A Cultural Overview
Cameroon, often described as “Africa in miniature,” showcases a diverse landscape and cultural richness. It is home to over 250 ethnic groups, making it one of the most culturally diverse countries in Africa.
Ethnicity and Language: The country’s population includes the Bantu in the south, the Sudanic-speaking peoples in the north, and various indigenous groups. English and French are official languages, reflecting its colonial heritage, with numerous local languages also spoken.
Culture and Heritage: Cameroonian culture is a vibrant mix of music, dance, art, and cuisine, reflecting its ethnic diversity. Makossa and Bikutsi music, traditional wrestling, and the colorful Fantasia festival are notable cultural expressions.
Social Fabric: Cameroon’s social fabric is characterized by its ethnic diversity and complex clan affiliations. The extended family plays a central role in social support systems, with a strong emphasis on community solidarity and interdependence.
Where Cameroon is on the Map of Africa
Cameroon at a Glance
Independence: 1 January 1960
Capital: Yaounde
Population: 26,545,864
Area: 475,442 square km
Provinces: Extreme North, North, South, East, West, South-west, North-west, Littoral, Center, Adamawa
Ethnic groups: 31% Cameroon Highlanders, 19% Equatorial Bantu, 11% Kirdi, 10% Fulani, 8% Northwestern Bantu,7% Igbo, 7% Eastern Nigritic, 7% other African, 1% non-African
Languages: Cameroonian Pidgin English, Fula, Ewondo, Chadian Arabic, Igbo, Camfranglais, French
Cameroon is a country in west–central Africa. It is bordered by Nigeria to the west and north; Chad to the northeast; the Central African Republic to the east; and Equatorial Guinea, Gabon and the Republic of the Congo to the south.