In Cameroon, the government is structured around various ministries, each overseeing different sectors of public life, from education and defense to finance and foreign relations.
These ministries are headed by ministers who are responsible for implementing government policies and ensuring smooth functioning in their respective fields.
In this post, we’ll explore some key ministries and their heads in 2024, providing you with a better understanding of the individuals leading Cameroon’s government and how the structure is organized.
1. Ministry of Defense
- Minister: Joseph Beti Assomo
The Ministry of Defense is critical for maintaining national security and sovereignty. Under Joseph Beti Assomo’s leadership, the ministry oversees the military forces, ensuring the country is prepared to face internal and external threats.
2. Ministry of Territorial Administration
- Minister: Paul Atanga Nji
This ministry manages local governance and civil administration. Paul Atanga Nji ensures effective communication between the central government and local authorities, addressing issues of regional security and governance.
3. Ministry of Finance
- Minister: Louis-Paul Motaze
The Ministry of Finance is responsible for managing Cameroon’s economic policies and public finances. Louis-Paul Motaze plays a pivotal role in budgeting, taxation, and fostering economic growth through financial management.
4. Ministry of External Relations
- Minister: Lejeune Mbella Mbella
Lejeune Mbella Mbella oversees Cameroon’s foreign relations, ensuring the country maintains good diplomatic ties. His role includes engaging with international organizations and promoting national interests abroad.
5. Ministry of Basic Education
- Minister: Laurent Serge Etoundi Ngoa
This ministry focuses on improving access to quality education for children. Laurent Serge Etoundi Ngoa works to enhance the educational system, aiming to reduce illiteracy rates and improve teaching standards.
6. Ministry of Higher Education
- Minister: Jacques Fame Ndongo
Jacques Fame Ndongo oversees universities and higher education institutions. His ministry aims to expand educational opportunities, promote research, and ensure that the higher education system meets international standards.
7. Ministry of Secondary Education
- Minister: Pauline Nalova Lyonga
This ministry is dedicated to enhancing the quality of secondary education. Pauline Nalova Lyonga focuses on curriculum development, teacher training, and increasing access to education for all students.
8. Ministry of Public Health
- Minister: Manaouda Malachie
The Ministry of Public Health manages healthcare services and programs. Manaouda Malachie aims to improve health outcomes by expanding access to medical care and addressing major health challenges.
9. Ministry of Transport
- Minister: Jean Ernest Massena Ngalle Bibehe
This ministry is responsible for the development of transportation infrastructure. Jean Ernest Massena Ngalle Bibehe works on improving road safety, public transport systems, and ensuring connectivity across the country.
10. Ministry of Justice
- Minister Delegate: Jean De Dieu Momo
The Ministry of Justice oversees the legal framework of the country. Jean De Dieu Momo is responsible for ensuring that justice is accessible and that the legal system operates fairly and transparently.
11. Ministry of Economy, Planning, and Regional Development
- Minister: Alamine Ousmane Mey
This ministry focuses on economic planning and regional development strategies. Alamine Ousmane Mey plays a key role in promoting sustainable economic growth and fostering regional cooperation.
12. Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development
- Minister: Gabriel Mbairobe
Agriculture is vital for Cameroon’s economy. Gabriel Mbairobe leads initiatives to boost agricultural productivity, promote food security, and support rural development.
13. Ministry of Livestock, Fisheries, and Animal Industries
- Minister: Dr. Taïga
This ministry manages livestock and fisheries resources. Dr. Taïga’s focus is on sustainable practices that enhance productivity and protect these valuable sectors.
14. Ministry of Communication
- Minister: René Emmanuel Sadi
The Ministry of Communication oversees media and public relations. René Emmanuel Sadi is responsible for promoting ethical journalism and managing public information campaigns.
15. Ministry of Labor and Social Security
- Minister: Gregoire Owona
This ministry focuses on labor rights and social welfare programs. Gregoire Owona works to improve working conditions and protect workers’ rights across various sectors.
16. Ministry of Forestry and Wildlife
- Minister: Jules Doret Ndongo
The Ministry of Forestry and Wildlife is tasked with conserving Cameroon’s natural resources. Jules Doret Ndongo leads efforts to protect forests and wildlife while promoting sustainable practices.
17. Ministry of Youth Affairs and Civic Education
- Minister: Mounouna Foutsou
This ministry focuses on youth development and civic engagement. Mounouna Foutsou works to empower young people and encourage their participation in national development.
18. Ministry of Mines, Industry, and Technological Development
- Minister: Gabriel Dodo Ndoke
Gabriel Dodo Ndoke oversees the mining sector and industrial development. His ministry promotes technological advancement and sustainable mining practices.
19. Ministry of Water Resources and Energy
- Minister: Gaston Eloundou Essomba
This ministry is responsible for managing water and energy resources. Gaston Eloundou Essomba aims to ensure access to clean water and reliable energy across the country.
20. Ministry of Environment, Nature Protection, and Sustainable Development
- Minister: Hélé Pierre
Hélé Pierre leads the ministry focused on environmental conservation and sustainable development. The ministry works on policies to combat climate change and protect natural habitats.
21. Ministry of Sports and Physical Education
- Minister: Narcisse Mouelle Kombi
The Ministry of Sports promotes physical education and athletic development. Narcisse Mouelle Kombi works to nurture sports talent and prepare athletes for international competitions.
22. Ministry of Women’s Empowerment and the Family
- Minister: Marie-Therese Abena Ondoa
This ministry focuses on promoting gender equality and family welfare. Marie-Therese Abena Ondoa leads initiatives aimed at empowering women and addressing issues like domestic violence.
23. Ministry of Housing and Urban Development
- Minister: Célestine Ketcha Courtes
Célestine Ketcha Courtes manages urban planning and housing development. The ministry addresses the challenges of urbanization, ensuring sustainable and organized growth.
24. Ministry of Employment and Vocational Training
- Minister: Issa Tchiroma Bakary
This ministry focuses on providing vocational training and improving employment opportunities. Issa Tchiroma Bakary aims to enhance workforce skills and reduce unemployment.
25. Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture
- Minister: Tassou Fongu
The Ministry of Fisheries promotes sustainable fishing and aquaculture practices. Tassou Fongu works to enhance the livelihoods of fishing communities while ensuring resource conservation.
26. Ministry of Culture and Arts
- Minister: Nadine Patricia Etonde
This ministry supports the cultural heritage of Cameroon. Nadine Patricia Etonde works on initiatives to promote arts and culture, fostering national identity and unity.
27. Ministry of Digital Economy and Telecommunications
- Minister: Minette Libom Li Likeng
The Ministry of Digital Economy promotes technology and telecommunications development. Minette Libom Li Likeng focuses on enhancing digital infrastructure and increasing internet access.
28. Ministry of Scientific Research and Innovation
- Minister: Professor Madeleine Tchuenté
This ministry is dedicated to promoting scientific research and innovation. Professor Madeleine Tchuenté oversees initiatives that encourage research and development across various fields.
29. Ministry of Arts and Culture
- Minister: Mireille Nganou
The Ministry of Arts and Culture promotes the creative arts and cultural heritage. Mireille Nganou focuses on supporting artists and preserving Cameroon’s rich cultural history.
30. Ministry of Public Works
- Minister: Emmanuel Nganou Djoumessi
This ministry manages public infrastructure development. Emmanuel Nganou Djoumessi oversees road construction and maintenance, improving transportation networks.
31. Ministry of Energy and Water Resources
- Minister: Gaston Eloundou Essomba
This ministry is responsible for managing the nation’s energy and water resources. Gaston Eloundou Essomba ensures the availability of essential services for the population.