ABSTRACT

This research, titled “Decentralization as a Solution for Accelerated Growth in Cameroon (A Case Study of Buea Council),” investigates the role of local government administrations in fostering growth and development in Cameroon, particularly in the Buea locality. The study had dual objectives: firstly, to assess the impact of local government administrations on the transformation of the Limbe region, and secondly, to identify the challenges faced by these administrations in facilitating development in the Buea area. The research sought answers to the following questions: 1) How do local government administrations contribute to the transformation of the Buea community? 2) What are the impediments encountered by local government administrations in their efforts to enhance the Limbe community? The primary aim of this study is to evaluate whether the developmental needs of the communities have been addressed and the extent to which they have been met. Data were collected through the use of questionnaires, and upon analyzing the gathered information, it was concluded that the Limbe Local Government significantly contributes to the development of the region. In conclusion, several recommendations were proposed, including the enhancement of budget allocations to local governments to enable them to fulfill their responsibilities effectively.

Chapter One Introduction 1.1 Background of the Study

Decentralization in Cameroon involves the gradual transfer of non-exclusive powers, along with associated human, technical, material, and financial resources, from the central government to regional and local authorities. These transferred powers are exercised as closely as possible to the local populations, enabling decentralized territorial communities (CTDs) to promote participatory democracy and the development of various social, educational, health, sports, cultural, economic, artisanal, and touristic aspects of their regions.

Decentralization in Cameroon has historical roots dating back to the indirect rule system employed by Great Britain in British Cameroon between the two World Wars. This system involved traditional chiefs in the administration and management of local affairs. In French Cameroon, the process began in 1941 with the creation of the Mixed Urban Communes (CMUs) in Yaoundé and Douala. The Cameroonian constitution of June 2, 1972, further established a legal framework for municipalities, granting them legal personality and endowing them with financial, legal, and administrative autonomy. The subsequent enactment of Law No. 96/06 on January 18, 1996, introduced a second category of decentralized local government: the region.

Local government, on the other hand, is perceived as a semi-autonomous entity established under a state’s constitution or general laws to carry out functions within a defined geographic area. The philosophy of local government emphasizes grassroots-level participation in governance. Local governments are seen as partners with the central government and play a crucial role in delivering goods and services to the local population within the framework of the laws that established them.

Cameroon, like many other countries, faces the challenge of developing its rural sector to improve the living standards of the population. Decentralization was introduced as a way to bridge the gap between the central government and local communities in order to execute government development programs at the grassroots level and enhance socio-economic development in rural areas.

The problem addressed by this research is the need to assess and appraise the effectiveness of decentralization in achieving rural transformation and fostering local development in Cameroon.

1.2 Statement of the Problem The rural areas of Cameroon face numerous development needs, including education, clean water, healthcare facilities, roads, electricity, and more. The lack of these basic amenities has significantly affected the living standards of the rural population, leading to poverty and poor health. In response to these challenges, decentralization was introduced to act as an intermediary between the central government and local populations in implementing government development programs and enhancing socio-economic development in rural areas.

Decentralization aimed to bring governance closer to the people and improve the lives of rural communities. However, the actual impact of decentralization in transforming the lives of rural dwellers in Cameroon remains a subject of scrutiny. This study aims to evaluate whether decentralization has effectively addressed the developmental needs of these communities and the extent to which it has contributed to rural transformation.

1.3 Research Questions

1. What role does decentralization play in promoting growth in Cameroon?
2. To what extent has decentralization effectively fulfilled its role in rural areas?
3. What challenges are impeding the success of decentralization in the transformation of Cameroon?

These research questions provide the framework for the study and guide the direction of the research.

1.4 Objectives of the Study

1. To identify the role of decentralization in promoting growth in Cameroon.
2. To assess the extent to which decentralization has fulfilled its role in the transformation of Cameroon’s rural areas.
3. To analyze the challenges hindering the effectiveness of decentralization in promoting the transformation of Cameroon.

The objectives of the study will help in achieving a comprehensive understanding of the role and impact of decentralization in the country.

1.5 Hypotheses

H01: The role of decentralization in promoting growth in Cameroon is limited. H02: The extent to which decentralization has fulfilled its role in the transformation of Cameroon is limited. H03: The challenges impeding the effectiveness of decentralization in promoting the transformation of Cameroon are significant.

The study’s hypotheses will be tested to draw meaningful conclusions regarding the role and impact of decentralization in Cameroon.

1.6 Significance of the Study

This study holds significant importance as it addresses the critical issue of rural development and decentralization’s role in transforming local communities. The research findings will shed light on the challenges affecting rural development in Cameroon and help formulate recommendations for improvement. Additionally, this study will contribute to the existing literature on development theory, local government administration, and rural transformation, enhancing the knowledge base in these areas.