On 7 November 2026, the Universal Mediator issued a forceful statement condemning what he described as “institutionalised racketeering” that is crippling the distribution of school subsidies in Cameroon, following a high‑profile expose by activist Shanda Tonme.
Tonme’s investigation, published earlier this month, alleged that a network of officials and intermediaries is diverting funds earmarked for school subsidies, effectively creating a “great gang” that controls the flow of money intended for students. The report highlighted systemic weaknesses that allow the misappropriation to persist, though it did not disclose specific monetary figures.
In his remarks, the Universal Mediator called the practice a “racket” that has paralyzed the subsidy system, warning that the continued abuse threatens the accessibility of education for Cameroon’s children. He urged the government to launch an immediate, independent inquiry and to implement safeguards against further exploitation.
The mediator’s condemnation adds weight to growing calls from civil‑society groups for greater transparency in the management of education funds. Stakeholders have said that swift action is needed to restore confidence in the subsidy programme and to ensure that resources reach the schools and pupils they are meant to serve.
Cameroon, a Central African nation with a population of over 25 million, relies heavily on state‑funded subsidies to support primary and secondary education, particularly in rural areas. The alleged corruption, if left unchecked, could undermine the country’s efforts to improve literacy rates and achieve universal education goals.
<small>Source: Actu Cameroun — read the original story there.</small>
