of 2023.
- 41% of the land is forested.
- Carbon dioxide emissions were recorded at 6.707 million metric tonnes in 2023.
Transportation
Cameroon has a developing transportation infrastructure, with 37 airports and a railway network totaling 987 km. Key ports include Douala and Kribi, vital for trade.
- Total merchant marine consists of 198 ships.
- 60 million kWh of electricity were imported in 2023.
- 5 ports with oil terminals facilitate maritime trade.
Communications
Telecommunication in Cameroon is steadily growing, with mobile subscriptions exceeding 31 million by 2024. The government controls broadcast media, but private radio stations operate under regulated conditions.
- 42% of the population are internet users as of 2023.
- Fixed-line subscriptions are around 67,500.
- 603,000 fixed broadband subscriptions were recorded in 2022.
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 31,518,954 | 2025 estimate |
| Area | 475,440 sq km | Total area |
| GDP | $143.264 billion | 2024 estimate (PPP) |
| Energy Consumption | 6.161 billion kWh | 2023 consumption |
| Birth Rate | 30.79 births/1,000 people | 2025 estimate |
| Unemployment Rate | 3.6% | 2024 estimate |
| Electricity Access | 71% | 2022 estimate |
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