Urban Dynamics of Edea and Strategic Position Between Metropolitan Centers in Cameroon

Abstract

Urbanization in sub-Saharan Africa is progressing rapidly, particularly in intermediate cities that serve as strategic interfaces between rural areas and major metropolitan centers. This study investigates the spatial and demographic dynamics of the city of Edéa (Cameroon) and the influence of neighboring metropolitan areas, Douala, Yaoundé, and Kribi, on its urban development. A multi-temporal analysis of satellite imagery from 1986, 2001, and 2024 (Landsat 5, Landsat 7, Sentinel-2), combined with demographic data and field surveys of 383 households, was used to evaluate land use/land cover change and population dynamics. Between 1986 and 2024, built-up areas expanded from 1.446.12 ha to 2.609.30 ha, a relative increase of 80.43%, while the population grew from 42.902 to 122.524 ininhabitants, an increase of 185.47%. Vegetation cover declined by 3.773.87 ha, at an average rate of approximately 100 ha/year, whereas cultivated areas fluctuated, showing a net increase of 577.58 ha between 2001 and 2024. Indicator 11.3.1 (ratio of land consumption to population growth) decreased from 0.82 (1986–2001) to 0.30 (2001–2024), yielding an overall value of 0.43, indicating that urban densification outpaced spatial expansion. Migration data show that 50% of newcomers originate from Douala, 30% from Yaoundé, and 10% from Kribi, confirming Edéa's role as a relay city in the regional urban network. Although Edéa benefits from its position at the crossroads of major transport corridors, its proximity to larger metropolitan areas also intensifies its economic dependence and spatial marginalization. These findings highlight the urgent need for integrated urban planning, strategic infrastructure investments, and governance reforms to strengthen Edéa's economic autonomy and manage sustainable urban growth.