The capital of Cameroon, Yaoundé, has seen a significant drop in crime rates since the widespread deployment of surveillance cameras. These devices now protect homes, businesses, plantations, and even schools, giving residents and authorities alike a powerful tool against insecurity.

Residents of neighborhoods like Madagascar report a dramatic change in daily life. ‘Before the cameras, robberies were part of our routine,’ shared one local. ‘Bandits would strike anytime, raiding shops and banks without fear. But ever since the cameras were installed, such incidents have become rare. I’m truly grateful to the city’s leadership for taking action.’

The surveillance network is managed from the National Command Center for Video Surveillance in the Etoudi district. The system’s success has led to further expansion, with authorities planning to install thousands more cameras in the coming years. This expansion is supported by a recent decree signed by President Paul Biya, authorizing a new loan of 39.2 billion FCFA to fund the project.

Over the past eight years, the government has secured a total of 150.8 billion FCFA from three Chinese financial institutions to expand the surveillance infrastructure nationwide. The first phase alone saw 1,500 cameras installed in key urban and border areas, complemented by 2,000 portable radio devices for police forces. These additions have strengthened response capabilities and deterred criminal activity.

Beyond public spaces, private individuals and businesses are also adopting the technology. One homeowner explained, ‘I used to face constant break-ins. Since installing a camera system, I’ve felt completely safe. Any intruders are quickly identified, and justice follows.’ Such systems are accessible to a wide range of budgets, with basic models starting at around 15,000 FCFA. From plantations to vehicles and educational institutions, the cameras provide round-the-clock monitoring for all.

The technology also enables remote access via smartphones, TV screens, and other devices, allowing users to keep an eye on their properties from anywhere. This flexibility has made surveillance cameras an essential part of modern security strategies in Yaoundé.

By Boureima Amadou — Reporter