Society

There are over 130 recognized ethnic groups and languages in Cameroon’s population of approximately 14 million. Only five of these are considered prominent: Bamileke and Bamoun in the west, Fulani and Kirdi in the north and the Ewondo who live around the city of Yaounde. All five major tribes are said to have their own small secret societies that work to preserve and continue ancestral rituals. Bantu-speaking people, such as the Douala, predominate along the southern coast and in the forested areas. The Bamileke tribe are the largest in number and thus big contributors to Cameroon’s economy. The Bamoun, mostly Christians, are known for their festivals and feasts. Each ethnic group in the country has its own chieftain.