Billions Stolen, Millions Suffer as Corruption Robs Cameroon’s Future

By Boris Esono Nwenfor

BUEA, Cameroon – A report from Cameroon’s National Anti-Corruption Commission, CONAC has revealed that Cameroon lost a whooping 114 billion FCFA to corruption in 2024, highlighting the persistent grip of embezzlement on the nation’s resources and developmental aspirations.

The figure, equivalent to nearly $200 million, underscores a systematic problem that the country continues to grapple with, represents a severe drain on the country’s public finances and poses significant challenges to its development.

Public finance experts suggest that the staggering loss could have been transformative for the country if managed with integrity. For instance, the funds could have been used to create jobs by establishing business incubation centres and providing entrepreneurial training to young people with such initiative significantly reducing unemployment, particularly among recent graduates.

Moreover, supporting small-scale projects in vital sectors such as agriculture, trade, and technology could have bolstered the local economy and generated wealth. In agriculture specifically, equipping young farmers with modern tools could have enhanced productivity and lessened the country’s dependence on imports.

Regrettably, these funds were diverted by corrupt practices, exacerbating inequality and trapping the nation in a cycle of poverty and institutional distrust. The effects of corruption extend beyond monetary loss. Mismanagement of funds disrupts essential public services and deepens societal inequalities, leaving communities without access to quality healthcare, education and infrastructure.

The CONAC report is a wake-up call for citizens, civil society, and government officials alike. In 2025, the fight against corruption must become a collective effort. There is, however, a growing consensus that corruption can no longer be tolerated. Grassroots movements, media campaigns, and international partnerships are being mobilized to strengthen anti-corruption frameworks.

In his End of Year address on December 31, President Paul Biya called for unity and resilience in the fight against graft. "Improving governance also means stepping up the fight against corruption and misappropriation of public funds. This ensures legal protection for private investment and land tenure security, where abuses have been noted."

“Let me assure you of one thing, appropriate sanctions will be meted on those found guilty of such offences,” he stated.
The fight against corruption is not just a battle for the government alone, but the responsibility of every Cameroonian. The losses of 2024 are a stark reminder that unchecked corruption undermines national development and denies citizens the future they merit.