In a bold op-ed, Alex Nguepi contends that tribal identity is weaponized to mask economic failures in Cameroon.

“Those who invest their money in building homes, factories, businesses and enterprises owe no explanations to those who chose to remain spectators,” Nguepi asserts.

“The Bamileke community should never have to justify owning land, homes or businesses in Douala, Yaoundé or anywhere else in Cameroon. The nation belongs to all Cameroonians—not to a single tribe, community or group. Cameroon is the shared heritage of every citizen, regardless of origin.”

Major cities like Douala and Yaoundé weren’t built by one ethnic group alone. They rose from the collective efforts of millions of Cameroonians who contributed through taxes, hard work and determination. Citizenship in Cameroon is not a privilege reserved for any one group.

The uncomfortable truth many avoid is this: the Bamileke have cultivated a culture of savings, commerce, investment and wealth creation. While some spend, others build. While some seek excuses for stagnation, others work tirelessly to secure a better future for their children.

Young people in the West Region aren’t dreaming of inheriting family homes forever. They aspire to construct their own houses, launch businesses and leave lasting legacies. That’s why they purchase land, build apartments, open shops and create jobs wherever opportunities arise.

It’s absurd to frame economic success as a political issue. Investors who fund homes, factories, businesses and enterprises owe no apologies to those who prefer passive observation.

The real scandal isn’t that Cameroonians are building across their country. The true scandal is that after decades in power, some leaders still resort to pitting Cameroonians against one another to deflect from their economic and social failures.

When the economy falters, unemployment rises and poverty deepens, purveyors of division always fall back on the same tactics: tribalism, autochthony and discord. This is the hallmark of regimes in their twilight, bereft of solutions for the people.

Cameroon doesn’t need tribalists. It needs builders—citizens who invest, create businesses, pay taxes, generate jobs and contribute to national prosperity.

A nation thrives through entrepreneurs, farmers, industrialists, traders and workers—not through hate speech, jealousy or attempts to stigmatize others.

Let each person build. Let each person invest. Let each person create wealth. And Cameroon will progress.

The future belongs to builders. The architects of division will be consigned to the dustbin of history.

— Alex Nguepi