Cameroon is currently undertaking its fourth General Population and Housing Census, aimed at counting every citizen to better plan the country’s future. However, significant security challenges in the Northwest, South-West, and Far-North regions have raised concerns about the safety of census agents and the accuracy of the data collected. To address these hurdles, the government and the Central Bureau of Censuses and Population Studies (Bucrep) are working to reassure the public that no one will be left out. By focusing on inclusivity, officials hope to create a complete demographic map that reflects the reality of all Cameroonians, regardless of their location.
To overcome the physical dangers in crisis-affected areas, the government is utilizing advanced technology and alternative strategies between February 24 and May 29. In zones where census takers cannot safely travel door-to-door, authorities are relying on high-resolution satellite imagery to estimate population density and locate settlements. This digital approach allows the state to bypass roadblocks and conflict zones, ensuring that even displaced populations are accounted for. By merging traditional counting with modern remote sensing, the government aims to produce a credible database that reflects the actual number of people living in volatile regions.
Accurate census data is vital for agropastoral planning, as the government must know exactly where people and livestock are located to distribute resources effectively. For veterinarians and agricultural experts, reliable population data is a matter of national food security and animal health. Without precise numbers, it is impossible to evaluate the risk or control the spread of zoonotic diseases. When the government knows the density of human populations in specific corridors, it can better asses risks, allocate vetrinary services, build necessary water points, and manage grazing land. This ensures that the country’s vital livestock and farming sectors remain resilient despite the ongoing security and climate challenges while also safeguarding public health through improved surveillance.
