Commemorative activities to mark the 2016 Commonwealth Day took place yesterday in Yaounde in a ceremony chaired by the Minister of External Relations.

Cameroon joined other member countries of the Commonwealth yesterday March 14, to celebrate the 2016 edition of the Commonwealth Day on the theme “An Inclusive Commonwealth”. Commemorative activities took place at the courtyard of the Yaounde City Hall chaired by External Relations Minister, Lejeune Mbella Mbella in the presence of several members of government, High Commissioners of Great Britain, Canada, and South Africa among other national and diplomatic dignitaries.   

In a keynote address, the Minister Delegate in the Ministry of External Relations in charge with cooporation with the Commonwealth, Chief Dr Joseph Dion Ngute, stressed that the theme “An inclusive Commonwealth” is an appeal to member countries to build inclusive society; a society that incorporates different segments of the socio-political components in government decision-making and management policies. He emphasised on the need for the development of community resilience, stronger social bond which he said are vital components of national development strategy.

Speaking on behalf of the Commonwealth High Commissioners in Yaounde, the South African High Commissioner, Her Excellency Zanele Makina, noted that the theme is a clarion call to all and not only Commonwealth countries especially in the face of wars and the terrorism scourge. She mentioned tolerance, equity and respect as Commonwealth values contained in its charter which should be promoted across the globe as she pledged the support of the member countries to stand by Cameroon in her bid to promote inclusiveness.

Apart from the reading of the Queen’s message that stressed on a harmonious society, the celebrations were also characterised by award of prizes to young Cameroonians who participated in this year’s essay competition organised for the event. While Ngwa Joy-Jude from Sacred Heart College Mankon won the first prize for Secondary School students, Cecima Nchang Suh grabbed the prize for Primary school pupils.

Achaleke Christian Leke was also recognised for the 2016 Excellence Award in development work; an award that was handed to the Youth Commonwealth Ambassador for Cameroon yesterday in England by the Queen. The event was spiced by cultural displays which all showcased the practice of inclusiveness in the Cameroonian society.