Women’s empowerment minister decries surge in crimes against children.

She raised the worry in a statement signed on November 13, condemning recent acts that have shocked communities nationwide.

She said the country has in recent days witnessed abominable acts of barbarism targeting minors. The minister said such acts have thrown the public into turmoil and consternation. 

She cited the most tragic cases including the heinous murder of 11-year-old Ndzie Karl Olivier Ethan, killed inside his family home in the Minkan neighbourhood of Yaounde months back. 

The crime occurred just days after the killing of a three-year-old girl in Manjo, in the Littoral Region.

These cases, she regretted, widely circulated on both traditional and social media, have sparked widespread outrage.

The minister described the crimes as “indescribable brutality” and a profound affront to human sensibilities.

Prof Abena Ondoa, in the statement, strongly condemned all forms of violence and violations of children’s rights, stressing that these horrific acts undermine the most fundamental right of every child which is the right to life. 

The gravity of the situation, she regretted, has further heightened as the country prepares to commemorate the 14th International Day of the Rights of the Child on November 20, 2025.

The member of government also reassured the public that competent authorities have been seized of the matter and investigations are underway. She extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the young victims.

The minister equally urged parents and guardians to exercise maximum vigilance to protect children and prevent any recurrence of such tragedies. 

She called on the public to play an active role in safeguarding minors by promptly reporting any suspected cases of abuse or rights violations through the toll-free emergency number, 116.

The minister stressed that ensuring the safety and dignity of every child remains a collective responsibility that society must uphold without compromise.

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3627 of Monday November 17, 2025