ABSTRACT

This study investigates the complex role of diaspora remittances in the Anglophone conflict in Cameroon, addressing the contentious debate surrounding their impact on conflict dynamics and economic development. Utilizing a quantitative research method and case study design, the research focuses on the Northwest and Southwest regions of Cameroon, areas with significant diaspora populations and remittance inflows.

Drawing on dependency theory as a theoretical framework, the study examines how remittances influence economic resilience, household welfare, and broader conflict trajectories. The research employs a mixed-methods approach,combining household surveys, economic data analysis, and stakeholder interviews to provide a comprehensive understanding of remittance patterns and their multifaceted effects. Key findings reveal that diaspora remittances serve as a critical lifeline for families in conflict-affected areas, supporting basic needs, education, and healthcare.

The study also uncovers the dual nature of remittances, potentially fueling conflict while simultaneously fostering economic resilience and household welfare, and broader conflict trajectories. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining household surveys, economic data analysis, and stakeholder interviews to provide a comprehensive understanding of remittance patterns and their multifaceted effects. Key findings reveal that diaspora remittances serve as a critical lifeline for families in conflict-affected areas, supporting basic needs, education, and healthcare. The study also uncovers the dual nature of remittances, potentially fueling conflict while simultaneously fostering economic resilience and development.

Additionally, the research identifies innovative strategies to maximize the developmental impact of remittances, including enhancing financial inclusion, promoting entrepreneurship, and leveraging digital technologies. This study contributes to the growing body of literature on the nexus between migration, remittances, and conflict, offering nuanced insights into the Anglophone crisis in Cameroon. The findings have important implications for policymakers, development practitioners, and diaspora communities, providing evidence-based recommendations for harnessing the potential of remittances to support peace-building efforts and sustainable development in conflict-affected regions.

CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to Study

The Anglophone Crisis is a conflict that broke out in Cameroon in the year late 2016 which began through grievances of teachers and lawyers before latter escalating. The conflict is built on historical grievances between the Anglophone and Francophone regions of Cameroon, and it has been exacerbated by a number of factors, including economic marginalization, political discrimination, and linguistic and cultural differences (Njambi, 2017). Diaspora remittances, which refers to money transfers sent from Cameroonians living abroad to their families and friends in Cameroon, have played a significant role in the Anglophone Crisis. Remittances have provided a vital source of income for many Anglophone households, and they have also been used to fund development projects and support armed groups (Brückner & Thiele,2016 22).
Economically the diaspora remittances have had a very important impact on Cameroon in general and the Anglophone crises in particular. The financial support flowing from the Cameroonian diaspora has the played a big role in alleviating poverty levels especially the English regions of Cameroon. For instance, a study by alemji et al. (2019) highlights that remittances have played a pivotal role in sustaining local economies affected by the conflict, providing families with the means to withstand economic hardships and maintain a semblance of normalcy.