In Yaoundé, the political heart of Cameroon, surveillance cameras have become a cornerstone of public safety and crime prevention. Strategically deployed across the city, they serve multiple purposes: deterring criminal activity, protecting properties and lives, and optimizing traffic flow.
From brazen crimes to safer streets
A resident of the Madagascar neighborhood shared a stark before-and-after comparison: «Earlier, our ward was plagued by daylight robberies. Armed thugs would storm shops, banks, and bakeries without warning, leaving chaos in their wake. But since the cameras were installed, such incidents have plummeted. We owe a debt of gratitude to the authorities for this transformative shift.»
The nerve center of surveillance
The city’s network of cameras is managed from the National Command Center for Video Surveillance, located in the Etoudi district. This centralized system allows real-time monitoring of high-risk areas, enabling swift responses to incidents and enhanced coordination with law enforcement.
A nationwide expansion backed by new funding
The government’s commitment to expanding this security network is evident in recent financial decisions. Recognizing the system’s success, authorities secured an additional 39.2 billion FCFA in funding to accelerate the national rollout of intelligent urban video surveillance. This decree, signed by the President of the Republic, marks the fourth phase of a project that has mobilized 150.8 billion FCFA over eight years, with financing secured from Chinese development partners.
The initial phase alone saw 1,500 surveillance cameras deployed in major cities, complemented by 2,000 portable transceivers to bolster police surveillance and intervention capabilities.
Beyond urban centers: security for homes, farms, and schools
The reach of this technology extends far beyond streets and public spaces. Private residences, farms, vehicles, and even educational institutions are now equipped with surveillance systems. One homeowner noted, «Before installing cameras, my property was targeted repeatedly. Now, intruders are promptly identified, and justice follows. I sleep soundly knowing my home is protected.»
Surveillance cameras, available from 15,000 FCFA depending on specifications, offer remote monitoring via smartphones, televisions, and other devices. Their versatility makes them an accessible and effective solution for diverse security needs.
