On March 7, 2025, young Cameroonian leaders gathered at the esplanade of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Civic Education in a powerful display of unity and patriotism. The gathering followed a recent attack against a delegation of Cameroon’s Ministry of Youth Affairs and Civic Education and the Cameroonian diplomatic body in Brussels in Belgium.
The event, organized by the National Youth Council of Cameroon, CNJC, saw a large group of youth representatives from various organizations and movements marching to show their condemnation of the violent acts. The demonstrators, holding placards emblazoned with slogans such as “Stop the Violence, Embrace Unity!” and “Say No to Terrorism!” made their way to the Ministry, where they were welcomed by Secretary General Zachée Robert Théophile Benga. During the rally, CNJC President Fadimatou Iyawa Ousmanou delivered a passionate speech, reading out a declaration condemning the violence and emphasizing its detrimental impact on Cameroon’s image abroad.
In a show of strength and solidarity, the march culminated in the creation of the Patriotic Movement of the Republic Against Violence. This new organization aims to combat violent extremism, foster national cohesion, and provide a platform for dialogue on the importance of peace. The movement’s formation accentuates the collective desire of the youth to uphold Cameroon’s dignity and promote unity, particularly in the face of growing political and social tensions. Government officials, including the representative of the High Council of Cameroonians abroad Dr Samuel Dongmo, reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting young Cameroonians both at home and abroad.
He spoke about the Support Program for the Return and Reintegration of Young People from the Diaspora, which assists in the reintegration of youth into the national economy. In his address, Minister Mounouna Fotso reaffirmed the government’s ongoing dedication to fostering youth development, urging young people to be active participants in building a peaceful and prosperous Cameroon. The Member of the Government reassured every one of his determinations to continue the task entrusted to him by the President of the Republic to build a responsible youth. “I remain jovial,” affirmed Mounouna Foutsou with serenity to these young leaders. He also invited them to cultivate forgiveness while welcoming the establishment of the Paramour Movement, which, for him, must be able to operate both in person and on social networks, focusing on prevention and education for peace. Through this mobilization, Cameroonian youth reaffirms its attachment to republican values and its rejection of violence in all its forms.
