CAMEROON

The Republic of Cameroon was formed by a merger of French Cameroon and British Cameroon in 1961. With a population of 15 million, it is a relatively prosperous and stable country endowed with good mineral and natural resources but has suffered recession since the 1980's

It is an ethnically diverse nation. Politically, it is controlled by a single ethnic group. Cameroon is currently led by President Paul Biya who has won several disputed elections since 1982

Religion wise, It is 40% Christian, 40% follow indigenous religious beliefs and the Muslims comprise the other 20%.

Though relatively prosperous, it still suffers from financial problems that will require it to diversify its economy, restructure it's civil service and encourage private business and outside investment to become globally competitive

Christian mission schools have been an important part of the educational system and Cameroon has one of the best education systems in Africa. 79% of the Cameroon population is literate.

Christian missions established a presence in the late 19th century and continue to play a role in Cameroonian life.

The Christian churches are strongest in Southern Cameroon. In the central and northern parts, Christians have faced resistance from Islam, and their progress has been slow. Catholic membership is nearly twice that of the Protestants, which include approximately 255,000 Lutherans.

Sources: CIA handbook, wikipedia, lutheranmedia.net