With the inauguration of the 47th U.S. president on January 20, Ambazonian activists see an opportunity to push for international recognition of their struggle.

High-Level Engagements and Diplomatic Presence

In a historic development, a senior AGovC official has been invited to attend Trump’s inauguration. According to an official statement, the invitation reflects "increasing international acknowledgment of the legitimacy and resolve of Ambazonia’s fight for freedom, sovereignty, and self-determination." The group has urged Ambazonian supporters in the U.S., particularly in Washington, D.C., to attend the inauguration to demonstrate solidarity.

Further signaling its intent, the AGovC recently retained Moran Global Strategies (MGS), a top Washington D.C. lobbying firm, to advocate for the Ambazonian cause. The firm, led by former Congressman James Moran and Elias Gerasoulis, has a history of representing African independence movements and exile governments. The AGovC hopes to leverage these connections to advance its fight for international recognition as an independent state.

Gerasoulis, the MGS Vice President, stated, "It is an honor to lobby for the Ambazonian cause," highlighting parallels between Ambazonia’s struggle and previous efforts for African self-determination. MGS will also coordinate lobbying with groups like the Biafra Republic Government in Exile (BRGIE), a partner in promoting independence movements in Africa.

A Favorable Political Climate?

Ambazonian activists are optimistic about the Trump administration’s potential support for their movement. Trump’s foreign policy focus on "freedom and sovereignty" has given the group hope for stronger U.S. backing. Additionally, the anticipated return of Tibor Nagy, a former U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs and a known critic of the Yaoundé government, to the State Department has raised further expectations. Nagy has previously been accused of facilitating U.S. entry for prominent figures in the Anglophone separatist movement.

The AGovC described the political climate as a "final phase of liberation" and a pivotal moment to secure Ambazonia’s recognition by the U.S. and other international bodies.

Cameroonian Government on Alert

The Cameroonian government, led by President Paul Biya, has dismissed Ambazonian aspirations, referring to the movement as illegal and separatist. Minister René Emmanuel Sadi, the government spokesperson, recently reiterated that Cameroon does not recognize political prisoners, rejecting calls for the release of Anglophone activists jailed after protests.

However, Yaoundé’s establishment remains wary of growing international attention to the Anglophone crisis. The return of figures like Tibor Nagy, who openly supports the partition of Cameroon, could complicate Cameroon’s efforts to maintain territorial integrity.

Historical Context and Challenges

The Anglophone crisis in Cameroon stems from grievances over marginalization by the French-speaking majority. The conflict escalated in 2017, with calls for federalism evolving into demands for outright independence. Despite intermittent peace efforts, the crisis persists, marked by violence and human rights violations.

For Ambazonia, international recognition remains the ultimate goal. The AGovC’s recent diplomatic initiatives suggest a strategic pivot toward leveraging global alliances. However, whether the Trump administration will take concrete steps to support the cause remains to be seen.

Looking Ahead

As the Trump administration takes office, Ambazonian leaders are rallying their supporters to capitalize on the perceived opportunity. The AGovC’s presence at the inauguration and its partnership with a prominent lobbying firm signal a determined push for international advocacy. Yet, with Cameroon’s government firmly opposing the movement, the path to Ambazonia’s recognition remains fraught with challenges.

For now, the Ambazonian movement appears poised to test whether the new U.S. administration will stand behind its claims for freedom and sovereignty.