Youths urge D’la City Mayor to address transport, waste management…challenges.

The meeting was initiated by the Cameroon National Youth Council, CNJC 

It brought together over 500 students, young entrepreneurs, persons with disabilities and civil society representatives. Discussions touched on pressing issues affecting their daily lives and propose solutions to municipal authorities.

Speaking on behalf of university students, the representative of the University of Douala, Fouelefak Teddy, harped on transportation difficulties faced by students residing in peripheral neighbourhoods, particularly PK14 and Yassa.

He explained that high transport fares and dependence on commercial motorcycles continue to expose students to financial hardship and road safety risks.

The students consequently proposed the introduction of dedicated bus services connecting residential neighbourhoods to university campuses, particularly during peak hours.

They also raised concerns over inadequate sanitation facilities, irregular water supply and poor waste management across university campuses, calling for stronger collaboration between municipal and university authorities.

On employment, the students appealed for partnerships between the City Council, businesses and academic institutions to facilitate access to internships and professional training opportunities.

Young entrepreneurs equally highlighted difficulties accessing financing and called for greater municipal support for youth-led initiatives.

On their part, physically challenged persons advocated more inclusive municipal policies. They requested improved access to employment, vocational training, entrepreneurship opportunities and educational support for children with disabilities.

They also proposed that free or subsidized public transportation and the provision of authorised commercial spaces to facilitate their economic independence.

They equally stressed that persons with disabilities should not be regarded solely as beneficiaries of social assistance, but as active contributors to the development of the metropolis. 

Responding to the concerns, City Mayor Dr Roger Mbassa Ndinè, commended the young people for their civic engagement and encouraged them to rally behind the vision of building a modern, inclusive and prosperous Douala.

To this regard, Youth Council president for the Wouri, Junior Ambassa Mbouma, noted that the priority is now to ensure effective follow-up on the commitments emerging from the discussions.

He underscored the importance of translating dialogue into concrete action capable of improving the living conditions of youths. To him, the growing expectations among Douala's youth is for a more participatory approach to local governance, where their concerns are not only heard but reflected in municipal development priorities 

The dialogue also featured a video projection of some major municipal achievements in 2026, carried out by youths, alongside interactive exchanges between participants and city authorities.

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3955 of Friday October 30, 2026