At flag handing ceremony: Cameroon's 12th contingent to CAR urged to uphold discipline, professionalism.

He gave the instructions last Thursday at the Motcheboum Peacekeeping Operations Training School, in Doume Subdivision, Upper Nyong Division of the East Region.

This was during a ceremony he presided on behalf of the Head of State, Commander-in-Chief of Armed Forces forces, to hand over the flag to the 12th contingent to the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilisation Mission, MINUSCA, in CAR. 

The minister said the 12th contingent is made up of 1,070 peacekeepers, comprising 750 soldiers of the infantry and 320 Gendarmes forming the Formed Police Unit, EPU 1 and 2. 

Minister Beti Assomo said the ceremony, which has become a tradition, was instituted by the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces to give the solemnity required to the deployment of Cameroonian troops on external operations.

He said it symbolizes the blessing of the State and reaffirms its commitment to play a front role in the international stage, by actively contributing to peacekeeping and stability in CAR. 

Beti Assomo said the rigorous training has allowed the peacekeepers to familiarize themselves with the use of equipment and the need to serve with discipline and professionalism throughout the mission. 

“I urge you to remain conscious of the complexity of the environment where you will be called to serve. Your conduct must be exemplary. Be disciplined, stay focused on your objectives, be vigilant, and steadfast in the face of all provocations,” Minister Beti Assomo said.

He added that their actions must be constantly guided by the rules of international humanitarian law and the ethical requirements of all operations carried under the banner of the United Nations.

He warned them against deviant behaviours that could tarnish the good works of the entire contingent. 

“The United Nations is very vigilant regarding accusations of abuse or sexual exploitation. Remain disciplined,” he reminded them.

He told them that President has personally ensured that their contingent is equipped with all the necessary equipment which they must use greatest care. “Any abusive use will result in appropriate sanctions,” he warned. 

Minister Beti Assomo recalled that since 2008, Cameroon has honoured its international commitments by deploying over 20,000 peacekeepers to various operations around the world.

Through this, he added that Cameroon has established itself among the top 20 global contributors of United Nation troops.

This, he said, consolidates Cameroon’s reputation as a credible and committed actor in the service of international peace and security.

Commander says troops confident to deliver

The Commander of the 12th Cameroonian contingent to MINUSCA, Lieutenant Colonel Noumedem Donfack, revealed that the troops placed under his command are fired up and determined to properly carry out their duties.

Lt Colonel Noumedem said the troops were properly trained during a period of three months to carry out any mission assigned them by the UN.

“We are ready to go the Central African Republic and carry out our mission under the banner of MINUSCA,” he told journalists, adding that they will work with “loyalty, professionalism, discipline in order to merit the confidence” bestowed on them by hierarchy.  

Speaking earlier, the Mayor of Doume said that the deployment of the 12th contingent to CAR shows the commitment of the Head of State to ensuring peace and security in the neighbouring country. 

Context of deployment 

The12th contingent of Cameroonian soldiers to MINUSCA have been dispatched at a time Cameroon weeks back signed a defence partnership accord with CAR.

It is worth recalling that Minister Beti Assomo signed the agreement on behalf of the government of Cameroon while the Minister of National Defence and Army Reconstruction of CAR penned the agreement for the country. This agreement aims to among other things at reinforcing security along the border of both countries.

The ceremony was attended by the Minister of Public Service and Administrative Reform, Joseph Le, and the Governor of the East Region, Gregoire Mvongo.  

The President of the East Regional Council, the Senior Divisional Officer, SDO, of Upper Nyong Division, Members of Parliament, MPs, the Divisional Officer, DO, of Doume, alongside other administrative, traditional and religious authorities graced the event.

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3562 of Friday September 12, 2025