By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo
Local Youth Corner (LOYOC) has revealed that the 2025 NAWEWE Sports Jamboree that took place in the Bertoua, East Region of Cameroon, made a significant impact, leaving a legacy of peace and tangible development across the area.
During a presentation on February 6, LOYOC outlined the achievements of the month-long event, themed “Uniting Through Sports.” The jamboree going by LOYOC successfully addressed rising social tensions by creating safe spaces for dialogue among internally displaced persons, refugees, and host communities.
In addition to fostering dialogue, the jamboree attracted over 5,000 spectators and saw participation from more than 300 young athletes, showcasing unity that extended far beyond the field.
Furthermore, outreach efforts reached over 1,500 community members, generating 200,000 social media engagements, with 31 institutions and companies participating in the event. Significantly, the jamboree promoted gender inclusion, featuring 167 female and 129 male athletes.
In the area of education, LOYOC said, education and child protection were core pillars of the initiative, which provided 500 school bags and 2,000 exercise books to vulnerable children who might otherwise face barriers to enrollment.
Additionally, 20 students received direct support for their school fees, and 350 households were educated on child protection in mining and the prevention of gender-based violence and hate speech.
Also, the spirit of civic responsibility shone through massive community service efforts, with over 400 volunteers mobilizing to clean markets, schools, and administrative offices.
This environmental commitment was solidified by the planting of 300 trees in two locations, establishing a green legacy for Bertoua. Moreover, 40 young people received specialized training on electoral participation to enhance their voices in local governance.
In addition, economic empowerment also played a vital role in the month’s activities, with an exhibition featuring 31 partners that allowed UN agencies, local businesses, and youth entrepreneurs to network and generate income, bridging the gap between humanitarian aid and local commerce.
The high profile of the event was underscored by the attendance of 35 government and private sector officials, alongside 20 artists and influencers who participated in a solidarity match to strengthen inter-community relationships.
The jamboree provided grounds for free health consultations, awareness campaigns, and the distribution of food and basic amenities. Youth participants were trained as peace ambassadors, enhancing their conflict resolution skills and awareness of peaceful elections and mediation. Additionally, 296 athletes underwent medical screenings, and over 1,500 community members received health consultations, including eye care and HIV screenings. Local publications also increased awareness regarding family planning and maternal health.
Key outcomes of the jamboree included stronger inter-community relationships, improved access to health and education, youth empowerment as leaders and mediators, increased female participation, and enhanced institutional collaboration.
The event highlighted the importance of balancing male and female sports, boosting girls’ confidence and promoting social cohesion through community service days. Multi-stakeholder partnerships were emphasized as essential for ensuring sustainability.
Following the presentation, representatives from various partners, including the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Civic Education (MINJEC), UN agencies, Plan International, COSMOS Education, former Indomitable Lions, and several influencers, praised the jamboree for its positive impact.
Stean Auguste, the Resident Coordinator of the UN System in Cameroon commended LOYOC for its leadership, stressing the UN’s commitment to supporting peace-building initiatives driven by local actors. He stated, “Peace in Cameroon must be driven by youth and local actors, making it crucial for us to support these efforts.”
The MINJEC representative lauded LOYOC’s initiative as it aligns with the Ministry’s goal of promoting coexistence. A representative from Plan International expressed joy at being part of the initiative, noting the opportunity for youth to express themselves through sports. COSMOS Education promised to increase their contributions in future editions.
The town of Tiko has been announced as the host for the 5th edition of the NAWEWE Sports Jamboree, expected to take place in 2026.
