Cameroon’s Growing Surveillance Network: A $230 Million Gamble on Chinese Loans and Future Security

Nearly a quarter of a billion euros. That’s the amount Cameroon has committed to expanding its nationwide video surveillance system over the past eight years, almost entirely through loans from Chinese financial institutions. The latest installment, a €59.8 million loan authorized in December, signals not just a continued reliance on Chinese funding, but a deepening trend of leveraging technology for security in a region facing complex challenges – and raises critical questions about the long-term implications for privacy, debt, and national sovereignty.

From Urban Centers to Borderlands: The Scope of the Expansion

The initial phase of Cameroon’s “intelligent urban video surveillance system” focused on the capitals of ten regions, including major cities like Yaoundé and Douala, and strategically important locations such as the deep-water port of Kribi. This first wave saw the installation of 1,500 cameras, coupled with 2,000 portable transceiver stations designed to enhance police coordination. Now, the project is expanding beyond urban hubs to encompass economic corridors and, crucially, vulnerable border areas. Regions like the Far North, plagued by Boko Haram activity, will see increased surveillance in towns like Waza, Fotokol, Kousseri, and Amchidé.

This expansion isn’t simply about adding more cameras. The government aims to deploy “intelligent” cameras – likely incorporating facial recognition and behavioral analysis capabilities – alongside upgraded communication infrastructure and centralized command centers in Yaoundé and Douala. The goal, as stated by authorities, is to improve prevention, deterrence, and response times to crime and terrorism. However, the increasing sophistication of these systems also raises concerns about potential misuse and the erosion of civil liberties.

The China Factor: A Deepening Financial Dependence

Cameroon’s reliance on Chinese financing for this project is striking. Since 2017, four separate loans – from Bank of China, Banco Santander (Hong Kong), and now twice from China Citic Bank Corporation LTD – have totaled approximately €229.9 million. The initial €70 million loan from the Bank of China in 2017 kicked off the project, but subsequent funding has involved shifts in lenders, including a temporary withdrawal by China Construction Bank Corporation (CCBC). The consistent return to Chinese banks underscores China’s growing influence in Cameroon’s security infrastructure and its willingness to provide financing where Western lenders may be hesitant.

This financial dependence isn’t unique to Cameroon. Across Africa, Chinese loans are increasingly funding large-scale infrastructure projects, including those related to security. While these loans can provide much-needed capital, they also carry the risk of debt distress and potential political leverage. The Council on Foreign Relations provides in-depth analysis of China’s growing economic and political influence in Africa.

Security Needs vs. Privacy Concerns: A Delicate Balance

Cameroon’s increasing crime index – 66.6 out of 100 in 2022, though slightly improved to 65.5 in 2025 according to Numbeo data – undoubtedly fuels the demand for enhanced security measures. The country faces genuine threats from terrorism, cross-border crime, and internal unrest. However, the widespread deployment of surveillance technology raises legitimate concerns about privacy and potential abuses of power.

The lack of transparency surrounding the data collected by these systems – who has access to it, how it’s stored, and how it’s used – is particularly troubling. Without robust legal frameworks and independent oversight, there’s a risk that this technology could be used to suppress dissent, target political opponents, or discriminate against certain groups. The effectiveness of the system also hinges on responsible implementation and a commitment to protecting fundamental rights.

The Rise of ‘Smart Cities’ and Predictive Policing

Cameroon’s surveillance project is part of a broader global trend towards “smart cities” – urban areas that leverage technology to improve efficiency, sustainability, and security. However, this often involves the collection and analysis of vast amounts of data, raising concerns about surveillance creep and the potential for predictive policing. Predictive policing algorithms, while potentially useful in identifying crime hotspots, can also perpetuate existing biases and lead to discriminatory practices.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Surveillance in Cameroon

The continued investment in surveillance technology suggests that Cameroon views it as a cornerstone of its security strategy. However, the long-term success of this approach will depend on several factors, including the effective integration of technology, the development of robust legal safeguards, and the maintenance of public trust. The country must also address the underlying socio-economic factors that contribute to crime and instability. Simply deploying more cameras won’t solve these problems.

As Cameroon continues to deepen its reliance on Chinese financing for its security infrastructure, it’s crucial to consider the broader geopolitical implications. The country’s choices will not only shape its own future but could also set a precedent for other African nations grappling with similar challenges. What role will data security play in these future developments? Share your thoughts in the comments below!