Sagmé families sleep in the bush amid fears of Boko Haram attacks

Some families in Sagmé, in Cameroon’s Far North Region, say they are leaving their homes before nightfall and sleeping in nearby bushes because they fear attacks linked to Boko Haram.

Residents say the families return at dawn, repeating a routine that reflects continuing insecurity in the village. They are appealing for urgent government intervention to protect civilians and restore access to education and healthcare.

According to residents, fear intensified following an attack in the area on 8 September 2026.

Sagmé lies in Logone-et-Chari Division, about 17 kilometres from Fotokol. Residents say the village remains vulnerable despite the presence of Rapid Intervention Battalion (BIR) camps in surrounding localities.

Education and healthcare disrupted

Residents trace a sharp deterioration in conditions to attacks in June 2025, during which they say the village school, health centre, gendarmerie post and several homes were burned.

More than a year later, they say access to healthcare and education remains severely disrupted.

Their appeal includes rebuilding the school and health centre so children can resume their education and families can obtain medical care.

Calls for stronger protection and humanitarian assistance

Local sources also describe logistical shortages facing the security forces stationed in Sagmé, adding to residents’ concerns about protection against further attacks.

Residents are urging authorities to reinforce security and provide additional logistical resources to forces operating in the area.

They are also seeking humanitarian assistance for families affected by the violence, alongside measures that would allow them to spend the night safely in their homes.