Cameroon is often referred to as an “island of peace” within the continent, with many considering it one of the most peaceful countries in the region. This has led to a high influx of refugees from war-torn nations who are seeking safety and stability in Cameroon. However, a more critical examination of this narrative unveils a very different reality.
At its core, Cameroon has been bogged down by decades of conflict since winning independence from France and Britain in 1960. Years of political suppression and economic instability have resulted in civil unrest and corruption that have left large parts of the country destabilized due to violence that continues to flare up today. In addition, long-standing tensions between Cameroon’s Anglophone and Francophone regions have created further divisions among people within the nation.
These issues have been brought into sharp focus with the release of a new documentary entitled “Cameroon: Peace or Peril?” which examines how these conflicts have not only led to widespread human suffering, but also threaten the very stability of the region. Through interviews with citizens on both sides of the conflict, as well as experts on African politics and history, this documentary paints an evocative portrait of life under constant strain. It is essential viewing for anyone looking to gain insight into what life is like for those living through such turmoil.
The importance of understanding what lies beneath Cameroon’s ‘peaceful’ exterior cannot be overstated if we are to move forward towards restoring genuine peace throughout the nation. Doing so requires us all to take action; be it through spreading awareness about key issues or engaging with different stakeholders at grassroots level in order to create momentum around peace initiatives at local level. Only by coming together can we hope to
