Cameroon has underscored the need for stronger international collaboration to protect and sustain the gains of globalisation, with peace and security at the heart of the agenda.
Speaking on behalf of President Paul Biya at the opening of the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD-9), Prime Minister and Head of Government, Chief Dr Joseph Dion Ngute, stressed that collective action is crucial in addressing the challenges threatening global stability.
Highlighting Cameroon’s frontline role, he pointed to the country’s efforts in curbing terrorism both within its borders and through regional initiatives.
This includes joint operations under the Multinational Joint Task Force in the Lake Chad Basin, as well as hosting the International Security Forces Academy in Yaoundé, which trains defense forces from more than a dozen African nations.
“Cameroon is working tirelessly to reduce terrorist threats while contributing to wider peacekeeping missions,” Dion Ngute told delegates, citing the country’s involvement in MINUSCA in the Central African Republic and stabilization efforts in Haiti.
Looking ahead, the Prime Minister called for deeper cooperation with Japan and TICAD partners to harness innovation for security and resilience.
He emphasized the importance of Artificial Intelligence-powered early warning systems, drones, coastal and river surveillance technologies, and digital platforms to strengthen both peace and food security.
He also cautioned that Africa continues to grapple with cross-border threats such as climate change, transnational crime, cyber insecurity, disinformation, pandemics, and terrorism—all of which put the promise of globalisation at risk.
According to him, the African Union’s peace and security architecture provides a strong framework, but it requires increased support in logistics, training, and financing to remain effective and sustainable.
TICAD, which convenes every three years, serves as a critical platform for dialogue between Africa and its international development partners, with a focus on promoting sustainable growth and reinforcing globalisation through shared security and cooperation.
