While much of the world is moving forward with digital convenience, Cameroon still feels stuck in the past—especially when it comes to something as simple as booking a bus ticket.
You’d think that by now, standing in long lines at bus agencies would be a thing of the past. But walk into any transport terminal in Yaoundé, Douala, Bamenda, or Buea, and you’ll see crowds of people wasting hours just to reserve a seat. Meanwhile, the rest of the world is using mobile apps and WhatsApp to handle their travel plans in seconds.
Why Is This Still Happening?
Cameroonians are not lacking in technology. Almost everyone owns a mobile phone, and WhatsApp is one of the most used apps in the country. So why are we still doing things the hard way?
The answer is simple: the government hasn’t caught up. While the private sector has created innovative solutions—like MotorBoy Cameroon, Bookaam, Astro-Fast, and others—the lack of strong government support and promotion means most people don’t even know these platforms exist.
The Missed Opportunities
Let’s be clear: digital bus ticketing isn’t just about convenience. It’s about:
- Saving time and money
- Improving passenger safety and transparency
- Boosting transport efficiency
- Creating digital jobs for young people
- Reducing fraud and corruption at bus stations
These are real benefits that we’re missing out on simply because the public sector is not doing enough to push digital transformation in transport.
What Needs to Change
The Cameroonian government needs to step up and follow the example of countries across Africa and beyond that are embracing technology to improve everyday life. Here’s how:
- Support Local Tech Startups
Companies like Ticket237 (MotorBoy Cameroon) are already solving the problem. They just need stronger backing through partnerships, promotion, and integration with public systems. - Run National Awareness Campaigns
Many people simply don’t know they can book bus tickets on WhatsApp. The government should run campaigns to promote these platforms. - Collaborate with Mobile Operators
Work with MTN and Orange to make access to e-ticketing platforms free or low-cost in terms of data usage. - Mandate Digital Options
Make it mandatory for major bus agencies to offer mobile or online ticketing options, especially in urban areas. - Invest in Digital Education
Teach people—especially youth and rural communities—how to use these tools confidently.
Conclusion: Time to Catch Up
Digitalization is not a luxury. It’s the world we live in today. If Cameroon wants to move forward, we can’t afford to keep dragging our feet while others run ahead. The tools are already here. The people are ready. All that’s missing is serious government commitment.
Let’s stop wasting time in queues and start pushing for a smarter, faster, and more digital Cameroon
By C. Anye
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