History

The Order of Merit was first established in 1924 as the Order of Indigenous Merit when Cameroon was a French mandate. It was named the Order of Cameroonian Merit in 1946 and was retained under its current name after Cameroon declared independence in 1960. The President of the Republic of Cameroon is the Grand Master.

The Order is currently conferred upon Cameroonian citizens for 12 years of public service. It may also be awarded to foreigners in recognition of exceptional service rendered to the nation after an extended stay of five or more years.

Promotion to a higher grade may only be made after a certain period of time spent in the lower grade. Recipients of the III Class Medal may be promoted to the II Class Medal after 4 years, and recipients of the II Class Medal may be promoted to the I Class Medal after 5 years.

There are at least six versions of the medal that vary in engraving and inscription.