Yaoundé’s landscape has transformed with the widespread deployment of surveillance cameras, reshaping how residents experience safety in both public and private spaces. These systems have become a cornerstone of the city’s efforts to curb crime, protect livelihoods, and enhance urban mobility.

From fear to reassurance: residents speak out

In neighborhoods like Madagascar, where crime once dictated daily routines, the presence of surveillance cameras has brought tangible peace of mind. One resident shared, «Before, armed robberies were a daily threat. Shops, banks, and bakeries were targeted without warning, leaving us helpless. But since the cameras were installed, such incidents have plummeted. We owe this progress to the authorities’ foresight.»

Centralized monitoring for smarter security

The city’s surveillance network is managed from the National Command Center for Video Surveillance in Etoudi, where officers oversee a growing network of devices. This centralized system enables rapid response to incidents and real-time monitoring of high-risk areas.

A growing investment in public safety

The government’s commitment to expanding this initiative has been reinforced through a new financing package. A decree signed in December 2025 authorized Alamine Ousmane Mey, Minister of Economy, to secure a 39.2 billion FCFA loan to bolster the urban surveillance project nationwide.

This marks the fourth phase of investment, with a total of 150.8 billion FCFA mobilized over eight years through partnerships with Chinese funding agencies. The first phase alone saw 1,500 cameras installed across key urban centers, complemented by 2,000 portable radio units to strengthen police response capabilities.

Beyond the streets: cameras in homes, farms, and schools

The benefits of this technology extend far beyond public spaces. Private households, agricultural plantations, and educational institutions are increasingly adopting surveillance systems to safeguard assets and communities.

One homeowner explained, «I used to suffer frequent break-ins until I installed a camera system. Now, any intruder is immediately detected, and justice follows swiftly. The investment has been worth every franc.»

With devices priced from 15,000 FCFA, residents and businesses can tailor solutions to their needs—whether monitoring a home, a vehicle, or a farm. Remote access via smartphones and smart TVs allows users to keep watch over their properties at all times.

Looking ahead: a safer Yaoundé

As this initiative expands, Yaoundé is setting a benchmark for urban security in Central Africa. The integration of surveillance technology into daily life has not only reduced crime but also fostered a renewed sense of trust among residents and businesses alike.