National Museum witnesses 70% increase in visits, plans expansion.

The meeting took place July 24. The sessions focused on Budget Execution and Revenue Policies. It was chaired by the Minister of Arts and Culture, Bidoung Mkpatt, who also serves as the Board Chairperson. The sessions reviewed key operational and financial matters. 

Key items on the agenda included presentation of the mid-term 2025 budget execution report (currently at 85%), finalisation of account reconciliations and resolutions and review and adoption of regulatory texts governing non-tax revenues. 

The Director of the National Museum, Hugues Heumen Tchana, revealed that number of visitors had surpassed 50,000 by mid-2025, compared to approximately 30,000 in the same period last year—a 70% increase. 

He attributed the growth to enhanced exhibitions and diversified programming. Minister Bidoung Mkpatt emphasised the museum’s role in promoting national unity, in line with President Paul Biya’s vision. 

“Nearly a year ago, we initiated a reorganization of the museum’s permanent exhibition spaces to reclaim Cameroon’s multicultural foundations as a driver of peace and unity,” he stated. 

He further highlighted the museum’s progress, noting that the National Museum has entered a decisive phase in its operationalization, marked by diverse programs, remarkable visitor experiences, and exceptional attendance.

The minister has urged board members to prioritise collective interests over individual gains, stressing the need for professionalising the museum’s operations of sustain growth. 

The next Governing Board session is scheduled for late 2025. With the 2025 budget execution on track and visitor numbers rising, the National Museum is poised to become a leading cultural hub in the country. 

By Albert Njebusi, Journalism student on internship

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3518 of Tuesday July 29, 2025