(Business in Cameroon) – On January 11, 2025, at the end of the 48th annual seminar of the National Episcopal Conference of Cameroon (CENC) held in Buea, the bishops of the Catholic Church issued a statement addressing the country’s ongoing socio-economic struggles. Directed at clergy, laypeople, political leaders, and citizens of goodwill, the message highlighted mismanagement and failures in key areas of governance.
“In 1990, we called on all Cameroonians to reflect on the severe economic crisis facing the nation,” the bishops said. “Now, 35 years after that warning and 65 years after independence, we are still trapped in economic and social stagnation, with an uncertain future ahead.”
The bishops pointed to rising taxes as a major source of hardship, especially for the most vulnerable. They criticized the tax system as unfair, saying it burdens those with little purchasing power while sparing the wealthy. “Can a nation be built solely through taxation?” they questioned.
Criticism of Cameroon’s tax policies has come not just from the Church but also from the business sector. Célestin Tawamba, leader of the country’s employers’ association, has labeled the tax regime “confiscatory” due to its heavy impact on businesses.
Government data shows that the tax burden, which stood at 13.6% of GDP in 2024, is expected to increase to 14% in 2025, then rise further to 14.2% in 2026 and 14.4% in 2027. While the government acknowledges this growth, it notes that Cameroon’s tax rate remains below the African average of 17.2%. Officials argue that a rate of 25% is typically needed to drive significant development.
The bishops also denounced the poor management of Cameroon’s natural wealth. “Our country is rich in forests, water, fertile soil, and minerals, yet these resources are being misused and plundered through questionable agreements on mining and agricultural concessions,” they said.
The lack of progress in infrastructure was another key concern. “In 2024, only 446 kilometers of new roads were paved, and just 228 kilometers were rehabilitated. If the annual road infrastructure budget were used properly, these problems would have been resolved long ago. Corruption, embezzlement of public funds, and lack of transparency are the real barriers to progress,” the bishops stated.
Despite their criticism, the bishops offered a message of hope and encouragement. “As bleak as the current situation may seem, we must not give in to despair. God is with us, and with Him, nothing can stand in our way. Let us believe in a brighter future for Cameroon, one built on strong social, economic, and political foundations. This will require responsibility and commitment from each of us, both individually and collectively.”
