Post-election protests have brought Douala, Cameroon’s economic capital, to a near standstill. Shops remain shuttered, markets are empty, transport services are disrupted, and the rising cost of basic goods is squeezing households already struggling with high inflation.
Economists estimate the city is losing over 10 billion CFA francs (about €15 million) daily due to business closures, halted trade, and lost productivity. Small businesses, particularly informal vendors, market retailers, and transport operators, are bearing the brunt of the unrest.
Many rely on daily earnings to survive, making each day of disruption economically devastating.
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Michael Kouam, a Cameroonian economist, told Newsmen that while the immediate losses are significant, the long-term impact could be even more damaging. “Prolonged instability risks undermining investor trust in Cameroon’s economy,” he said, highlighting that Douala is a hub for trade and manufacturing in Central Africa. “If businesses continue to face uncertainty, it could discourage both local and foreign investments, slowing economic recovery and growth.”
Households are already feeling the pinch. Basic food prices have spiked, transportation is erratic, and essential services are harder to access. Traders say many small vendors are considering shutting down operations permanently if unrest continues.
Local authorities have urged calm and dialogue, but demonstrators argue that the protests are necessary to demand electoral reforms and accountability.
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Meanwhile, international observers warn that sustained instability could damage Cameroon’s regional trade links and hamper the country’s broader development prospects.
The situation also comes at a time when Cameroon faces inflationary pressures and currency volatility, making economic resilience a growing concern for policymakers and households alike.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
