An initiative to support the growing global youth movement for climate justice, (Climate Life Movement), gathered on August 2, 2025, to educate young professionals in central Cameroon on environmental justice and land rights.
The event, which took place at the esplanade of Mboa Hub, located at Obili Yaounde,organised by the Climate Life Movement with support from the Putlizer Center aimed to educate young professionals on the issues surrounding environmental justice and land rights. According to presenter Mache Dolores, the event drew inspiration from the investigative report “The Law of the Jungle” published by Le Monde et InfoCongo with support from the Pulitzer Center. The project highlighted the devastating effects of illegal exploitation and deforestation on local and indigenous communities. Focused under the theme « Stolen Forests, Awakened Voices, » the event condemned the illicit destruction of forests.
The conference provided a space for sharing knowledge and reflecting on solutions to improve forest governance and ensure respect for local communities’ land rights. Some hub members showcased a powerful theater performance demonstrating the damage caused by the lack of trees in a village and community, passing a message to participate globally. Dr. Françoise Biyo’o Zoa, an official from the Ministry of Domains, Cadastre, and Land Affairs (MINDCAF), presented ongoing and planned reforms aimed at better land and forest management. Each year, Climate Life movement organizes a competitive art exhibition for young artists to showcase their drawing skills. This year, two outstanding participants received special recognition, Engelbert Zang was awarded first prize, and Bonito Muh earned second prize.
The awards aim to encourage participants to develop their artistic talents, according to Erica Kuissi, head of project . The conference encouraged participants to think critically about forest preservation, discussing the role of local actors and the need for stronger legal protections. « Cutting trees is not bad, but illegal exploitation is bad, » is a take home message from Erica Kuissi, moderator and head of the project.
