Cameroon is feeling the brunt of climate change like never before. Rising temperatures, devastating floods, and unpredictable weather patterns are putting pressure on communities across the country. From health crises to food shortages, the effects are everywhere, and it’s clear that action is urgently needed.
2024: The Year of Unbearable Heat
The heatwaves of March and April 2024 were a wake-up call. Temperatures in regions like the Far North soared to record highs, with daytime averages of 41.5°C in March and 42.3°C in April —the hottest months since 1981. At night, it wasn’t much better, with minimum temperatures averaging 25.6°C and 27.5°C. These extreme conditions weren’t limited to the Far North. Other regions, including the Centre, Adamaoua, and parts of the North-West and South-West, recorded temperatures 1°C to 3°C higher than usual (WFP Cameroon Climate Change Report, July 2024).
These intense heatwaves hit people hard. Hospitals in Maroua saw a spike in cases of dehydration and heat-related illnesses, especially among the elderly, pregnant women, and young children. Tragically, civil society organizations reported deaths caused by the heat (RFI).
The Ripple Effect on Agriculture
Cameroon’s agriculture—already vulnerable—suffered badly. Off-season crops like sorghum, tomatoes, and onions struggled in the extreme heat. Water sources dried up, irrigation systems failed, and poor harvests pushed food prices through the roof.
Livestock farming wasn’t spared either. Cattle in the Far North faced moderate to severe heat stress , leading to reduced milk production and lower reproductive rates. Farmers, desperate to find water and pasture, had to travel further, putting even more strain on their livelihoods (DNM).
With agriculture employing so many people, these challenges don’t just hurt farmers—they ripple through the entire economy. The World Bank predicts that climate change could shrink Cameroon’s GDP by up to 10% by 2050 if no action is taken.
Floods Add to the Misery
While some regions are baking in the heat, others are drowning in floods. In 2024, over 200,000 people in the North region were affected by flooding, and 8,000 homes were destroyed. This wasn’t just an inconvenience; it disrupted children’s education, wiped out livelihoods, and left communities struggling to rebuild.
In the Centre and Littoral regions, heavy rainfall caused similar chaos. Rural schools were damaged, making it harder for kids to get an education. Cameroon loses around $130 million every year due to flooding, according to the UNDRR. And it’s not just the direct damage—blocked roads and disrupted trade add to the economic toll.
More Than an Environmental Problem
Climate change isn’t just about extreme weather—it’s driving conflict too. In places like the Extreme North, where water and fertile land are becoming scarcer, tensions are rising between farmers, herders, and fishermen. The Logone Birni commune has already seen violent clashes over resources.
The situation is even worse for people already displaced by conflict. Over one million Cameroonians are internally displaced, and many more have fled across borders. Climate shocks, like floods and droughts, are making a tough situation even harder for these vulnerable communities.
Health Risks on the Rise
Beyond the immediate dangers of heatwaves and floods, there are longer-term health risks to worry about. Farmers are increasingly relying on chemicals like pesticides to make up for poor yields. But these chemicals come with their own problems. Experts warn they’re contributing to antimicrobial resistance and foodborne illnesses, which could have serious consequences for public health.
Why Progress is Slow
Cameroon has plans to tackle climate change, from promoting climate-smart agriculture to building stronger infrastructure. But progress has been slow. The country still lacks a strong legal framework for climate action, and limited funding is holding back major projects.
Private sector involvement is also a big challenge. In 2019-20, only 2.6% of total climate financing came from private businesses. Without more investment in sustainable practices and green technologies, it’ll be hard to make real progress.
What Needs to Happen
There’s no quick fix to climate change, but here’s what Cameroon can do to start turning things around:
1. Invest in Resilient Infrastructure: Build roads, schools, and systems that can withstand extreme weather.
2. Support Farmers and Herders: Provide better tools and training to help them adapt to changing conditions.
3. Raise Awareness*: Educate communities about climate risks and how to protect themselves.
4. Encourage Private Investment: Partner with businesses to develop innovative, low-carbon solutions.
Organizations like the Cameroon National Climate Observatory (ONACC) are already providing valuable tools, such as local climate forecasts. But these efforts need more support to make a real difference.
A Fight We Can’t Afford to Lose
Climate change is hitting Cameroon hard, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. From struggling farmers to displaced families and overwhelmed hospitals, the impacts are everywhere. But with the right investments, policies, and partnerships, there’s hope for a more resilient future.
Cameroon’s fight against climate change isn’t just about protecting the environment—it’s about safeguarding lives, livelihoods, and the country’s future. Let’s act before it’s too late.
