Origins and elements of the population policies of Cameroon Republic.

The author discusses the pro-natalist policies of Cameroon, measures that are not explicit population policies but are instead implied in other government policies and pronouncements. It is argued that "this pronatalist policy partly has its roots in the inherent cultures of the people which have been forged from several years of ravages from epidemic and endemic diseases, inter-tribal conflicts and slave trade. These have been further authenticated, constitutionalised and perpetuated by official policy which bears the stamp of its French colonial masters...." These policies include "legislation against contraception and abortions, discriminatory taxation in favour of married persons, family allowances and other travel, leave, transfer, retirement, housing and educational benefits and concessions for persons with large families as well as an elaborate network of mother and child health care centers." Attention is also given to the establishment of family planning and family care clinics, contraceptive availability, and illegal abortions. (SUMMARY IN FRE)