Population Data : Improving Governance, Understanding The Dividends

The subject was not so common. Perhaps, not topical. But those with better insights turned out. To discuss what they consider so essential to the future and development of Cameroon. So also were the over 10 journalists invited for the purpose. All eager to hear from the author. And other experts to improve their understanding of the subject. In order to better tell their stories.

Head Count To Demographic Analysis 
For about four hours, members of the Journalists’ Network for Maputo Action Plan, JNMAP, gathered in the Pichnet cultural and demographic centre. In the Olezoa neighbourhood of Yaounde on Tuesday May 27, 2025. For a media briefing and book launch on the theme, “La population du Cameroun: du comptage des effectifs à l’analyse des phenomenes demographiques” (or “Cameroon’s Population: From head counts to analyzing demographic phenomena.”)  The book was published in 2024 by Professor Emeritus Emmanuel Ngwe. With L’Harmattan as publishers under “Etudes Africaines serie demographique.” 

Who Is Who!
Present at the event was Prof. Eloundou Parfait, the Director of Pichnet, and Prof. Gervais Beninguisse from IFORD, the institute for population studies; other demographers and Professor Emeritus, Senator Boyomo Assala, the former Director of the Advanced School of Mass Communication, ASMAC of the University of Yaounde II. 

Appropriate Methodology 
Prof. Assala reviewed the book, saying it tries to make up for the vacuum in population data in Cameroon. It revisits the birth of population studies in Cameroon. Highlighting the place of IFORD in population studies in Francophone Africa. He described the methodology used by the author as “adapted to the context.” “La Population du Cameroun : du comptage des effectifs à l’analyse des phenomenes demographiques » is a reference in Cameroon population studies, » he admitted. Praising the remarkable ability of the author to transition from a demographer to a demography expert. 

From Colonial Times To Present Day
According to Prof Emeritus Emmanuel Ngwe, the books seeks to answer a number of questions, including the efforts made by Cameroon since colonial times in terms of the quality and quantity of population data. “Though much has been written on Cameroon’s population, the book is a summary of writings and publications on the subject… The methodology used comprises population studies, scientific studies/public lectures, theses, discussions with ISSEA, BUCREP, BUNEC…,” Prof. Ngwe went on. 

For Better Governance 
“La population du Cameroun : du comptage des effectifs à l’analyse des phenomenes demographiques” adds to knowledge. It is divided into two parts – observation and analysis. Which both discuss the general analysis of the state of population studies in Cameroon. The book contains four major ideas on Cameroon’s population. That Cameroon population studies were borne out of the need by the colonial administration to know the population in order to plan and govern well. Cameroon has produced a high number of quality demographers and statisticians. 

Diverse, Not Overpopulated Nation 
The National Institute of Statistics, NIS and BUCREP, are key institutions in population studies in Cameroon. Despite the progress made in population studies, population dividends are yet to be realized. Prof. Ngwe stressed that Cameroon is not overpopulated. Adding that there has been a gradual decrease in Cameroon population growth over the years – with effects on different aspects of life. Cameroon’s population is diverse…….
“Demography has been practised in Cameroon since colonial times, but was strengthene...