Young people in Cameroon have been urged to be agents of change for peace in the country and beyond. This was during the 2024 University Lecture for Peace in Africa (ULPA) held at the National School of Local Administration (NASLA) in Buea in the South West Region of the country from November 14 to 15, 2024.
ULPA is an annual event that provides a space for dialogue and reflection on peace and security in Africa.in its fifth year now, the 2024 edition focused the role of youth in peace building processes under the theme: “Youth in Peace Processes and the Prevention of the Recruitment and Use of Children in Armed Conflicts”.
The event offered a safe space for youth leaders, researchers, policymakers, and community stakeholders to develop and advocate for policies and actions that will secure a peaceful future for Cameroon’s youth. It was organised in collaboration with Local Youth Corner (LOYOC) Cameroon with funding from Canadian Affairs.
In her keynote address, Dr. Catherine Baillie Abidi, a leading expert in children, peace, & security and Assistant Professor at the Department of Child and Youth Study of the Mount Saint Vincent University in Canada asserted that: “We must consider the mindset of youths and focus on their wellbeing instead of chastising them”.
Her perspective was crucial in the Youth Empowerment panel, which highlighted how agricultural initiatives can advance economic independence in the Anglophone regions of Cameroon. Participants recognized the potential of empowering youth through sustainable practices.
The panel on Psychological Impact of Armed Conflict on Children and Youth tackled the emotional challenges faced by young people. Dr. Doreen Mbain emphasized the necessity of mental health support, reminding attendees that “war does not start with guns; it ends with them.” This sentiment resonated with Etoh Duke, a Biochemistry student, who noted the integral role of both youth and women in peacebuilding efforts, acknowledging the importance of mental wellbeing in these discussions.
Additionally, the discussion on Government and Policy Interventions to Prevent Child Recruitment provided critical insights into how effective policies can protect vulnerable youth. Panelists discussed the need for community-based protections, echoing Brenda Wanjiru’s point that “early warning, early action reduces the risks” associated with child recruitment.
As the event wrapped up, participants expressed their newfound clarity and commitment to advocacy. Morine Oben, a Social Anthropology student, reflected on the challenges she faced in engaging her community: “Thanks to the key panel topics, I was able to clarify all the doubts I have.”
The ULPA 2024 not only highlighted the urgent need for youth involvement in peace processes but also sparked a commitment to collective action, ensuring that the voices of young people are heard and valued in the quest for sustainable peace.
