Cameroon is a country located in Central Africa, often referred to as “Africa in miniature”. This country got its name from a European visitor, who sailed up the Wouri River and named it Rio dos Camarões— River of Prawns/Shrimps—due to the abundance of shrimps in the region. The Portuguese word “Camarões” later evolved in foreign languages and became “Cameroon.”
Why is Cameroon Called “Africa in Miniature?
- Cameroon mirrors almost every major feature of the African continent in a single country.
- It has coastal plains like beaches and mangroves similar to West Africa.
- It is the home to Mount Cameroon, representing Africa’s volcanic ranges.
- Cameroon features rainforests that are similar to the Congo Basin.
- It has grasslands and semi-arid zones like the Sahel.
- Cameroon has National Parks like Waza and Korup that host the continent’s wildlife diversity.
- It is a multi-faith country, including Islam, Christianity, and other belief systems.
- The residents of the country belong to different ethnic groups and speak 250 different languages.
- It exhibits a wide range of climates, from tropical to arid savannah heat.
Cameroon is the land of rich contrasts, embodying the vastness of Africa. It is a hidden African gem and a haven for tourists who seek diversity.