Story, Louvier Kindo Tombe
In a bid to promote peace, unity, and environmental sustainability, the Dallaire Institute for Children, Peace and Security, in partnership with Local Youth Corner Cameroon, has been organizing Community Service Days for Peace across the Northwest and Southwest regions of Cameroon.
The initiative, which began last year, has entered its second phase, with hundreds of young people participating in clean-up campaigns, sensitization sessions, and community engagement activities.
“We believe that individual self-service to the community, no matter how small, is the first step to realizing major developmental change and growth,” said a representative from Local Youth Corner Cameroon.
The Community Service Days for Peace initiative aims to encourage youth participation in peace-building efforts, promote environmental safety and sustainability, and raise awareness about the prevention of child recruitment and use in armed conflict.
During the first phase of the initiative, which took place in four divisions – Mezam, Momo, Meme, and Bui – a total of 274 participants attended the clean-up campaigns and sensitization sessions.
In Mezam division, 61 participants cleaned up Ghana Street, Cow Street, and Mobile Bridge in Bamenda. In Momo division, 73 participants cleaned three key locations: Mbon Motor Park, Mbon main market, and the Mbengwi district hospital.
The initiative, which is in its second phase has not only improved the cleanliness of the targeted areas but has also promoted a sense of community pride and unity among the participants.
“I learned a lot during this event,” said a participant from Menchum Division who attended the second phase.
“I got to listen and share with my peers about the importance of cleanliness and social cohesion.”
Another participant from Fako Division shared a similar experience: “Cleaning Koke Water catchment was an experience I’ve never had before. It contributed to the hygiene and wellbeing of over 1000 people in Buea.”
The initiative has also empowered young people to take ownership of their communities and become agents of positive change.
“Through this event, I learned that it takes one person to pull a crowd,” a participant from Bui Division told News Upfront, adding that “I realized the importance of starting something or voicing out something”.
Ndian, Donga Mantung, Ngoketinjia, and Boyo were active during this second phase.
As the initiative continues to gain momentum, the organizers are calling on more young people to join the movement and make a difference in their communities.
“Cleaning up Mobile Bridge was a rewarding experience,” some participant from Mezam Division said.
“It was great to see the area transform from being littered to being clean and inviting.”
With its focus on community engagement, environmental sustainability, and peace-building, the Community Service Days for Peace initiative is poised to make a lasting impact on the lives of young people in Cameroon.
As the initiative moves forward, one thing is clear: the power of community service and youth-led initiatives can bring about transformative change and foster a brighter future for all.
