Cameroon is facing a period of deep economic and institutional turbulence, marked by growing distrust from foreign investors and international financial partners.
According to analyses attributed to institutions such as the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund, the country’s business climate has been severely weakened by systemic corruption, the looting of natural resources, and the weakening of judicial and oversight institutions.
Contested management of strategic resources
At the center of the criticism is the management of the country’s strategic resources. Gold, diamonds, agricultural land, and major mining assets are allegedly being exploited by networks close to power, to the detriment of the national interest.
Numerous accusations circulating within public opinion also point to large-scale land grabbing operations allegedly carried out with the complicity of certain local administrative authorities, including governors and senior territorial officials.
Cameroon now seen as a high-risk environment
This situation has contributed to a gradual loss of confidence among international investors, many of whom now consider Cameroon a high-risk environment for investment. Legal insecurity, administrative delays, favoritism, and the lack of transparency in public procurement processes are increasingly viewed as major obstacles to foreign direct investment.
Paralysis of the Higher Judicial Council under scrutiny
Many observers also believe that the paralysis of the Higher Judicial Council has further deepened this climate of mistrust. The institution, which is supposed to guarantee the independence of the judiciary and regulate the justice system, is accused of being deliberately blocked by individuals allegedly fearing prosecution for economic crimes and embezzlement of public funds.
For several political analysts and civil society actors, the absence of meaningful judicial reforms has strengthened impunity and further weakened state institutions. The alleged diversion of public resources, the plundering of the national treasury, and corruption networks are believed to have contributed to rising inequality, poverty, and unemployment, despite the country’s vast natural wealth.
Industrial and mining projects slowed down
In economic circles, some investors also criticize the absence of reliable legal guarantees to protect foreign capital. Several industrial and mining projects have reportedly been delayed or abandoned due to administrative tensions, land disputes, and corruption allegations surrounding certain government decisions.
A call for public governance reform
Faced with this growing crisis of confidence, many voices are calling for profound reforms in public governance, stronger judicial independence, and a genuine fight against corruption. For many Cameroonians, restoring the credibility of state institutions has become essential to reviving the economy, attracting new investors, and ensuring that the nation’s resources benefit future generations rather than private interests.
By Moustapha Maga — former World Bank official.
Op-ed. The content of this article reflects the views of its author only.
