Story, Louvier Kindo Tombe
The Local Youth Corner Cameroon (LOYOC) has reviewed the successes of the 4th edition of its flagship Na We We Sports Jamboree, highlighted support from national and international partners, and officially announced Tiko as the host city for the 2026 edition. It was during a press briefing in Yaounde on Friday February 6, 2026.
Review of the 4th Edition
The 4th edition, hosted in Bertoua, focused on promoting healthy living and strengthening relations between internally displaced persons (IDPs) and host communities, particularly among vulnerable groups.
LOYOC reported that the programme engaged 300 young athletes, including 167 girls, attracted over 5,000 spectators, and directly reached 1,500 community members, while more than 200,000 people were reached through social media. A total of 31 institutions participated.
Education and community support initiatives included the distribution of 500 school bags, 20,000 books, and the payment of 20 school fees. Environmental activities saw 400 young people participate in clean-up campaigns, with 300 trees planted in two locations in Bertoua. Additionally, 40 youths received training on electoral participation and civic engagement.
National and International Partners Reaffirm Support
Partners present at the briefing praised the initiative and reaffirmed their commitment.
Representing Plan International Cameroon, Kiye Dendi, on behalf of Country Director Mohamed Ibrahim Bah, commended LOYOC for creating space for youth-led action. He also revealed Plan International’s own youth initiative, the Youth Engagement Platform, describing it as a tool designed to mobilise and rally young people.
According to him, the initiative aligns with the objectives of Na We We, particularly in promoting youth participation, peace, and social cohesion.
The Managing Director of Cosmos, Peter Eselecha, described Na We We as a strong example of collective action.
“This is a clear demonstration of what we can do when we come together. Leadership is about thinking beyond ourselves,” he said, highlighting Cosmos’ youth-led sports initiatives, including the creation of a Division Two basketball team and scholarships for students.
UN Resident Coordinator, Stean Auguste said the initiative enables young people to use sports and cultural activities to promote a culture of peace, adding that the UN system has provided coordinated support.
“Na We We is more than an event; it is a spirit that continues to grow,” he noted.
Artist Magasco also praised the initiative, describing it as “a beautiful adventure where we learn as we inspire the youth.”
Other stakeholders, including Alexandre Bitchoka of the Ministry of Youth Affairs (MINJEC) and former Indomitable Lion and long-time supporter Tchoutang Bernard, also reaffirmed their continued support.
National Guide on Sports for Social Cohesion
Speaking during the briefing, LOYOC Executive Director Achaleke Christian Leke announced the production of a national guide on the use of sports to promote social cohesion, which he said will be a key outcome of the ongoing LOYOC study.
The guide will document lessons learned from Na We We and provide a practical framework for institutions, civil society organisations, and development partners.
“This guide will help standardise how sports can be used to strengthen social cohesion, especially in communities affected by crisis,” Achaleke said.
Tiko to Host 2026 Edition
After Douala, Yaoundé, Bafoussam, and Bertoua, the city of Tiko will host the 2026 edition of Na We We, a two-month sports and recreational initiative advancing social cohesion, moral, civic, and entrepreneurial development among young displaced persons and host communities.
The choice of Tiko was officially announced during the press briefing in Yaoundé. The 5th edition will be held under the theme: “Stronger Together in Times of Crisis Through Sports.”
Mokoko Tanga John, Youth Senator for Fako (2025), representing the Mayor of Tiko, Peter Ekome, received the Na We We cup on behalf of the municipality. According to LOYOC, the cup will tour the town and remain in Tiko until the event, with the Mayor pledging full support from start to finish.
