Community Service Day Initiative Concludes: A Transformative Impact on Cameroonian Communities
As of March 10, 2025, the community service days for peace initiative, organized by the Dallaire Institute for Children Peace and Security in partnership with Local Youth Corner Cameroon, has officially concluded. Launched in December 2024, this initiative spanned all 13 divisions of the Northwest and Southwest regions of Cameroon, engaging youth in meaningful clean-up campaigns aimed at fostering peace and community pride.
The initiative encouraged active youth participation in peace-building through various activities, including clean-up campaigns and sensitization workshops on vital issues such as child protection and environmental sustainability. Over the course of three phases, approximately 844 participants came together to improve their communities, demonstrating that even small acts of service can lead to significant developmental change.
Cleaning below a market bridge in Mezam Division
Waste from cleaning the District hospital in Momo Division
Cleaning the Kumba high court and its surroundings in Meme Division
Cleaning of Abawa roundabout in Jakiri, Mensai market in Bui Division
In the first phase, 274 participants engaged in clean-up efforts across four divisions. Noteworthy activities included cleaning key locations in Bamenda, Mbon Motor Park, and the health post in Jakiri. The second phase saw 227 participants tackling the Koke Water Catchment in Buea and other essential areas, while the final phase attracted 343 participants who cleaned various locations, including the Ndop city council and conflict-affected areas in Manyu division.
Cleaning Wum council street in Menchum Division
Cleaning of the Buea Koke Water Catchment in Fako Division
Cleaning of the Nkambe Grandstand in Donga-Mantung Division
Cleaning the Bamusso Council Hall in Ndian Division
The impact of these community service days has been profound. Participants expressed a renewed sense of community spirit and dedication to creating a cleaner environment. Many highlighted the importance of collaboration in overcoming the legacies of conflict. For instance, one participant from Menchum shared how engaging with peers from different backgrounds was a significant step toward social cohesion, while another emphasized the vital role of maintaining clean water sources for public health.
Cleaning the Ndop City Council in Ngoketunjia Division
Cleaning the road from Baingo to Njinikijem in Boyo Division
Cleaning of the Divisional Officer’s headquarters, the Bangem city council and the Court of First Instance Bangem in Kupe-Manenguba Division
Cleaning Alou health center in Lebialem Division
Feedback from participants reflects the initiative’s success in fostering awareness and advocacy for peace-building efforts. Comments such as, “It takes one person to pull a crowd,” resonate with the overall message that individual actions can ignite collective change. The transformation of littered areas into clean, inviting spaces serves as a testament to the power of community engagement.
Cleaning refugee settlements in Manyo Division
In conclusion, the community service days for peace initiative has not only improved the physical environment of the regions involved but also strengthened community bonds and raised awareness about critical issues. The Dallaire Institute and Local Youth Corner Cameroon look forward to building on this success in future endeavors, continuing to inspire youth to take active roles in peace-building and community service.