Languages of Cameroon reflect the diversity of Cameroon-society and culture. The existence of approximately 286 indigenous languages of Cameroon is because of the various ethnic groups living in the country. The official languages of Cameroon are English and French which have become important means of communication during the colonial era.
The endemic languages of Cameroon include 279 languages that are spoken by the people and therefore classify as living languages. Four of the Cameroon indigenous languages are not in use anymore while three are used as secondary languages in Cameroon. The tribal groups of Cameroon are not usually proficient in English or French.
Some of the indigenous languages of Cameroon spoken by the people are as follows:
- Akoose
- Arabic, Shuwa
- Babanki
- Gidar
- Gbaya
- Fulfulde
- Giziga
- Gyele
- Kako
- Isu
- Koonzime
- Mundang
- Ngamambo
- Ngie
- Vengo
- Wandela
- Vute
- Tibea
- Suga
Specific languages are spoken in the different parts of the country. The ethnic groups of Cameroon have developed a language of their own understood by all members of the tribe. Many of the indigenous languages of Cameroon are again divided into dialects. Bilingualism is encouraged by the government.
