hi I would like to know if Cameroon CEMAC passports CAN be renewed...

I called the cameroonian embassy here in japan asking if I could renew my passport (CEMAC) and I was told it can't be done and that I would have to go back to Cameroon to get it done.
I so devastated...is it true I have to go back? Is there really no way at all to extend this passport?

Any advice will be deeply appreciated.
Mbako S.