Anglophone Crisis in Cameroon: A Forgotten War Devastating the Nation

This conflict, which pits the Cameroonian government against groups clamouring for the restoration of the independence of British Southern Cameroons (Ambazonia) in the Anglophone North-West and South-West regions, has spiraled into a brutal and complex war that disproportionately impacts civilians.

Recent Escalations and Tragic Losses

In recent weeks, the city of Bamenda has witnessed a surge in violence. Within just 48 hours, four police officers lost their lives in separate incidents, and several others, including civilians, were injured.

Mile 4 Bomb Attack: Two police officers were killed, and a civilian was seriously injured in an explosion at a checkpoint in Mile 4, Nkwen Bamenda. The explosion, caused by an improvised explosive device (IED), was hidden in a tire used by the police to block the road. The device detonated as one of the officers moved the tire, leading to the immediate death of the officers and the injury of a nearby civilian.

Commercial Avenue Shooting: Just a day earlier, two other police officers were gunned down during an attack on a commercial bank at Commercial Avenue, Bamenda. The assailants, believed to be fighters from the groups clamouring for the restoration of the independence of British Southern Cameroons (Ambazonia), arrived in two cars and opened fire, killing the officers on the spot.

The Ambazonian Defense Forces (ADF), the armed wing of the Ambazonian Governing Council, claimed responsibility for these attacks. In a video circulated online, ADF fighters displayed the rifles taken from the fallen officers, further inflaming tensions.

The Broader Impact and Complex Dynamics

The Anglophone crisis is not merely an insurgency; it is a deeply rooted conflict with historical, cultural, and economic dimensions. The crisis stems from long-standing grievances of the Anglophone minority, who have felt marginalized by the Francophone-dominated government since the unification of Cameroon in 1961.

As the conflict drags on, the situation in the Anglophone regions has become increasingly dire:

Civilian Suffering: The violence disproportionately affects civilians, particularly women and children. Ethnic targeting, based on perceived affiliations with either side of the conflict, has escalated, leading to fears of war crimes and crimes against humanity. The humanitarian situation is dire, with countless civilians caught in the crossfire or displaced by the fighting.

Economic Sabotage: The ongoing conflict has severely disrupted the local economy, which was already fragile. The insecurity has crippled businesses, limited access to essential services, and led to widespread poverty.

Fragmentation of Separatist Groups: The separatist movement itself has fragmented, with various factions competing for control and resources. This disorganization complicates efforts to find a unified approach to negotiations or peace, further entrenching the conflict.

Calls for International Action and Peace Efforts

Despite the severity of the crisis, the Cameroonian government has shown little interest in pursuing a lasting solution. The international community, particularly the African Union (AU), Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS), and the United Nations (UN), must increase their efforts to mediate the conflict and prevent further atrocities.

Diplomatic Interventions: The AU and ECCAS should work closely with the Cameroonian government to address the root causes of the conflict, including poor governance and the marginalization of the Anglophone population. International pressure could help push the government toward meaningful dialogue with separatist leaders.

UN Involvement: The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) should prioritize the situation in Cameroon, urging all parties to cease hostilities and engage in negotiations. The UN’s Regional Office for Central Africa could play a crucial role in facilitating dialogue and ensuring that any peace process is inclusive and addresses the grievances of all parties involved.

Conclusion

The Anglophone crisis is a deeply entrenched conflict with devastating consequences for Cameroon’s future. The ongoing violence and lack of a clear path to peace highlight the urgent need for international intervention and a renewed commitment to finding a lasting solution. Without significant changes in governance and an inclusive peace process, the cycle of violence and suffering in Cameroon’s Anglophone regions will likely continue, with dire consequences for the entire country.