The Ministry of State Property, Surveys and Land Tenure (MINDCAF) is at the center of controversy. Shanda Tonme, a universal mediator and president of the Independent Commission Against Corruption and Discrimination (COMICODI), sent a letter to Prime Minister Joseph Dion Ngute on February 25, 2026, to denounce a circular he considers "toxic and seditious".
The incriminated circular, numbered 0001/MINDCAF/LC and dated February 20, 2026, details the procedures for issuing a Certificate of Recognition of Customary Land Rights (ARDFC) and a certificate of peaceful enjoyment of land (AJPTER). Shanda Tonme believes that this circular oversteps the authority of MINDCAF and encroaches on the prerogatives of other state institutions, particularly the Ministry of Territorial Administration (MINAT).
In his letter, Shanda Tonme expresses his deep concern about this decision, which he describes as "serious, terrible, confusing, disturbing, criminogenic, and ultimately toxic and seditious". He fears that this circular will undermine peace in Cameroon, the country's international credibility, and investment security. He stresses that MINDCAF cannot replace the legislative or judicial branch, nor can it decree, legislate, or judge as a last resort.
Shanda Tonme calls on the Prime Minister to take responsibility and instruct MINDCAF to simply repeal this circular. He believes that failure to do so would be tantamount to "endorsing another form of unacceptable sedition." He draws a parallel with the recent resolution of a confusing situation at the Autonomous Port of Douala, praising the authority shown by the head of government at the time.
The MINDCAF circular is already facing criticism. Some observers believe that it could open the door to abuse and exclude indigenous people who do not have recognized traditional chiefs. Others point out that the procedure does not comply with the legal framework in force. However, MINDCAF justifies these new measures by a desire to strengthen the security of customary lands and prevent land disputes. As of April 1, 2026, third-degree traditional chiefs will be authorized to issue provisional land titles on certain dependencies of the national domain. These certificates aim to promote the land rights of customary communities and improve the protection of the rights of occupation and exploitation of land users.
MINDCAF and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have recently strengthened their cooperation in modernizing land management. The ministry is also working with GIZ to clarify procedures and build the capacity of local stakeholders. It remains to be seen whether these efforts will be enough to allay the concerns raised by the new circular and ensure equitable and transparent land management in Cameroon.
