By Wesley Omondi
YAOUNDÉ, SEPTEMBER 3, 2024 (CISA) – Most Reverend José Avelino Bettencourt, the Apostolic Nuncio to Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea has highlighted the plight of children affected by violence in Cameroon. In a heartfelt message of peace, he pleaded for an end to the conflicts that prevent children from accessing education.
The nuncio, who on August 30, 2024, marked one year since his appointment to Cameroon, emphasized the devastating impact of violence on the nation’s future, particularly on its youngest citizens.
“Our children are our future, and they suffer the most when there is violence,” he stated, reflecting on the vulnerability of children in conflict zones.
In a video shared on Facebook, the nuncio’s message accompanies a temporary photographic exhibit, featuring the wishes of Cameroonian children for peace. The exhibition, produced by the Piarist Fathers in collaboration with photographer Emily Pina, captures the voices of children who long for a life free from fear.
One photograph features a boy named Peter, who shared how “living in peace feels good just to wake up and go to school without fear.” Peter’s words reflect the harsh reality faced by many children in Cameroon, where violence has robbed them of their right to education.
The statistics paint a grim picture. According to UNESCO, over 250 million children worldwide are prevented from attending school due to conflicts and violence. In Cameroon alone, the World Bank reports that more than 17,500 children are unable to attend school, primarily in the North West, South West, and Far North regions. These numbers represent not just a temporary disruption but the potential destruction of millions of futures.
“Millions of children’s futures are being destroyed by violence. This crisis demands immediate attention and action,” the nuncio warned.
Violence in these regions has escalated over the years, fueled by political instability, separatist movements, and extremism. The nuncio stressed that violence is never justified, whether it occurs on a Sunday, a Monday, or any other day of the week. He called on all Cameroonians to unite in freeing children from the grip of violence and allowing them the opportunity to build a better future.
“Violence is not justified—ever. Peace, and only peace, comes from God. Let us not prevent children from going to school this September. Let us allow them to build the future,” he urged.
The nuncio echoed the voice of many in Cameroonians, including educators, parents, and leaders across various sectors. He also drew inspiration from Nelson Mandela’s words, “Educating all of our children must be one of our most urgent priorities,” highlighting the urgency of prioritizing education for all children.
The nuncio also reiterated the message of Pope Francis emphasizing the crucial role of education, reminding the faithful that the mission of schools and teachers is to develop an understanding of all that is true, good, and beautiful. He asserted that peace is the only way forward for the future of Cameroon and its children.
