YAOUNDE—Following catastrophic floods in Cameroon’s Far North region, President Paul Biya has released 350 million XAF (approximately $591,809) to aid affected communities.

According to the Namibia Press Agency, the announcement was made by Minister of Territorial Administration Paul Atanga Nji, who detailed the extensive damage caused by recent rainstorms. The floods have resulted in 11 deaths, the destruction of 40,000 homes, and the displacement of 180,000 individuals. “It is unfortunate that we have casualties, but we have to assist the population. We need to anticipate and put in place preventive measures in cases of flood. The vulnerable population or those impacted by the floods must receive assistance in the fastest possible way,” Nji stated during a press briefing in Yaounde.

In response to the disaster, about 50 trucks loaded with relief materials are expected to be dispatched to the region within 48 hours. This move comes as local authorities had previously called for urgent assistance due to the ongoing severe weather conditions. The country’s meteorological center had earlier warned of continued heavy rains and strong winds, underscoring the critical need for timely aid and effective disaster management strategies.