Road travel becomes dangerous and expensive in North West CameroonCEFR B1
19 Nov 2025
Adapted from Guest Contributor, Global Voices • CC BY 3.0
Photo by Lai Man Nung, Unsplash
Road travel in North West Cameroon became risky and costly as the nine-year conflict continues. After the proclamation of the October 12 presidential election results, separatist fighters intensified road blockages around the region. Buses have been replaced in many places by commercial motorbikes called Okada; riders say small bikes can escape into the bush when danger appears.
Fares rose because of fear and risk, not higher fuel prices. For example, a short trip on the Bamenda–Menchum road went from FCFA 700 to FCFA 5,000. On the Bamenda–Bafmeng line a seat that once cost FCFA 3,000 can now cost FCFA 25,000 (USD44.30) to FCFA 30,000 (USD53.16) on a bike with luggage. Transporters report many unpredictable checkpoints; one journey on the Bamenda–Ekok road can include more than 30 checkpoints and a driver said he pays FCFA 2,000 at each stop.
Violence has damaged vehicles and crews. Several buses were burned, and one manager, Pa Dan, said he lost two vehicles in 2021 and stopped going to Belo and Ndu after attacks. The higher transport costs have raised market prices in Bamenda and hurt families and traders.
Difficult words
- transport — to move people or goods from one place to another.transporters
- conflict — a serious disagreement or fight.
- fare — the money paid for travel or to use a service.fares
- economy — the system of money and trade in a country.
- burden — a heavy load or responsibility.
- hesitant — unsure or slow to act.
- intervention — an action taken to improve a situation.
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- How do you think the transport issues affect daily life in the region?
- What solutions could help improve transport safety?
- Why is it important to ensure safe travel for teachers?
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