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PUBLISHED DATE: - 04-11-2024
DOI: -
https://doi.org/10.37547/tajpslc/Volume06Issue11-08
PAGE NO.: - 52-67
POST-CONFLICT RECONSTRUCTION AND
INSTITUTION BUILDING IN CAMEROON
Christopher M. Osazuwa
PhD Student City University, Cambodia
Olowonihi A. Peter
PhD Student City University, Cambodia
Sunday U. Brownson
PhD Student City University, Cambodia
Henshaw E. Ekeng
PhD Student City University, Cambodia
Maryjane Y. Oghogho
PhD Student City University, Cambodia
RESEARCH ARTICLE
Open Access
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INTRODUCTION
The Republic of Cameroon, situated in Central
Africa, has encountered numerous conflicts that
have profoundly influenced its socio-political and
economic framework. The most notable are the
Anglophone Crisis and the Boko Haram insurgency.
Both conflicts pose distinct challenges to
Cameroon’s national security and post
-conflict
reconstruction
initiatives,
affecting
the
rehabilitation of institutions and the extent of
peacebuilding efforts.
The Anglophone Crisis originates from enduring
grievances between Cameroon’s two language
groups: the Anglophone minority and the
Francophone majority. This conflict arises from the
colonial division of Cameroon between Britain and
France after World War I. The British-
administered territories chose to join the Republic
of Cameroon in 1961, establishing a bilingual state.
Nonetheless, tensions between the Anglophone
regions (Northwest and Southwest) and the
Francophone-dominated
government
have
endured due to perceived marginalization and
systemic discrimination against English-speaking
citizens in domains such as education, law, and
political representation (Nkongho, 2021).
The situation escalated in 2016 when attorneys
and educators in the Anglophone regions
orchestrated demonstrations against the perceived
imposition of French legal and educational
frameworks in their territories. The protests
prompted severe military responses, intensifying
the situation into an armed struggle between
government troops and separatist factions
advocating for an independent state referred to as
"Ambazonia" (Ngang, 2022). This violent conflict
has led to extensive displacement, with over
700,000 individuals internally displaced, and has
resulted in thousands of fatalities (Amnesty
International, 2023). The United Nations and other
human rights organizations have denounced the
Abstract
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bloodshed, urging the Cameroonian government to
engage in dialogue and halt military operations
against separatist combatants.
Besides the Anglophone Crisis, Cameroon is
contending with the Boko Haram insurgency in its
Far North territory. Boko Haram, a jihadist
organisation originating from northeastern
Nigeria, extended its activities into Cameroon circa
2013. The organisation seeks to build an Islamic
caliphate in West Africa, and its operations in
Cameroon
have
encompassed
bombings,
abductions, and violent assaults on villages. The
conflict has significantly destabilized the region,
resulting in extensive instability and the mass
displacement
of
approximately
300,000
Cameroonians (United Nations High Commissioner
for Refugees [UNHCR], 2022).
The Cameroonian military, in conjunction with
regional forces of the Multinational Joint Task
Force (MNJTF), has endeavored to mitigate Boko
Haram's influence through military operations and
regional collaboration (Zenn, 2020). Nonetheless,
despite these endeavors, Boko Haram continues to
pose a substantial threat, executing periodic
assaults on civilian populations and governmental
objectives. The persistent insurgency has severely
impacted development in the Far North, restricting
access to education, healthcare, and economic
possibilities (Elischer & McNulty, 2022). Boko
Haram's assaults have intensified pre-existing
socio-economic disparities in the region,
facilitating the recruitment of marginalized young
into the insurgency.
The Anglophone Crisis and Boko Haram insurgency
have generated a complex and varied conflict
landscape in Cameroon. The government's
attempts to concurrently address both wars have
strained the nation's military and financial
resources, constraining its ability to undertake
extensive rehabilitation and economic projects.
Furthermore, the humanitarian repercussions of
both
conflicts,
encompassing
extensive
displacement and pervasive human rights abuses,
have intensified the necessity for post-conflict
institutional development. The crises have
revealed the insufficiency of current governance
frameworks and the pressing necessity for
decentralization, judicial reform, and inclusive
discussion (Mbuh & Smith, 2021).
This study aims to achieve three primary
objectives. First, it seeks to identify the key
challenges and barriers hindering effective post-
conflict reconstruction and institution building in
Cameroon. Second, it examines the roles of both
national and international actors in the post-
conflict reconstruction efforts within the country.
Finally, it analyzes strategies for improving
institution- building to ensure long-term peace and
stability in Cameroon.
This study addresses a critical gap in the literature
on post-conflict reconstruction in Africa by
focusing on Cameroon, specifically the under-
researched Anglophone Crisis and Boko Haram
insurgency. By examining the impact of these
conflicts on institutional development, governance,
and social cohesion, the research aims to enhance
existing theories of peacebuilding and state-
building in conflict-affected regions. Furthermore,
it seeks to provide policymakers, international
organizations, and NGOs with practical insights
and recommendations for effective intervention
strategies in Cameroon, ultimately contributing to
long-term peace and stability in the country.
Empirical Review
Challenges and Barriers to Post-Conflict
Reconstruction
Post-conflict reconstruction is a complex process
fraught with socio-political and economic
challenges that, if left unaddressed, can hinder
recovery, and increase the likelihood of conflict
recurrence.
A significant impediment to post-conflict
rehabilitation is the absence of political inclusivity
and engagement. Political power frequently stays
centralized among a limited elite, marginalizing
portions of the populace, especially those
adversely affected by the conflict (Ngang, 2022).
The marginalization observed in Cameroon's
Anglophone Crisis intensifies tensions and
obstructs the establishment of an inclusive
government. Ngang (2022) observes that the
Francophone- dominated government's inability to
meet the Anglophone population's desires for
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increased autonomy has exacerbated frustrations
and eroded trust in governance. Moreover, political
instability and ineffective governance, marked by
tenuous administrations attempting to establish
authority and uphold order, provide considerable
challenges. The Cameroonian government's
ineffectiveness in governing the Anglophone areas,
alongside persistent violence, and instability, has
obstructed reconstruction initiatives (Nkongho,
2021). This reflects the difficulties encountered by
other post-conflict African nations, where
ineffective administration obstructs significant
reforms and extends the reconstruction period
(Zenn, 2020).
In addition to political issues, post-conflict
economies contend with economic instability.
Conflict
frequently
devastates
essential
infrastructure, disrupts economic institutions, and
results in elevated unemployment, less access to
services, and heightened poverty. Mbuh and Smith
(2021) emphasize the economic devastation in
Cameroon, especially in the Anglophone regions,
where infrastructural degradation obstructs
investment
and
economic
rehabilitation.
Furthermore, securing financial resources for
reconstruction
is
frequently
challenging.
Dependence on international assistance, however
essential, may lead to challenges with
sustainability
and
local
ownership.
Mismanagement and corruption can redirect aid
from its original objectives, as evidenced in
Cameroon, where apprehensions regarding the
misappropriation of international funds for
reconstruction persist (Amnesty International,
2023).
Cho's (2024) study offers a critical perspective for
analyzing the complex interplay between civil
conflict and urban sustainability in Anglophone
Cameroon. Using a content analysis methodology,
Cho examines existing literature, reports, and
documents to evaluate the effects of the ongoing
conflict on the achievement of Sustainable
Development Goal 11 (SDG 11) in Anglophone
cities.
The study's findings illustrate the negative impacts
of conflict on urban environments. Cho (2024)
identifies the disruption of livelihoods, damage to
critical infrastructure, increased insecurity, and the
exacerbation of social divisions as significant
outcomes of the conflict. These factors collectively
hinder progress in achieving the targets of
inclusivity, safety, resilience, and sustainability
outlined in SDG 11 for Anglophone cities.
Cho (2024) argues that the existing socio-economic
and political instability stemming from the conflict
has significantly hindered initiatives aimed at
promoting urban sustainability. The author argues
that conflict resolution and the establishment of
enduring peace are critical prerequisites for the
attainment of SDG 11 in Anglophone Cameroon.
This aligns with this study on post-conflict
reconstruction and institution building in
Cameroon, highlighting the necessity of a
comprehensive approach to tackle the root causes
of conflict and foster sustainable peace (Teneng
Cho, 2024). Both studies recognize the
interrelation of peacebuilding, governance, and
development, emphasizing the necessity of
addressing the fundamental political, economic,
and social grievances that drive the conflict.
This research examines the complexities of post-
conflict reconstruction and institution building in
Cameroon, while Cho (2024) specifically analyses
the conflict's impact on urban sustainability in
Anglophone cities. This variation in scope offers a
potential for the exchange of ideas. This study aims
to address a gap in Cho's research by offering a
detailed analysis of reconstruction and institution-
building efforts in Anglophone urban areas,
focusing on their successes, challenges, and
implications for the attainment of SDG 11.
Additionally, Cho's (2024) findings correspond
with those of other researchers who have recorded
the severe effects of the Anglophone Crisis on
multiple facets of Cameroonian society. Reports
from Amnesty International (2023) support the
findings regarding human rights abuses and
infrastructure destruction. Meanwhile, Mbuh and
Smith (2021) highlight the significance of inclusive
governance and local ownership in post-conflict
reconstruction, aligning with Cho's advocacy for a
comprehensive approach to conflict resolution.
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Cho's (2024) claim that the pursuit of SDG 11 is a
"futile venture" in Anglophone Cameroon may be
perceived as excessively pessimistic by scholars
such as Elischer and McNulty (2022). They
recognize the challenges but highlight positive
developments in humanitarian assistance and
peacebuilding initiatives. This study seeks to offer
a detailed evaluation of advancements and ongoing
challenges in post-conflict reconstruction, with a
specific focus on urban sustainability in
Anglophone cities.
Institutional deficiencies exacerbate these issues.
State institutions, frequently debilitated or
disintegrated by violence, encounter difficulties in
providing fundamental services, upholding the rule
of law, and overseeing restoration initiatives.
Elischer and McNulty (2022) assert that
institutional deficiencies in Cameroon, especially
within the judiciary and security sectors, obstruct
justice and accountability for crimes related to
conflict. The lack of reform in these institutions
fosters an atmosphere of impunity, undermining
public trust in the state.
Institutional failures significantly affect post-
conflict reconstruction. Robust institutions are
essential for sustaining stability, fostering effective
government, and upholding the rule of law.
Nonetheless,
ineffective,
or
dysfunctional
institutions degrade government and service
provision. The Cameroonian government's failure
to deliver critical services like as healthcare and
education in conflict-affected areas exacerbates
discontent and prolongs the conflict (Ngang, 2022).
Moreover, institutional shortcomings obstruct
justice and accountability. The failure to hold
offenders accountable cultivates a sense of
impunity, hindering reconciliation and healing. The
judiciary's inability to prosecute individuals
accountable for human rights violations during the
Anglophone Crisis in Cameroon undermines
confidence in the judicial system (Amnesty
International, 2023).
Analyzing post-conflict reconstruction in other
African countries provides significant comparative
information. The rehabilitation of Rwanda
following the genocide, frequently regarded as a
success narrative, underscores the significance of
robust leadership and efficient institutions (Zenn,
2020). The centralized governance of Rwanda
enabled the effective execution of reforms and
resource mobilization. The introduction of Gacaca
courts, and community-based tribunals, facilitated
reconciliation and accountability. Nonetheless,
Rwanda's centralized strategy has been criticized
for constraining political liberties (Mbuh & Smith,
2021). Liberia's experience, however indicative of
advancements in institutional reconstruction and
economic revitalization, highlights the persistent
issues of corruption and ineffective governance
(Elischer & McNulty, 2022). Liberia's efforts to
eliminate
corruption
impeded
economic
development and exacerbated ongoing poverty
and inequality.
Case Studies of Successful Institution-Building
Strategies in Conflict-Affected Regions Rwanda:
Analyzing successful institution creation in post-
conflict
environments
necessitates
the
examination of context-specific tactics. Case
studies from African countries provide significant
insights
into
successful
strategies
for
reconstructing institutions in conflict-affected
areas.
Rwanda's
post-genocide
rebuilding,
frequently referenced as a paradigm, emphasised
robust central governance, accountability, and
reconciliation (Zenn, 2020). The creation of Gacaca
courts, a community-oriented judicial system, was
crucial in fostering justice and reconciliation while
restoring confidence in the legal framework.
Rwanda's emphasis on effective governance and
anti- corruption initiatives has reinstated public
trust and drawn international investment (Elischer
& McNulty, 2022). Moreover, Rwanda's focus on
inclusion and participatory governance, especially
the advancement of gender equality in political
representation, guaranteed that post-conflict
institutions mirrored the diverse composition of its
populace (Ngang, 2022).
Sierra Leone:
The reconstruction of Sierra Leone following its
civil conflict provides significant insights. The
formation of the Truth and Reconciliation
Commission (TRC) tackled human rights violations
and fostered national healing (Mbuh & Smith,
2021). Emphasizing security sector reform (SSR),
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aided by international entities, facilitated the re-
organization of police and military forces to
enhance professionalism, accountability, and
civilian control (Ngang, 2022). This tackled
corruption and misconduct in the security sector,
aiding in the re-establishment of security and the
prevention of additional violence.
Challenges Faced in Decentralization and
Governance Reforms in Post-Conflict Societies
Decentralization and governance reforms are
crucial elements of post-conflict institution
creation; however, they pose considerable
problems. Decentralization, frequently promoted
to enhance government proximity to citizens and
resolve concerns, may be obstructed by inadequate
local competence, opposition from central
authorities, and the potential entrenchment of local
elites (Nkongho, 2021). Insufficient local capacity,
especially in conflict-affected areas where
administrative infrastructure is compromised and
populations are uprooted, requires substantial
investments in capacity building to enable local
governments to competently fulfil their obligations
(Elischer & McNulty, 2022). Opposition from
central authorities, hesitant to relinquish authority
and control, can hinder initiatives aimed at
fostering inclusive governance (Ngang, 2022).
Furthermore,
decentralization
may
unintentionally result in the entrenchment of local
elites who prioritize their interests above those of
the wider populace (Nkongho, 2021).
METHODOLOGY
This study utilized a qualitative research design,
concentrating on the comprehensive examination
of secondary data sources to elucidate the complex
process of post-conflict reconstruction and
institution development in Cameroon. The study
encompassed an extensive examination of current
literature
about
post-conflict
rebuilding,
institutional development, and governance change,
including official papers, scholarly articles, and
policy briefs from international entities. Case
studies from nations with analogous post-conflict
recovery experiences, such as Rwanda and Sierra
Leone, were analyzed to offer useful background
and comparative insights.
RESULTS
o Challenges to Post-Conflict Reconstruction in
Cameroon
Post-conflict reconstruction in Cameroon has been
impeded by various interrelated obstacles, chiefly
stemming from political instability, governance
deficiencies, budgetary limitations, and entrenched
societal divisions. These impediments hinder the
reconstruction of essential institutions, the
promotion of peace, and the assurance of
sustainable development following extended
conflict, especially in the Anglophone regions. The
results from multiple research and reports
elucidate the interaction of these elements that
hinder the advancement of post-conflict
reconstruction in Cameroon.
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Figure 1 Terrorist attacks by method.
Author’s analysis 2024.
The graph depicts the distribution of terrorist
attacks in Cameroon for the year 2021, classified by
the primary methods utilized by the perpetrators.
Data from the Global Terrorism Database (2022)
indicates that armed assaults represented the most
common tactic, with 16 documented incidents.
Bombings constitute the second most prevalent
method, with 11 instances recorded. Hostage
kidnapping represents a notable fraction,
amounting to 9 occurrences. Infrequent methods
comprise assassinations, infrastructure attacks,
and hostage barricading, with recorded events
totaling 2, 2, and 1, respectively. There were no
recorded incidents of unarmed assaults or
hijackings in 2021. Five attacks remain unclassified
due to a lack of sufficient information concerning
the employed method. This data illustrates the
variety of tactics utilized in terrorist activities in
Cameroon during this period, emphasizing the
necessity for comprehensive security measures to
address these evolving threats.
•
Political Instability, Lack of Decentralization,
and Limited Financial Resources
A significant finding concerning post-conflict
reconstruction in Cameroon is that political
instability and insufficient decentralization are
substantial impediments to the nation's rebuilding
efforts. Political instability, especially in the
conflict-affected Anglophone regions, persists in
obstructing initiatives aimed at stabilizing
government and establishing the prerequisites for
enduring peace. The persistent conflict between
separatist factions and government forces has
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resulted in population displacement and hindered
the state's ability to exert control and restore
critical infrastructure in these areas (Nkongho,
2021).
The
incomplete
execution
of
decentralization measures, as requested by the
Anglophone populace, has intensified tensions and
hindered reconstruction initiatives.
Figure 2 Deaths in armed conflicts
Auth
or’s analysis 2024.
The graph illustrates a significant rise in conflict-
related fatalities in Cameroon from 1989 to 2023.
Data obtained from the Uppsala Conflict Data
Program (UCDP) and the Peace Research Institute
Oslo (PRIO) (2024) indicates a comparatively low
death toll from 1989 to 2012, with sporadic surges
not above 200 fatalities. A significant increase is
apparent from 2013 onwards, corresponding with
the intensification of the Boko Haram insurgency
and the onset of the Anglophone Crisis.
In 2016, a maximum of over 1800 fatalities were
recorded, signifying a phase of heightened violence
in both combat areas. Although a decrease is
apparent in the following years, fatality figures
remain markedly higher than those of the pre-2013
era. Fluctuations are evident, marked by a
significant rise in 2018, a decline in 2019, and
another increase in 2021. The 2023 data reveals a
reduction in conflict-related fatalities; yet, the
figures are still considerable, underscoring the
persistent effects of these conflicts on human
security in Cameroon.
This trend highlights the severe repercussions of
the increasing violence in Cameroon, stressing the
critical necessity for efficient conflict resolution
and peacebuilding efforts to tackle the underlying
causes of these conflicts and alleviate the human
toll.
The sluggish progress of decentralization in
Cameroon has hindered the development of
efficient local governance, crucial for post-conflict
recovery. Ngang (2022) asserts that the central
government's hesitance to delegate significant
authority to regional and local entities, especially in
the Anglophone regions, has perpetuated the
impression of marginalization among these
communities. The absence of decentralization has
sustained the complaints that originally ignited the
Anglophone Crisis, hindering efforts to attain
reconciliation and restore trust in the government.
The
constrained
financial
resources
for
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reconstruction exacerbate the political and
governance difficulties. Cameroon encounters
substantial economic limitations, exacerbated by
the expenses of military engagements in conflict
areas and the necessity to rectify extensive
infrastructural damage. Mbuh and Smith (2021)
assert that the government has faced challenges in
obtaining sufficient money for extensive
rehabilitation initiatives, especially in regions
severely impacted by the violence, namely the
Northwest and Southwest sectors. International
donors have offered some financial assistance, but
the extent of devastation and persistent security
issues necessitate significantly larger investments
than those now allocated. Furthermore, the
improper allocation and management of resources,
frequently intensified by corruption, have further
undermined the efficacy of the reconstruction
project (Amnesty International, 2023).
Financial limitations also impact the delivery of
essential services, like healthcare, education, and
housing, which are vital for community
stabilization and facilitating the return of displaced
populations to their residences. The lack of
sufficient financial resources has postponed the
restoration of schools, hospitals, and other critical
infrastructure, resulting in numerous communities
being deprived of important services. The
deficiency of services erodes faith in the
administration and obstructs the overarching
peacebuilding initiative.
•
Governance Issues: Corruption and Power
Centralization
Governance issues, notably the enduring
corruption and the centralization of authority, have
obstructed institution-building initiatives in post-
conflict Cameroon. The Cameroonian government
has faced criticism for its inability to tackle
systemic corruption, which hampers the efficacy of
restoration initiatives. Corruption in both public
and private sectors impairs resource allocation,
hinders development project execution, and
compromises service delivery. Ngang (2022)
asserts that corruption is widespread within
Cameroon’s governance frameworks, significantly
undermining the nation’s capacity to reconstruct
essential institutions, especially in conflict-affected
areas where oversight is minimal.
Figure 3 Political Centralization Index.
Author’s analysis 2024.
This graph utilizes expert estimates and the V-Dem
index (V-Dem, 2024) to effectively illustrate
political centralization in Cameroon from 1961 to
2023. The index quantifies the degree of executive
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power's autonomy from other governmental
branches, including the legislature, judiciary, and
electoral management bodies, with a score of 1
indicating complete centralization.
The data indicates a persistent pattern of
significant political centralization during the
examined time. Between 1961 and the late 1970s,
the index remained approximately 0.9, signifying a
highly centralized political system characterized by
restricted checks and balances on executive
authority.
A minor decrease in centralization occurred during
the 1980s and 1990s; however, the index remains
above 0.8, indicating that the executive branch
retains considerable authority. In the 2000s, a
phase of relative stability was observed,
characterized by the index fluctuating around 0.8.
Notably, political centralization increased around
2015, coinciding with the escalation of the
Anglophone Crisis and the intensification of the
Boko Haram insurgency. This indicates that the
government may have centralized authority in
reaction to these security challenges.
A minor decrease in centralization is noted around
2023; however, the index continues to be high
relative to earlier decades. This trend suggests that
Cameroon's political system remains marked by
significant executive dominance, with few
limitations on presidential authority.
The ongoing centralization prompts critical
enquiries regarding its effects on democratic
governance, accountability, and the safeguarding of
human rights in Cameroon. This highlights the
necessity for reforms that enhance institutional
checks and balances while fostering increased
political participation and inclusivity.
A major governance difficulty is the centralization
of authority within the executive branch, which
constrains the capacity of local governments and
civil society to contribute effectively to the
reconstruction
process.
In
post-conflict
environments, decentralized governance is crucial
for
promoting
local
ownership
of
the
reconstruction process and addressing the needs of
various populations. In Cameroon, authority is
centralized in the national government, especially
within the presidential office, resulting in
inefficiency and insufficient accountability in the
rehabilitation efforts (Mbuh & Smith, 2021). The
centralization of authority has hindered local
governments' ability to address the specific
concerns of their communities, especially in the
Anglophone regions, where the lack of power
devolution has exacerbated discontent and
opposition.
Corruption undermines the legitimacy of
governmental
institutions,
hindering
the
establishment of public trust, which is essential for
post-conflict reconstruction. Corruption in
Cameroon has undermined trust in the
government's
capacity
to
administer
reconstruction funding and fulfil its commitments
to decentralization and governance reform.
Amnesty International (2023) reports that
accusations
of
embezzlement
and
misappropriation of reconstruction funds have
fostered a climate of distrust and frustration,
especially in areas that have not experienced
significant advancements in the reconstruction of
schools,
hospitals,
and
other
essential
infrastructure. Corruption also impacts the
judiciary and law enforcement agencies,
exacerbating governance issues by facilitating
impunity for individuals accountable for human
rights breaches and other transgressions during
the conflict (Nkongho, 2021).
The lack of significant judicial changes to combat
corruption and impunity has impeded initiatives to
foster justice and accountability, which are crucial
for attaining durable peace. In post-conflict
environments, strong and open judicial systems
are essential to ensure accountability for those
responsible for crimes committed during the
conflict and to provide justice for victims. The
ongoing centralization of authority in Cameroon’s
executive branch has constrained the judiciary's
independence, hindering its ability to effectively
tackle corruption and human rights abuses
(Elischer & McNulty, 2022).
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Figure 4. Political Corruption Index.
Author’s analysis 2024.
This graph, sourced from the V-Dem project (V-
Dem, 2024), illustrates a concerning trend of
political corruption in Cameroon from 1961 to
2023. The index, derived from expert evaluations,
measures the degree to which corruption
infiltrates the executive, legislative, and judicial
branches of government, affecting the formulation
and execution of laws.
Between 1961 and the late 1970s, the measure
indicates a very steady corruption level, remaining
at about 0.6. A significant increase was noted in the
early 1980s, with the index reaching 0.7 at the
decade's conclusion. The rising trend persisted
throughout the 1990s, culminating at around 0.9 by
the year 2000.
The index subsequently stabilizes, oscillating from
about 0.9 until around 2010. This indicates a deep-
seated and enduring level of corruption within the
Cameroonian political system.
Post-2010, the graph demonstrates volatility,
featuring a significant decline circa 2017,
succeeded by an increase. Notwithstanding these
fluctuations, the prevailing trend demonstrates a
persistently elevated degree of political corruption
in Cameroon, with the index continuously over 0.9
in recent years.
This enduring and widespread corruption presents
a substantial obstacle to effective governance,
economic advancement, and the rule of law in
Cameroon. It erodes public confidence in
institutions,
obstructs
efficient
resource
distribution, and fosters an atmosphere that
permits impunity and the misuse of authority.
•
Social Challenges: Ethnic and Linguistic
Divisions and Their Influence on Peacebuilding
Ethnic and linguistic barriers have exacerbated
social issues, complicating national reconciliation
and peacebuilding efforts in Cameroon. The
nation's intricate socioeconomic structure,
consisting of more than 250 ethnic groups and two
predominant language communities (Francophone
and Anglophone), has rendered post-conflict
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reconstruction a particularly delicate and arduous
endeavor. Ethnic and linguistic tensions intensified
during the conflict persist in obstructing initiatives
aimed at fostering social cohesion and facilitating
reconciliation between the Francophone and
Anglophone communities (Nkongho, 2021).
The Anglophone Crisis, stemming from enduring
frustrations
of
linguistic
and
political
marginalization, has exacerbated differences
between the Anglophone minority and the
Francophone majority. Ngang (2022) asserts that
the perception of Anglophone marginalization has
intensified due to the government's inability to
execute decentralization policies that would grant
the Anglophone regions increased autonomy. This
has intensified separatist sentiments and severely
polarized the two linguistic populations,
complicating reconciliation efforts.
Ethnic divisions have complicated peacebuilding
efforts, especially in areas where intercommunal
hostilities have intensified due to conflict. The
erosion of trust among many ethnic groups, many
of which were either directly engaged in the
conflict or impacted by its repercussions, presents
substantial obstacles to the restoration of societal
cohesiveness.
In
some
instances,
ethnic
communities have withdrawn within their
enclaves, establishing parallel societies that hinder
reconciliation and integration with other
communities (Elischer & McNulty, 2022).
The influence of these ethnic and linguistic barriers
is evident in the challenges encountered by
peacebuilding efforts designed to foster national
unity. Mbuh and Smith (2021) assert that
numerous peacebuilding initiatives in Cameroon
have had difficulties in gaining momentum due to
their
insufficient
engagement
with
the
fundamental societal differences that triggered the
conflict. Unless these divides are addressed,
endeavors to foster national healing and unity are
improbable to succeed. Furthermore, the
persistent exclusion of some groups from the
political process, especially the Anglophone
minority, has compromised the legitimacy of
peacebuilding efforts and hindered substantial
advancement towards reconciliation.
o
Roles of National and International
Actors in Post-Conflict Reconstruction in
Cameroon
The contributions of national and international
actors in the restoration of post-conflict societies
are essential for achieving enduring peace and
stability. The government, foreign organizations,
and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have
each assumed unique responsibilities in the
ongoing post-conflict reconstruction effort in
Cameroon. Nonetheless, these initiatives are
hindered by numerous obstacles, such as
inefficiency, insufficient inclusivity, fragmentation,
and inadequate coordination. Moreover, despite
the engagement of peacekeeping operations and
humanitarian interventions, core concerns like
governance deficiencies and socio-economic
inequalities persist unresolved.
•
The Role of the Cameroonian Government in
Reconstruction Efforts
A critical concern regarding the post-conflict
reconstruction process in Cameroon is the
government's inefficacy and lack of inclusivity,
particularly in the Anglophone regions. The
centralization of authority and limited engagement
with local stakeholders have created substantial
barriers to effective rehabilitation. The conflict,
notably the Anglophone Crisis, has revealed
persistent political and economic challenges
arising from the marginalization of the English-
speaking population by the Francophone-
dominated administration. The Cameroonian
government's response to the crisis has been
characterized by a top-down approach that has
inadequately addressed issues such as political
inclusion, decentralization, and equitable resource
distribution (Nkongho, 2021).
The
ineffectiveness
of
the
Cameroonian
government
in
overseeing
reconstruction
initiatives constitutes a substantial impediment to
advancement.
Corruption,
bureaucratic
inefficiencies, and resource mismanagement have
all impeded the reconstruction efforts in conflict-
affected regions.
Ngang (2022) asserts that the government's failure
to provide critical services and restore
infrastructure in the Anglophone regions has
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intensified the populace's distrust of the state. In
numerous regions, schools, hospitals, and
highways devastated by the battle remain
unreconstructed, depriving residents of essential
services. The inefficiency stems from the
centralization of decision-making authority within
the executive branch, which has suppressed local
governance initiatives and impeded the proper
allocation of restoration money.
Furthermore, the government has faced criticism
for its failure to implement significant
decentralization reforms, a main aspiration of the
Anglophone community. Decentralization is
viewed as an effective solution to the political and
economic marginalization of the English- speaking
regions by granting them increased control over
local governance and resource allocation. The
government's reluctance to fully delegate authority
to local entities has hindered progress in this
domain, intensifying the alienation of the
Anglophone community and prolonging the
dispute (Elischer & McNulty, 2022). The lack of
participation in the government's rehabilitation
efforts has led to considerable dissatisfaction
among local communities, who feel their
viewpoints are overlooked and their needs
unaddressed.
Absence of Inclusiveness in Political and Social
Reforms: Inclusiveness is essential for the efficacy
of post-conflict rebuilding, as it guarantees the
participation of all societal segments and the
consideration of their concerns. The Cameroonian
government's restoration strategy has faced
criticism for its insufficient inclusivity, especially in
the Anglophone regions. Amnesty International
(2023) asserts that the government has not
engaged in substantive conversation with
Anglophone leaders and civil society organizations,
hindering the formulation of a comprehensive and
inclusive peacebuilding policy. This exclusionary
strategy has incited animosity and obstructed
endeavors towards national healing.
Furthermore, the government's inability to resolve
the fundamental political and economic grievances
of the Anglophone populace has exacerbated the
ongoing conflict. The Anglophone Crisis stems from
enduring problems of political exclusion, economic
marginalization, and cultural discrimination, which
remain inadequately managed by the government.
Failure to address these fundamental issues will
certainly impede the restoration process from
attaining enduring peace and stability. The
government's failure to adopt an inclusive strategy
has fostered an environment conducive to the
proliferation of armed separatist organizations,
hence hindering reconstruction efforts in the
afflicted regions (Mbuh & Smith, 2021).
•
International Organizations and Non-
Governmental Organizations:
International organizations and NGOs have
significantly contributed to humanitarian relief,
peacebuilding, and reconstruction efforts in
Cameroon. Entities including the United Nations
(UN), the African Union (AU), and the International
Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), alongside
numerous international NGOs, have played a
crucial role in meeting the humanitarian
requirements of populations impacted by conflict,
especially in the Anglophone regions and the Far
North, which has been influenced by the Boko
Haram insurgency. These entities have supplied
sustenance, accommodation, medical treatment,
and education to displaced individuals, alleviating
certain immediate consequences of the violence
(United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees
[UNHCR], 2022).
Although international organizations and NGOs
significantly contribute to reconstruction, their
initiatives are sometimes disjointed and
inadequately coordinated. The absence of
coordination has diminished the efficacy of
international interventions, resulting in redundant
efforts, inefficiencies, and service delivery gaps.
Zenn (2020) asserts that numerous foreign
organizations function autonomously, each
pursuing distinct mandates and purposes, lacking
adequate cooperation with other entities, including
the Cameroonian government and local civil
society organizations. Consequently, international
aid is frequently focused in specific places, leaving
other areas inadequately supported.
In post-conflict environments, good collaboration
between national and international entities is
crucial for ensuring that reconstruction initiatives
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are thorough and meet the needs of all impacted
communities. In Cameroon, the absence of a
centralized coordination system has impeded the
integration of foreign and local initiatives. The
fragmentation poses significant challenges in
Anglophone areas, where the extent of devastation
and persistent insecurity necessitate a cohesive
and coordinated response from national and
international stakeholders (Mbuh & Smith, 2021).
•
Limited Engagement with Local Actors:
A
significant
difficulty
for
multinational
organizations and NGOs in Cameroon is their
restricted collaboration with local stakeholders.
Although multinational organizations offer vital
resources and technical skills, their interventions
frequently lack the local understanding and
community- oriented strategies necessary for long-
term sustainability. Ngang (2022) asserts that
numerous
international
entities
prioritize
immediate humanitarian assistance over the
enhancement of local capacity for sustainable
development. This has resulted in local
communities and civil society organizations being
marginalized in the reconstruction process, hence
diminishing the efficacy of international efforts.
Involving local stakeholders is essential for making
reconstruction initiatives attuned to the
requirements of impacted communities and for
fostering local ownership of the peacebuilding
endeavor.
In
Cameroon,
multinational
organizations have encountered difficulties in
forming successful collaborations with local NGOs
and community leaders, mostly due to
governmental restrictions on civil society and
persistent security challenges in conflict-affected
areas. Achieving sustainable success in the
restoration of Cameroon would be challenging
without enhanced coordination between foreign
and local stakeholders (Elischer & McNulty, 2022).
o
Peacekeeping
Operations
and
Humanitarian Interventions:
Peacekeeping operations and humanitarian
interventions are vital elements of post-conflict
reconstruction, offering security, protection, and
assistance to populations impacted by violence. In
Cameroon,
peacekeeping
missions
and
humanitarian initiatives have been pivotal in
stabilizing conflict-affected areas and alleviating
the effects of the Anglophone Crisis and the Boko
Haram insurgency. Nonetheless, although these
initiatives have been essential for tackling urgent
security and humanitarian requirements, they
have not comprehensively resolved the underlying
causes of the war, including governance
deficiencies and socio-economic inequalities.
The primary restriction of peacekeeping missions
in Cameroon is the absence of an official foreign
peacekeeping presence in the Anglophone regions.
Although the UN and AU have helped through
humanitarian supplies and war monitoring, there
has been an absence of substantial peacekeeping
operations to enforce ceasefires, safeguard
civilians, or facilitate the peace-building process.
The lack of peacekeepers has assigned the duty of
ensuring security to the Cameroonian security
forces, who have been alleged to perpetrate human
rights violations and intensify tensions in the
Anglophone regions (Amnesty International,
2023).
In the Far North region, where Boko Haram
operates, the Multinational Joint Task Force
(MNJTF) has contributed to counterinsurgency
efforts; however, its operations have concentrated
on military objectives, neglecting the underlying
causes of the conflict, including poverty,
unemployment, and political marginalization
(Zenn, 2020).
Humanitarian efforts have been crucial in
delivering immediate assistance to conflict-
affected populations in Cameroon, specifically in
terms of food, healthcare, housing, and education.
Nonetheless, these measures have not adequately
resolved
the
fundamental
socio-economic
imbalances that caused the conflict initially.
Elischer and McNulty (2022) assert that numerous
places significantly impacted by the conflict,
especially the Anglophone areas, experience
elevated levels of poverty, unemployment, and
underdevelopment.
These
socio-economic
inequalities have incited animosity and facilitated
the emergence of separatist groups and
insurgencies.
DISCUSSION
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This analysis elucidates the considerable
challenges encountered in the post-conflict
reconstruction efforts in Cameroon. The presence
of political instability, especially within the
Anglophone regions, along with insufficient
decentralization, obstructs initiatives aimed at
peacebuilding and reconstruction (Nkongho,
2021). The constraints of financial resources
intensify these difficulties, postponing the
revitalization of critical infrastructure and services
(Mbuh & Smith, 2021).
Challenges in governance, such as ongoing
corruption and centralized power dynamics,
hinder the development of institutions (Ngang,
2022). Corruption erodes public confidence and
obstructs the effective distribution of resources,
whereas the concentration of authority restricts
community
involvement
and
intensifies
marginalization (Amnesty International, 2023).
Profound social divisions, especially those rooted
in ethnic and linguistic differences, significantly
hinder the processes of reconciliation and
peacebuilding. The Anglophone Crisis has
exacerbated these divisions, obstructing national
unity and social cohesion (Ngang, 2022; Elischer &
McNulty, 2022).
Although the Cameroonian government and
international entities are pivotal in the
reconstruction process, their initiatives frequently
encounter obstacles due to inefficiency, insufficient
inclusivity,
and
inadequate
coordination
(Nkongho, 2021). The government's centralized
strategy, coupled with its inability to confront the
fundamental issues underlying the Anglophone
Crisis, has exacerbated dissatisfaction and
obstructed advancement (Elischer & McNulty,
2022). International interventions, although they
offer essential humanitarian aid, frequently suffer
from a deficiency in coordination and local
involvement, which constrains their enduring
effectiveness (Zenn, 2020; Ngang, 2022).
Notwithstanding the existence of peacekeeping
missions and humanitarian efforts, core challenges
such as deficiencies in governance and socio-
economic disparities continue to endure (Amnesty
International, 2023; Zenn, 2020). Confronting
these entrenched challenges necessitates a
thorough and inclusive strategy that emphasizes
local stewardship, fortifies institutions, and fosters
equitable progress.
To foster sustainable peace and development in
Cameroon, the government must prioritize
decentralization reforms that empower regional
and local authorities, particularly in Anglophone
regions, ensuring inclusivity and autonomy in
decision-making. A comprehensive peacebuilding
framework, including truth and reconciliation
commissions, is crucial to address past injustices
and promote social cohesion. Judicial reforms
should focus on strengthening the rule of law and
ensuring accountability for human rights
violations. Furthermore, enhanced coordination
between national and international actors is
needed to ensure effective reconstruction and
development efforts. Targeted investments in
conflict-affected regions, coupled with security
sector reform and disarmament programs, are
essential for addressing socio-economic disparities
and preventing future violence.
CONCLUSION
The study of post-conflict reconstruction and
institution-building in Cameroon demonstrates a
complex
interaction
of
challenges
and
opportunities. The persistent Anglophone Crisis
and the Boko Haram insurgency have resulted in
severe humanitarian repercussions and revealed
significant deficiencies in governance and
institutional capacity. The findings highlight that
successful
post-conflict
reconstruction
in
Cameroon depends on tackling essential political,
economic, and social issues, especially in conflict-
affected areas like the Anglophone Northwest and
Southwest, as well as the Far North, where Boko
Haram continues to operate.
Political instability, insufficient decentralization,
and governance deficiencies have obstructed
effective reconstruction initiatives. The centralized
governance structure and the restricted
involvement of local stakeholders, particularly in
the Anglophone regions, have diminished the
legitimacy of state institutions and sustained
perceptions of marginalization. The gradual
advancement of decentralization and governance
reforms has perpetuated tensions and diminished
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the likelihood of achieving sustainable peace.
International actors, including the United Nations
and various NGOs, have significantly contributed to
humanitarian assistance and peacebuilding
initiatives; however, insufficient coordination and
misalignment with local needs have constrained
their effectiveness. The lack of a strong
peacekeeping presence and the emphasis on
immediate humanitarian assistance rather than
long-term development strategies have led to
ongoing socio-economic disparities.
Achieving enduring peace and stability in
Cameroon requires a thorough, inclusive, and
effectively coordinated strategy for post-conflict
reconstruction. The findings of this study highlight
the necessity for a decentralized governance
framework that empowers local communities,
improves accountability and transparency in
government institutions, and guarantees the active
involvement of local actors in the reconstruction
process. Addressing the root causes of conflict,
such as political marginalization and economic
inequality, is essential for fostering sustainable
peace. Neglecting these fundamental issues is likely
to sustain instability and obstruct the potential for
enduring peace in Cameroon.
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