Cameroon is grappling with a surge in femicides, with approximately 50 reported between January and April, matching the total for all of 2023. The number climbed to 67 in 2024 and 77 in 2025. In September alone, nearly 10 women were killed, according to the Stop Feminicides 237 organisation. This growing toll has sparked outrage from rights groups and the opposition.
The families of victims are demanding justice and calling for the law to recognise femicide as a separate crime from murder. Courage Anushuni, 18, is still reeling from the loss of his mother, Geraldine Achia, a teacher who was beaten to death. Her husband is the prime suspect. Anushuni described the pain as a "nightmare" and said he cannot believe what happened.
The victims' families and women's rights groups point to various factors contributing to the rise in femicides, including a patriarchal society, economic issues, and a culture of impunity. Senator Francoise Puene, who has worked on women's rights for years, cited the economic crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic as factors. She also mentioned that her centre has helped over 5,000 women become independent through small-scale loans.
Psychiatrist Laure Justine Menguene attributed the violence to a societal problem, where men grow up believing they are superior to women. Viviane Tathi Yende, whose organisation has recorded 56 killings since the beginning of 2026, cited alcohol and drug abuse, economic issues, and tensions between traditional and modern ways of life as contributing factors.
The current law in Cameroon does not recognise femicide as a separate crime from murder, which can make it difficult to secure convictions. Investigating magistrate Martine Ahanda Tana argued that a specific law defining femicide would allow for more appropriate punishment. The women's ministry has announced plans to consider a bill on the issue during parliament's November session.
The opposition MRC party has criticised the government's "criminal passivity" in addressing the issue. Human Rights Watch has urged the authorities to take immediate action against gender-based violence, accusing the government of making promises to women without keeping them. The organisation described the killings as a sign that women in Cameroon have little protection or access to justice.
The issue of femicides is a continent-wide problem, with Africa having the highest femicide rate in the world, according to the United Nations. In Cameroon, the families of victims are seeking justice and calling for change. Anushuni, who is preparing to bury his mother, has one wish: "that justice be done". His mother's husband, who denies the crime, has been arrested and remains in detention.
Key points
- Cameroon's femicide rate is rising, with 50 reported cases between January and April.
- Families of victims are demanding justice and calling for a law change to recognise femicide as a separate crime.
- The issue of femicides is a continent-wide problem, with Africa having the highest femicide rate in the world.
