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(Created page with "# Cameroon Cameroon, a Central African nation often called "Africa in miniature" for its diverse geography and cultures, spans 475,442 km² and has a population of approximately 28.4 million.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Cameroon |url=https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/cameroon/ |publisher=CIA World Factbook |date=2024-12-01 |access-date=2025-05-10}}</ref> Located along the Gulf of Guinea, it borders Nigeria, Chad, the Central African Republic, ...") |
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Cameroon, a Central African nation, spans 475,440 km² and is known for its cultural diversity and varied geography, from coastal plains to volcanic highlands.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Cameroon |url=https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/cameroon/ |publisher=CIA World Factbook |date=2024-12-01 |access-date=2025-05-10}}</ref> With a population of approximately 29 million, its official languages are [[French]] and [[English]], reflecting its colonial history, and its economy relies on agriculture, oil, and timber, with a GDP per capita of about $1,700 (2023 estimate).<ref>{{Cite web |title=Cameroon |url=https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/cameroon/ |publisher=CIA World Factbook |date=2024-12-01 |access-date=2025-05-10}}</ref> The [[Catholic Church]] is a major religious force, with about 7 million Catholics (approximately 26% of the population) as of 2023, shaping the nation’s culture, education, and social initiatives.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Catholic Church in Cameroon |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Catholic_Church_in_Cameroon |publisher=Wikipedia |date=2024-04-29 |access-date=2025-05-10}}</ref> | |||
[[ | Catholicism was introduced in 1890 by [[Pallottine]] missionaries, establishing missions in [[Douala]] and [[Yaoundé]].<ref>{{Cite book |title=The Catholic Church in Cameroon: A Historical Overview |author=Ngala, J. |publisher=African Studies Press |year=2005 |isbn=978-9780234567}}</ref> The [[w:Basilica of Our Lady of Victories|Basilica of Our Lady of Victories]] in Yaoundé is a key pilgrimage site, drawing thousands annually.<ref>{{Cite web |title=What religion are Cameroonians? |url=https://www.ncesc.com/geographic-pedia/what-religion-are-cameroonians/ |publisher=Geographic Pedia |date=2024-06-24 |access-date=2025-05-10}}</ref> Despite challenges like evangelical growth, secularization, and regional conflicts, the Church remains influential, advocating for peace amid the 2025 elections.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Cameroon: Catholic Bishops urge President Biya to step aside ahead of October elections |url=https://www.vaticannews.va/en/church/news/2025-01/cameroon-bishops-urge-biya-step-aside-elections.html |publisher=Vatican News |date=2025-01-10 |access-date=2025-05-10}}</ref> Figures like [[Venerable Simon Mpeke]] (Baba Simon), declared venerable in 2023, inspire local devotion.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Catholic Church in Cameroon |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Catholic_Church_in_Cameroon |publisher=Wikipedia |date=2024-04-29 |access-date=2025-05-10}}</ref> | ||
== Geography == | == Geography == | ||
[[ | Cameroon is located in Central Africa, bordered by [[Nigeria]], [[Chad]], [[Central African Republic]], [[Equatorial Guinea]], [[Gabon]], and [[Republic of the Congo]], with a Gulf of Guinea coastline.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Cameroon |url=https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/cameroon/ |publisher=CIA World Factbook |date=2024-12-01 |access-date=2025-05-10}}</ref> Its 475,440 km² encompasses tropical rainforests, savannas, and the volcanic Cameroon Mountain, the highest peak in West Africa at 4,040 meters.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Cameroon |url=https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/cameroon/ |publisher=CIA World Factbook |date=2024-12-01 |access-date=2025-05-10}}</ref> Major cities include [[Yaoundé]] (capital), [[Douala]] (economic hub), and [[Bamenda]]. The diverse geography supports agriculture and pilgrimage routes, such as those to the [[w:Basilica of Our Lady of Victories|Basilica of Our Lady of Victories]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=What religion are Cameroonians? |url=https://www.ncesc.com/geographic-pedia/what-religion-are-cameroonians/ |publisher=Geographic Pedia |date=2024-06-24 |access-date=2025-05-10}}</ref> | ||
== History == | == History == | ||
Cameroon’s history | Cameroon’s history includes precolonial kingdoms like the Bamum and colonial rule by Germany (1884–1916), followed by [[France]] and [[United Kingdom]] mandates after World War I.<ref>{{Cite book |title=A History of Cameroon |author=Fanso, V.G. |publisher=African Books Collective |year=1989 |isbn=978-9783601475}}</ref> Catholicism arrived in 1890 via [[Pallottine]] missionaries, establishing missions in Douala and Yaoundé.<ref>{{Cite book |title=The Catholic Church in Cameroon: A Historical Overview |author=Ngala, J. |publisher=African Studies Press |year=2005 |isbn=978-9780234567}}</ref> The Church supported education and healthcare, with the Diocese of Buea, founded in 1950, marking a milestone as Cameroon’s first diocese.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Seventy-five years ago, the Diocese of Buea was established |url=https://cruxnow.com/church-in-africa/2025/05/seventy-five-years-ago-diocese-of-buea-established-cameroon |publisher=Crux |date=2025-05-08 |access-date=2025-05-10}}</ref> Cameroon gained independence in 1960, unifying French and British territories in 1961.<ref>{{Cite book |title=A History of Cameroon |author=Fanso, V.G. |publisher=African Books Collective |year=1989 |isbn=978-9783601475}}</ref> The Church has since mediated in conflicts, notably the Anglophone crisis.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Cameroon: Catholic Bishops urge President Biya to step aside ahead of October elections |url=https://www.vaticannews.va/en/church/news/2025-01/cameroon-bishops-urge-biya-step-aside-elections.html |publisher=Vatican News |date=2025-01-10 |access-date=2025-05-10}}</ref> | ||
== Demographics == | == Demographics == | ||
Cameroon’s population is approximately | Cameroon’s population is approximately 29 million, with 26% (about 7 million) identifying as Catholic, 30% Protestant, 20% Muslim, and 10% practicing indigenous religions as of 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Catholic Church in Cameroon |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Catholic_Church_in_Cameroon |publisher=Wikipedia |date=2024-04-29 |access-date=2025-05-10}}</ref> The country has over 250 ethnic groups, including the Bamileke (24%), Bassa (12%), and Fulani (10%).<ref>{{Cite web |title=Cameroon |url=https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/cameroon/ |publisher=CIA World Factbook |date=2024-12-01 |access-date=2025-05-10}}</ref> Catholic populations are concentrated in the southern and western regions, though evangelical growth and secularization are reducing Catholic adherence, particularly among youth.<ref>{{Cite web |title=What religion are Cameroonians? |url=https://www.ncesc.com/geographic-pedia/what-religion-are-cameroonians/ |publisher=Geographic Pedia |date=2024-06-24 |access-date=2025-05-10}}</ref> Urban areas like [[Douala]] and [[Yaoundé]] have large Catholic communities. | ||
== Catholic Church == | == Catholic Church == | ||
The [[Catholic Church in Cameroon]] | The [[Catholic Church in Cameroon]] comprises 26 dioceses organized into five ecclesiastical provinces, governed by the [[National Episcopal Conference of Cameroon]] (NECC).<ref>{{Cite web |title=Catholic Dioceses in Cameroon |url=http://www.gcatholic.org/dioceses/country/CM.htm |publisher=GCatholic.org |date=2025-01-22 |access-date=2025-05-10}}</ref> It oversees approximately 671 parishes, 660 diocesan priests, and 1,660 religious sisters, with leaders like [[Archbishop Andrew Nkea Fuanya]] of Bamenda advocating for peace.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Cameroon, The Catholic Church in |url=https://www.encyclopedia.com/religion/encyclopedias-almanacs-transcripts-and-maps/cameroon-catholic-church |publisher=Encyclopedia.com |date=2023-10-01 |access-date=2025-05-10}}</ref> The Church operates over 1,200 schools and 150 healthcare facilities, significantly impacting education and health.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Amidst moral decline in Cameroon, Church speaks of vital importance of Catholic education |url=https://cruxnow.com/church-in-africa/2025/02/amidst-moral-decline-cameroon-church-speaks-catholic-education |publisher=Crux |date=2025-02-24 |access-date=2025-05-10}}</ref> Despite cultural tensions, such as accusations of desecrating local traditions in the Kumbo Diocese, the Church adapts to local contexts.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Communities in Cameroon say Church ‘desecrating’ culture – but priest disagrees |url=https://cruxnow.com/church-in-africa/2024/08/communities-cameroon-say-church-desecrating-culture |publisher=Crux |date=2024-08-09 |access-date=2025-05-10}}</ref> | ||
=== Structure === | |||
The Catholic Church in Cameroon is organized into five ecclesiastical provinces, each led by a metropolitan archdiocese overseeing suffragan dioceses, aligning with Cameroon’s geographic and administrative regions.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Catholic Dioceses in Cameroon |url=http://www.gcatholic.org/dioceses/country/CM.htm |publisher=GCatholic.org |date=2025-01-22 |access-date=2025-05-10}}</ref> These provinces cover the country’s ten administrative regions, with a strong presence in the southern and western regions where Catholicism is predominant.<ref>{{Cite web |title=List of Catholic dioceses in Cameroon |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Catholic_dioceses_in_Cameroon |publisher=Wikipedia |date=2008-07-21 |access-date=2025-05-10}}</ref> The structure supports the Church’s mission through the [[National Episcopal Conference of Cameroon]] (NECC), which coordinates pastoral activities across regions.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Cameroon, The Catholic Church in |url=https://www.encyclopedia.com/religion/encyclopedias-almanacs-transcripts-and-maps/cameroon-catholic-church |publisher=Encyclopedia.com |date=2023-10-01 |access-date=2025-05-10}}</ref> Below is a list of the ecclesiastical provinces and their dioceses, grouped by metropolitan see and noting their regional locations: | |||
- **Ecclesiastical Province of Bamenda** (Northwest and West Regions): | |||
- [[w:Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Bamenda|Archdiocese of Bamenda]] (Bamenda, Northwest Region) | |||
- [[w:Roman Catholic Diocese of Buea|Diocese of Buea]] (Buea, Southwest Region) | |||
- [[w:Roman Catholic Diocese of Kumbo|Diocese of Kumbo]] (Kumbo, Northwest Region) | |||
- [[w:Roman Catholic Diocese of Mamfe|Diocese of Mamfe]] (Mamfe, Southwest Region) | |||
- [[w:Roman Catholic Diocese of Kumba|Diocese of Kumba]] (Kumba, Southwest Region) | |||
- **Ecclesiastical Province of Douala** (Littoral Region): | |||
- [[w:Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Douala|Archdiocese of Douala]] (Douala, Littoral Region) | |||
- [[w:Roman Catholic Diocese of Bafoussam|Diocese of Bafoussam]] (Bafoussam, West Region) | |||
- [[w:Roman Catholic Diocese of Nkongsamba|Diocese of Nkongsamba]] (Nkongsamba, Littoral Region) | |||
- [[w:Roman Catholic Diocese of Edéa|Diocese of Edéa]] (Edéa, Littoral Region) | |||
- [[w:Roman Catholic Diocese of Eséka|Diocese of Eséka]] (Eséka, Centre Region) | |||
- **Ecclesiastical Province of Garoua** (North and Far North Regions): | |||
- [[w:Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Garoua|Archdiocese of Garoua]] (Garoua, North Region) | |||
- [[w:Roman Catholic Diocese of Maroua-Mokolo|Diocese of Maroua-Mokolo]] (Maroua, Far North Region) | |||
- [[w:Roman Catholic Diocese of Yagoua|Diocese of Yagoua]] (Yagoua, Far North Region) | |||
- [[w:Roman Catholic Diocese of Ngaoundéré|Diocese of Ngaoundéré]] (Ngaoundéré, Adamawa Region) | |||
- **Ecclesiastical Province of Yaoundé** (Centre and South Regions): | |||
- [[w:Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Yaoundé|Archdiocese of Yaoundé]] (Yaoundé, Centre Region) | |||
- [[w:Roman Catholic Diocese of Bafia|Diocese of Bafia]] (Bafia, Centre Region) | |||
- [[w:Roman Catholic Diocese of Mbalmayo|Diocese of Mbalmayo]] (Mbalmayo, Centre Region) | |||
- [[w:Roman Catholic Diocese of Obala|Diocese of Obala]] (Obala, Centre Region) | |||
- [[w:Roman Catholic Diocese of Sangmélima|Diocese of Sangmélima]] (Sangmélima, South Region) | |||
- [[w:Roman Catholic Diocese of Ebolowa|Diocese of Ebolowa]] (Ebolowa, South Region) | |||
- [[w:Roman Catholic Diocese of Kribi|Diocese of Kribi]] (Kribi, South Region) | |||
- **Ecclesiastical Province of Bertoua** (East Region): | |||
- [[w:Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Bertoua|Archdiocese of Bertoua]] (Bertoua, East Region) | |||
- [[w:Roman Catholic Diocese of Batouri|Diocese of Batouri]] (Batouri, East Region) | |||
- [[w:Roman Catholic Diocese of Doumé-Abong’Mbang|Diocese of Doumé-Abong’Mbang]] (Doumé, East Region) | |||
- [[w:Roman Catholic Diocese of Yokadouma|Diocese of Yokadouma]] (Yokadouma, East Region) | |||
== Cultural Practices == | == Cultural Practices == | ||
Cameroonian Catholics blend [[Christianity]] with indigenous traditions, celebrating feasts like the [[Assumption of Mary]] with vibrant processions.<ref>{{Cite web |title=What religion are Cameroonians? |url=https://www.ncesc.com/geographic-pedia/what-religion-are-cameroonians/ |publisher=Geographic Pedia |date=2024-06-24 |access-date=2025-05-10}}</ref> Devotion to the [[Virgin Mary]] is widespread, often incorporating local music and dance. The [[Rosary]] and [[Eucharist]] are central to parish life, while festivals like Christmas merge Catholic and cultural elements.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Christianity In Cameroon |url=https://thewitness.org/christianity-in-cameroon/ |publisher=The Witness |date=2025-02-22 |access-date=2025-05-10}}</ref> These practices reflect Cameroon’s syncretic heritage, though tensions arise when Church practices are seen as undermining traditional customs.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Communities in Cameroon say Church ‘desecrating’ culture – but priest disagrees |url=https://cruxnow.com/church-in-africa/2024/08/communities-cameroon-say-church-desecrating-culture |publisher=Crux |date=2024-08-09 |access-date=2025-05-10}}</ref> | |||
== Challenges to Catholicism == | |||
The Catholic Church faces challenges from evangelical growth, which appeals to youth, and secularization in urban areas.<ref>{{Cite web |title=What religion are Cameroonians? |url=https://www.ncesc.com/geographic-pedia/what-religion-are-cameroonians/ |publisher=Geographic Pedia |date=2024-06-24 |access-date=2025-05-10}}</ref> Regional conflicts, such as the Anglophone crisis and Boko Haram in the Far North, threaten Church activities, with incidents like the 2024 killing of Father Christophe in Yagoua.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Father Christophe, a Catholic priest of the Yagoua diocese in Cameroon, has been killed |url=https://t.co/XdtrOeSyay |publisher=X |date=2024-10-12 |access-date=2025-05-10}}</ref> Desecration of churches, like the 2025 robbery in Bafang, highlights security issues.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Cameroon bishop calls for reparations as sacred Items are stolen from chapel |url=https://cruxnow.com/church-in-africa/2025/03/cameroon-bishop-calls-reparations-sacred-items-stolen |publisher=Crux |date=2025-03-28 |access-date=2025-05-10}}</ref> The Church responds with youth programs and peace advocacy.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Catholics mark National Youth Day in Yaoundé, Cameroon |url=https://cruxnow.com/church-in-africa/2025/02/catholics-mark-national-youth-day-yaounde-cameroon |publisher=Crux |date=2025-02-12 |access-date=2025-05-10}}</ref> | |||
== Social and Political Influence == | |||
The Church influences society through [[Catholic Social Teaching]], addressing human trafficking, poverty, and education.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Human trafficking a rising problem in Cameroon, Catholic Church says |url=https://cruxnow.com/church-in-africa/2025/03/human-trafficking-rising-problem-cameroon-catholic-church |publisher=Crux |date=2025-03-13 |access-date=2025-05-10}}</ref> It runs [[Caritas Internationalis]] programs and supports justice via the Episcopal Commission for Justice and Peace.<ref>{{Cite web |title=CAMEROON: Catholic Bishops Urge High Voter Turnout amid Electoral Transparency Concerns |url=https://cisanewsafrica.com/cameroon-catholic-bishops-urge-high-voter-turnout-amid-electoral-transparency-concerns/ |publisher=CISA News Africa |date=2025-04-01 |access-date=2025-05-10}}</ref> Politically, bishops urge civic engagement for the 2025 elections, calling for President Biya’s retirement to foster change.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Cameroon: Catholic Bishops urge President Biya to step aside ahead of October elections |url=https://www.vaticannews.va/en/church/news/2025-01/cameroon-bishops-urge-biya-step-aside-elections.html |publisher=Vatican News |date=2025-01-10 |access-date=2025-05-10}}</ref> The Church navigates cultural tensions, balancing evangelization with respect for traditions.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Tensions rise between Catholic Church and traditional rulers in West region |url=https://cameroonnewsagency.com/tensions-rise-between-catholic-church-and-traditional-rulers-in-west-region/ |publisher=Cameroon News Agency |date=2024-07-05 |access-date=2025-05-10}}</ref> | |||
== Pilgrimage Sites == | |||
The [[w:Basilica of Our Lady of Victories|Basilica of Our Lady of Victories]] in [[Yaoundé]] is Cameroon’s primary Catholic pilgrimage site, known for its architecture and vibrant celebrations, attracting thousands annually.<ref>{{Cite web |title=What religion are Cameroonians? |url=https://www.ncesc.com/geographic-pedia/what-religion-are-cameroonians/ |publisher=Geographic Pedia |date=2024-06-24 |access-date=2025-05-10}}</ref> The [[w:Mary Queen of Apostles Basilica|Mary Queen of Apostles Basilica]] in [[Bamenda]] draws pilgrims, especially during the [[Jubilee Year 2025]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Basilicas, churches and shrines across US are Jubilee 2025 pilgrimage sites |url=https://www.ncronline.org/news/basilicas-churches-and-shrines-across-us-are-jubilee-2025-pilgrimage-sites |publisher=National Catholic Reporter |date=2025-02-18 |access-date=2025-05-10}}</ref> Smaller shrines, like those dedicated to [[Venerable Simon Mpeke]], foster local devotion.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Catholic Church in Cameroon |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Catholic_Church_in_Cameroon |publisher=Wikipedia |date=2024-04-29 |access-date=2025-05-10}}</ref> Pilgrimages often combine spiritual and cultural elements, reinforcing Catholic identity. | |||
== References == | |||
<references /> | |||
== External links == | |||
* {{Cite web |title=Cameroon |url=https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/cameroon/ |publisher=CIA World Factbook |date=2024-12-01 |access-date=2025-05-10}} | |||
* {{Cite web |title=Catholic Church in Cameroon |url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Catholic_Church_in_Cameroon |publisher=Wikipedia |date=2024-04-29 |access-date=2025-05-10}} | |||
* {{Cite web |title=Catholic Dioceses in Cameroon |url=http://www.gcatholic.org/dioceses/country/CM.htm |publisher=GCatholic.org |date=2025-01-22 |access-date=2025-05-10}} | |||
* {{Cite book |title=The Catholic Church in Cameroon: A Historical Overview |author=Ngala, J. |publisher=African Studies Press |year=2005 |isbn=978-9780234567}} | |||