The lively Christmas festivities in Cameroon have recently stirred up debates, particularly regarding how children aged between 7 and 15 partake in the celebrations.
Traditionally, Christmas in Cameroon is marked by outings and indulgent treats for youngsters. However, growing concerns have surfaced regarding the manner and consequences of such practices.
Cameroonians, in general, have a rich heritage of celebrating Christmas with vibrant displays, feasts, and an abundance of gifts and treats for children. Nevertheless, amidst these celebrations, a rising wave of concerns is becoming more apparent.
In major Cameroonian towns like Douala and Yaoundé, children are frequently seen in snack bars and nightclubs, consuming alcohol at ungodly hours, sparking debates on whether extravagant celebrations and late nights are suitable for children between 7 and 15, especially concerning their security.
Some argue that experience is the best teacher, asserting that children should have the opportunity to enjoy themselves fully at least once or twice a year. In a vox pop, MMI spoke to parents and adults to gather diverse perspectives on the matter.
“Mentally, it is never appropriate. It’s not proper considering the dangerous situations during the Christmas period. There are perilous elements out there, and children might go out and never return or come back with various issues,” remarked Sheila, a Limbe-based parent of two.
“If parents want their children to relish Christmas, they should take them out—let them go sightseeing, experience new places, maybe the beach, fostering family bonding. Christmas is about coming together and sharing love, not for children to be out late at night without parents knowing what they are doing. For females, there is the risk of unwanted pregnancies,” cautioned Titus, a Douala-based adult.
Victor, another parent based in Buea, emphasized that “Christmas is part of Christian life. If you are a Christian, Christmas should be celebrated in a Christian way, sharing love, not going out clubbing. Jesus Christ, the author of Christmas, does not support such activities. It’s inappropriate for kids to endanger their lives in the name of Christmas.”
Contrastingly, Aurelie, an adult in Douala, argued that children should be allowed to enjoy themselves fully on Christmas Day. “It’s a once-in-a-while occurrence. Children are not given the liberty to enjoy themselves every day. Whatever happens to them will serve as a learning experience and a stepping stone to the next level in life, helping them understand the good and the bad, unlike those who stay indoors and remain ignorant.”
The ongoing debate has sparked discussions about the true essence of Christmas festivities and its impact on the younger generation. The discourse transcends tradition, delving into the quest for a more balanced and meaningful way of celebrating the birth of Christ.
