As the dry season yields to the rainy season, grievances persist unabated. Recent downpours have wreaked havoc on the Essos market in Yaoundé, rendering it almost impassable.
Yaounde, the capital city, appears locked in a perpetual weather-related paradox. As soon as the sun blazes, complaints about the oppressive heat begin. Yet, when the rains arrive, they transform streets into rivers, and a new wave of grievances emerges. It is a cycle of discontent, where no atmospheric condition seems to satisfy inhabitants. This on-going meteorological seesaw reveals an inherent tension between the city and its climate. During prolonged dry seasons, the heat becomes a major talking point. Conversations often revolve around finding ways to cope with the high temperatures and longing for rain to provide relief. However, when the rains eventually come, they frequently bring their own set of problems.
Heavy rainfall often overwhelms the city’s drainage systems, causing streets to flood and creating significant obstacles for both pedestrians and vehicles. Businesses located in low-lying areas, like the Essos market, are particularly susceptible to these events and even houses, often incurring damages and operational disruptions. The Yaoundé Essos market, a key commercial center, experiences regular flooding during the rainy season. These floods impact vendors and customers, some of whom are seen looking on to see how they will circulate in the market environment. The market’s location makes it particularly vulnerable to accumulating rainwater, turning it into a temporary reservoir. Some vendors say, “It is not the first time; each time rain falls, they suffer, trying to drain the areas so they can continue their business.” These events raise questions about the city’s infrastructure and its ability to manage varying weather conditions.
Discussions often focus on the capacity of existing drainage systems and the effectiveness of urban planning strategies in mitigating the impact of heavy rains. With so many complaints, it is hoped that authorities will take notice in the coming years. Perhaps addressing the infrastructure and drainage issues of the city and shifting the focus away from weather-related issues will bring a sense of normalcy to Yaounde life. The rising discontent highlights a need for broader societal conversation and strategy to curb this rainy season’s issues, which have just started.
