THE Baka—also known as Pygmies—were
likely the first inhabitants of Cameroon. Then, in the 1500’s, the
Portuguese arrived. Several hundred years after that, the Fulani—an Islamic people—conquered
northern Cameroon. Today, 40 percent of Cameroon’s inhabitants claim to
be Christian, 20 percent are Muslim, and the remaining 40 percent
practice traditional African religions.
The people who live in the rural areas of Cameroon
are particularly hospitable. Visitors are greeted and welcomed inside
the home, where they are served water and food. To refuse the
householder’s hospitality is considered an insult, while accepting the
offer is a compliment.
Conversation begins with greeting the family
members and asking about their welfare. It is even customary to ask how
the animals are faring! “When a guest leaves a household, it isn’t
enough to say, ‘Good-bye,’” says
Joseph, a native of Cameroon. “Often, the host will accompany the guest
partway down the road and continue conversing with him. Then, at some
point, he will bid the visitor farewell and return home. A guest who
does not receive this treatment may feel unappreciated.”
Dugout canoes are a common sight on the Sanaga River. Sails are made from whatever materials are available
When sharing a meal, sometimes a group of friends will eat from the same plate—at
times, with their hands. In Cameroon, this custom is a powerful symbol
of unity. In fact, on occasion it has been used to bring together people
whose friendship has faded for some reason. In a sense, acommunal meal is away
of saying, “We are now at peace.”
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