Photo: ymea derivative work: Jjtkk · CC BY-SA 3.0 · via Wikimedia Commons, shown in greyscale
Cameroon
Cameroon places highest on Female Genital Mutilation Prevalence (top 3% worldwide) and lowest on Social Institutions and Gender Index (bottom 1%).
Cameroon in the Nations Inquiry Country Index
At a glance
Population
28,372,687
people
since 1950
Land area
472,710
km²
since 1961
GDP per person
4,946
international $, PPP
since 1990
Life expectancy
63.7
years at birth
since 1950
Human development
0.588
HDI, 0–1
since 1990
Unemployment
3.602
% of the labour force
since 1991
The newest published figure for each, the year it describes and who published it, with a line showing how it has moved.
01The country
About Cameroon
Key facts about Cameroon
- Capital
- Yaoundé
- Official languages
- English, French
- Currency
- Central African CFA franc (XAF)
- ISO code
- CMR · CM
- Domain · dialling
- .cm · +237
As Wikidata records them. Official languages are the least consistent — some countries list only a national language, others every regional one. Sources and licences.
02Country Index 2026
Where it stands, topic by topic
Strongest first. Each position is Cameroon’s place among the countries with a standing on that topic, built from a few key statistics chosen to measure different things.
11thof 181
From 3 of 3 key statistics
80thof 193
From 3 of 3 key statistics
97thof 182
From 4 of 4 key statistics
111thof 198
From 3 of 3 key statistics
116thof 176
From 4 of 4 key statistics
joint107thof 147
From 2 of 3 key statistics
141stof 183
From 4 of 4 key statistics
136thof 171
From 4 of 4 key statistics
143rdof 175
From 3 of 4 key statistics
145thof 177
From 4 of 4 key statistics
joint160thof 194
From 4 of 4 key statistics
166thof 196
From 3 of 3 key statistics
joint169thof 198
From 3 of 3 key statistics
167thof 192
From 3 of 3 key statistics
joint140thof 159
From 2 of 2 key statistics
joint180thof 200
From 4 of 4 key statistics
Each standing is built from a few key statistics chosen to measure different things. Select a subject for Cameroon’s readings on it, or see every statistic held for Cameroon in the table further down this page.
03Highs and lows
Where Cameroon stands out
The two ends of its own record: every statistic on which Cameroon sits within ten places of the best or worst in the world, plus its strongest and weakest readings overall. Each is turned into a percentile — its place among every country measured — which is what lets a hunger score and a press-freedom rank be compared at all.
Where Cameroon does best5
In the top third of all countries measured.
Not ranked by the publisher · 1.4 · 2024
world median 34.1 (better)
Not ranked by the publisher · 1.092 · 2024
world median 2.738 (better) · ▲ 9 pts since 2014
- CO₂ Emissions per Capitatop 12%
Position · derived 184th of 210 · 1 = worst · 0.331 · 2024
world median 3.21 (better) · ▲ 2 pts since 2014
- Global Report on Food Crisestop 13%
Position · derived 38th of 44 · 1 = worst · 11 · 2024
world median 22 (better) · ▲ 16 pts since 2016
- Water Stresstop 15%
Position · derived 151st of 177 · 1 = worst · 1.56 · 2023
world median 10 (better)
Where Cameroon struggles most5
In the bottom third of all countries measured. 3 are within ten places of the worst in the world, in a field of at least 50 countries — marked with that place.
- 2ndSocial Institutions and Gender Indexbottom 1%
Position · derived 2nd of 140 · 1 = worst · 66.9 · 2023
world median 25.2 (worse)
- 4thPolitical Corruption Indexbottom 2%
Position · derived 4th of 176 · 1 = worst · 0.939 · 2025
world median 0.518 (worse)
- 5thLogistics Performance Indexbottom 3%
Rank 135th of 139 · 2.1 · 2023
world median 2.9 (worse) · ▼ 8 pts since 2014
- Life Expectancy at Age 65bottom 7%
Position · derived 206th of 222 · 13.07 · 2023
world median 16.39 (worse)
- Under-Five Mortality Ratebottom 8%
Position · derived 16th of 200 · 1 = worst · 64.84 · 2024
world median 14.54 (worse)
A band is a place among the countries each publisher scores, so Cameroon can move because other countries moved. See the Country Index for the full method.
04Over time
Which way it is moving
The published rank in widely quoted reports, edition by edition — each end with the size of that year’s field — and the statistics, not already named above, on which it has gained or lost the most ground.
Human Development Index
UNDP Human Development Report Office
111th
of 141 · 1990
155th
of 193 · 2023
Ranked in 34 of 34 editions
Corruption Perceptions Index
Transparency International
143rd
of 173 · 2012
142nd
of 181 · 2025
Ranked in 14 of 14 editions
Gender Inequality Index
UNDP Human Development Report Office
92nd
of 101 · 1995
148th
of 172 · 2023
Ranked in 29 of 34 editions
Global Innovation Index
World Intellectual Property Organization
121st
of 132 · 2022
116th
of 139 · 2025
Ranked in 4 of 4 editions
Economic Complexity Index
Growth Lab at Harvard University
123rd
of 140 · 1995
132nd
of 145 · 2024
Ranked in 30 of 30 editions
Government AI Readiness Index
Oxford Insights
145th
of 172 · 2020
116th
of 195 · 2025
Ranked in 6 of 6 editions
Gaining ground
Where Cameroon has climbed against the rest of the world, in percentile points.
- Livestock Production Index+54 pts since 2012
- Account Ownership at a Financial Institution+31 pts since 2014
- Food Production Index+29 pts since 2012
Losing ground
Where Cameroon has slipped against the rest of the world, in percentile points.
- Internal Displacements by Disaster-46 pts since 2014
- GDP Growth-34 pts since 2015
- Wind and Solar Share of Electricity Generation-33 pts since 2014
05In context
Cameroon and its neighbours
A position reads best beside the countries around it. Every position below is a place in the world ranking of 178, not within the region.
Shares a land border with
Placed either side in the Country Index 2026
Across Middle Africa
Every country in the sub-region, by its position in the world (of 178 placed).
- 104
São Tomé and Príncipe - 131
Gabon - =145Cameroon
- 155
Angola - 161
Republic of the Congo - 165
Equatorial Guinea - 167
DR Congo - 171
Central African Republic - 175
Chad
06The evidence
Every statistic we hold for Cameroon
Grouped by topic. Each row gives the newest edition’s rank or position, the published value and the year the numbers describe — select a row for the world median, the best in the world and the trend.
Governance & Institutions28
Central Bank Independence Indextop 49%0.608CBI index (0–1, where 1 is the most statutory independence)2023
top 49% of 191 countries measured
Ana Carolina Garriga, University of Essex · CBI index (0–1, where 1 is the most statutory independence)
Cameroon 0.608 · world median 0.608
Highest 0.974 (Bosnia and Herzegovina)
No real change since 2013
Civic Space Ratings163rd of 198position · derived22.5Civic space score (0–100)2025
bottom 18% of 198 countries measured
CIVICUS · Civic space score (0–100)
Cameroon 22.5 · world median 50.46 (worse)
Best in the world 100 (Kiribati)
No earlier reading to compare
Climate Readiness (ND-GAIN)159th of 192rank0.276ND-GAIN Readiness (0–1, where 1 is the most ready)2024
bottom 17% of 192 countries measured
Notre Dame Global Adaptation Initiative (ND-GAIN), University of Notre Dame · ND-GAIN Readiness (0–1, where 1 is the most ready)
Cameroon 0.276 · world median 0.387 (worse)
Best in the world 0.749 (Singapore)
▲ +6 percentile points since 2014
Completeness of Birth Registrationbottom 12%61.9Children under 5 whose birth is registered (%)2025
bottom 12% of 185 countries measured
UNICEF · Children under 5 whose birth is registered (%)
Cameroon 61.9 · world median 98.4 (worse)
Best in the world 100 (53 countries tied)
No earlier reading to compare
Control of Corruption184th of 211position · derived-1.204Control of Corruption (−2.5 to 2.5)2025
bottom 13% of 211 countries measured
World Bank Group · Control of Corruption (−2.5 to 2.5)
Cameroon -1.204 · world median -0.197 (worse)
Best in the world 2.259 (Denmark)
No real change since 2015
Corruption Perceptions Index142nd of 181rank26CPI score (0–100, where 100 is very clean)2025
bottom 21% of 182 countries measured · 182 share 181 positions
Transparency International · CPI score (0–100, where 100 is very clean)
Cameroon 26 · world median 39 (worse)
Best in the world 89 (Denmark)
No real change since 2015
Country Policy and Institutional Assessment28th of 78position · derived3.325IDA Resource Allocation Index (1 = low to 6 = high)2025
top 35% of 78 countries measured
World Bank Group · IDA Resource Allocation Index (1 = low to 6 = high)
Cameroon 3.325 · world median 3.246 (better)
Best in the world 4.225 (Rwanda)
▲ +24 percentile points since 2015
External Debt Stocks (% of GNI)82nd of 110position · derived · 1 = worst31.29External debt stocks (% of GNI)2024
top 26% of 110 countries measured
World Bank Group · External debt stocks (% of GNI)
Cameroon 31.29 · world median 43.94 (better)
Best in the world 2.213 (Iran)
▼ -15 percentile points since 2014
General Government Consumption107th of 132position · derived11.15General government final consumption expenditure (% of GDP)2025
bottom 19% of 132 countries measured
World Bank Group · General government final consumption expenditure (% of GDP)
Cameroon 11.15 · world median 16.21
Highest 38.94 (Ukraine)
▼ -5 percentile points since 2015
Government AI Readiness Index116th of 195rank34.91AI readiness score (0–100)2025
bottom 41% of 195 countries measured
Oxford Insights · AI readiness score (0–100)
Cameroon 34.91 · world median 40.19 (worse)
Best in the world 88.36 (United States)
▲ +25 percentile points since 2020
Government Effectiveness169th of 209position · derived-0.795Governance estimate (−2.5 weak to 2.5 strong)2025
bottom 19% of 209 countries measured
World Bank Group · Governance estimate (−2.5 weak to 2.5 strong)
Cameroon -0.795 · world median 0.101 (worse)
Best in the world 2.092 (Singapore)
▼ -3 percentile points since 2015
Government Spending on Education89th of 123position · derived2.839Government expenditure on education (% of GDP)2023
bottom 28% of 123 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Government expenditure on education (% of GDP)
Cameroon 2.839 · world median 3.709 (worse)
Best in the world 16.39 (Kiribati)
▲ +10 percentile points since 2013
GovTech Maturity Index142nd of 196position · derived0.378GTMI score (0–1)2025
bottom 28% of 196 countries measured
World Bank Group · GTMI score (0–1)
Cameroon 0.378 · world median 0.63 (worse)
Best in the world 0.997 (South Korea)
▼ -6 percentile points since 2022
Judicial Constraints on the Executive Index157th of 175position · derived0.111Judicial constraints on the executive index (0–1)2025
bottom 11% of 176 countries measured · 176 share 175 positions
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Judicial constraints on the executive index (0–1)
Cameroon 0.111 · world median 0.676 (worse)
Best in the world 0.988 (Australia)
▼ -2 percentile points since 2015
Liberal Democracy Index136th of 176position · derived0.114Liberal democracy index (0–1)2025
bottom 23% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Liberal democracy index (0–1)
Cameroon 0.114 · world median 0.353 (worse)
Best in the world 0.884 (Denmark)
No real change since 2015
Open Data Inventory57th of 168rank65ODIN overall score (0–100)2024
top 34% of 168 countries measured
Open Data Watch · ODIN overall score (0–100)
Cameroon 65 · world median 59 (better)
Best in the world 90 (2 countries tied)
▲ +29 percentile points since 2015
Political Corruption Index4th of 176position · derived · 1 = worst0.939Political corruption index (0–1; higher = more corrupt)2025
bottom 2% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Political corruption index (0–1; higher = more corrupt)
Cameroon 0.939 · world median 0.518 (worse)
Best in the world 0.004 (Denmark)
No real change since 2015
Public Sector Employment98th of 135position · derived7.666Public sector employment (% of total employment)2022
bottom 28% of 135 countries measured
World Bank Group · Public sector employment (% of total employment)
Cameroon 7.666 · world median 15.01
Highest 47.1 (Maldives)
No earlier reading to compare
Public Sector Wage Bill143rd of 168position · derived4.3Public sector wage bill (% of GDP)2022
bottom 15% of 168 countries measured
World Bank Group · Public sector wage bill (% of GDP)
Cameroon 4.3 · world median 7.975
Highest 42.65 (Nauru)
▼ -4 percentile points since 2012
Regulatory Quality166th of 209position · derived-0.787Regulatory Quality (−2.5 to 2.5)2025
bottom 21% of 209 countries measured
World Bank Group · Regulatory Quality (−2.5 to 2.5)
Cameroon -0.787 · world median -0.093 (worse)
Best in the world 2.113 (Singapore)
No real change since 2015
Rule of Law182nd of 211position · derived-1.193Rule of Law estimate (−2.5 to 2.5)2025
bottom 14% of 211 countries measured
World Bank Group · Rule of Law estimate (−2.5 to 2.5)
Cameroon -1.193 · world median -0.102 (worse)
Best in the world 2.012 (Finland)
No real change since 2015
Statistical Performance Indicators109th of 188position · derived66.05SPI overall score (0–100)2024
bottom 42% of 188 countries measured
World Bank Group · SPI overall score (0–100)
Cameroon 66.05 · world median 69.3 (worse)
Best in the world 94.14 (Norway)
▲ +3 percentile points since 2016
Trade Union Density126th of 139position · derived5.018Employees who are trade union members (%)2020
bottom 9% of 139 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Employees who are trade union members (%)
Cameroon 5.018 · world median 16.68 (worse)
Best in the world 91.42 (Iceland)
No earlier reading to compare
V-Dem Electoral Democracy Index126th of 176position · derived0.26Electoral democracy index (0–1)2025
bottom 29% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Electoral democracy index (0–1)
Cameroon 0.26 · world median 0.497 (worse)
Best in the world 0.913 (Denmark)
No real change since 2015
Voice and Accountability170th of 206position · derived-1.256Voice and Accountability estimate (−2.5 to 2.5)2025
bottom 18% of 206 countries measured
World Bank Group · Voice and Accountability estimate (−2.5 to 2.5)
Cameroon -1.256 · world median -0.022 (worse)
Best in the world 1.825 (Norway)
No real change since 2015
Women, Business and the Law159th of 190position · derived60WBL Index (0–100, where 100 is full legal parity)2024
bottom 16% of 190 countries measured
World Bank Group · WBL Index (0–100, where 100 is full legal parity)
Cameroon 60 · world median 81.25 (worse)
Best in the world 100 (14 countries tied)
No real change since 2014
Economy & Innovation28
Account Ownership at a Financial Institution89th of 139position · derived60.87Adults with an account (% of population aged 15+)2024
bottom 36% of 139 countries measured
World Bank Group · Adults with an account (% of population aged 15+)
Cameroon 60.87 · world median 72.83 (worse)
Best in the world 99.85 (Iceland)
▲ +31 percentile points since 2014
Adjusted Net Savings100th of 118position · derived-1.609Adjusted net savings, including particulate emission damage (% of GNI)2021
bottom 15% of 118 countries measured
World Bank Group · Adjusted net savings, including particulate emission damage (% of GNI)
Cameroon -1.609 · world median 8.389 (worse)
Best in the world 32.18 (Bangladesh)
▲ +3 percentile points since 2011
Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing Value Added (% of GDP)33rd of 158position · derived16.85Agriculture, forestry and fishing value added (% of GDP)2025
top 20% of 158 countries measured
World Bank Group · Agriculture, forestry and fishing value added (% of GDP)
Cameroon 16.85 · world median 6.572
Highest 47.59 (Niger)
▲ +3 percentile points since 2015
Container Port Traffic87th of 103position · derived350,000Container port traffic (TEU, twenty-foot equivalent units)2024
bottom 16% of 103 countries measured
UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) · Container port traffic (TEU, twenty-foot equivalent units)
Cameroon 350,000 · world median 1,827,788
Highest 299,703,800 (China)
▼ -30 percentile points since 2014
Crop Production Index77th of 195position · derived108.5Crop production index (2014–2016 = 100)2022
top 39% of 195 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Crop production index (2014–2016 = 100)
Cameroon 108.5 · world median 106.23 (better)
Best in the world 189.93 (Senegal)
▲ +26 percentile points since 2012
Digitally-Deliverable Services Exports64th of 170position · derived33.2Digitally-deliverable services exports (% of services exports)2024
top 37% of 170 countries measured
UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) · Digitally-deliverable services exports (% of services exports)
Cameroon 33.2 · world median 25.42 (better)
Best in the world 87.15 (Ireland)
▼ -9 percentile points since 2014
Economic Complexity Index132nd of 145rank-1.594ECI score (standardised, roughly −3 to +3)2024
bottom 9% of 145 countries measured
Growth Lab at Harvard University · ECI score (standardised, roughly −3 to +3)
Cameroon -1.594 · world median 0.131 (worse)
Best in the world 1.729 (Japan)
▼ -21 percentile points since 2014
Exports of Goods and Services (% of GDP)130th of 138position · derived13.09Exports of goods and services (% of GDP)2025
bottom 6% of 138 countries measured
World Bank Group · Exports of goods and services (% of GDP)
Cameroon 13.09 · world median 36.34
Highest 199.76 (Hong Kong)
▼ -18 percentile points since 2015
Firms with a Bank Loan or Line of Credit37th of 179position · derived52.24Firms with a bank loan or line of credit (%)2025
top 20% of 179 countries measured
World Bank Group · Firms with a bank loan or line of credit (%)
Cameroon 52.24 · world median 35.95 (better)
Best in the world 88.52 (Israel)
No earlier reading to compare
Food Production Index91st of 195position · derived107.84Food production index (2014–2016 = 100)2022
top 46% of 195 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Food production index (2014–2016 = 100)
Cameroon 107.84 · world median 106.08 (better)
Best in the world 177.49 (Senegal)
▲ +29 percentile points since 2012
Foreign Direct Investment Inflowsbottom 29%1.004FDI inflows (% of GDP)2025
bottom 29% of 202 countries measured
UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) · FDI inflows (% of GDP)
Cameroon 1.004 · world median 1.968
Highest 2,221 (British Virgin Islands)
▼ -15 percentile points since 2015
GDP Growth95th of 186position · derived3.2GDP growth (annual %)2025
bottom 49% of 186 countries measured
World Bank Group · GDP growth (annual %)
Cameroon 3.2 · world median 3.396 (worse)
Best in the world 19.34 (Guyana)
▼ -34 percentile points since 2015
GDP per Capita (PPP)150th of 185position · derived4,946GDP per capita (constant 2021 international $, PPP)2025
bottom 19% of 185 countries measured
World Bank Group · GDP per capita (constant 2021 international $, PPP)
Cameroon 4,946 · world median 17,265 (worse)
Best in the world 139,593 (Singapore)
No real change since 2015
Global Innovation Index116th of 139rank18.18GII score (0–100)2025
bottom 17% of 139 countries measured
World Intellectual Property Organization · GII score (0–100)
Cameroon 18.18 · world median 28.52 (worse)
Best in the world 65.96 (Switzerland)
▲ +8 percentile points since 2022
GNI per Capita (PPP)77th of 102position · derived4,857GNI per capita (constant 2021 international $, PPP)2025
bottom 25% of 102 countries measured
World Bank Group · GNI per capita (constant 2021 international $, PPP)
Cameroon 4,857 · world median 14,273 (worse)
Best in the world 116,633 (Singapore)
▲ +5 percentile points since 2015
Gross Capital Formation (% of GDP)96th of 131position · derived19.34Gross capital formation (% of GDP)2025
bottom 27% of 131 countries measured
World Bank Group · Gross capital formation (% of GDP)
Cameroon 19.34 · world median 22.93
Highest 45.27 (Algeria)
▲ +8 percentile points since 2015
Gross Savings (% of GDP)113th of 146position · derived15.54Gross savings (% of GDP)2024
bottom 23% of 146 countries measured
World Bank Group · Gross savings (% of GDP)
Cameroon 15.54 · world median 22.06
Highest 47.82 (Macau)
▼ -5 percentile points since 2014
Household Consumption29th of 131position · derived75.81Household and NPISH final consumption expenditure (% of GDP)2025
top 22% of 131 countries measured
World Bank Group · Household and NPISH final consumption expenditure (% of GDP)
Cameroon 75.81 · world median 62.04
Highest 133.34 (Somalia)
▲ +2 percentile points since 2015
Imports of Goods and Services (% of GDP)122nd of 138position · derived20.3Imports of goods and services (% of GDP)2025
bottom 12% of 138 countries measured
World Bank Group · Imports of goods and services (% of GDP)
Cameroon 20.3 · world median 41.72
Highest 196.89 (Hong Kong)
No real change since 2015
Industry Value Added including Construction (% of GDP)79th of 158position · derived24.77Industry, including construction, value added (% of GDP)2025
top 50% of 158 countries measured
World Bank Group · Industry, including construction, value added (% of GDP)
Cameroon 24.77 · world median 24.65
Highest 75.09 (Guyana)
▼ -7 percentile points since 2015
Liner Shipping Connectivity Index53rd of 175rank107.37LSCI (index, average Q1 2023 = 100)2026
top 31% of 167 countries measured · 167 share 175 positions
UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) · LSCI (index, average Q1 2023 = 100)
Cameroon 107.37 · world median 56.21 (better)
Best in the world 1,319 (China)
▲ +10 percentile points since 2016
Livestock Production Index82nd of 194position · derived110.47Livestock production index (2014–2016 = 100)2022
top 42% of 194 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Livestock production index (2014–2016 = 100)
Cameroon 110.47 · world median 107.06 (better)
Best in the world 190.08 (Malawi)
▲ +54 percentile points since 2012
Logistics Performance Index135th of 139rank2.1LPI score (1–5)2023
bottom 3% of 139 countries measured
World Bank Group · LPI score (1–5)
Cameroon 2.1 · world median 2.9 (worse)
Best in the world 4.3 (Singapore)
▼ -8 percentile points since 2014
Manufacturing Value Added (% of GDP)39th of 132position · derived14.57Manufacturing value added (% of GDP)2025
top 29% of 132 countries measured
World Bank Group · Manufacturing value added (% of GDP)
Cameroon 14.57 · world median 11.26
Highest 43.97 (Puerto Rico)
▼ -3 percentile points since 2015
Tariff Rate, Applied, Weighted Mean, All Productstop 3%18.08Applied tariff rate, trade-weighted mean (%)2022
top 3% of 143 countries measured
World Bank Group · Applied tariff rate, trade-weighted mean (%)
Cameroon 18.08 · world median 3.66
Highest 29.52 (Bermuda)
▲ +9 percentile points since 2012
Total Natural Resources Rents (% of GDP)65th of 180position · derived5.526Natural resources rents (% of GDP)2021
top 33% of 197 countries measured · 197 share 180 positions
World Bank Group · Natural resources rents (% of GDP)
Cameroon 5.526 · world median 1.708
Highest 61.03 (Libya)
▼ -2 percentile points since 2011
Trade (% of GDP)131st of 138position · derived33.38Exports plus imports (% of GDP)2025
bottom 5% of 138 countries measured
World Bank Group · Exports plus imports (% of GDP)
Cameroon 33.38 · world median 79.68
Highest 396.65 (Hong Kong)
▼ -10 percentile points since 2015
World Energy Trilemma Index85th of 99rank44.7Trilemma score (0–100)2023
bottom 13% of 126 countries measured · 126 share 99 positions
World Energy Council · Trilemma score (0–100)
Cameroon 44.7 · world median 63.8 (worse)
Best in the world 83.2 (Denmark)
No earlier reading to compare
Work & Labour16
Average Weekly Hours Worked48th of 182position · derived42.3Average weekly hours actually worked per employed person2025
top 26% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Average weekly hours actually worked per employed person
Cameroon 42.3 · world median 38.89
Highest 54.7 (Bhutan)
▲ +7 percentile points since 2015
Employment in Agriculture36th of 182position · derived41.85Employment in agriculture (% of total employment)2025
top 19% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Employment in agriculture (% of total employment)
Cameroon 41.85 · world median 14.38
Highest 85.34 (Burundi)
No real change since 2015
Employment in Industry142nd of 182position · derived14.61Employment in industry (% of total employment)2025
bottom 22% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Employment in industry (% of total employment)
Cameroon 14.61 · world median 18.88
Highest 39.44 (Oman)
▼ -3 percentile points since 2015
Employment in Services146th of 182position · derived43.53Employment in services (% of total employment)2025
bottom 20% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Employment in services (% of total employment)
Cameroon 43.53 · world median 59.51
Highest 92.17 (Djibouti)
No real change since 2015
Employment-to-Population Ratio50th of 182position · derived62.82Employed share of the population aged 15+ (%)2025
top 27% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Employed share of the population aged 15+ (%)
Cameroon 62.82 · world median 57.72 (better)
Best in the world 86.9 (Qatar)
▼ -12 percentile points since 2015
Female Labour Force Participation Rate70th of 182position · derived56.59Women aged 15+ in the labour force (%)2025
top 38% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Women aged 15+ in the labour force (%)
Cameroon 56.59 · world median 53.36 (better)
Best in the world 82.91 (Madagascar)
▼ -25 percentile points since 2015
Firms with a Female Top Manager72nd of 179position · derived21.18Firms with a female top manager (%)2025
top 40% of 179 countries measured
World Bank Group · Firms with a female top manager (%)
Cameroon 21.18 · world median 19.16 (better)
Best in the world 62.9 (Kiribati)
No earlier reading to compare
GDP per Person Employed137th of 168position · derived13,370GDP per person employed (constant 2021 international $)2025
bottom 19% of 168 countries measured
World Bank Group · GDP per person employed (constant 2021 international $)
Cameroon 13,370 · world median 47,384 (worse)
Best in the world 262,554 (Luxembourg)
No real change since 2015
Labour Force Participation Rate56th of 182position · derived65.17Population aged 15+ in the labour force (%)2025
top 30% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Population aged 15+ in the labour force (%)
Cameroon 65.17 · world median 61.66 (better)
Best in the world 87.01 (Qatar)
▼ -16 percentile points since 2015
Labour Productivity per Hour Worked150th of 182position · derived6.1Output per hour worked (constant 2021 international $ at PPP)2025
bottom 17% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Output per hour worked (constant 2021 international $ at PPP)
Cameroon 6.1 · world median 22.16 (worse)
Best in the world 164.65 (Ireland)
No real change since 2015
Self-Employment Rate34th of 182position · derived69.28Self-employed (% of total employment)2025
top 18% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Self-employed (% of total employment)
Cameroon 69.28 · world median 31.84
Highest 91.56 (Chad)
▼ -5 percentile points since 2015
Unemployment Rate122nd of 182position · derived · 1 = worst3.602Unemployment (% of labour force)2025
top 33% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Unemployment (% of labour force)
Cameroon 3.602 · world median 5.084 (better)
Best in the world 0.13 (Qatar)
▼ -12 percentile points since 2015
Vulnerable Employment31st of 182position · derived · 1 = worst67.56Vulnerable employment (% of total employment)2025
bottom 17% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Vulnerable employment (% of total employment)
Cameroon 67.56 · world median 28.67 (worse)
Best in the world 0.456 (Qatar)
▲ +3 percentile points since 2015
Working Poverty Ratebottom 30%21.66Employed people living in extreme poverty (%)2025
bottom 30% of 113 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Employed people living in extreme poverty (%)
Cameroon 21.66 · world median 4.885 (worse)
Best in the world 0.007 (Bhutan)
No real change since 2015
Youth Unemployment Rate145th of 182position · derived · 1 = worst6.548Unemployment, ages 15-24 (% of youth labour force)2025
top 20% of 182 countries measured
International Labour Organization (ILO) · Unemployment, ages 15-24 (% of youth labour force)
Cameroon 6.548 · world median 12.83 (better)
Best in the world 0.457 (Niger)
▼ -4 percentile points since 2015
Education & Knowledge15
Academic Freedom Index141st of 176position · derived0.207Academic freedom index (0–1)2025
bottom 20% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Academic freedom index (0–1)
Cameroon 0.207 · world median 0.619 (worse)
Best in the world 0.978 (Czechia)
No real change since 2015
Adult Literacy Rate136th of 172position · derived72.55Adults 15+ who can read and write (%)2024
bottom 21% of 172 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Adults 15+ who can read and write (%)
Cameroon 72.55 · world median 93.99 (worse)
Best in the world 100 (3 countries tied)
No earlier reading to compare
Expected Years of Schooling164th of 195position · derived10.79Expected years of schooling2023
bottom 16% of 195 countries measured
UNDP Human Development Report Office · Expected years of schooling
Cameroon 10.79 · world median 13.34 (worse)
Best in the world 21.69 (Monaco)
▼ -17 percentile points since 2013
Female Share of Researchersbottom 13%21.79Researchers who are women (% of headcount; 50 = parity)2024
bottom 13% of 153 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Researchers who are women (% of headcount; 50 = parity)
Cameroon 21.79 · world median 38.17
Highest 76.54 (Myanmar)
No earlier reading to compare
Harmonized Test Scores129th of 172position · derived378.87Harmonized test score (TIMSS-equivalent points; 300 = minimum, 625 = advanced attainment)2020
bottom 25% of 172 countries measured
World Bank Group · Harmonized test score (TIMSS-equivalent points; 300 = minimum, 625 = advanced attainment)
Cameroon 378.87 · world median 414.32 (worse)
Best in the world 575.27 (Singapore)
▼ -31 percentile points since 2010
Learning Poverty33rd of 125position · derived · 1 = worst71.9310-year-olds who cannot read and understand a simple text (%)2023
bottom 26% of 125 countries measured
World Bank Group and UNESCO Institute for Statistics · 10-year-olds who cannot read and understand a simple text (%)
Cameroon 71.93 · world median 34.02 (worse)
Best in the world 2.331 (Ireland)
No earlier reading to compare
Learning-Adjusted Years of School139th of 172position · derived5.287Learning-adjusted years of school (0–14)2020
bottom 19% of 172 countries measured
World Bank Group · Learning-adjusted years of school (0–14)
Cameroon 5.287 · world median 7.941 (worse)
Best in the world 12.81 (Singapore)
▲ +5 percentile points since 2010
Mean Years of Schooling146th of 193position · derived6.574Mean years of schooling (adults 25+)2023
bottom 24% of 193 countries measured
UNDP Human Development Report Office · Mean years of schooling (adults 25+)
Cameroon 6.574 · world median 9.933 (worse)
Best in the world 14.3 (Germany)
No real change since 2013
Out-of-School Rate, Primary60th of 121position · derived · 1 = worst3.762Out-of-school rate, primary age (%)2024
bottom 49% of 121 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Out-of-school rate, primary age (%)
Cameroon 3.762 · world median 3.691 (worse)
Best in the world 0.004 (United Arab Emirates)
▲ +6 percentile points since 2014
Outbound Mobility Ratio, Tertiarytop 34%8.097Outbound mobility ratio, tertiary (% of tertiary enrolment at home)2023
top 34% of 117 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Outbound mobility ratio, tertiary (% of tertiary enrolment at home)
Cameroon 8.097 · world median 5.279
Highest 1,724 (Cook Islands)
No real change since 2013
Pre-Primary Net Enrolment Rate102nd of 120position · derived30.42Net enrolment rate, pre-primary (%)2024
bottom 15% of 120 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Net enrolment rate, pre-primary (%)
Cameroon 30.42 · world median 65.93 (worse)
Best in the world 99.85 (Moldova)
No real change since 2014
Primary Completion Rate128th of 165position · derived77.78Primary completion rate (%)2025
bottom 23% of 165 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Primary completion rate (%)
Cameroon 77.78 · world median 97.43 (worse)
Best in the world 100 (5 countries tied)
▼ -3 percentile points since 2015
Tertiary Enrolment Ratio78th of 95position · derived16.66Gross enrolment ratio, tertiary (%)2024
bottom 18% of 95 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Gross enrolment ratio, tertiary (%)
Cameroon 16.66 · world median 52.77 (worse)
Best in the world 141.86 (Macau)
▼ -5 percentile points since 2014
Upper Secondary Completion Rate136th of 164position · derived22.69Upper secondary completion rate (%)2025
bottom 17% of 164 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · Upper secondary completion rate (%)
Cameroon 22.69 · world median 64.87 (worse)
Best in the world 99.27 (South Korea)
No real change since 2015
Youth Literacy Ratebottom 16%81.8915–24 year-olds who can read and write (%)2024
bottom 16% of 174 countries measured
UNESCO Institute for Statistics (UIS) · 15–24 year-olds who can read and write (%)
Cameroon 81.89 · world median 98.22 (worse)
Best in the world 100 (6 countries tied)
No earlier reading to compare
Health & Wellbeing20
Dietary Energy Supply93rd of 155position · derived2,851Dietary energy supply (kcal per person per day)2024
bottom 40% of 155 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Dietary energy supply (kcal per person per day)
Cameroon 2,851 · world median 2,982 (worse)
Best in the world 3,962 (United States)
▼ -7 percentile points since 2014
Exclusive Breastfeeding Under Six Months77th of 136position · derived39.41Infants under 6 months exclusively breastfed (%)2024
bottom 44% of 136 countries measured
UNICEF · Infants under 6 months exclusively breastfed (%)
Cameroon 39.41 · world median 40.74 (worse)
Best in the world 83.3 (Burundi)
No earlier reading to compare
Female Genital Mutilation Prevalencetop 3%1.4Women aged 15-49 who have undergone FGM (%)2024
top 3% of 31 countries measured
UNICEF · Women aged 15-49 who have undergone FGM (%)
Cameroon 1.4 · world median 34.1 (better)
Best in the world 0.3 (Uganda)
No earlier reading to compare
Gender Inequality Index148th of 172rank0.558GII (0 = full equality, 1 = maximum inequality)2023
bottom 14% of 172 countries measured
UNDP Human Development Report Office · GII (0 = full equality, 1 = maximum inequality)
Cameroon 0.558 · world median 0.351 (worse)
Best in the world 0.003 (Denmark)
No real change since 2013
Global Multidimensional Poverty Index22nd of 109position · derived · 1 = worst0.232MPI (0–1)2025
bottom 19% of 109 countries measured
Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative (OPHI) · MPI (0–1)
Cameroon 0.232 · world median 0.039 (worse)
Best in the world 0 (Serbia)
▼ -8 percentile points since 2018
Global Report on Food Crises38th of 44position · derived · 1 = worst11In IPC Phase 3+ (% of analysed population)2024
top 13% of 44 countries measured
Food Security Information Network (FSIN) · In IPC Phase 3+ (% of analysed population)
Cameroon 11 · world median 22 (better)
Best in the world 3 (El Salvador)
▲ +16 percentile points since 2016
Global Violent Deaths87th of 206position · derived · 1 = worst5.28Violent deaths per 100,000 people2021
bottom 41% of 209 countries measured · 209 share 206 positions
Small Arms Survey · Violent deaths per 100,000 people
Cameroon 5.28 · world median 4.02 (worse)
Best in the world 0 (4 countries tied)
▼ -10 percentile points since 2011
Human Capital Index147th of 172position · derived0.397HCI score (0–1)2020
bottom 15% of 172 countries measured
World Bank Group · HCI score (0–1)
Cameroon 0.397 · world median 0.564 (worse)
Best in the world 0.879 (Singapore)
▲ +3 percentile points since 2010
Human Development Index155th of 193rank0.588HDI score (0–1)2023
bottom 20% of 193 countries measured
UNDP Human Development Report Office · HDI score (0–1)
Cameroon 0.588 · world median 0.762 (worse)
Best in the world 0.972 (Iceland)
No real change since 2013
Infant Mortality Rate26th of 200position · derived · 1 = worst40.25Deaths before age one (per 1,000 live births)2024
bottom 13% of 200 countries measured
UN Inter-agency Group for Child Mortality Estimation (UN IGME) · Deaths before age one (per 1,000 live births)
Cameroon 40.25 · world median 12.26 (worse)
Best in the world 1.214 (San Marino)
▲ +3 percentile points since 2014
INFORM Severity Index16th of 81position · derived · 1 = worst4INFORM Severity (1–5, most severe crisis)2025
bottom 21% of 81 countries measured
ACAPS · INFORM Severity (1–5, most severe crisis)
Cameroon 4 · world median 3.1 (worse)
Best in the world 1.3 (Trinidad and Tobago)
▼ -11 percentile points since 2020
Life Expectancy at Age 65206th of 222position · derived13.07Further years a 65-year-old would live at current death rates2023
bottom 7% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Further years a 65-year-old would live at current death rates
Cameroon 13.07 · world median 16.39 (worse)
Best in the world 23.21 (Monaco)
No real change since 2013
Life Expectancy at Birth200th of 222position · derived63.7Years a newborn would live at current death rates2023
bottom 10% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Years a newborn would live at current death rates
Cameroon 63.7 · world median 74.63 (worse)
Best in the world 86.37 (Monaco)
No real change since 2013
Maternal Mortality Ratio28th of 195position · derived · 1 = worst258.23Maternal deaths per 100,000 live births2023
bottom 14% of 195 countries measured
UN Maternal Mortality Estimation Inter-Agency Group (MMEIG) · Maternal deaths per 100,000 live births
Cameroon 258.23 · world median 46.65 (worse)
Best in the world 0.11 (Cook Islands)
No real change since 2013
Pesticide Use per Hectare106th of 178position · derived1.21Pesticide use (kg per hectare of cropland)2024
bottom 41% of 181 countries measured · 181 share 178 positions
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Pesticide use (kg per hectare of cropland)
Cameroon 1.21 · world median 1.73
Highest 37.72 (Antigua and Barbuda)
▲ +9 percentile points since 2014
Prevalence of Severe Food Insecurity15th of 127position · derived · 1 = worst24.7Population in severe food insecurity (%)2023
bottom 11% of 133 countries measured · 133 share 127 positions
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Population in severe food insecurity (%)
Cameroon 24.7 · world median 4.7 (worse)
Best in the world 0 (7 countries tied)
No real change since 2015
Prevalence of Undernourishment88th of 104position · derived · 1 = worst4.8Population undernourished (%)2023
top 47% of 165 countries measured · 165 share 104 positions
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Population undernourished (%)
Cameroon 4.8 · world median 5.2 (better)
Best in the world 2.5 (62 countries tied)
▼ -6 percentile points since 2013
Stunting Prevalence in Children Under Five32nd of 162position · derived · 1 = worst28.93Children under 5 who are stunted (%)2024
bottom 19% of 162 countries measured
UNICEF, WHO and World Bank Group (Joint Malnutrition Estimates) · Children under 5 who are stunted (%)
Cameroon 28.93 · world median 13.8 (worse)
Best in the world 0.518 (Latvia)
No earlier reading to compare
Under-Five Mortality Rate16th of 200position · derived · 1 = worst64.84Deaths before age five (per 1,000 live births)2024
bottom 8% of 200 countries measured
UN Inter-agency Group for Child Mortality Estimation (UN IGME) · Deaths before age five (per 1,000 live births)
Cameroon 64.84 · world median 14.54 (worse)
Best in the world 1.26 (San Marino)
No real change since 2014
Violent Discipline of Children23rd of 90position · derived · 1 = worst85Children aged 1-14 experiencing violent discipline (%)2025
bottom 25% of 90 countries measured
UNICEF · Children aged 1-14 experiencing violent discipline (%)
Cameroon 85 · world median 75.8 (worse)
Best in the world 37.6 (Qatar)
No earlier reading to compare
Development & Human Capital8
Access to Electricitybottom 18%72Population with electricity access (%)2024
bottom 18% of 215 countries measured
World Bank Group · Population with electricity access (%)
Cameroon 72 · world median 100 (worse)
Best in the world 100 (122 countries tied)
No real change since 2014
Cereal Yield132nd of 179position · derived1,770Cereal yield (kg per hectare)2023
bottom 26% of 179 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Cereal yield (kg per hectare)
Cameroon 1,770 · world median 3,072 (worse)
Best in the world 29,147 (Oman)
No real change since 2013
Child Marriage30th of 143position · derived · 1 = worst29.8Women 20–24 married before 18 (%)2025
bottom 20% of 145 countries measured · 145 share 143 positions
UNICEF · Women 20–24 married before 18 (%)
Cameroon 29.8 · world median 17.1 (worse)
Best in the world 0 (3 countries tied)
No earlier reading to compare
Coefficient of Human Inequality14th of 169position · derived · 1 = worst37.51Coefficient of Human Inequality (%)2023
bottom 8% of 169 countries measured
UNDP Human Development Report Office · Coefficient of Human Inequality (%)
Cameroon 37.51 · world median 17.05 (worse)
Best in the world 4.865 (Slovenia)
▼ -4 percentile points since 2013
Gender Development Index155th of 184position · derived0.898Gender Development Index (1.000 = parity)2023
bottom 16% of 184 countries measured
UNDP Human Development Report Office · Gender Development Index (1.000 = parity)
Cameroon 0.898 · world median 0.971 (worse)
Best in the world 1 (2 countries tied)
No real change since 2013
Inequality-adjusted Human Development Index140th of 169position · derived0.361IHDI (0–1)2023
bottom 17% of 169 countries measured
UNDP Human Development Report Office · IHDI (0–1)
Cameroon 0.361 · world median 0.609 (worse)
Best in the world 0.923 (Iceland)
▼ -3 percentile points since 2013
Net Official Development Assistance Received73rd of 130position · derived1.965Net ODA received (% of GNI)2023
bottom 44% of 130 countries measured
OECD Development Assistance Committee · Net ODA received (% of GNI)
Cameroon 1.965 · world median 2.579
Highest 101.78 (Tuvalu)
No real change since 2013
Planetary pressures-adjusted HDI116th of 156position · derived0.574PHDI (0–1)2023
bottom 26% of 156 countries measured
UNDP Human Development Report Office · PHDI (0–1)
Cameroon 0.574 · world median 0.678 (worse)
Best in the world 0.827 (United Kingdom)
No real change since 2013
Environment & Sustainability22
Agricultural Emissions77th of 193position · derived14,550Farm-gate emissions (kt CO₂eq)2023
top 39% of 198 countries measured · 198 share 193 positions
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Farm-gate emissions (kt CO₂eq)
Cameroon 14,550 · world median 8,635
Highest 1,044,508 (India)
No real change since 2013
Agricultural Land147th of 209position · derived20.94Agricultural land (% of land area)2023
bottom 30% of 209 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Agricultural land (% of land area)
Cameroon 20.94 · world median 37.96
Highest 86.48 (Côte d’Ivoire)
No real change since 2013
Arable Land per Person54th of 206position · derived0.219Arable land (hectares per person)2023
top 26% of 206 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Arable land (hectares per person)
Cameroon 0.219 · world median 0.109
Highest 1.459 (Kazakhstan)
▼ -10 percentile points since 2013
Carbon Intensity of Electricity142nd of 193position · derived · 1 = worst226.17Carbon intensity (gCO₂e per kWh generated)2024
top 27% of 193 countries measured
Ember · Carbon intensity (gCO₂e per kWh generated)
Cameroon 226.17 · world median 468.81 (better)
Best in the world 23.49 (Ethiopia)
▼ -4 percentile points since 2014
Climate Vulnerability (ND-GAIN)120th of 190rank0.478ND-GAIN Vulnerability (0–1, where 1 is the most vulnerable)2024
bottom 37% of 190 countries measured
Notre Dame Global Adaptation Initiative (ND-GAIN), University of Notre Dame · ND-GAIN Vulnerability (0–1, where 1 is the most vulnerable)
Cameroon 0.478 · world median 0.45 (worse)
Best in the world 0.263 (Norway)
▼ -4 percentile points since 2014
CO₂ Emissions per Capita184th of 210position · derived · 1 = worst0.331Fossil CO₂ (tonnes per person)2024
top 12% of 210 countries measured
Global Carbon Project · Fossil CO₂ (tonnes per person)
Cameroon 0.331 · world median 3.21 (better)
Best in the world 0.054 (DR Congo)
▲ +2 percentile points since 2014
Ecological Footprint102nd of 126position · derived · 1 = worst1.027Ecological Footprint (global hectares per person)2025
top 19% of 126 countries measured
Global Footprint Network · Ecological Footprint (global hectares per person)
Cameroon 1.027 · world median 2.296 (better)
Best in the world 0.514 (Yemen)
▲ +5 percentile points since 2015
Energy Intensity of GDP (PPP)top 7%1.092Energy use per dollar of GDP (thousand Btu per US$ at PPP)2024
top 7% of 192 countries measured
U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) · Energy use per dollar of GDP (thousand Btu per US$ at PPP)
Cameroon 1.092 · world median 2.738 (better)
Best in the world 0.666 (Chad)
▲ +9 percentile points since 2014
Fertilizer Consumption per Hectare149th of 188position · derived16.4Fertilizer consumption (kg per hectare of arable land)2023
bottom 22% of 191 countries measured · 191 share 188 positions
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Fertilizer consumption (kg per hectare of arable land)
Cameroon 16.4 · world median 87.36
Highest 2,926 (Malaysia)
▲ +6 percentile points since 2013
Forest Area69th of 210position · derived42.67Forest area (% of land area)2023
top 32% of 213 countries measured · 213 share 210 positions
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Forest area (% of land area)
Cameroon 42.67 · world median 31.08
Highest 94.45 (Suriname)
No real change since 2013
Internal Displacements by Disaster20th of 160position · derived · 1 = worst261,000New displacements by disaster (people)2024
bottom 12% of 160 countries measured
Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre (IDMC) · New displacements by disaster (people)
Cameroon 261,000 · world median 4,750 (worse)
Best in the world 1 (Serbia)
▼ -46 percentile points since 2014
Land Under Cereal Production53rd of 179position · derived2,169,743Land under cereal production (hectares)2023
top 29% of 180 countries measured · 180 share 179 positions
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Land under cereal production (hectares)
Cameroon 2,169,743 · world median 689,278
Highest 103,715,108 (India)
No real change since 2013
Livestock Density101st of 188position · derived0.5Livestock units per hectare of agricultural land2023
bottom 47% of 188 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Livestock units per hectare of agricultural land
Cameroon 0.5 · world median 0.535
Highest 43.97 (Singapore)
No real change since 2013
Low-Carbon Share of Electricity Generation51st of 190position · derived73.14Low-carbon sources (% of electricity generated)2024
top 26% of 193 countries measured · 193 share 190 positions
Ember · Low-carbon sources (% of electricity generated)
Cameroon 73.14 · world median 35.66 (better)
Best in the world 100 (7 countries tied)
▼ -5 percentile points since 2014
ND-GAIN Country Index144th of 190rank39.9ND-GAIN Index (0–100, where 100 is best placed to adapt)2024
bottom 24% of 190 countries measured
Notre Dame Global Adaptation Initiative (ND-GAIN), University of Notre Dame · ND-GAIN Index (0–100, where 100 is best placed to adapt)
Cameroon 39.9 · world median 47.44 (worse)
Best in the world 71.85 (Norway)
No real change since 2014
Organic Agricultural Area132nd of 150position · derived0.03Organic share of agricultural land (%)2024
bottom 14% of 156 countries measured · 156 share 150 positions
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Organic share of agricultural land (%)
Cameroon 0.03 · world median 0.725 (worse)
Best in the world 86.38 (Samoa)
▲ +11 percentile points since 2014
Renewable Internal Freshwater Resources per Capita45th of 181position · derived9,880Renewable internal freshwater (cubic metres per person)2022
top 24% of 181 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Renewable internal freshwater (cubic metres per person)
Cameroon 9,880 · world median 2,528 (better)
Best in the world 445,023 (Iceland)
No real change since 2012
Renewable Share of Electricity Generation41st of 190position · derived73.14Renewables (% of electricity generated)2024
top 21% of 193 countries measured · 193 share 190 positions
Ember · Renewables (% of electricity generated)
Cameroon 73.14 · world median 31.14 (better)
Best in the world 100 (7 countries tied)
▼ -4 percentile points since 2014
Water Stress151st of 177position · derived · 1 = worst1.56Freshwater withdrawal as a share of available resources (%)2023
top 15% of 177 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Freshwater withdrawal as a share of available resources (%)
Cameroon 1.56 · world median 10 (better)
Best in the world 0.03 (Republic of the Congo)
No real change since 2013
Water Withdrawal by Sector76th of 171position · derived67.71Freshwater withdrawn for agriculture (% of total)2022
top 44% of 173 countries measured · 173 share 171 positions
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Freshwater withdrawn for agriculture (% of total)
Cameroon 67.71 · world median 62.14
Highest 99.48 (Somalia)
No real change since 2012
Wind and Solar Share of Electricity Generationbottom 19%0.551Wind and solar (% of electricity generated)2024
bottom 19% of 193 countries measured
Ember · Wind and solar (% of electricity generated)
Cameroon 0.551 · world median 5.769 (worse)
Best in the world 69.12 (Denmark)
▼ -33 percentile points since 2014
World Risk Index48th of 193position · derived · 1 = worst11.19WorldRiskIndex score (0–100, where 100 is the most at risk)2025
bottom 24% of 193 countries measured
Institute for International Law of Peace and Armed Conflict (IFHV), Ruhr University Bochum · WorldRiskIndex score (0–100, where 100 is the most at risk)
Cameroon 11.19 · world median 4.17 (worse)
Best in the world 0.18 (Monaco)
▲ +2 percentile points since 2015
Gender & Equality3
Sex Ratio at Birthbottom 9%103Male births per 100 female births2023
bottom 9% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Male births per 100 female births
Cameroon 103 · world median 105.1
Highest 116.3 (Liechtenstein)
No real change since 2013
Social Institutions and Gender Index2nd of 140position · derived · 1 = worst66.9SIGI score (0 = no discrimination, 100 = absolute)2023
bottom 1% of 140 countries measured
OECD · SIGI score (0 = no discrimination, 100 = absolute)
Cameroon 66.9 · world median 25.2 (worse)
Best in the world 6.7 (Norway)
No earlier reading to compare
Women's Political Empowerment Index94th of 176position · derived0.76Women's political empowerment index (0–1)2025
bottom 47% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Women's political empowerment index (0–1)
Cameroon 0.76 · world median 0.772 (worse)
Best in the world 0.954 (Denmark)
▼ -6 percentile points since 2015
Democracy & Civil Liberties8
Deliberative Democracy Index146th of 176position · derived0.097Deliberative democracy index (0–1)2025
bottom 17% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Deliberative democracy index (0–1)
Cameroon 0.097 · world median 0.339 (worse)
Best in the world 0.867 (Denmark)
▼ -4 percentile points since 2015
Egalitarian Democracy Index124th of 176position · derived0.178Egalitarian democracy index (0–1)2025
bottom 30% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Egalitarian democracy index (0–1)
Cameroon 0.178 · world median 0.321 (worse)
Best in the world 0.876 (Denmark)
▲ +2 percentile points since 2015
Freedom of Expression and Alternative Sources of Information Index120th of 176position · derived0.532Freedom of expression index (0–1)2025
bottom 32% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Freedom of expression index (0–1)
Cameroon 0.532 · world median 0.693 (worse)
Best in the world 0.98 (Denmark)
▼ -4 percentile points since 2015
Government Censorship of the Media111th of 176position · derived-0.087Original latent estimate (≈ −3 to +3.5); higher = less censorship2025
bottom 37% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Original latent estimate (≈ −3 to +3.5); higher = less censorship
Cameroon -0.087 · world median 0.565 (worse)
Best in the world 3.489 (Belgium)
▲ +2 percentile points since 2015
Government Internet Shutdowns152nd of 176position · derived-1.255Original latent estimate (≈ −4 to +2); higher = fewer shutdowns2025
bottom 14% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Original latent estimate (≈ −4 to +2); higher = fewer shutdowns
Cameroon -1.255 · world median 1.023 (worse)
Best in the world 2.081 (Spain)
▼ -23 percentile points since 2015
Military Dimension Indexbottom 16%0.333Military dimension index (0–1; higher = larger military role)2025
bottom 16% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Military dimension index (0–1; higher = larger military role)
Cameroon 0.333 · world median 0.1 (worse)
Best in the world 0 (76 countries tied)
▲ +3 percentile points since 2015
Participatory Democracy Index150th of 176position · derived0.093Participatory democracy index (0–1)2025
bottom 15% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Participatory democracy index (0–1)
Cameroon 0.093 · world median 0.298 (worse)
Best in the world 0.785 (Switzerland)
▼ -10 percentile points since 2015
Physical Violence Index130th of 176position · derived0.435Freedom from political killings and torture (0–1)2025
bottom 26% of 176 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Freedom from political killings and torture (0–1)
Cameroon 0.435 · world median 0.79 (worse)
Best in the world 0.989 (2 countries tied)
▼ -2 percentile points since 2015
Peace & Security6
Deaths in Organized Violence26th of 59position · derived · 1 = worst375Deaths in organized violence (people)2025
bottom 13% of 196 countries measured · 196 share 59 positions
Uppsala Conflict Data Program (UCDP) · Deaths in organized violence (people)
Cameroon 375 · world median 0 (worse)
Best in the world 0 (138 countries tied)
▲ +8 percentile points since 2015
Global Militarisation Index105th of 149rank · 1 = worst74.73GMI score (higher means a heavier military weight)2023
top 30% of 149 countries measured
Bonn International Centre for Conflict Studies (BICC) · GMI score (higher means a heavier military weight)
Cameroon 74.73 · world median 100.66 (better)
Best in the world 3.512 (Haiti)
No real change since 2013
INFORM Risk Index18th of 191position · derived · 1 = worst6.8INFORM Risk score (0–10, where 10 is the highest risk)2025
bottom 9% of 191 countries measured
European Commission Joint Research Centre, with the Inter-Agency Standing Committee · INFORM Risk score (0–10, where 10 is the highest risk)
Cameroon 6.8 · world median 3.7 (worse)
Best in the world 0.7 (Singapore)
No real change since 2016
Political Stability and Absence of Violence194th of 211position · derived-1.692Political Stability estimate (−2.5 to 2.5)2025
bottom 8% of 211 countries measured
World Bank Group · Political Stability estimate (−2.5 to 2.5)
Cameroon -1.692 · world median 0.171 (worse)
Best in the world 1.563 (Andorra)
▼ -4 percentile points since 2015
Political Violence by Non-State Actors18th of 171position · derived · 1 = worst1.756Original latent estimate (≈ −3.5 to +4); higher = more violence2025
bottom 10% of 171 countries measured
V-Dem Institute, University of Gothenburg · Original latent estimate (≈ −3.5 to +4); higher = more violence
Cameroon 1.756 · world median -0.661 (worse)
Best in the world -3.182 (Luxembourg)
▼ -7 percentile points since 2015
Refugees by Country of Origintop 11%140,366Refugees under UNHCR's mandate from this country, end of year (people)2025
top 11% of 202 countries measured
UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency · Refugees under UNHCR's mandate from this country, end of year (people)
Cameroon 140,366 · world median 1,272
Highest 5,224,131 (Ukraine)
▲ +13 percentile points since 2015
Risk & Resilience2
Asylum-Seekers by Country of Asylumtop 23%18,553Asylum-seekers awaiting a decision, end of year (people)2025
top 23% of 177 countries measured
UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency · Asylum-seekers awaiting a decision, end of year (people)
Cameroon 18,553 · world median 1,836
Highest 3,718,945 (United States)
▲ +3 percentile points since 2015
Refugee Population by Country of Asylumtop 12%408,613Refugees under UNHCR's mandate hosted, end of year (people)2025
top 12% of 177 countries measured
UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency · Refugees under UNHCR's mandate hosted, end of year (people)
Cameroon 408,613 · world median 12,269
Highest 2,655,191 (Germany)
▼ -6 percentile points since 2015
Mobility & Trade4
Average Time to Clear Exports Through Customs74th of 174position · derived · 1 = worst5.31Average time to clear exports through customs (days)2025
bottom 42% of 175 countries measured · 175 share 174 positions
World Bank Group · Average time to clear exports through customs (days)
Cameroon 5.31 · world median 4.456 (worse)
Best in the world 1 (2 countries tied)
No earlier reading to compare
Cereal Import Dependency Ratiobottom 41%34.6Share of the cereal supply that is imported (%)2022
bottom 41% of 161 countries measured
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) · Share of the cereal supply that is imported (%)
Cameroon 34.6 · world median 42.8
Highest 100 (16 countries tied)
▼ -3 percentile points since 2012
Cost of Sending Remittances48th of 93position · derived · 1 = worst3.023Average cost of sending $200 home (% of the amount)2023
top 49% of 93 countries measured
World Bank Group · Average cost of sending $200 home (% of the amount)
Cameroon 3.023 · world median 3.225 (better)
Best in the world -49.69 (Malawi)
▼ -29 percentile points since 2016
Net Migration Ratebottom 48%-0.169Net migrants per 1,000 population2023
bottom 48% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Net migrants per 1,000 population
Cameroon -0.169 · world median -0.133
Highest 39.62 (South Sudan)
No real change since 2013
Poverty & Inequality1
Poverty Headcount at National Poverty Linestop 25%37.7Population below the national poverty line (%)2025
top 25% of 160 countries measured
World Bank Group · Population below the national poverty line (%)
Cameroon 37.7 · world median 21.8
Highest 82.3 (South Sudan)
No earlier reading to compare
Money & Public Finance1
Short-Term Share of External Debttop 36%6.029Short-term debt (% of total external debt)2024
top 36% of 118 countries measured
World Bank Group · Short-term debt (% of total external debt)
Cameroon 6.029 · world median 9.376 (better)
Best in the world 0 (5 countries tied)
▼ -18 percentile points since 2014
Energy5
Net Electricity Imports (share of generation)top 35%0.826Net electricity imports (% of domestic generation)2024
top 35% of 193 countries measured
Ember · Net electricity imports (% of domestic generation)
Cameroon 0.826 · world median 0
Highest 707.07 (Palestine)
▼ -16 percentile points since 2014
Nuclear Share of Electricity Generationbottom 41%0Nuclear (% of electricity generated)2024
bottom 41% of 183 countries measured
Ember · Nuclear (% of electricity generated)
Cameroon 0 · world median 0
Highest 67.4 (France)
No real change since 2014
Primary Energy Consumption per Capitabottom 12%4.104Energy use per person (million Btu)2024
bottom 12% of 192 countries measured
U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) · Energy use per person (million Btu)
Cameroon 4.104 · world median 49.5
Highest 766.07 (Qatar)
▼ -2 percentile points since 2014
RISE Energy Efficiency Policy Scorebottom 14%16.3Energy efficiency policy score (0–100)2023
bottom 14% of 140 countries measured
World Bank Group (ESMAP) · Energy efficiency policy score (0–100)
Cameroon 16.3 · world median 48.23 (worse)
Best in the world 95.93 (South Korea)
▼ -9 percentile points since 2013
RISE Renewable Energy Policy Scorebottom 14%13.85Renewable energy policy score (0–100)2023
bottom 14% of 140 countries measured
World Bank Group (ESMAP) · Renewable energy policy score (0–100)
Cameroon 13.85 · world median 33.26 (worse)
Best in the world 89.52 (Denmark)
▲ +8 percentile points since 2013
Digital & Technology2
Mobile Phone Ownership123rd of 140position · derived77.83Adults who own a mobile phone (% of population aged 15+)2024
bottom 12% of 140 countries measured
World Bank Group · Adults who own a mobile phone (% of population aged 15+)
Cameroon 77.83 · world median 91.68 (worse)
Best in the world 100 (Libya)
No earlier reading to compare
Smartphone Ownership121st of 140position · derived41.62Adults whose main mobile phone is a smartphone (% of population aged 15+)2024
bottom 14% of 140 countries measured
World Bank Group · Adults whose main mobile phone is a smartphone (% of population aged 15+)
Cameroon 41.62 · world median 78.78 (worse)
Best in the world 97.36 (Sweden)
No earlier reading to compare
People & Population10
Crude Birth Ratetop 7%33.74Births per 1,000 population2023
top 7% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Births per 1,000 population
Cameroon 33.74 · world median 13.79
Highest 46.36 (Central African Republic)
▲ +3 percentile points since 2013
Crude Death Ratebottom 47%7.151Deaths per 1,000 population2023
bottom 47% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Deaths per 1,000 population
Cameroon 7.151 · world median 7.303
Highest 25.58 (Vatican City)
▼ -29 percentile points since 2013
Median Age of the Populationbottom 7%17.75Median age (years)2023
bottom 7% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Median age (years)
Cameroon 17.75 · world median 31.52
Highest 59.63 (Vatican City)
▼ -3 percentile points since 2013
Population Aged 65 and Overbottom 8%2.775Share of the total population aged 65 and over (%)2023
bottom 8% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Share of the total population aged 65 and over (%)
Cameroon 2.775 · world median 8.32
Highest 44.7 (Vatican City)
▼ -7 percentile points since 2013
Population Densitybottom 34%60.88People per square kilometre of land2023
bottom 34% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · People per square kilometre of land
Cameroon 60.88 · world median 96.92
Highest 26,145 (Monaco)
▲ +5 percentile points since 2013
Population Growth Ratetop 9%2.643Population growth (% per year)2023
top 9% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Population growth (% per year)
Cameroon 2.643 · world median 0.888
Highest 5.862 (South Sudan)
▲ +7 percentile points since 2013
Population Under Age 15top 7%41.76Share of the total population aged 0–14 (%)2023
top 7% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Share of the total population aged 0–14 (%)
Cameroon 41.76 · world median 22.71
Highest 49.17 (Central African Republic)
▲ +3 percentile points since 2013
Sex Ratio of the Total Populationtop 40%99.36Males per 100 females2023
top 40% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Males per 100 females
Cameroon 99.36 · world median 98.48
Highest 251.08 (Qatar)
No real change since 2013
Total Dependency Ratiotop 9%80.3People aged 0–14 and 65+ per 100 people aged 15–642023
top 9% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · People aged 0–14 and 65+ per 100 people aged 15–64
Cameroon 80.3 · world median 54.73
Highest 105.18 (Central African Republic)
▲ +2 percentile points since 2013
Total Fertility Ratetop 7%4.322Live births per woman2023
top 7% of 222 countries measured
UN DESA Population Division · Live births per woman
Cameroon 4.322 · world median 1.962
Highest 6.132 (Somalia)
▲ +4 percentile points since 2013
Not currently covered
The newest edition of these reports does not include Cameroon. Usually the publisher does not cover it; sometimes it has dropped out of a ranking it used to appear in.
- Agricultural Irrigated Land
- Agriculture Orientation Index · last seen 2022
- Births Attended by Skilled Health Staff · last seen 2018
- Business Ready: Operational Efficiency
- Business Ready: Public Services
- Business Ready: Regulatory Framework
- Children with Functional Difficulties
- Debt Service on External Debt · last seen 2023
- Fatal Occupational Injuries
- Female Share of Senior and Middle Management
- Gender Social Norms Index
- Gini Index · last seen 2021
- Government Funding per Primary Student · last seen 2012
- ICT Goods Exports · last seen 2023
- ICT Services Exports · last seen 2023
- Inbound Mobility Rate, Tertiary · last seen 2023
- Income Share Held by Lowest 20% · last seen 2021
- Income Share Held by Richest 10% · last seen 2021
- Informal Employment Rate
- Median Daily Income or Consumption per Person · last seen 2021
- Palma Ratio · last seen 2021
- PISA Mathematics Performance
- PISA Reading Performance
- PISA Science Performance
- Poverty Gap at $3.00 a Day · last seen 2021
- Poverty Headcount Ratio at $3.00 a Day · last seen 2021
- Poverty Headcount Ratio at $8.30 a Day · last seen 2021
- Prosperity Gap · last seen 2021
- Research and Development Spending
- Researchers per Million Inhabitants
- School Life Expectancy · last seen 2023
- Secondary School Enrolment · last seen 2023
- Societal Poverty Rate · last seen 2021
- Upper Secondary Attainment · last seen 2018
- Youth Not in Education, Employment or Training · last seen 2021
07Keep reading
Explore further
08Method
Sources and how to read them
How to read this page
- The scores and ranks belong to their publishers. Nothing is adjusted, rescaled or re-ranked; each is reproduced from the edition named beside it. Where a row says position · derived, the publisher ranks nobody on that measure and the position is ours, made by ordering the published score.
- Each statistic shows its newest edition, which is not always the edition the Country Index uses: the index pins every source to one data year so its average compares like with like.
How a standing is built from percentiles, why Cameroon can move because other countries moved, and why publishers measure between 120 and 215 countries each are set out in full in how a standing is made and what a standing cannot tell you.
Sources
- Statistics: 39 publishers, each named beside its numbers, with every edition and licence on the datasets pages.
- Capital, languages, currency, codes: Wikidata, public domain (CC0).
- Map and land borders: Natural Earth, public domain. Borders are de facto — where administration actually changes — not claimed.
Photographs
The photograph of Cameroon on this page comes from Wikimedia Commons and is shown in greyscale. The photographer and the licence are named beside each one.
Cite this page
Nations Inquiry (2026). Cameroon: country statistics, rankings and trends. https://nationsinquiry.com/countries/cameroon