In Yaoundé, Cameroon, a growing trend sees coffee becoming an integral part of daily life. At a station in the Olembe neighborhood, a group of travelers started their expedition with cups of coffee in hand. The station's staff reported serving around 200 cups of local coffee per day, with prices ranging from 300 to 600 FCFA per cup. The coffee machine is in high demand, and service begins early in the morning.
This trend is not limited to stations, as many cafes and shops have also installed coffee machines to cater to their customers. At a location known as "Immeuble rose," public agents start their day with a cup of locally prepared coffee from a dedicated kiosk. The coffee culture has extended to the parking lot of the Ministry of Finance, where stalls have been set up to serve staff and passersby. Coffee is now served in cafes and even on the streets.
Street vendors, recognizable by their red and black kiosks, are also contributing to the growth of coffee consumption. Ebénézer Bidias, a vendor, reported selling around 150 cups of coffee or coffee with milk per day in the Hippodrome neighborhood of Yaoundé. He usually stops serving at 2 PM to rest and resume the next day. The variety of coffee brands available in supermarkets is also increasing.
In supermarkets, coffee brands are displayed in different forms, including roasted beans, infusions, capsules, or ground coffee, with prices ranging from 1800 to 5500 FCFA, depending on the weight. According to the National Cocoa and Coffee Office, 29 coffee roasters processed 1014 tons of coffee during the 2020-2021 campaign. This indicates a significant production and consumption of coffee in the country.
The rise in coffee consumption is also attributed to the accessibility of coffee machines and the variety of coffee brands available. Christelle K, a cashier at a station, mentioned that the coffee machine is in high demand, and the prices are affordable. This trend suggests that coffee is becoming an integral part of Cameroon's culture.
The growth of the coffee industry in Cameroon also presents opportunities for local coffee producers and roasters. With 29 coffee roasters transforming 1014 tons of coffee during the 2020-2021 campaign, there is a significant potential for the industry to contribute to the country's economy. As coffee consumption continues to rise, it will be interesting to see how the industry evolves.
As the coffee culture continues to spread in Cameroon, it is clear that coffee has become a staple in many people's daily lives. From stations and cafes to street vendors and supermarkets, coffee is now easily accessible and affordable. With its rich flavors and aromas, it is no wonder that coffee has become a favorite among Cameroonians.
Key points
- Coffee consumption is on the rise in Cameroon, with many stations, shops, and vendors selling the beverage.
- 29 coffee roasters processed 1014 tons of coffee during the 2020-2021 campaign.
- Coffee prices range from 300 to 600 FCFA per cup in stations and 1800 to 5500 FCFA in supermarkets.
