Yaoundé how surveillance cameras are making the city safer

smart cameras reshape security landscape in Cameroon’s capital

In Yaoundé, the political heart of Cameroon, surveillance cameras have become a cornerstone of public safety, crime deterrence, and traffic management. Since their deployment across strategic zones, residents report a noticeable decline in unlawful activities, transforming daily life for thousands.

from brazen robberies to safer streets

For years, the Madagascar neighborhood endured a wave of audacious daytime robberies. Shops, banks, and bakeries were routinely targeted by armed thieves who vanished without consequence. But after the installation of a network of high-definition cameras, the pattern changed dramatically. “Before, we lived in fear of daylight heists,” shared a local resident. “Now, criminals hesitate—even attempt a crime, and the system catches them every time. We owe this calm to the city’s guardians and their vigilant eyes.”

centralized monitoring at the national command center

The entire surveillance network is managed from the National Command Center for Video Surveillance, located in the Etoudi district. This centralized hub processes real-time feeds from thousands of cameras, enabling swift responses to incidents and proactive patrolling by security forces.

funding the future of urban safety

Recognizing the project’s success, President Paul Biya authorized a new financial injection in December 2025. A decree granted Minister of Economy Alamine Ousmane Mey the authority to secure a 39.2 billion FCFA loan, earmarked for expanding the smart urban surveillance system nationwide.

Over the past eight years, three Chinese financing agreements have collectively mobilized 150.8 billion FCFA for this initiative. The first phase alone saw 1,500 surveillance cameras installed across major Cameroonian cities, augmented by 2,000 portable transceivers to bolster police responsiveness.

beyond cities: expanding safety into homes and fields

The initiative’s reach extends far beyond public spaces. Private residences, agricultural plantations, and even schools now integrate these security systems. One homeowner recounted, “Once I installed cameras at my property, break-ins stopped completely. Intruders are now identified immediately, and justice follows swiftly.”

Installation costs vary, with basic models starting around 15,000 FCFA. Whether mounted on homes, vehicles, or farmlands, these devices empower users to monitor their properties remotely via smartphones, smart TVs, and other connected devices.