Heavy Flooding in Cameroon’s Far North Leaves Mayo Danay Devastated and Isolated

 

Recent heavy rains have wreaked havoc in the Mayo Danay region of northern Cameroon, with Yagoua being the hardest hit. Torrential downpours have claimed at least ten lives, submerged entire neighborhoods, and caused significant losses in livestock and educational infrastructure. Over 200,000 residents have been displaced, 185 primary schools and 13 high schools have been flooded, and more than 1,100 livestock have disappeared. Many families are left struggling to meet basic needs like food and shelter. “We are in total distress,” said flood victim Litassou Daniel, describing the devastating impact on their daily lives.

More than 8,000 homes have been destroyed, forcing survivors into temporary camps outside the city. However, these makeshift tents offer little relief. Displaced residents like Boussate Lydie are frustrated by the recurring floods and inadequate support. “Every year, we face the same threat. The tents don’t last, and we lose livestock and homes. We need more help,” Lydie pleaded, emphasizing the ongoing challenges the region faces.

Adding to the devastation, an important bridge connecting Maga to Yagoua was swept away, isolating parts of the city. Cameroonian Minister of Urban Development, Célestine Ketcha Courtes, visited the affected areas and pledged 350 million CFA francs in aid, but locals feel it is insufficient given the scale of the crisis. The government is working on temporary solutions to restore connectivity, but with canoes currently the only means of transport, urgent action is needed to prevent the region from becoming uninhabitable.