The Republic of Cameroon, commonly known as Cameroon, is located in Central Africa. Nigeria lies to its west, and the Central African Republic to its east. The official languages are French and English; however, English is used only in the Northwest and Southwest regions. In other areas, English is not widely spoken, and French is the primary language. Cameroon’s main agricultural products are cotton, coffee, and cocoa, which are also exported to other countries.
Cameroon is passionate about soccer and is home to World Heritage-listed attractions such as the Dja Faunal Reserve and Lobéké National Park. So, what kind of souvenirs can you find here? Let’s take a look.
Coffee and Tea
About 13 countries in Africa produce coffee, and Cameroon is one of them. The country produces Arabica coffee beans, known for their unique flavor profile. Cameroonian coffee is characterized by a floral aftertaste, soft acidity, and gentle sweetness, making its flavor distinct from other African coffees.
In addition to coffee, Cameroon also produces tea. While Cameroonian tea may not be very familiar in other countries, African teas are popular in the UK, and Cameroonian tea is well known there.
Why not enjoy a relaxing afternoon with a cup of Cameroonian coffee or tea?
African Print Fabrics
Africa is often associated with colorful printed fabrics used for traditional clothing. In Cameroon, you can find many fabrics with vibrant primary colors such as red, yellow, pink, green, and blue, often featuring animal patterns typical of Africa. These fabrics are not sold by the meter but rather in units of 6 yards (about 5.5 meters), so if you want several patterns, it might be a good idea to purchase them with friends.
You could also use these fabrics to make your own tote bags, summer dresses, or other handmade items.
Handicrafts, Leather Goods, and Accessories
When thinking of African souvenirs, carved wooden masks often come to mind. In Cameroon, handicraft shops sell warm, distinctive wooden masks and figurines with unique facial features. Displaying them at home could create a little corner of Cameroon in your space.
There are also leather goods such as bags, wallets, and sandals—perfect for everyday use—so try to find something you’ll enjoy using.
African-style accessories are also popular. Large earrings and beaded necklaces make great souvenirs, especially for women.
Shea Butter
Shea butter, known as Africa’s all-purpose remedy, grows naturally in Cameroon. It has sunscreen properties, offering UV protection for short outings, and can be used for skin moisturizing, cleansing, and skincare. It is also said to help with itching, wounds, and burns, making it truly a versatile African remedy. Since it is natural shea butter, it is safe for sensitive skin and even for babies.
In addition to skincare, shea butter can be used in cooking as a substitute for cocoa butter, making it a great souvenir for those who enjoy cooking.
◎ Summary
As you can see, the Republic of Cameroon in Africa offers many souvenirs with vibrant colors and distinctive designs that embody the spirit of Africa. Surprisingly, tea is also a specialty product of Cameroon. Alongside its flavorful coffee, shea butter is highly recommended for those with a preference for natural products and would surely be appreciated as a gift. Of course, they make excellent treats for yourself as well.
Why not spend some time in Cameroon—a place with unspoiled nature and friendly, open-hearted people—and experience a piece of African culture?