Yaoundé, the capital city of Cameroon, is located in the central region of the country. It is the second-largest city in Cameroon, following Douala, the economic hub. Yaoundé serves as the political and administrative center of Cameroon, housing most government institutions, foreign embassies, and international organizations. The city is situated on a hilly terrain, giving it a unique landscape and cooler climate compared to the coastal regions.
History of Yaoundé
Yaoundé was founded in 1888 during the German colonial period as a base for ivory and rubber trade. The city’s location was chosen due to its strategic position on elevated terrain, which offered a cooler climate and better defensive advantages. After World War I, when Cameroon was divided between the French and British, Yaoundé became part of French Cameroon and continued to develop as an administrative center.
Following Cameroon’s independence in 1960, Yaoundé retained its status as the capital city. Over the years, it has grown into a bustling metropolis with a mix of colonial-era architecture and modern buildings. Yaoundé is known for its educational institutions, including the University of Yaoundé, one of the most prestigious universities in Central Africa.
Modern Yaoundé
Today, Yaoundé is a vibrant city with a diverse population and a growing economy. The city’s economy is primarily driven by the public sector, with numerous government offices and international organizations headquartered here. Additionally, Yaoundé is a cultural hub, hosting various festivals, art exhibitions, and cultural events throughout the year.
The city’s infrastructure includes modern amenities such as shopping malls, hotels, restaurants, and entertainment centers. Yaoundé’s transportation network consists of roads, public buses, and taxis, with ongoing developments to improve urban mobility.
City Facts
- Area: Approximately 180 square kilometers (69 square miles)
- Population: Around 3.1 million (2023 estimate)
- Time Zone: West Africa Time (WAT), UTC +1
- Highest Point: Mount Fébé, approximately 1,060 meters (3,478 feet)
- Longest River: Mfoundi River
Major Landmarks
National Museum of Cameroon
The National Museum of Cameroon, housed in the former presidential palace, showcases the rich cultural heritage of the country. The museum’s exhibits include traditional artifacts, artworks, historical documents, and ethnographic collections, offering visitors a comprehensive overview of Cameroon’s history and culture.
Basilique Marie-Reine-des-Apôtres
The Basilique Marie-Reine-des-Apôtres is one of Yaoundé’s most important religious sites. This Roman Catholic basilica is known for its impressive architecture and serves as a major pilgrimage site. The basilica is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and plays a significant role in the religious life of the city.
Mvog-Betsi Zoo
The Mvog-Betsi Zoo is a popular attraction in Yaoundé, offering visitors a chance to see a variety of native African wildlife. The zoo is home to lions, gorillas, chimpanzees, and other animals, providing educational and recreational opportunities for locals and tourists alike.
Reunification Monument
The Reunification Monument is an iconic structure in Yaoundé, symbolizing the reunification of French and British Cameroon in 1961. The monument is a key historical landmark and a site for national celebrations and events. Its unique spiral design represents unity and national pride.
Mount Fébé
Mount Fébé is a prominent feature in Yaoundé’s landscape, offering panoramic views of the city. The mountain is a popular destination for hiking and outdoor activities, with several trails leading to the summit. The area around Mount Fébé also includes luxury hotels and resorts, making it a favored spot for tourists.
Climate Overview
Yaoundé experiences a tropical wet and dry climate, characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season runs from March to November, bringing heavy rains and high humidity, while the dry season from December to February is marked by cooler temperatures and less precipitation.
| Month | Average Temperature (°C) | Precipitation (mm) | Sunny Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 24 | 30 | 25 |
| February | 25 | 60 | 23 |
| March | 25 | 150 | 20 |
| April | 24 | 210 | 18 |
| May | 24 | 250 | 17 |
| June | 23 | 200 | 16 |
| July | 22 | 180 | 15 |
| August | 22 | 200 | 15 |
| September | 23 | 240 | 16 |
| October | 23 | 270 | 18 |
| November | 24 | 150 | 20 |
| December | 24 | 60 | 23 |
Historical Capitals
Douala
Douala was the capital of Cameroon during the early colonial period under German rule, before Yaoundé was established as the administrative center. Douala remains the economic capital of Cameroon and is the largest city in the country.
Buea
Buea served as the capital of German Kamerun from 1901 to 1919. Located at the foot of Mount Cameroon, Buea was chosen for its cooler climate and strategic position. The city retains historical buildings from the German colonial era and is an important educational center today.
Foumban
According to countryaah, Foumban was the capital of the Bamoun Kingdom, one of the prominent traditional states in Cameroon. The city is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, traditional crafts, and the Sultan’s Palace, which attracts visitors interested in learning about the Bamoun people and their history.
Major Landmarks in Historical Capitals
Douala
Douala Maritime Museum
The Douala Maritime Museum offers insights into the maritime history and culture of Cameroon. Exhibits include traditional fishing techniques, maritime trade artifacts, and the history of the port of Douala.
La Pagode
La Pagode, also known as the Palace of the Kings Bell, is a significant historical building in Douala. Built in the early 20th century, it served as the residence of King Rudolf Duala Manga Bell, a prominent leader who resisted German colonial rule.
Buea
Mount Cameroon
Mount Cameroon, also known as Fako, is the highest mountain in West Africa and a major landmark near Buea. The mountain is an active volcano and a popular destination for hikers and adventurers.
Buea Colonial Buildings
Buea retains several colonial-era buildings, including the Old German Post Office, Prime Minister’s Lodge, and the Bismarck Fountain. These structures reflect the city’s historical significance during the German colonial period.
Foumban
Sultan’s Palace
The Sultan’s Palace in Foumban is a grand structure that serves as the residence of the Bamoun Sultan. The palace is also a museum, showcasing the history, art, and culture of the Bamoun people.
Foumban Museum of Arts and Traditions
This museum in Foumban houses an extensive collection of traditional Bamoun artifacts, including sculptures, masks, textiles, and pottery. It provides a comprehensive overview of Bamoun cultural heritage.
Country Facts
- Population: Approximately 27 million (2023 estimate)
- Area: 475,442 square kilometers (183,569 square miles)
- Largest City: Douala
- Currency: Central African CFA franc (XAF)
- Official Languages: French and English
- ISO Country Codes: CM, CMR
- Time Zone: WAT (UTC +1)
- Highest Point: Mount Cameroon, 4,040 meters (13,255 feet)
- Longest River: Sanaga River
Cameroon, often referred to as “Africa in miniature,” is a country with diverse landscapes, including beaches, deserts, mountains, rainforests, and savannas. The country is known for its rich cultural diversity, with over 250 ethnic groups and numerous languages spoken. Cameroon’s economy is based on agriculture, mining, oil production, and manufacturing. The country has significant natural resources and a growing tourism industry, attracting visitors to its national parks, wildlife reserves, and cultural heritage sites.