Child Protection: The State Weighs In
The Minister of Women’s Empowerment and the Family, Marie-Thérèse Abena Ondoa, has launched the national initiative “I Protect the Child Everywhere. Do the Same!”, a digital and media campaign aimed at preventing violence against children and promoting collective responsibility for their safety. The campaign was unveiled during a press briefing in Yaoundé this June 30, […]
The campaign was unveiled during a press briefing in Yaoundé this June 30, 2026. Addressing government officials, development partners, civil society actors and media professionals, the minister stressed that despite existing legal frameworks protecting children’s rights, many children continue to face abuse, exploitation, child labour, early marriages, cybercrime and other forms of violence.
She warned that holidays are often a period of heightened vulnerability for children, as they spend more time outside the supervision provided by schools.The minister therefore called on parents, communities, institutions and opinion leaders to remain vigilant and ensure that children enjoy safe and fulfilling holidays.
According to the Minister, the initiative seeks to raise awareness among families, mobilise communities, engage the media in disseminating prevention messages and encourage responsible behaviour towards children. The campaign will rely on both traditional and digital media platforms to reach a wider audience nationwide.
“Protecting a child means protecting the future of our nation,” the minister said, emphasizing that child protection is not only a family matter but a national duty requiring the involvement of every citizen.
Officially launching the campaign, she urged Cameroonians to make child protection a daily commitment, reminding them that every child deserves to grow up in safety, dignity and an environment that allows them to fully realise their potential.
Egoh Yvonne (Intern)