Story, Louvier Kindo Tombe
The research, conducted by a Cameroonian media professional, fact-checker, and youth leader with expertise in journalism, communications, and digital rights advocacy, Giyo Ndzi, examined whether the Special Status has meaningfully addressed the grievances at the heart of the Anglophone crisis.
According to the study, while the Special Status has introduced meaningful reforms, its impact on ending violence and rebuilding trust remains limited.
Two-thirds of respondents acknowledge some empowerment through institutions like the House of Chiefs and Regional Assemblies. However, less than half believe these changes have addressed separatist demands or restored the Anglo-Saxon education and legal systems.
“The findings reveal that while important reforms have been introduced, these measures alone have not stemmed the violence, nor restored full public trust,” said Giyo Ndzi, the researcher behind the study. “Insecurity, poor civic education, and underfunding remain serious barriers to impact.”
Giyo, in the report equally looked at other related aspects to resolving the crisis. He emphasizes that true and effective decentralization is not just a political reform, and a potential platform for inclusive civic participation, transparency, and accountability.
“Citizens must be informed, empowered, and able to hold their leaders accountable both offline and online without fear or doubt,” he said.
The study’s findings also highlight the challenges that have hindered the impact of the Special Status, including insecurity, poor civic education, and funding gaps. Giyo calls for stronger political will, inclusive dialogue, and robust civic engagement if the Special Status is to deliver on its promise.
“Complete peace will not be built by legislation alone,” he emphasized. “It will require political will, openness to dialogue, and the genuine involvement of all stakeholders, including those whose voices are too often excluded.”
As the Anglophone conflict enters its eighth year, the study’s findings offer a sobering reminder that without full implementation and trust-building, even well-crafted reforms risk becoming cosmetic only.
About Giyo Ndzi
Giyo Ndzi is a Cameroonian media professional, fact-checker, and youth leader with expertise in journalism, communications, and digital rights advocacy. He currently serves as Communications Officer at Paradigm Initiative, a non-profit that advocates for digital rights and inclusion across the Global South. Previously, Giyo was Culture and Entertainment Desk Editor at The Guardian Post, Cameroon’s foremost English-language daily, and later, Communications Officer for the Yaoundé City Council. A certified fact-checker through the African Fact-Check Fellowship, he has contributed to cultural and literary platforms such as Poise Social.
