BAMENDA, Cameroon – Under a watchful eye and amidst palpable tension, thousands of youth gathered in Bamenda on February 11th to celebrate National Youth Day. The Commercial Avenue was a hub of activity, with a vibrant and lively atmosphere that seemed to fill the air. However, the surrounding streets were eerily quiet, as the city’s residents remained cautious and on edge due to the looming threat of separatist attacks.
“It’s refreshing to witness the presence of numerous young individuals in attendance,” remarked a resident of Bamenda, as they witnessed the crowd gathered under strict security measures.
Undoubtedly, the turnout was remarkable, as students from various parts of the region paraded confidently in their vibrant uniforms. The event was brought to life by captivating cultural performances, accompanied by speeches from government officials who highlighted the significance of youth involvement in shaping a promising future for Cameroon.
Nevertheless, the jubilant festivities were not without a hint of darkness. “Coming out was a frightening experience,” confessed Agnes, a 17-year-old who tightly held her friend’s hand. “A lockdown was declared by Ambazonian separatists, with warnings of potential attacks on those who took part.”
Her apprehension resonated with a multitude of people. The city remained largely deserted throughout the day, with shops shuttered and streets devoid of their usual bustling activity. “It’s unfortunate,” expressed shopkeeper Simon Tchinda, peering out from behind his closed door. “Today should be a day of joy, focusing on the vibrancy of our youth, rather than dwelling on apprehension.”
The contrasting scenes within and outside the ceremonial grounds shed light on the intricate reality of life in Cameroon’s Anglophone regions. Despite the government’s efforts to maintain a facade of normalcy, the underlying tensions and potential for violence cannot be ignored.
“We desire peace, while also seeking a voice in shaping our future,” Michael, a university student participating in the celebrations, expressed. “Events like this are only a part of the picture. We need genuine dialogue and solutions that address the root causes of the conflict.”
As the celebrations came to an end, the young attendees scattered, taking with them a sense of hope and togetherness. However, there were lingering concerns about the future of the region and the well-being of its younger generation. Only time will reveal whether the sounds of joy can overpower the murmurs of apprehension, opening up possibilities for a more promising future for the young people of Bamenda.
Kate Bih contributed to this report (all images by her).
