fontem

Fontem is a town and commune in the Southwest Region of Cameroon. It is part of Lebialem Division and serves as one of the local administrative centers for the district. The town sits in the Cameroonian highlands, where the terrain is hilly and the climate is milder than in the lowlands.

Fontem’s surroundings are characterized by forests, valleys and streams, with communities relying on small-scale farming and local markets.

The economy is largely agricultural, with cocoa, coffee, maize, plantains and tubers among the staple crops. Small-scale trading, roadside markets and local services support residents. Roads connect Fontem to neighboring towns, enabling mobility and trade.

The population includes several ethnic groups, with Bamiléké-speaking communities being prominent in the Lebialem area. Cameroonian English is used in administration and education, while local languages are spoken in daily life. Religious life is diverse, with Christian churches and traditional practices.

In recent years Fontem has been affected by the broader Anglophone crisis in the region, with periodic disruptions to security, schooling and public services. Despite these challenges, Fontem remains an important local center for surrounding villages.