Verified Facts
Official NameRepublic of Cameroon
CapitalYaoundé
Population29.4 million
Area475,442 km² (183,569 sq mi)
LanguagesEnglish, French
CurrencyCentral African CFA franc (Fr)
TimezoneUTC+01:00
RegionAfrica / Middle Africa
Drives onRight
Source: REST Countries API
Notable Achievements
| Category | Achievement | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Science | Malaria Research | Cameroon has been at the forefront of malaria research, with the country's scientists making significant contributions to the development of new treatments and vaccines. |
| Sports | Africa Cup of Nations | The Cameroonian national football team, also known as the Indomitable Lions, has won the Africa Cup of Nations five times, making them one of the most successful teams in the tournament's history. |
| Arts | Bamum Script | The Bamum script, created by King Ibrahim Njoya in the early 20th century, is a unique writing system that has been recognized by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of the Intangible Heritage of Humanity. |
| Development | Economic Growth | Cameroon has experienced significant economic growth in recent years, with the country's GDP growing at an average rate of 4.5% per year between 2010 and 2019. |
| Innovation | Renewable Energy | Cameroon has made significant investments in renewable energy, with the country aiming to generate 25% of its electricity from solar and hydroelectric power by 2025. |
| Global Contributions | Peacekeeping | Cameroon has contributed troops to several United Nations peacekeeping missions, including in the Central African Republic and the Democratic Republic of Congo. |
| Education | University of Yaounde | The University of Yaounde, founded in 1962, is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Central Africa, offering a wide range of academic programs to students from across the region. |
| Environment | Dja Faunal Reserve | The Dja Faunal Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including lowland gorillas, chimpanzees, and elephants, and is considered one of the most biodiverse places on the planet. |
Cultural Treasures
- The Dja Faunal Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a protected area of dense rainforest that is home to a wide range of wildlife and indigenous communities.
- The Bamum Kingdom, located in the western part of the country, is a historic kingdom that is known for its rich cultural heritage and traditional arts.
- The Museum of Cameroon, located in Yaounde, is a national museum that showcases the country's history, culture, and natural environment.
- The Kribi Beach, located on the Atlantic coast, is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant cultural festivals.
- The Ngondo Festival, held annually in the city of Douala, is a major cultural festival that celebrates the traditions and customs of the Sawa people.
People & Global Impact
- Ahmadou Ahidjo, Cameroon's first president, played a key role in the country's independence movement and served as president from 1960 to 1982.
- Roger Milla, a Cameroonian football player, is widely regarded as one of the greatest African footballers of all time, and is known for his impressive goal-scoring record in the Africa Cup of Nations.
- The Cameroonian diaspora, which is estimated to number over 1 million people, has made significant contributions to the country's economy and culture, with many Cameroonians living abroad sending remittances back to their families and communities.
- Cardinal Christian Tumi, a Cameroonian cardinal, has been a prominent figure in the country's Catholic Church, and has played a key role in promoting interfaith dialogue and reconciliation.
What Visitors Love
- The hospitality of the Cameroonian people, who are known for their warm welcome and generous spirit.
- The delicious cuisine, which includes popular dishes such as ndole, a spicy stew made with bitter leaves and meat or fish.
- The beautiful scenery, which includes the country's stunning natural landscapes, such as the Mount Cameroon volcano and the Waza National Park.
- The vibrant cultural festivals, such as the Ngondo Festival, which celebrates the traditions and customs of the Sawa people.
- The rich cultural heritage, which includes a wide range of traditional arts and crafts, such as woodcarvings, textiles, and pottery.
- The exciting outdoor activities, such as hiking, trekking, and wildlife watching, which are available in the country's many national parks and protected areas.
Hidden Gems
- The Korup National Park, located in the southwestern part of the country, is a protected area of dense rainforest that is home to a wide range of wildlife, including lowland gorillas, chimpanzees, and elephants.
- The Lake Nyos, a deep crater lake located in the northwestern part of the country, is a unique natural feature that is known for its stunning beauty and scientific significance.
- The Mefou National Park, located near the city of Yaounde, is a protected area of forest and savannah that is home to a wide range of wildlife, including monkeys, antelopes, and birds.
- The Bafia Waterfalls, located in the western part of the country, are a series of stunning waterfalls that are surrounded by lush tropical vegetation and are a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers.