Cameroonian Government Faces Criticism Over Minimal Aid to Flood Victims in Far North

With over 200,000 people affected and 8,000 homes destroyed, the situation is dire. Many residents are struggling to meet basic needs such as food and shelter. Temporary camps have been established for the displaced, but the crisis persists. Litassou Daniel, a local flood victim, highlighted the severity of the situation, noting that many have lost everything, from livestock to essential household items.

Displaced individuals, including Boussate Lydie, are calling for more substantial and long-term assistance from the government. The destruction of a crucial bridge connecting Maga to Yagoua has exacerbated the crisis, impeding aid delivery to the affected areas.

In response, Urban Development Minister Célestine Ketcha Courtes visited the region to assess the damage and promised a temporary solution to restore connectivity. The government has pledged 350 million CFA francs (approximately 2.67 euros) in aid. However, many believe this amount is insufficient given the scale of the destruction.

The situation has prompted criticism of the Cameroonian government’s handling of the disaster. Critics point out that while President Paul Biya allocated 620 million CFA francs to Turkey following the April 2023 earthquake—a country significantly more developed than Cameroon—the aid for the flood victims in his own country amounts to only 1750 CFA francs (about 2.67 euros) per person. 

Further complicating matters, the sole bridge in the affected city has collapsed, raising concerns that aid may not reach those in need. Critics argue that this disparity in aid allocation reflects poorly on the government's commitment to addressing the needs of its own citizens compared to its support for more developed nations.