By Brian Mboh
In communities where displacement and uncertainty have become part of daily life, sports are once again being championed as a powerful tool for healing, unity and hope. Local Youth Corner Cameroon (LOYOC) has officially set the stage for the fifth edition of the “Na-We-We Sports Jamboree”, a community initiative designed to strengthen social cohesion, promote peaceful coexistence and build resilience among internally displaced persons and their host communities.
The activities were officially launched during a press conference held at the Tiko Council Hall on Wednesday, July 1, where organizers unveiled plans for the two-month programme scheduled to run from July 3 to August 30, 2026.
The event also witnessed the presentation of the official “Na-We-We Sports Jamboree” trophy, alongside an overview of the programme, its strategic partnerships and preparations for this year’s activities.
Organized under the theme, “Stronger Together in Times of Crisis Through Sports,” the jamboree seeks to create a platform where sports transcend competition to become a catalyst for dialogue, reconciliation and community engagement. Beyond the games, participants will be offered opportunities to interact, learn new skills and foster relationships that contribute to lasting peace.
Speaking during the launch, the National Programmes Manager of LOYOC and President of the Organising Committee, Atefe Jude, described the “Na-We-We Sports Jamboree” as an annual, community-led initiative that harnesses the unifying power of sports to encourage peaceful coexistence between internally displaced persons and members of host communities.
According to him, the initiative has evolved into a platform that not only promotes healthy competition but also strengthens local peacebuilding mechanisms through mediation, dialogue and collective action. He noted that bringing people together in a relaxed sporting environment helps break barriers, rebuild trust and encourage mutual understanding among communities affected by crisis.
This year’s edition, he explained, marks an important milestone as it will be hosted in the Southwest Region for the first time since the initiative was created. He expressed confidence that the new host region would witness an exciting and impactful programme that extends well beyond sporting competitions.
Atefe Jude used the opportunity to invite development partners, civil society organisations and youth groups to become part of the initiative, stressing that the success of the jamboree depends on collective ownership. He emphasized that Na-We-We is intended to remain an inclusive platform that welcomes every organization and every young person committed to strengthening community resilience, empowering local populations and advancing peace through collaboration.
As preparations gather momentum, organizers believe this year’s “Na-We-We Sports Jamboree” will further demonstrate that even in times of crisis, sports can unite communities, inspire hope and lay the foundation for stronger, more peaceful societies.
Participants will take part in football, basketball and handball tournaments while also engaging in peacebuilding dialogues, civic education sessions and vocational training. The event will equally feature a Village of Opportunities, where young people can connect with organizations, explore livelihood opportunities and access information that supports personal and community development.
