Ngaoundéré

Ngaoundéré is a historic city in northern Cameroon, known as the capital of the Adamawa Region. Its name, meaning “navel mountain” in the local Mbum language, refers to the city’s iconic volcanic hill, Mount Ngaoundéré, which has served as a landmark for centuries. Historically, Ngaoundéré was a prominent settlement of the Mbum people before the arrival of Fulani conquerors in the 19th century. During the Fulani Jihad, the region was overtaken by Fulani forces under the leadership of Modibbo Adama, who established a series of Islamic states throughout northern Cameroon, including Ngaoundéré.

In the colonial period, the city came under German control in the late 19th century and later was administered by the French after World War I, following Germany’s defeat. The colonial powers developed Ngaoundéré as an administrative and trading center, recognizing its strategic location. Today, Ngaoundéré is an essential hub for commerce, agriculture, and education, and serves as a gateway between Cameroon’s northern and southern regions. The city blends its historical roots with modern development, making it a unique center of cultural and historical significance.