By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo
Local Youth Corner Cameroon (LOYOC) has launched the Hope Project, a youth-led initiative aimed at fostering peaceful electoral processes in the country. The project was unveiled on January 17 in Yaoundé during a press briefing.
Presenting the project, LOYOC stressed its mission to address the underlying causes of violence while promoting the civic, moral, and entrepreneurial development of young people. The initiative seeks to enhance electoral participation and strengthen democratic institutions. “The initiative recognizes that peaceful elections are crucial for national stability and development,” stated the Project Officer.
Despite ongoing efforts by the government and various stakeholders, citizen engagement, particularly among youth, remains a significant challenge in Cameroon. The Project Officer highlighted that a youth-to-youth approach is essential for promoting active participation in electoral processes.
Panelists from the Ministry of Territorial Administration (MINAT), Elections Cameroon (ELECAM), and civil society organizations expressed their support for the initiative, underscoring the importance of peace before, during, and after elections-especially for youths, who are often victims of electoral violence.
Nancy Ndi Saiboh, CEO of Action for Development and Empowerment (ADE), remarked, “Elections are foundational to democracy, and the role of youth in sustaining peace during the electoral process is crucial.”
The Hope Project not only aims to equip participants with practical strategies for promoting peace during elections but also seeks to address potential conflicts and encourage constructive dialogue among diverse groups. It highlights the significance of peaceful engagement in elections and its contribution to democratic governance.
Targeting a diverse audience that includes media professionals, youth actors, civil society organizations, and government bodies—particularly in the North West, South West, Far North, and Yaoundé—the project will adopt a multi-faceted approach.
It will involve various stakeholders, including ELECAM, government agencies, civil society organizations, youth groups, women’s associations, and international observers. Regular consultations will ensure that diverse perspectives are included in the planning and implementation phases.
Community-based interventions will empower local communities to play a central role in executing project activities. Training sessions on conflict resolution and peacebuilding will equip community leaders to act as mediators during tense electoral periods.
Regarding media campaigns, the project will utilize both traditional media (radio and television) and social media platforms to disseminate messages promoting peace and civic engagement widely across different demographics.
The HOPE Project is supported by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Civic Education and is funded by the National Endowment for Democracy (NED).
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