Yaounde - Post Report Question and Answers
How much of the local language do you need for daily living? Are local language classes/tutors available and affordable?
To be honest, I have manged fine with limited French. There are many people around that speak English and can help. - Feb 2023
French and English are widely spoken, French more than English. - Feb 2022
We both speak French, but I imagine one could get by with just English. - Jan 2020
Having French would be helpful, but Yaounde is supposedly bilingual. However, Cameroonian English is a special kind of English, and the French seems different, too. You have to sometimes ask several times to get the answer to the question you asked. They use words and constructions a little differently here. There are French teachers here. - Jun 2018
English is more common than I expected, but French is definitely the primary language. Still, you could probably get by with only the basics for shopping and going to restaurants. There are classes available at the U.S. embassy for staff and dependents. - Apr 2017
French is the native language here and in the local markets, you will need it to ask questions regarding items and the cost. - Apr 2014
Yaounde is strong on the French. You may be a little lost without some basic French, but both French and English are spoken in the country. - Jan 2014
In Yaounde FRENCH is important but you can get by with a dictionary, lots of patience and perseverance. Having a driver who can help translate has been a life-saver. - May 2012
You need some French in this "bilingual" country unless you happen to travel to the sliver of it that is English-speaking. - Sep 2011
It's pretty necessary, if only to be able to get meat from the market, read food labels, and communicate with the hairdresser. French tutors are easy to find and the US Embassy offers free classes to employees and EFMs on-site. - Mar 2010
French is not necessary to live here, but it will greatly increase the quality of your life. Those with fluent French are the happiest, those with no french struggle. - Jan 2010
Basic French is needed to get into town for shopping and night life. - Nov 2008
Can get by in English - but French is needed to get around outside the expat zone. - Sep 2008
Depending on your job; A little French would serve you well, but not necessary. - Jun 2008
It's good to know basic French for shopping and market negotiations. - Jun 2008
