Smart surveillance cameras have become a cornerstone of security in Yaoundé, Cameroon’s bustling capital. These high-tech devices do more than just monitor—they deter crime, protect property, and help manage traffic flow across the city.
how surveillance cameras are transforming safety in Yaoundé
A resident of the Madagascar neighborhood shared a stark before-and-after picture of life under the city’s new security measures: “We used to live at the mercy of armed robberies. Thieves would strike at any hour, raiding shops, banks, and bakeries without consequence. But after the cameras were installed, those incidents almost vanished. I owe a debt of gratitude to the authorities for this peace of mind.”
The city’s surveillance network is managed from the National Video Surveillance Command Center in the Etoudi district, where operators track activity in real time. This centralized system has proven so effective that it has expanded beyond public spaces to include private homes, businesses, and even schools.
expanding the network: a national push for security
Impressed by the results in Yaoundé, President Paul Biya authorized a new funding initiative in late 2025. The decree empowered the Minister of Economy, Alamine Ousmane Mey, to secure a 39.2 billion FCFA loan to further develop the smart urban surveillance network across the country.
This fourth phase of investment will draw on 150.8 billion FCFA from Chinese development partners over eight years, reinforcing the government’s commitment to nationwide security. The first three phases already delivered over 1,500 fixed cameras and 2,000 portable transceivers to enhance police response times and coverage.
protecting what matters: homes, farms, and classrooms
Surveillance cameras are no longer confined to city streets. More Cameroonians are installing them in private residences, agricultural plantations, and even school campuses. One homeowner recounted: “Before installing cameras, I suffered repeated break-ins. Now, any intruder is caught on tape—and justice follows. I feel completely secure.”
The cost of a basic surveillance camera starts at around 15,000 FCFA, with premium models offering advanced features like remote access via smartphone, smart TV integration, and cloud storage. These devices deliver round-the-clock monitoring, giving users the power to watch over their properties from anywhere.
From residential neighborhoods to remote farmlands, this scalable security solution is reshaping how Cameroonians protect their livelihoods and communities.