The Cameroon News

June 02, 2011

General

Youths Rally For Peace And National Unity in Kumba

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The culture of peace, tolerance and dialogue were the key words in all the speeches presented during a massively attended rally on Saturday, May 28 at the Kumba grandstand. The main theme of the occasion was glaring in a single banner that read, "South West Youths Rally: Building the culture of peace based on solidarity, unity and patriotism. Dynamic engagement on development and to promote civic responsibility in a sustainable manner as a way forward in nation building." This theme was re-echoed by Mr. Motiti Louis, the Meme Divisional President of the Cameroon National Youth Council who, in his address, recalled the positive fall-outs of peace in today's world studded with conflicts.

He noted that on August 12, 2010, the United Nations launched the International Year of Youth centred on dialogue and mutual understanding. "The youths of the South West Region have today decided to demonstrate their firm determination to promote the culture of peace and to participate fully in the economic, social, cultural and political life of the country for its development," he explained. He noted that during the upheavals that occurred in Kumba in 2008 and other parts of Cameroon, the youths were premature. "But today, we are mature enough to identify our problems and to take decisions that are advantageous to us and our junior ones," he said.

In the same vein, Mr. Sone Henry Nkwene, First Vice President of the Cameroon National Youth Council, presented the structure as an apolitical entity that enhances youth development. He called on the youths to shun violence and unwarranted demonstrations; noting that youths should initiate projects, be responsible and register for elections. "With peace, there's development. Without peace, there's chaos," he said.

The Meme Divisional Delegate of Employment and Vocational Training, Mr. Fonkem Aloysius, in a presentation on "Youth Employment and Vocational Training," unveiled some initiatives taken by government to curb youth unemployment and alleviate poverty.

In an incisive and in-depth presentation that generated sustained applause, veteran journalist, Martin Nkemngu, who is Editor-in-Chief of The Star newspaper, harped on youth and development.

He made a historical analysis on the active role that youth have played in the transformation of societies; noting that when the Cameroon National Youth Council was created in 2009, it was government's efforts to address the problems faced by youths. He hailed initiatives like PAJER-U and called for more initiatives whereby youths can be granted small loans to start businesses.

He also called on government to fully involve youths in the development process and issues that concern them. Mr. Martin Nkemngu regretted the total absence of the top brass of Meme Division at the event that he termed "very important for the future of our youths."

Article source Cameroon Tribune