A decree signed by the Prime Minister, Head of Government, Joseph Dion Ngute, dated March 6, 2026, officially announces the upcoming population and housing census in Cameroon. The operation, coupled with the general census of agriculture and livestock (RGAE), will take place from April 24 to May 29, 2026, throughout the national territory.
Census agents will have 35 days to carry out a comprehensive count of the population, agricultural resources, and livestock. This census comes 21 years after the last one, carried out in 2005, which counted approximately 17.4 million inhabitants. Current United Nations estimates put the Cameroonian population at around 30.6 million. The exact figure will be known after the 2026 count.
Cameroon has had three general censuses since its independence: in 1976, 1987, and 2005. This fourth census aims to update demographic data and provide essential agricultural statistics to inform public policies and resource allocation. The data collected will provide a better understanding of the dynamics of population growth and housing needs.
Initially scheduled for 2025, this census has been postponed to 2026. The Central Bureau of Census and Population Studies (BUCREP) is the agency responsible for conducting the census, in collaboration with the United Nations and other partners. Particular emphasis is placed on preventing sexual exploitation and abuse (PSEA) during the data collection process, with specific training for census agents.
In 2026, Cameroon's population is estimated at approximately 30.6 million. The population density is 65 inhabitants per km². The main cities are Yaoundé (5.1 million inhabitants) and Douala (4.1 million inhabitants). The Cameroonian population is relatively young, with a median age of 18.2 years.
This new census represents a crucial step for Cameroon, making it possible to update demographic data and guide public policies for the years to come. The census results are also expected to support decentralization, electoral reforms, and the distribution of state resources.
The data collection will take place from April 24 to May 29, 2026, throughout the national territory.
The previous censuses have shown the country's demographic evolution: 7.6 million inhabitants in 1976, more than 10 million in 1987, and 17.4 million in 2005.
The results of this fourth census are therefore eagerly awaited to better understand Cameroon's demographic realities and prepare the country's future.
