For three days, the Secretariat of State for Defence in charge of Ex-Servicemen and War Victims (SED/CACVG), in collaboration with national and international experts, civil society organisations and the media, worked intensively to redefine the legal framework in order to strengthen support for war victims.
In this context, the Secretary of State to the Minister of Defence in charge of Ex-Servicemen and War Victims, Mr KOUMPA ISSA, presided over the opening and closing ceremonies of the symposium on 10 and 12 September 2025 respectively, on behalf of the Minister Delegate at the Presidency in charge of Defence.
In his opening address, Mr KOUMPA ISSA reaffirmed the determination of the government to reinforce existing mechanisms and to work closely with national and international partners to ensure effective and sustainable care for war victims. Addressing an audience of top civilian and military officials, he pledged that no aspect of the discussions would be overlooked:
‘…That is why this symposium has been organised with great expectations: strong mobilisation and combination of efforts to provide an effective, high-quality response to war victims, who are eagerly awaiting the results of our work…’
The symposium, held under the theme “War Victims Support: SED/CACVG Response to Key Challenges”, aimed to rethink assistance mechanisms for war victims in light of current humanitarian realities and the imperatives of sustainable development. Deliberations also focused on more humane, inclusive and lasting approaches to addressing the consequences of armed conflict. The Secretary of State expressed the hope that the symposium would pave the way for a comprehensive strategy combining psychological support, socio-economic reintegration and the institutional recognition of victims’ rights.
The event brought together members of government, administrative authorities, top officials of the defence and security forces, experts, representatives of local and international NGOs, the media, and war victims themselves. Beyond the inaugural session on 10 September and the closing special session, 38 expert-led presentations structured the three-day programme. Central to the debates were the definition of war victims, their care and support, professional reconversion, and socio-economic reintegration.
The general report, presented by Colonel-Doctor KALDADAK KOUFAGUED, Chair of the Organising Committee, reviewed the objectives set and formally presented the results achieved. Seven thematic sessions comprising 38 presentations formed the core of the proceedings. These sessions combined presentations with discussions, enabling participants to derive maximum benefit. At the close of deliberations, several resolutions were adopted, underscoring the stakeholders’ resolve to reinforce government policy on the management of war victims. In this regard, the establishment of a dedicated legal framework was recommended to strengthen policies and programmes of support. Having risked their lives in defence of the homeland, they will forever be honoured by a grateful nation.
In his closing remarks, Mr KOUMPA ISSA expressed his gratitude to all participants for their strong mobilisation, their commitment to the cause of war victims, and the achievement of the objectives set:
“…I would like to assure you that the general report just presented to us fully meets our expectations”.
This first symposium, the outcome of a collective endeavour, marked a decisive step forward in recognising and supporting war victims in Cameroon. It was an enriching gathering dedicated to memory and remembrance, resilience and the duty of solidarity towards those who served the nation with honour and loyalty.
“…I assure you that the recommendations arising from these proceedings will be put to judicious and practical use by the government, so that the care of war victims will see clear and tangible improvements…”, concluded the Secretary of State to the Minister of Defence in charge of Ex-Servicemen and War Victims. 
