Permanence and reform
Effective leadership will be required for Cameroon to take full advantage of the opportunities presented by its natural strengths, particularly the potential of its agricultural sector.

Bozizé throws out a lifeline
The year ahead promises to be a crucial test for a still slow and fragile national dialogue. With only some progress, the country has yet to establish a credible consensus over the legitimacy of President François Bozizé’s rule and, despite the June 2008 Libreville peace accord, the rebel Armée Populaire pour la Restauration de la Démocratie (APRD) may not keep to its terms.

Few prospects for peace
Further rebel attacks on forces loyal to President Idris Déby Itno cannot be ruled out in 2009, though further fighting would exacerbate the already dire humanitarian conditions for 430,000 Darfuri refugees and displaced Chadians.

First among unequals
With President Denis Sassou-Nguesso preparing for re-election in 2009, it is doubtful anyone could plausibly challenge the man who has dominated the political scene since his forceful return to power in 1997.

All sides against the middle
President Joseph Kabila’s government will face severe tests of its authority in 2009 after a few lucky breaks in 2008.

Obiang’s show of strength
As presidential elections scheduled for 2009 come closer, the government’s opponents and commercial partners will be carefully weighing any hint of change in the air. If President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo is fit and well, and stands as candidate, the outcome of the poll is not in question.

End of the boom in view
As 2008 played out, it was clear that President El Hadj Omar Bongo Ondimba remained unchallenged after celebrating 40 years in power with much fanfare. Bongo’s eventual succession remains a perpetual topic of discussion and he continues to keep the country guessing as to the way he will play his cards.

Waiting for rigs to bring news
Political and economic difficulties appear set to continue to dominate the landscape in 2009.