Following a welcome address by the representative of the Mayor of Doumé, the Minister performed the traditional symbolic handover of the National Flag and Standard to the Battalion Commander, Lieutenant Colonel Ewang Messape Young. The gesture symbolizes the confidence of the State and entrusts the contingent with the responsibility of representing Cameroon honorably while serving under the United Nations mandate.
In his speech, the Minister Delegate at the Presidency in charge of Defence underscored Cameroon’s leading role in international peacekeeping operations. He noted that among the more than 12,000 MINUSCA peacekeepers drawn from 14 troop-contributing countries, Cameroon remains one of the mission’s principal contributors, with over 1,000 military personnel serving under the United Nations flag. A recognition of the professionalism of Cameroonian soldiers and their mastery of modern defence strategies, tactics, and respect for human rights and ethical standards.
The Minister further called on the military hierarchy to strengthen the participation of women in peace support operations by entrusting them with positions of responsibility and command. In line with United Nations guidelines on gender inclusion and women’s participation in peacekeeping, he encouraged the promotion of female personnel to lead troops and sub-units, thereby enhancing operational effectiveness and fostering inclusive leadership within the mission.
Addressing the troops, the Minister emphasized the importance of strict discipline and adherence to the directives of the military hierarchy. He warned against inappropriate behavior that could tarnish Cameroon’s image and called on the 13th contingent to preserve the image and integrity of Cameroon throughout their mission abroad.
He equally highlighted that state-of-the-art equipment has been made available to them, and they are called upon to use it judiciously to guarantee the successful accomplishment of their mission.
It should be noted that the 13th contingent spent about three months of intense training at the Motcheboum pre-deployment centre to familiarize with the topography which is similar to that of the Central African Republic.
