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Population
Cameroon has about 28 million inhabitants (as of 2024). The population is very young, and the country has a high growth rate. There is great ethnic and linguistic diversity, with over 250 ethnic groups and two official languages: French and English.
Capital
The political capital of Cameroon is Yaoundé, while Douala is the largest city and the economic center of the country. Douala is also the main port and a central hub for trade.
Economic Power
Cameroon has a diversified economy with key sectors such as agriculture, oil, timber, and services. The GDP per capita is about USD 1,500 (as of 2023). Despite its wealth in resources, Cameroon faces challenges such as corruption, inadequate infrastructure, and regional conflicts.
Culture
Cameroon is often called “Africa in Miniature” because of its vast cultural and geographical diversity. The culture is shaped by many ethnic groups, including the Bamileke, Fulani, Douala, and many others. Traditional dances, music, and festivals are an important part of social life. Cameroon is also known for its cuisine, including dishes like Ndolé, Fufu, and Jollof rice.
Currency
The official currency of Cameroon is the CFA franc (XAF), used by the Central African Economic and Monetary Community (CEMAC).
Health Insurance and Social Security System
Cameroon has a social security system that covers pensions, work accidents, health, and maternity insurance. However, state health services are often inadequate, and many people use private insurance or pay out-of-pocket for medical services.
Costs for Employers
Employers in Cameroon are required to contribute about 16% of gross wages to social security. These contributions cover pensions, health insurance, and work accident insurance. Additional costs may arise from voluntary employer benefits like transportation or housing allowances.
Salaries and Bonuses
Salaries in Cameroon vary greatly by industry, qualifications, and region. The legal minimum wage is currently about 36,270 XAF per month (as of 2023). Bonuses are usually performance-based and can be negotiated as part of the overall compensation package.
Payroll
Payroll in Cameroon includes the basic salary, various allowances, bonuses, and statutory deductions for taxes and social security contributions.
Public Holidays
Cameroon has several public holidays, including:
- New Year’s Day (January 1)
- Youth Day (February 11)
- Labor Day (May 1)
- National Day (May 20)
- Independence Day (January 1 and October 1 for anglophone regions)
- Various religious holidays such as Christmas, Eid al-Fitr, and Eid al-Adha.
Working Hours
The regular working hours in Cameroon are 40 hours per week, spread over five working days. Monday to Friday is typical, although Saturday may also be a half workday in some sectors.
Vacation
Employees in Cameroon are entitled to at least 18 days of paid annual leave. This entitlement may increase with length of service, and there are additional leave days for special occasions like weddings or childbirth.
Incapacity for Work
In the case of illness, employees are entitled to sick leave, covered either by social security or the employer. The specific regulations depend on the employment contract and the nature of the illness.
Termination/Severance Pay
Notice periods and severance pay regulations in Cameroon vary depending on the length of service and contractual conditions.