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Syracuse University

Publication Date

Spring 2011

Program Name

Cameroon: Social Pluralism and Development

Abstract

The following is an analysis of how the sentiments of pan-Africanism, a notion formulated in the early 20th century, have failed to proliferate in Cameroonian society. As a concept based in the social, economic, and political solidarity of the African continent, the pan-African movement has often been a point of reference for intellectuals searching for a solution to the problems Africa currently faces, some of which include lack of political agency and stagnating economic growth. The beliefs promoted by pan-Africanists is that by joining together the collective potentials of all African people, the continent can become a global force, leaving behind its past of enslavement and colonialism. The findings of this study reveal, however that though Cameroonian informants agree with the sentiments advocated by the pan-African movement, aspects of their society have not been conducive to the success of this concept. In looking at the social institutions of Cameroon’s education system, regional differences and political leadership, this study aims to discover why pan-Africanism has failed and what Cameroonians, and Africans in general, can do to weave its teachings back into their society.

Disciplines

African Studies | Economics | Growth and Development | Inequality and Stratification | Politics and Social Change

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