Abstract

This research is concerned with the role of Guinness Cameroon in the development of Limbe. The study is focused on the role which Guinness plays in developing Limbe in the domain of education, health, and infrastructure development. Data of this research was collected through interviews with Guinness officials and consumer’s observation and participation.

The major findings of this research are that Guinness to a very large extent has provided Limbe city with meaningful development to boost its participation in the economic and social affairs of the country. However, there has been some level of bias in recruitment in positions which has led to criticism in its activities due to inefficient workers.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background to the Study

Multinational Corporation has existed since ht beginning of overseas trade. They came into existence in the 17 and 18th centuries with the creation of large European base monopolistic companies and have remained part of the business scene throughout history. The history of MNC in Africa is as old as the relationship between Africa and the West, Ta-mbi Nkongho (2015).

They were viewed as agents of civilization and they played an important role in the commercial and industrial development of Africa, Asia, and South America. On 20th July 1972 the United Nations Economic and social council requested the secretary-general to appoint a group of eminent persons to study the role of MNCs and the impact on the process of developments especially that of the developing countries.

There have been increasing demands on MNCs to provide community development programs and assistance to the communities where they operate particularly in developing countries. In order words meeting locally defined social and economic goals, Kingsly Away Oolong (2012) on Multinational Cooperation and Development.

This is because development projects and other social infrastructure are lacking in most of these countries and most of the time they are not provided by the state. The purpose of this work is to examine the role of MNCs as representative of business in society and in creating and maintaining cooperative social responsibility in Cameroon through community development projects.

The study examines the investment of MNC in community development projects in Cameroon using the case study of the Fast Moving Consumer Good (FMCG) Company Guinness Cameroon S.A which was created in 1759.

It assesses the value of MNC supported community development projects as an expression of demonstrating cooperative social responsibility and legitimacy to operate in different regions of the country. This is undertaken within the context of growing demands from various stakeholders for MNCs to be more socially responsible. Yet, despite the effort, these MNCs are making to give back to communities, many people still believe that the main objective of this cooperation is to exploit the economies of Africa in general and Cameroon in particular.

1.2 Statement of Problem

The investment code governs by ordinance number 9017 of 8th November 1990 and its subsequent amendments aim at encouraging and promoting Investment in Cameroon. The OHADA Law and the International Convention commands MNCs to provide development to the home government and its citizens. Guinness plays an important role in the development of Limbe, in order words, does Guinness S.A Cameroon play any political, economic, and social role in the development of Limbe?

1.3 Objectives of the Study

This study is intended to:

1. Does Guinness Limbe have a well define structure to enhance development?
2. Examine the various strategies used by Guinness Cameroon in the development of Limbe
3. Examine the regulations of the multinational corporation of Cameroon