Government raises fuel prices, makes ‘insignificant’ increase in minimum wage, state employees salaries

By Tata Mbunwe

The Government of Cameroon has increased the minimum wage for private sector workers from 37,000 to 41.875 francs FCFA, and state employees salaries will also witness a 5.2 percent rise as from February 1.

The information is contained in a release signed January 31 by the Secretary General at the Prime Minister’s Office.

The government has also raised the price of premium grade petrol (Super) to 730 francs and that of Diesel (Gasoil) fuel to 720 francs per litre.

The move aims to address rising inflation in the country, the communique said.

Meanwhile, the price of kerosene has been maintained at 350 per litre, and that of cooking gas also maintained at its current prices.

Although the percentage increase in minimum wage is 13.1 (4,875 francs), this is seen by some Cameroonians as largely insufficient and insignificant.

Workers unions had expected that the minimum wage be increased to about FCFA 100,000, given the increasing economic hardship in the country marked by a persistent rise in general prices.

“The basic salary is still very small as compared to other countries and considering the rate of inflation,” commented Norbeto Fernandez, a Facebook user who received the information.

This other Cameroonian, Chingalle TentiWhite, commented: “Very pathetic situation. This is the height of wickedness and evil against peace loving and hardworking citizens of this country.”

The official increase in fuel prices by the government comes after several instances of fuel shortage have been witnessed in major cities of the country, including Douala and Yaounde.

Before the announcing the increase in fuel prices, the Cameron Government has been spending 765 billion francs CFA yearly on fuel subsidies.

Mimi Mefo Info