Cameroon census faces criticism over delays and logistical flaws
The fourth national census in Cameroon has hit turbulence, with authorities extending the operation by two months to address mounting challenges. Initially scheduled to conclude on May 29, the nationwide population and housing survey now faces scrutiny from civil society groups over alleged mismanagement and structural shortcomings.
Philippe Nanga, coordinator of the NGO Un Monde Avenir, didn’t mince words, describing the process as marred by “widespread confusion.” A telling sign of the operation’s disarray emerged in Douala, Cameroon’s economic hub, where enumerators abandoned their posts after ten days due to unpaid stipends—a stark contrast to the operation’s stated importance for national planning.
Why a reliable census matters for Cameroon
A census isn’t just a headcount; it’s the foundation for electoral boundaries, budget allocations to local governments, and critical infrastructure planning. Cameroon’s last official census, conducted in 2005, left policymakers grappling with outdated demographic data for years. This fourth edition was meant to close that gap, but delays and operational gaps have raised doubts about its credibility.
The extension hints at deeper issues: incomplete rural coverage, delayed equipment deliveries, and inadequate training for enumerators. The protest in Douala underscores a systemic flaw—the failure to ensure timely payments for frontline workers in a high-stakes national project.
Civil society’s watchdog role in the census debate
Nanga’s public criticism reflects a broader vigilance among Cameroonian civil society groups monitoring government-led initiatives. His concerns aren’t about derailing the census but ensuring its integrity. In a country where demographic and electoral figures often spark controversy, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Will the results withstand scrutiny?
The extra two months offer a chance to course-correct, but only if funding and logistical support align. Observers warn that a rushed or poorly executed census could yield a skewed snapshot of Cameroon’s population—something international partners like the World Bank and UNFPA closely monitor.
Lessons for francophone Africa’s census challenges
Cameroon’s struggles mirror those of other francophone African nations: conducting thorough censuses amid tight budgets, remote terrain, and sporadic security threats. The 2005 census faced repeated delays before final results were published in 2010. Two decades later, the country is still refining its approach to large-scale statistical operations.
As the extended deadline looms, Nanga’s intervention could shape public discourse. Authorities must address transparency, settle payment arrears for field agents, and release interim data. Otherwise, Cameroon’s fourth census may be remembered less for its scientific contributions and more for its administrative missteps.
