The coalition of women from Cameroon’s conflict-affected regions has issued a powerful appeal to Pope Leo XIV, urging him to use his upcoming visit to advocate for peace, justice, and inclusion in the country’s Anglophone regions.
In an open letter dated April 2026, the South West North West Women’s Task Force (SNWOT) welcomed the pontiff’s visit but stressed that it must go beyond symbolism. “We warmly welcome your upcoming visit to Cameroon. At a time when our nation stands at a crossroads, your presence carries profound moral and spiritual significance,” the group wrote.
The letter comes as anticipation builds around the Pope’s multi-country African tour, which includes a stop in Cameroon—a country grappling with a nearly decade-long separatist conflict in its English-speaking regions.
Nearly a Decade of Conflict and Humanitarian Impact
The women described the ongoing Anglophone crisis as one that has “fractured lives, displaced families, and eroded hope,” highlighting the deep humanitarian toll of the conflict.
Since 2016, clashes between government forces and armed separatists have devastated the North West and South West regions, forcing hundreds of thousands from their homes and disrupting education, healthcare, and livelihoods.
Against this backdrop, the women emphasised that their appeal is rooted in both lived suffering and sustained efforts to restore peace at the community level.
“Women Are Not Only Victims, But Architects of Peace”
In a strong assertion of their role, the group pushed back against narratives that portray women solely as victims of conflict.
“Women are not only victims of this crisis; we are also active architects of peace,” the letter stated, pointing to their work mediating between divided communities, supporting displaced families, and advocating for children’s return to school.
They also highlighted their participation in national and international dialogue efforts—often “without recognition, resources, or formal inclusion”—underscoring a long-standing demand for greater representation in peace processes.
Clear Demands: Ceasefire, Dialogue, and Inclusion
The women outlined specific expectations for the Pope’s intervention, calling on him to:
- Speak “with clarity and compassion” about the Anglophone crisis
- Encourage “inclusive dialogue that addresses the root causes”
- Support calls for a ceasefire and civilian protection
- Advocate for the inclusion of women and community actors in peace efforts
They referenced the Pope’s previous positions on global conflicts, urging him to show similar moral leadership on Cameroon.
A Call for a Turning Point, Not Just a Visit
Beyond immediate demands, the letter frames the Pope’s visit as a potential watershed moment for the country.
“We believe that your visit should be more than a moment; it should become a turning point,” the women wrote, expressing hope that his presence could catalyse meaningful change.
They concluded with a firm and symbolic message: “There can be no sustainable peace without women.”
Growing Pressure Ahead of Papal Visit
The appeal adds to mounting expectations surrounding Pope Leo XIV’s visit, particularly in relation to how he will address sensitive political and humanitarian issues.
While official narratives have often framed the visit as purely pastoral, voices like SNWOT are pushing for a more engaged and outspoken role—one that directly confronts the realities on the ground.
As Cameroon prepares to receive the pontiff, the message from these women is clear: silence is no longer an option, and moral authority must translate into meaningful advocacy.
