Cameroon Republic Day is celebrated on May 20 every year. The holiday is also known as Cameroon National Day or Cameron Unity Day. On this date in 1972, President Ahmadou Ahidjo established a unitary state by abolishing the federal system of government. The day is a public holiday in Cameroon but is nevertheless widely celebrated. The attractions of the day, however, are the military and civilian parades, as well as a presidential speech. On this day, schools and businesses remain closed so that everyone can take part in the festivities. Happy Cameroon Republic Day to the citizens of Cameroon!
History of Cameroon Republic Day
The Germans invaded Cameroon (previously known as Kamerun) in 1884. However, with Germany’s defeat in the First World War, both Britain and France assumed control of the nation. As a result, following the Second World War, Cameroon became one of the U.N. Trust Territories. The United Nations Trust Territory, known as French Cameroun, won independence from France on January 1, 1960, and British Southern Cameroons transformed into a federated state within Cameroon on October 1, 1961.On May 20, 1972, in a national referendum, Cameroonians voted for a unitary state. This would overhaul the existing federal system of governance. The federal system of government was then abolished by President Ahmadou Ahidjo, and a unitary state was established. This was known as the Republic of Cameroon. Since 1972, Cameroon has elected two presidents through popular vote. A president serves in that position for seven years.The National Assembly of Cameroon makes the legislation, and laws are passed based on a majority vote. The government also recognizes the authority of traditional chiefs and fons to govern at the local level. They might even be involved in resolving disputes as long as they do not conflict with national law. Cameroon’s legal system comprises civil law, common law, and customary law. Although the courts function independently, the president appoints judges at all levels. In terms of political and civil rights, Cameroon has likewise received a “not free” ranking from Freedom House.
Cameroon Republic Day timeline
The Portuguese name the country Cameroon.
Cameroon is split into French Cameroon and British Cameroon.
Cameroon gains independence from the French.
On the national flag, the former two stars are replaced by a large central star as a sign of unity.
Cameroon Republic Day FAQs
What is Cameroon famous for?
Cameroon is well known for its successful national football team and native music styles, particularly Makossa and Bikutsi.
Is Cameroon a friendly country?
Cameroon isn’t a safe country. It has its fair share of street crime, terrorism, diseases, and natural hazards.
Why is Cameroon a poor country?
Rural poverty, inadequate infrastructure, and a struggling school system continue to hinder the quality of life of people across Cameroon, contributing to a rising poverty rate in the last 10 years.
How to Observe Cameroon Republic Day
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Wish your Cameroonian friends
Wish your Cameroonian pals a happy Cameroon Republic Day. Perhaps you could also attend the celebrations with them. This is a fantastic way to show your friendliness and concern for their cultural heritage.
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Taste the cuisine
On Cameroon Republic Day, indulge your taste buds with some of the country's wonderful cuisine. You may go to a restaurant serving Cameroonian cuisine and order specialties like sangha, brochettes, and fufu corn.
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Learn the history
Learn about the history of Cameroon to prepare for Cameroon Republic Day. Learn about the history, languages, cultures, and traditions of the country, both ancient and modern. This is a great way to know more about Cameroon and its people.
5 Interesting Facts About Cameroon
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The nation speaks a range of languages
There are 230 languages spoken in the country, including French and English.
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One of the wettest countries on Earth
Debundscha in Cameroon receives 405.5 inches of rainfall.
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The country loves football
Cameroon is the first country in Africa to make it to the quarter-finals of the F.I.F.A. world cup.
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It is known as “Africa in Miniature”
That’s because of its geographical and cultural diversity.
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It’s home to Africa’s oldest forest
The Korup National Park Forest is 60 million years old.
Why Cameroon Republic Day is Important
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It is an important day in Cameroon
We love Cameroon Republic Day because it is one of the major celebrations in the country and an important day for Cameroonians. The day also reminds us of the many great things a nation can achieve when there is unity among its people.
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It is part of our history
When we celebrate days such as Cameroon Republic Day, we acknowledge our collective history. It serves as a reminder that despite our geographic separation; we share a common set of ambitions.
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We get to appreciate the Cameroonian culture
Since Cameroon Republic Day is celebrated with Cameroon's foods and culture, the day also helps us appreciate the Cameroonian people and their traditions. It’s a great way to expand our understanding of the world.
Cameroon Republic Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | May 20 | Saturday |
| 2024 | May 20 | Monday |
| 2025 | May 20 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | May 20 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | May 20 | Thursday |
