Cameroun marriage traditions clash with modern rights
Under Cameroonian civil law, marriage is built on the principle of marital freedom, guaranteeing every individual the right to select their spouse independently and give their personal consent to the union.
Legally, this consent must be both voluntary and informed—free from any form of coercion or violence. Yet, despite these protections, long-standing cultural practices continue to influence marital choices in certain communities.
In some regions, particularly in the West, parental involvement in selecting a partner remains deeply rooted. Parents often take the lead in identifying suitable matches for their children, citing concerns over reputation and family background. As one resident from the West region, Waffo Marie Chantal, explained from her home in Yaoundé’s Madagascar neighborhood: «When a parent selects a bride for their son, it’s to shield him from unsuitable company. The family background is scrutinized across generations to confirm they’re not known for laziness or misconduct. Once the choice is made, negotiations take place with the other family, and if mutual agreement is reached, the couple is informed and the customary wedding proceeds.» She emphasized that in her community, marriage is seen as a union of families, not just individuals.
However, this practice faces growing resistance from younger generations who advocate for personal autonomy in marriage. Audrey Wandji, a resident of Yaoundé’s Biyem-Assi district, firmly rejects the idea of parental interference. «We’re not living in an era where parents dictate who their daughters marry. I refuse to accept such a notion. I want a partner I love wholeheartedly—and that can only be someone I’ve chosen myself.»
