She announced 40 million dollars in US humanitarian support for states battling Islamist militant group Boko Haram, emphasising that the United States will push for "good governance" as part of its engagement in the region. Speculation that Biya (86) might seek another term in office could complicate this.
Disruptions to crop planting in the Far North region caused by the Boko Haram conflict will underpin food shortages.
The humanitarian situation will be exacerbated by the growing number of refugees feeling the violence in neighbouring Nigeria.
New French military equipment, and French and US intelligence support, will strengthen regional states' anti-Boko Haram campaign.
However, porous borders mean that some militants will be able to travel across the region with relative ease; further attacks are likely.
Cameroon's participation in the UN-led mission in Mali means it may be vulnerable to attacks by al-Qaida in the Islamic Maghreb.
