Cameroon
The former French Cameroon and part of British Cameroon merged in 1961 to form the present country. Cameroon has generally enjoyed stability, which has permitted the development of agriculture, roads, and railways, as well as a petroleum industry. Despite movement toward democratic reform, political power remains firmly in the hands of an ethnic oligarchy.
Veteran leader Paul Biya won a new seven-year term in presidential elections in October 2004, with more than 70% of the vote. Most international observers said the poll was well run and transparent, although opposition parties alleged widespread fraud. Biya won multiparty polls in 1992 and 1997. The three main opposition parties, however, boycotted the 1997 elections. Before becoming president, Biya spent his entire political career in the service of President Ahmadou Ahidjou, becoming prime minister in 1975. With Ahidjou's resignation in 1982, he became president and set about replacing his predecessor's northern allies with fellow southerners.
Cameroon ’s economy has exhibited strong growth since the 1990s. Real gross domestic product (GDP) grew 4.6% in 2004 and is forecast to grow at a similar rate in 2005. Improvements in fiscal spending and efforts to address Cameroon ’s high external debt have improved the country’s economic health in recent years. The government’s 2005 budget shows a commitment to increasing non-oil revenues and improving the efficiency of government outlays. Because many companies have relocated due to turmoil in the Ivory Coast, foreign investment in Cameroon has recently increased.
A 2000 World Bank debt relief package under the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) initiative and a 2002 loan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) under its Poverty Reduction and Growth Facility program have increased Cameroon’s social expenditures. Further economic growth may be undermined, however, as Cameroon has yet to meet conditions for reaching the completion point under the HIPC initiative.
While there are no current direct threats against expatriate visitors or residents, public frustration with rising crime and poor public services (notably electricity) can give rise to demonstrations, which can turn violent. During demonstrations, police officers often attack bystanders as well as participants.
The main security concern is crime (see below).
