By Tata Mbunwe
The US Ambassador to Cameroon, Christopher John Lamora, has reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to strengthening ties with Cameroon, pledging continued collaboration in advancing democracy, security, and economic development.
He was speaking on Thursday evening, July 4, during celebrations to mark the 249th anniversary of US independence, held at the US Embassy in Yaoundé.
The event brought together several top-level Cameroonian government officials and other dignitaries.
“Thank you for joining us this evening to celebrate the 249th anniversary of the independence of the United States of America. As we stand at the threshold of two and a half centuries of nationhood, we look back with pride, but more importantly, we look forward with hope,” said Ambassador Lamora.
He described the moment as a milestone that “invites reflection not just on where we’ve been, but also on where we are going, and who will be with us on the journey.”
In his remarks, the ambassador affirmed the United States’ commitment to foster stronger ties with Cameroon.
“We stand with the people of Cameroon as they – as you – continue to pursue democratic norms and institutions that sustain peace, increase civic participation, and foster progress,” Lamora stated.
The ambassador highlighted the Mandela Washington Fellowship as a clear example of America’s investment in Cameroon’s youth, celebrating its 10th anniversary this year.
“What began as a bold idea has grown into a vibrant network of over 200 young Cameroonian leaders who have visited the United States to develop their skills and return to Cameroon to reshape their communities,” he noted.
“These Fellows show us what’s possible when American and Cameroonian ideals align, when talent is matched with opportunity, and when support is grounded in mutual respect.”
Lamora also praised Cameroon’s efforts in tackling regional security challenges, including terrorism in the Lake Chad Basin and maritime insecurity in the Gulf of Guinea.
“The United States remains committed to working with the Government as well as the people of Cameroon in areas of shared interest, and we commend Cameroon for its strong leadership in countering terrorism… and in strengthening maritime security,” he said.
Among the dignitaries present were Felix Mbayu, Minister Delegate to the Ministry of External Relations; Gregoire Owona, Minister of Labor and Social Security; Martin Mbarga Nguele, Delegate General for National Security; Joseph Beti Assomo, Minister of Defence; and Henri Eyebe Ayissi, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development.
July 4, celebrated annually in the United States as Independence Day, commemorates the signing of the Declaration of Independence by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776.
The document announced the separation of 13 North American colonies from Great Britain.
In 1870, the US Congress made Independence Day an unpaid holiday for federal workers, and in 1938 it became a paid federal holiday.
As the US approaches its 250th year, Lamora urged Cameroon and the US to “walk together” into the future, saying: “When you succeed, we all rise. That’s why we stand with you. Because when we walk together, we go farther.”
