Unity, Discipline and Patriotism Mark Opening Rehearsals for National Unit Day
The first parade rehearsals at the May 20 Boulevard for the 54th edition of Cameroon’s National Day celebrations took place on May 17, 2026 at the 20th May Boulevard in Yaounde, under the theme: “National Unity: Backbone of Our Defence System, Bedrock of Cameroon’s Development.”

The event unfolded in a vibrant and highly disciplined atmosphere, further enhanced by the presence of the Minister Delegate at the Presidency in charge of Defence, Beti Assomo Joseph, alongside several senior military officials. Beneath a bright and sunny sky, the various components of the Cameroonian Defence and Security Forces, joined by the Penitentiary Administration and the Cameroon Customs Administration, demonstrated remarkable enthusiasm and determination throughout the exercises. The fly-past rehearsal equally added prestige and excitement to the occasion.

‎The ceremony commenced with a colourful musical display by the Main Band of the National Gendarmerie, which performed the patriotic tune “One Cameroon.” Attention then shifted to the Commander of Troops, Brigadier General Chembou Zambou Guy Merlin, Commander of Sector 1 of the Multinational Joint Task Force of the Lake Chad Basin Commission and his deputy, Colonel Mbarga Benjamin Patrick, Technical Adviser to the Secretary of State in charge of the National Gendarmerie. Both officers led the march-past with precision and discipline, fully embodying the qualities of exemplary leadership.

‎Within the various parade formations, headed by section commanders, the spirit of camaraderie and professionalism was evident. Participants worked collectively towards excellence, correcting mistakes promptly in an atmosphere marked by cooperation, learning and mutual support.

‎At the close of the rehearsal, the Minister Delegate at the Presidency in charge of Defence addressed the troops with words of encouragement, further boosting morale and reinforcing the participants’ commitment ahead of the grand celebration on May 20,2026.

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