By Lukong Pius Nyuylime
The rapid expansion of the major cities of Yaounde and Douala as well as other big towns as a result of rural exodus in search of jobs and better life is bringing untold consequences. One of such is the haphazard construction of residential houses in risk zones. Almost everyday, a new house is constructed in a risk zone, on a hill, in a valley or marshy area. The high apetite for private homes is triggered by the high amount of money inhabitants are required to pay as rents.
In spite of repeated warnings by authorities and a 2004 town planning law that prohibits construction on land unsuitable for habitation; many people continue to build in marshy areas, on cliffs and hillsides. A few years ago, the Yaounde City Council authorities demolished houses in hazardous zones, notably Mbankolo, Ntaba, Oyom- Abang, Mvog-Betsi and the Mont Febe neigbourhoods. In spite of the measures, people have returned to settle in most of these areas. Some have reconstructed their homes on the same spots where the City Council had instructed them to quit.