In a significant move towards fostering peace and security in Cameroon, national and international stakeholders have committed to finalizing and implementing the Cameroon National Action Plan (NAP) on Youth, Peace, and Security (YPS). This initiative, which has been in development since 2016, aims to enhance youth participation in peacebuilding efforts across the country.

This renewed commitment emerged from a three-day colloquium held from November 20 to 23, 2024, at the International Relations Institute of Cameroon (IRIC) in Yaoundé. The event was hosted by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Civic Education (MINJEC), Local Youth Corner Cameroon (LOYOC), and the Cameroon National Youth Council (CNYC), in collaboration with Search for Common Ground Cameroon.

The colloquium, part of the Young Cameroon project funded by the European Union and supported by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), gathered over 300 participants, including young peace builders, government officials, Members of Parliament, religious leaders, and development actors. Under the theme “Driving towards the Finalisation and Implementation of the Cameroon National Action Plan on Youth Peace and Security,” the discussions focused on enhancing political support for the completion and adoption of the NAP.

Addressing Challenges and Promoting Dialogue

Organizers emphasized the colloquium’s role in addressing challenges faced by youth in peacebuilding, such as limited resources and security threats. It provided a platform for inclusive dialogue, collaboration, and reflection on past achievements and future pathways for youth involvement in peace processes.

During the event, Benga Zachee Robert Theophile, Secretary General of MINJEC, highlighted the importance of the NAP in ensuring greater youth involvement in national peace initiatives. He expressed hope that the proposals from experts would lead to the finalization of the document, enabling youth to engage actively in addressing peace and security challenges.

Dr. Neba Ridley Ngwa, Secretary General of IRIC, reinforced the significance of the NAP in aligning with national priorities and complying with United Nations Security Council resolutions. He emphasized that this plan would serve as a guideline for youth in peacebuilding efforts.

Youth as Key Actors in Peace
Tatiana Lobe, Country Representative for Search for Common Ground, stressed the need for youth, who represent 60% of Cameroon’s population, to be actively involved in peace processes. She advocated for an inclusive approach that encompasses women, youth, and persons with disabilities.

Prof. Jean-Emmanuel Pondi emphasized that young people are both actors and victims of conflict, and the NAP will articulate their aspirations for a peaceful future. Fadimatou Iyawa, President of the Cameroon National Youth Council, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of addressing issues related to radicalization and the reintegration of youth into society.

Engaging Discussions and Next Steps

Throughout the colloquium, participants engaged in discussions to socialize the YPS agenda, gather feedback on the NAP’s content, and reinforce sector commitments towards its finalization. Technical sessions allowed stakeholders to review the NAP inception report and refine its content, while open sessions provided an interactive space for sharing insights and commitments.

The event also featured keynote addresses from experts in peacebuilding and youth engagement, as well as workshops and panel discussions on intergenerational dialogue and best practices.

As Cameroon moves forward, the commitment to finalizing and implementing the National Action Plan on Youth, Peace, and Security represents a crucial step towards empowering youth and fostering a more peaceful and secure nation.