In Cameroon, internet access has become a daily struggle. While the rest of the world is moving forward with faster and more reliable con...
In Cameroon, internet access has become a daily struggle. While the rest of the world is moving forward with faster and more reliable connectivity, many Cameroonians feel trapped by telecom operators who overpromise and underdeliver. Among the loudest complaints today is against MTN Cameroon’s Homebox service—a product that, according to frustrated users, promises “unlimited” internet but delivers little more than anger and disappointment.
“Unlimited Internet” That Lasts Just a Few Days
Many customers report the same frustrating pattern. They subscribe to Homebox by paying 24,900 FCFA (about 25,000) per month, expecting unlimited internet access.
At first, the connection seems fine for two or three days—sometimes up to a week. But after that, the speed drops drastically, making it almost impossible to browse, stream, or work online.
One customer explained:
“Every month I paid 24,900 FCFA. At the start, it worked well for a few days. But after two weeks, the speed was so bad I thought maybe my plan was too small. I called customer service and asked if there was a higher package. They told me about a 34,900 FCFA plan, the so-called ‘premium’ option. I switched—but the same thing happened. After a few days, it was useless again.”
Four Antennas, Zero Speed
Some users even invested in the highest-grade Homebox routers, with four antennas, hoping for better stability. But to their disappointment, the problem was the same.
Even when customer service was contacted, the answers felt dismissive: “Did you move your device? Did you change location?”
The customer called this out as “nonsense,” pointing out that the problem isn’t equipment but a systemic failure in MTN Cameroon’s service delivery.
When Alternatives Are Blocked
Frustration grew further when users pointed out that Starlink, the satellite internet provider, had been blocked in Cameroon under pressure from local telecom operators.
“When Starlink tried to come, they blocked it. Why? Because they know they are not here to serve the population, only to squeeze money from us. Without internet, there can be no startups, no innovation, no progress. This is killing Cameroon’s future.”
For entrepreneurs and young innovators, unreliable internet means stalled projects and lost opportunities.
“This Is Organized Theft”
The anger runs deep. Customers describe MTN Cameroon’s Homebox as nothing short of an organized scam:
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You pay the top premium price (34,900 FCFA).
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You get a few days of decent service.
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Then the connection collapses, slower than mobile data from a simple SIM card.
One user said bluntly:
“This is theft. Pure theft. A SIM card recharged with a small internet bundle is faster than this so-called Homebox. And they call this premium service? It’s a joke.”
Calls for Action and Change
Beyond anger at MTN, many Cameroonians are turning their frustration toward the government and regulators. They argue that telecom operators have been left unchecked for too long, exploiting citizens without accountability.
“Are we even governed in this country? Everyone does what they want, companies do what they want, and no one protects the people. We need a government that cries with us when we cry, not one that turns a blind eye.”
Some are calling for mass protest, others for boycotts, and many are urging citizens to register to vote in the upcoming elections to demand change at the policy level.
The Bigger Picture: Cameroon’s Internet Crisis
According to frustrated customers, Cameroon has one of the slowest and most expensive internet connections in Africa. They point to neighboring Côte d’Ivoire as an example, where internet access is reportedly smoother and more affordable.
The issue goes beyond convenience. In today’s digital world, poor internet access means lost educational opportunities, slowed-down businesses, and isolation from global markets.
Final Thoughts
The anger toward MTN Cameroon’s Homebox reflects a much bigger frustration: the lack of reliable, affordable internet in Cameroon. Customers are tired of paying premium rates for subpar service, and they are demanding transparency, alternatives, and accountability.
Until then, many are left wondering:
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Is there a future for innovation in Cameroon without proper internet access?
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Will telecom operators continue unchecked?
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And when will the government finally listen to the cries of its citizens?
For now, MTN Cameroon faces growing backlash, and more and more voices are calling this what they believe it truly is: organized theft, disguised as internet service.
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