Harnessing the Capacity of Young Cameroonians in Advancing the Protection of Children and Youth in Armed Conflict Situations
We believe in the power of informed youth, and empowering young Cameroonians for peace. On 16 – 18 October, in Buea LOYOC successfully trained 40 trainers on the youth, peace process, and the prevention of the recruitment and use of children in armed conflict and armed violence. This was done in collaboration with Dallaire Institute for Children, Peace and Security funded by Global Affairs Canada under PSOPs. The purpose of this event is to strengthen the capacity of young people from the Northwest and Southwest regions of Cameroon to champion peace processes and advocate against the recruitment and use of children in armed conflicts.
Ingrid Viban delivering a session in Buea on the “training of trainers youth, peace process and the prevention of the recruitment and use of children in armed conflict and armed violence”
The three-day training program focused on key issues in peacebuilding and child protection in conflict. Trainers employed various techniques, including case studies, group discussions, and interactive activities, to engage young leaders and foster understanding.
Day one explored the peace process, discussing effective participation and ethical challenges. Day two analyzed the definition of a child and the roles of children in armed groups, using case studies from South Sudan and Nigeria. The final day highlighted strategies to prevent child recruitment in conflict and emphasized the integration of child protection into development programming, alongside a detailed analysis of UN Security Resolution 1612, equipping participants to advocate for vulnerable populations.
This training was led by our team on the ground Ingrid Viban alongside Ballo Ngomna and Jude Atefor. Feedback from participants after the three-day training highlights the value they gained and their eagerness to implement these lessons in their communities.
“The lessons were enriched with various techniques and engaging activities. Collaborating with diverse perspectives and the wisdom of our exceptional facilitators made a significant impact. I want to express my gratitude to them, the funders, LOYOC, and everyone involved in the organization for providing us with this opportunity,” said Lawong Kendra.
“I have learned that when children are caught in armed conflict, they should not be harmed; instead, they must be protected. It is our responsibility as civil society actors to safeguard, support, and help deradicalize them,” stated Ambalo Franklin.
some trainees handing over a gift to the trainers
In a context where a lack of capacity has hindered young people’s engagement in peace processes, this initiative has significantly equipped them with the tools and guidance needed to collaborate with the state in advancing national peace.