Based on a survey of written sources and perspectives of knowledgeable individuals, the report provides information on women's economic roles in Cameroon, and on aspects of social life which effect their economic performance. A description of the importance of traditional social systems and their evolution over the last 30 years follows a brief discussion of bridewealth, polygamy, wife inheritance, and women's role in agriculture and decision making. Dealing with tribes in each of three geographic areas (coastal areas and the Forest Region, the Grassfields, and North Cameroon and the Savannah) in general, with illustrations drawn from specific groups, the report discusses the social and political structure; kinship systems and inheritance; engagement, bridewealth and marriage; pregnancy and attitudes to fertility; wives' rights and duties; economic activities; women's organizations; the position of women; and child care and training. Other topics include: desired and actual fertility; infertility; pregnancy and childbirth; health problems of young children; the mother-child relationship; history of female education; formal and nonformal education (position of female students in the school system, reform of primary education, vocation and literacy training); and women in the modern sector. Appended is a 191-item select bibliography which includes those works referenced in the report. (NQA)