CAMEROON ABSENT FROM GLOBAL SOFT POWER INDEX’S INTERNATIONAL INFLUENCE RANKING

The Global Soft Power Index, which assesses the ability of nations to influence international preferences and behaviors through attraction and persuasion, was recently published by Brand Finance. The ranking, based on a survey of over 170,000 people in more than 100 countries, provides an overview of the global perceptions of the 193 member states of the United Nations.

Africa, with its diverse and dynamic countries, was also scrutinized  in this ranking. The results revealed  the top ten most influential African countries, according to Brand Finance. At the top of this African ranking is Egypt, followed by South Africa, Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Nigeria, Ghana, Tanzania, Senegal and Kenya.

However, one notable absence in this ranking is that of Cameroon, which does not feature among the ten most influential African countries. This absence raises questions about the country’s position in terms of international influence and the factors that might contribute to its exclusion. Instead Cameroon features as the 15th in the ranking and apparently the first in Central Africa but it still has work to do.

It is important to note that the Global Soft Power Index took into account 55 different criteria in its assessment, which means that several aspects were considered in determining the ranking of countries. These criteria are likely to include elements such as diplomacy, culture, education, tourism, the economy, and many more.

Cameroon’s absence from this top 10 ranking perhaps highlights a greater need to strengthen its presence and influence on the international stage. This could involve initiatives to promote Cameroonian culture abroad, strengthen diplomatic relations with other nations, encourage tourism and foreign investment, and highlight the country’s achievements and contributions in various fields.

As the world continues to move towards an era of soft power and global influence, it is becoming essential for nations to strategically position their image and interests on the international stage. For Cameroon, its absence from this top ten ranking highlights the challenge of improving its visibility and influence on the world stage.

Delia Nyadi