The waste management in Cameroon is an old problem that continues to challenge communities across the country. People are demanding urgent action as the growing piles of waste pollute the air and harm the environment and pose serious health risks, increasing the chances of disease outbreaks. In February 2025, Cameroon’s prime minister ordered officials to create a sanitation plan for Yaoundé within a week. The goal is to quickly improve the city by clearing trash, fixing roads, and restoring public lighting. While some residents are hopeful, others feel it’s the same old story — temporary fixes that don’t last. Many are also questioning the timing, with elections just a few months away, raising concerns this may be more about politics than real change.
Waste in Yaoundé, the capital city, has become a visible and daily problem. Despite having waste disposal companies in place, the situation is worsening due to poor equipment, limited resources, and inefficient management. Streets are often piled high with garbage, blocking roads, causing traffic jams, and forcing cars and bikes to drive over the mess.
Waste collection in Cameroon is mostly managed by municipal authorities, with some involvement from private companies. The quality and reach of these services can vary a lot depending on the area. In many cases, informal waste collectors’ step in to fill the gaps. The country has waste management laws, but their enforcement is inconsistent. Most waste is disposed of in poorly managed landfills, which can cause environmental and health problems. Recycling is still in its early stages, with limited infrastructure and few organized programs. Efforts to improve recycling and waste reduction face challenges like low public awareness and inadequate waste segregation.
In April 2025, Hysacam, Cameroon’s leading waste management company, delivered 10 new trucks to Yaoundé’s mayor as part of a logistics upgrade supported by Afriland First Bank. The company is investing around 8 million dollars to acquire 80 trucks in total. These trucks include systems to prevent litter from falling during transport, improving waste collection. The additions aim to address Yaoundé’s waste crisis following Hysacam’s recent contract renewal after a year-long gap. Within two months, Hysacam plans to roll out door-to-door waste collection for more efficient management.
However, payment delays remain a major issue, with operations often halted due to unpaid salaries tied to government funding shortfalls. Despite a 2019 waste management tax, inadequate funding and unpaid bills continue to challenge the sector.
