Cameroon’s National Museum Undergoes Transformation: A Hub for Cultural Identity and Economic Growth
The National Museum of Cameroon is undergoing a remarkable transformation, thanks to a significant project funded by the Debt Reduction and Development (C2D) Convention. The “C2D Support Project to the Development of the National Museum (Padmun),” launched in 2019 with a grant of over 655 million FCFA (approximately one million euros), aims to modernize the museum while strengthening its management and enriching its collections.
“Strategic repositioning of heritage centers,” stated Bidoung Mkpatt, Cameroon’s Minister of Arts and Culture, when assessing the restructuring of arts and culture in 2021, “is essential to contribute to economic growth.”
The project has already produced impressive results, exceeding its initial goals. Professor Hugues Heumen Tchana, the museum’s director, emphasized that "933 art objects have been collected, 46 heavy-duty museum furniture pieces have been installed, and 65 professionals have been trained.”
The initial phase focused on urgent repairs, including woodwork restoration, protection of national reserves, and addressing water damage. These repairs, completed 100%, have allowed the museum to reopen closed spaces, enhance the visitor experience, and create a welcoming environment for cultural enthusiasts.
Beyond physical improvements, Padmun has also prioritized professional development.
"The training included investment skills, exhibition assembly, exhibition views, and even budget reallocation, allowing us to go beyond technical support,” explained Professor Tchana. “This has led to the acquisition of around 56 reserve furniture pieces and an increase in the number of Cameroonian experts involved in the project.”
Recognizing the importance of cultural heritage preservation, Cameroonian authorities have highlighted traditional knowledge systems and artistic expressions. As Cameroon initiates a major program to repatriate cultural artifacts, the National Museum is poised to play a crucial role in showcasing these treasured items.
In response to this vital need, the second phase of Padmun will focus on creating a pilot room for cultural property restoration.
“We will consider a pilot room for the restoration of cultural property," said Professor Tchana. "Cameroon has just launched a massive program to recreate its collective memory through repatriation. The National Museum must be ready to receive these items. The pilot room of the National Museum will need to be renovated and the reception hall organized to give more comfort to Cameroonians.”
The C2D Steering and Monitoring Committee approved the second phase after a rigorous evaluation. This additional funding will allow the project to build upon the success of the first phase by
incorporating recommendations from French experts and further strengthening Franco-Cameroonian collaboration.
With a vision that extends beyond its physical walls, the increasingly robust National Museum aims to be a driver of cultural influence within Cameroon and the broader African region. By
promoting cultural tourism and fostering the growth of creative industries, C2D’s efforts aim to solidify the crucial role that culture plays in boosting Cameroon’s national GDP.
