Terrain
Diverse, with coastal plain in southwest, dissected plateau in center, mountains in west, plains in north
Climate
Varies with terrain, from tropical along coast to semiarid and hot in north
People
Nationality: Cameroonian(s)
Population: 23,130,708 (July 2014 est.)
Languages: 24 major African language groups, English (official), French (official)
Religions
Indigenous beliefs 40%, Christian 40%, Muslim 20%
Economy
Because of its modest oil resources and favorable agricultural conditions, Cameroon has one of the best-endowed primary commodity economies in sub-Saharan Africa. Still, it faces many of the serious problems confronting other underdeveloped countries, such as stagnant per capita income, a relatively inequitable distribution of income, a top-heavy civil service, endemic corruption, and a generally unfavorable climate for business enterprise.
Living Conditions
Cameroon has good conditions for farming, and oil is an important natural resource. But Cameroonians face many of the same challenges as other Africans. In the villages, most houses are still made of mud and thatch. However, these are gradually being replaced by houses made of concrete blocks and galvanized iron roofing. Still, many people travel from place to place, and many camp out in poor areas (shantytowns) at the edges of cities.
Government
Republic; multi-party presidential regime
US Military Presence/Support