In Cameroon, and especially in Yaoundé, surveillance cameras have become essential tools for deterring crime, safeguarding property and people, and improving traffic flow.
Since they were installed in key areas of the political capital, residents report a major drop in insecurity. One inhabitant of the Madagascar neighbourhood said: “In our area, we used to live with armed robberies. Criminals would strike at any hour, looting shops, banks and bakeries, then escape without consequence. But since the cameras were set up, these bandits have become much rarer. I thank the authorities for this.”
The cameras in Yaoundé are managed by the National Video Surveillance Command Center located in the Etoudi district.
Given their effectiveness in reducing crime, President Paul Biya signed a decree on 17 December 2025 authorising the Minister of Economy, Alamine Ousmane Mey, to contract a new loan of 39.2 billion FCFA for “complementary financing of the national expansion project of the intelligent urban video surveillance system”.
With this new funding, the government is preparing a fourth credit dedicated to this project from three Chinese lenders, bringing the total mobilised over eight years to 150.8 billion FCFA.
According to the authorities, the first phase of the project installed 1,500 surveillance cameras in several Cameroonian cities. This network was complemented by 2,000 portable transceivers to enhance police surveillance and response capabilities.
Beyond urban centres and sensitive border areas, surveillance cameras are increasingly being installed in private homes. “Before I had this system installed, I was regularly burgled. Now I am completely satisfied. Any bandit who dares to approach is systematically spotted and justice takes over,” says a resident who equipped his home with such security.
The average cost of a surveillance camera is around 15,000 FCFA, depending on the model chosen. They can be installed not only in homes and on public streets but also in plantations, cars and even schools, ensuring safety for all.
This technology allows users to monitor their property remotely via phones, television screens and other platforms.
