Beacon of Hope for the Victims of 11 February 2024 Youth Day explosion in Nkambe-Cameroon
3 min read
On February 11, 2024, during the Youth Day festivities in Nkambe, in the Northwest Region of Cameroon, a tragic incident occurred that left three students severely injured. The explosion, allegedly detonated by separatist fighters, resulted in the loss of limbs for these young victims. The incident cast a shadow over the celebrations, highlighting the ongoing conflict and its devastating impact on innocent lives. The Anglophone conflict in the Northwest and Southwest Regions of Cameroon which has been ongoing since 2016 has claimed over 6000 lives with closed to a Millions of internally displaced persons and thousands seeking asylum in other countries.
On 17 February 2025, under the leadership of His Lordship Bishop Michael Bibi, the Diocese of Buea paid a visit to the institution where these victims are being trained and rehabilitated. The Bishop encouraged the victims and pray for them during his visit to the Associated Rehabilitation Centre for the Handicapped (ARCH) in Mile 14 Dibanda, a locality in Buea, the Southwest Region of Cameroon. He equally inspected the formation of the artificial legs that the victims are currently receiving healthcare treatment where the artificial legs are being formed and where the vicims are being trained to use these artificial legs under the sponsorship of the International Committee of the Red Cross. During the visit, the Local Ordinary of Buea expressed sincere gratitude to the International Committee of the Red Cross, the organization fully covering the victims’ treatment, lodging, and feeding during their stay at the center
The Red Cross has continued to play a crucial role in supporting the victims of war in Cameroon and beyond. By covering the medical bills, accommodation and rehabilitation costs, the Red Cross has alleviated the financial burden on the families and ensured that the students receive the necessary treatment without delay. This support by the Red Cross exemplifies the power of collective action in addressing humanitarian crises.
The three students are currently undergoing rehabilitation at the Associated Rehabilitation Centre for the Handicapped (ARCH) in Mile 14, Dibanda. ARCH is a specialized health facility dedicated to providing comprehensive care and support to individuals with physical disabilities. The center’s team of professionals is working tirelessly to help the students regain their independence and adapt to their new circumstances.
Beacon of Hope: Despite the challenges they face, the three students have shown remarkable resilience and determination. Their journey towards recovery is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the importance of community support. The efforts of ARCH, the Red Cross and well wishers like the Bishop of Buea have provided a beacon of hope for the victims and their families, demonstrating that even in the darkest times, compassion and solidarity can make a profound difference.
The incident on February 11, 2024, serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing conflict in Cameroon and its impact on innocent lives. However, the response from the ARCH, the Red Cross, the Bio Diocese highlights the importance of humanitarian support in times of crisis. As the students continue their rehabilitation journey, the collective efforts of these organizations offer hope for a brighter future and a reminder that together, we can overcome even the most challenging circumstances.
Berinyuy Cajetan is the founder and publisher of Human Rights and Legal Research Centre (HRLRC) since 2017. He has intensive experience in strategic communications for Civil Society Organizations, campaign and advocacy, and social issues. He has an intensive experiencing in human rights monitoring, documentation and reporting.
Berinyuy Cajetan is the founder and publisher of Human Rights and Legal Research Centre (HRLRC) since 2017. He has intensive experience in strategic communications for Civil Society Organizations, campaign and advocacy, and social issues. He has an intensive experiencing in human rights monitoring, documentation and reporting.
