The 5th Edition of the National Youth Camp for Peace took place from August 26 to 30, 2024 at the Christian Comprehensive Secondary School (CCSS) Nkolmbong Yaoundé. This year’s event brought together 80 vibrant youths aged 15 to 30 from across the ten regions of Cameroon, offering them a unique opportunity to become key drivers of peace and conflict prevention within their communities.
Supported by the Global Partnership for the Prevention of Armed Conflict (GPPAC), this year’s camp centered around the theme “Building Youth-Driven Actions for Conflict Prevention.” Our goal was simple but powerful: empower young people with the knowledge and skills to prevent conflict and lead peacebuilding initiatives in their communities. The participants didn’t just learn; they experienced, connected, and took action, making this edition a resounding success.
Why the youth camp is crucial
At WAA Cameroon, we believe that youths are the foundation of a peaceful society. Through programs like the National Youth Camp for Peace, we aim to build a generation of leaders who will contribute to sustainable peace and development in their communities. This year’s camp exemplified the power of youth-driven action and the potential for young people to become peace ambassadors.
A Transformative Experience for Youths
Day 1: Arrival and orientation
The camp began with a wave of excitement as participants arrived from across Cameroon. After settling in, we held an official opening ceremony where we outlined the camp’s objectives and shared the vision for the week ahead. We provided participants with camping kits, including t-shirts, bags, and other essentials, preparing them for the days of learning and collaboration.
Day 2: Civic engagement and voter registration
The second day focused on empowering youth to take part in civic life. With guidance from Elections Cameroon (ELECAM), participants learned about the importance of voter registration and civic responsibility. This led to a successful voter registration drive, with 45 new voters registered. Participants also took to the streets of the Nkolmbong community to raise awareness about the importance of youth involvement in elections.
Day 3: Developing youth-led strategies for peace
On the third day, participants engaged in thought-provoking discussions on civic education and national integration, led by a representative from the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Civic Education (MINJEC). We explored strategies to combat moral decline among youths and developed actionable plans for promoting peace and social cohesion in their communities. The day’s activities also included role-playing sessions and a fun football match for peace between the participants and WAA staff.
Day 4: Understanding and managing conflict through technology
Day four delved into the causes of conflict among youth and effective prevention strategies. Participants were introduced to conflict resolution techniques such as active listening, mediation, and negotiation. One of the most exciting sessions was Harnessing Technology for Peacebuilding, where participants explored innovative ICT tools like social media and artificial intelligence to promote peace and prevent conflict. This session inspired youths to think creatively about how technology can play a crucial role in resolving disputes.
Day 5: The journey towards peace continues
The camp ended with a joyful celebration and a ‘Family Peace Meal’ that brought participants together to reflect on the week’s learnings and share their aspirations for the future. Awards and certificates were presented, acknowledging the dedication and contributions of all participants.
Why future Camps are a must for young people
If you’re a young person passionate about making a difference in your community, the National Youth Camp for Peace is the place to be. Here’s why you should join the next edition:
Gain Practical Skills: Learn conflict resolution, leadership, and peacebuilding strategies that can have a real impact in your community.
Meet Like-Minded Peers: Build lasting connections with other youth from diverse backgrounds who share your passion for peace.
Be a Leader: Take the skills you gain and become a peace ambassador, leading community-based initiatives to prevent conflict.
Enjoy a Fun, Life-Changing Experience: Our camp is not just about workshops—it’s about team-building, sports, and creating memories that last a lifetime.
A Call to Our Global Partners
The success of this year’s camp wouldn’t have been possible without the unwavering support of our global partner, GPPAC. Their commitment to conflict prevention and peacebuilding has allowed us to empower a new generation of youth leaders in Cameroon. As we look to future editions, we hope to continue this partnership and invite other local and international organizations to join us in our mission to build sustainable peace from the ground up.
The impact of the 5th edition
The National Youth Camp for Peace 2024 was more than just an event. Participants left with a renewed sense of purpose, equipped with the skills to prevent conflict and promote peace. Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing their appreciation for the interactive workshops and the opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue. They returned home with the confidence to lead peace initiatives in their communities, having built a network of support among like-minded youths.
In conclusion, the 5th Edition of the National Youth Camp for Peace has furthered our mission of fostering a culture of peace and resilience among Cameroon’s youth. Together, with the continued support of partners like GPPAC, we will continue to create spaces where young people can lead the charge for peace in their communities. We look forward to welcoming even more youth to the next edition.
Youth For Peace!!
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