Southwest Region (Cameroon)

The Southwest Region is one of the ten regions of Cameroon. It is located in the southwestern part of the country, bordering Nigeria to the west, the Northwest Region to the north, the Littoral and South Regions to the east, and the Atlantic Ocean to the south. Buea is the regional capital.

The region is known for its diverse geography, encompassing coastal plains, volcanic mountains (including Mount Cameroon, the highest peak in West Africa), and dense rainforests. This varied terrain supports a wide range of flora and fauna, making it a region of significant biodiversity.

The Southwest Region is primarily English-speaking, a legacy of its former status as part of British Cameroons. This distinguishes it from the predominantly French-speaking regions of Cameroon. The major ethnic groups include the Bakweri, Oroko, Bayangi, and Ejagham people.

Agriculture is a mainstay of the Southwest Region's economy, with cocoa, rubber, bananas, and palm oil being important cash crops. Tourism also plays a significant role, attracting visitors to its beaches, mountains, and national parks.

The Southwest Region has faced significant challenges in recent years due to the Anglophone crisis, a socio-political conflict between separatist groups seeking independence for the Anglophone regions and the government of Cameroon. This conflict has resulted in displacement, violence, and disruptions to daily life and economic activity.