At Commonwealth Day celebration: Minister Mbayu says Cameroon’s policies oriented to foster resilience, inclusivity, better future.

He was speaking during a special ceremony at the courtyard of the Ministry of External Relations, MINREX, to mark the 2024 edition of the Commonwealth Day.

The ceremony Monday March 11, was chaired by the Minister of External Relations, H.E Mbella Mbella. 

This was in the presence of several members of government, diplomats of the Commonwealth family accredited to Cameroon as well as a cross section of public administration.  

The Commonwealth Day was commemorated under the theme: “One Resilient Common Future”.

In his keynote address, the Minister Mbayu said the Commonwealth Day offers a unique opportunity to reflect on the shared values, diversity, and unity that bind member countries.

The theme of this year’s commemoration, he said, encapsulates the essence of a collective journey towards a resilient future.

“As we navigate the complexities of our modern world, the Commonwealth of Nations, united by a rich tapestry of cultures and histories, stand together to overcome adversity and shape a future that benefits us all,” he stated.

As members celebrated the Commonwealth Day, he stressed that they look forward to more opportunities to work together towards fostering resilience, inclusivity, and a better future for all. This, he said, is the foundation of all government policies.

“Resilience has been a hallmark of the Cameroonian people, and a testament of their ability to adapt and thrive in the face of national and international challenges,” Mbayu stated.

The minister added that “through economic uncertainties, public health crises, security and environmental challenges, our collective efforts have consistently demonstrated our capacity to rise above adversity and foster a spirit of collaboration and mutual support”.

C’wealth Heads of Gov’t meeting to address challenges

Mbayu further indicated that 2024 is a landmark year for the Commonwealth. He disclosed that the 27th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, CHOGM, will be held in the second week of October 2024, in Apia, Samoa, an Island nation found in the Oceania continent.

With the gathering being planned under the theme: “One Resilient Common Future: Transforming our Common Wealth”, Minister Mbayu said it will be an opportunity to address shared challenges.

He also said the meeting will enable member counties to “collaborate on key issues, as well as chart the way forward for a solutions-focused approach, underpinned by the core values of the Commonwealth”. 

This year, he said, will mark the 75^th anniversary of the Commonwealth and the second edition of the Commonwealth Year of Youth. 

The Year of the Youth, he added, is “in recognition of the tremendous contributions of young people in strengthening the people-to-people links that make this family of nations so special”.

Enter Canadian High Commissioner

Speaking on behalf of Commonwealth diplomats accredited to Yaounde, the Canadian High Commissioner to Cameroon, Her Excellency Lorraine Anderson, saluted commitment of the Cameroon government to the core values and principles of the organisation.

Ambassador Lorraine highlighted the need for synergy of actions among member states to build a brighter future for the current and future generations of the Commonwealth.

The Canadian diplomat said this year’s theme reflects resilience and transformation. She also remarked that it symbolizes solution to the several socio-economic and political challenges of the world. 

Highlighting the impacts of climate change on countries, even beyond the membership of Commonwealth, the High Commissioner called for common actions to tackle the phenomenon. 

The event was marked by the reading of the King’s Message, Commonwealth Day Affirmations, cultural displays and the award of prizes to pupils and students who were outstanding during commemorative activities to mark the Day.