In Yaoundé, the capital of Cameroon, smart surveillance cameras have become a game-changer in enhancing public safety, protecting property, and streamlining traffic flow. These high-tech devices are now a cornerstone of the city’s security strategy, with their reach extending to residential areas, commercial zones, and even educational institutions.

Residents in neighborhoods like Madagascar have already felt the impact. One local shop owner shared, «Before the cameras were installed, our area was plagued by armed robberies. Criminals struck without warning, targeting shops, banks, and bakeries, often escaping unnoticed. Since the surveillance system was put in place, such incidents have dropped dramatically. We owe a debt of gratitude to the authorities for this proactive measure.»

All cameras in Yaoundé are managed from the National Command Center for Video Surveillance, located in the Etoudi district. This centralized system ensures real-time monitoring and rapid response to incidents across the city.

The government’s commitment to expanding this initiative is evident. A recent decree signed by the President of the Republic authorized a new loan of 39.2 billion FCFA, earmarked for further investment in the national urban surveillance network.

Over the past eight years, three Chinese funding partners have contributed a total of 150.8 billion FCFA to support this project. The first phase alone saw the installation of 1,500 surveillance cameras in key urban centers, supplemented by 2,000 portable transceivers to bolster police surveillance and intervention capabilities.

Beyond city streets and border regions, private homes are also benefiting from this technology. One homeowner explained, «I used to suffer repeated break-ins until I installed a surveillance system. Now, any intruder is immediately detected, and justice follows swiftly. I couldn’t be more satisfied with the results.»

These cameras are versatile, finding applications in plantations, vehicles, and even schools. Their affordability—starting at around 15,000 FCFA—makes them accessible to a wide range of users. Remote monitoring via smartphones and smart TVs allows property owners to keep a watchful eye on their assets from anywhere, at any time.