Alex Nguepi urges Cameroonians to embrace unity over tribalism

In a powerful opinion piece, Cameroonian activist Alex Nguepi challenges the narrative that tribalism is a solution to the country’s economic struggles, arguing that true progress comes from collective effort rather than division.

From spectators to builders: the call for a united Cameroon

« Those who invest in homes, factories, businesses, and enterprises owe no explanations to those who remain mere onlookers, » Nguepi asserts. He emphasizes that no ethnic group, including the Bamileke, should be held accountable for economic success in cities like Douala or Yaoundé—because Cameroon belongs to all its citizens, not just one community.

The cities of Douala and Yaoundé weren’t built by a single ethnic group. They were constructed through the taxes, sacrifices, and hard work of millions of Cameroonians from every region. Citizenship is not a privilege reserved for a select few; it is a shared responsibility.

Nguepi highlights a cultural difference in approach: while some Cameroonians focus on consumption, others prioritize investment and wealth creation. The Bamileke community, in particular, is recognized for fostering a culture of saving, entrepreneurship, and long-term planning. Their success is not an accident but the result of discipline and vision.

« The dream of many young people from the West Region is not to inherit their family home but to build their own, start their own businesses, and create a legacy for future generations, » he explains. « This is why they purchase land, construct buildings, open shops, and create jobs wherever opportunities arise. »

The danger of politicizing economic success

Nguepi warns against turning economic achievement into a political issue. He condemns the tactic of dividing citizens along ethnic lines to distract from poor governance and economic mismanagement. « The real scandal is not that some Cameroonians succeed economically across the country. The real scandal is that after decades in power, some leaders still resort to tribalism and division to mask their failures, » he states.

History shows that when economies falter—when unemployment rises, poverty spreads, and opportunities shrink—those in power often stoke ethnic tensions to divert attention from their own shortcomings. This strategy is typical of regimes nearing the end of their cycle, with no real solutions left to offer.

Cameroon needs builders, not divisive rhetoric

« Cameroon does not need tribalists. Cameroon needs builders—citizens who invest, create businesses, pay taxes, generate jobs, and contribute to national wealth, » Nguepi declares. Development is driven by entrepreneurs, farmers, industrialists, traders, and workers—not by hate speech, jealousy, or attempts at stigmatization.

He concludes with a rallying cry: « Let each person build. Let each person invest. Let each person create wealth. And Cameroon will advance. The future belongs to those who build. Those who sow division will end up in the dustbin of history. »

Alex Nguepi