Yaoundé embraces surveillance cameras to curb crime and improve safety

In Cameroon, particularly in Yaoundé, surveillance cameras have become a cornerstone for deterrence, protecting property and people, and easing traffic flow.

Since their installation in strategic areas of the political capital, residents report a significant drop in insecurity. “In our neighbourhood, we used to live with constant armed robberies. Thugs would burst in at any time, looting shops, banks, and bakeries, then leave without trouble. But since the cameras were set up, these criminals have become much rarer. I thank the authorities for this,” says a resident of the Madagascar district.

The surveillance cameras in Yaoundé are operated from the National Video Surveillance Command Centre in the Etoudi neighbourhood.

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. This will go towards “additional financing for the national expansion project of the intelligent urban video surveillance system.”

With this new funding, the government is preparing to take out a fourth loan for the project from three Chinese lenders, bringing the total mobilised over eight years to 150.8 billion FCFA.

According to officials, the first phase installed 1,500 video surveillance cameras in several Cameroonian cities. The network was complemented by 2,000 portable transceivers to enhance police monitoring and response capabilities.

Beyond urban centres and sensitive border areas, surveillance cameras are increasingly found in private homes. “Before I installed this system, I was regularly burgled. Now I am completely satisfied. Any bandits who try their luck are systematically spotted, and justice deals with them,” says a homeowner who opted for such a security device.

The average price of a surveillance camera is around 15,000 FCFA, depending on the model. They can be placed not only in homes or on public roads but also in plantations, cars, and even schools to ensure everyone’s safety.

This technology allows users to monitor their property remotely via mobile phones, television screens, and other platforms.