Cameroon's population grew from approximately 11.4 million in 1990 to 28.6 million in 2023, reflecting consistent growth driven by various factors. High fertility rates, combined with improvements in healthcare and reduced child mortality, have contributed to the steady rise. Economic development, particularly in agriculture and energy sectors, has also influenced population patterns, with people moving to urban areas such as Douala and Yaoundé in search of better opportunities.
Urbanization has been a major factor, with many rural inhabitants migrating to cities, driven by industrialization and the promise of jobs. Additionally, Cameroon’s relatively stable political environment, despite regional conflicts, has sustained a growing population. Internal migration and natural growth remain significant, as rural communities transition towards more urbanized living, spurred by economic diversification and development initiatives in major cities.
Find out more through related statistics on Cameroon’s population density, Cameroon’s urban expansion, Cameroon’s mortality rate.