CAMEROON :: National Identity Card Issuance Fees: Shanda Tonme’s Clarifications :: CAMEROON
In a critical clarification aimed at dispelling public confusion, Shanda Tonme—serving as the Universal Mediator, President of the Independent Commission against Corruption and Discrimination (COMICODI), and President of the Popular Movement for Dialogue and Reconciliation (MPDR)—has authoritatively confirmed that the official fee for obtaining a Cameroonian national identity card remains 10,000 CFA Francs. This statement directly counters a wave of misinformation circulating on social media.
Read his full, detailed statement below, which we have annotated to provide greater context and actionable advice for citizens.
IMPORTANT CLARIFICATION NOTE
Regarding the fees for issuing the national identity card, as well as the rights and duties of citizens
A malicious, tendentious, and insidious piece of information, clearly intended to sow confusion and chaos, has appeared on social media. It falsely claims that the fees required for the national identity card have increased to twenty thousand (20,000) CFA Francs.
Official Legal Basis: After thorough verification, no official administrative act has amended Decree No. 2025/059 of February 28, 2025, which is the governing legislation that sets the characteristics and procedures for establishing the National ID Card. The legally mandated fee is, and remains, ten thousand (10,000) CFA Francs. Citizens should refer to this decree as their primary source of truth against unofficial claims.
It is regrettable that some individuals propagate such misinformation, especially in a sensitive post-electoral period where public trust is paramount. While acknowledging that corruption and misconduct by a few officials persist, it is crucial to note that systemic improvements have been made. Hundreds of thousands of processed ID cards and passports are currently awaiting collection at various centers, indicating progress in production and backlog clearance.
Your Rights and Practical Steps Against Extortion: Citizens possess not only the right but the duty to denounce officials who practice extortion. If you are asked to pay more than the official 10,000 FCFA fee:
- Protest on the spot, firmly and loudly: Clearly state the official fee and refuse to pay any supplement.
- Document the incident: If safe to do so, note the official’s name, location, date, and the amount demanded.
- Report the corruption: Do not hesitate to contact oversight bodies like COMICODI. As stated, multiple investigations are launched daily, and corrupt agents face dismissal, prosecution, prison sentences, and loss of salary or pension rights.
This active citizenship is essential for accountability.
Spreading false information in a tense socio-political climate is irresponsible and criminal. The legitimate fight against corruption must be based on facts and lawful action, not on manipulation designed to exploit public frustration for political agendas. Citizens should defend their rights with discipline and responsibility.
Key Reminder on the Application Process: Enrollment for the National ID Card begins online—from your mobile phone or any cybercafé. The official fee payable during this process is 10,000 FCFA. No change has occurred.
Yaoundé, December 22, 2025
Shanda Tonme
This clarification serves as both a public service announcement and a guide for exercising civic rights. For verified updates on current events, consider subscribing to: our WhatsApp channel .