Yaoundé: Government Declares Zero Tolerance as Femicide and Child Abuse Cases Surge

The Government of Cameroon has issued a stern warning to perpetrators of violence against women and children, describing the recent surge in femicide, rape and child abuse as “barbaric acts” that will be met with full force of the law.

The message was delivered during a joint press conference at the Ministry of Communication, bringing together officials from the Ministries of Women’s Empowerment and the Family, Social Affairs, and Public Health, alongside other sectoral actors.

Officials revealed that femicide cases have continued to rise, with 50 recorded in 2023, 67 in 2024 and 77 in 2025, with early 2026 figures confirming a persistent upward trend. They noted with concern that many of the killings are committed by individuals known to the victims, including partners, relatives and close acquaintances.

On violence against children, government officials cited a string of shocking cases recorded across Yaoundé, Douala, Kribi, Manjo and Bertoua, involving rape, murder and severe abuse of minors, often within supposed safe environments such as homes and neighbourhoods.

They condemned the perpetrators in strong terms, warning that anyone found guilty of such crimes “will face the full severity of the law without compromise.” Officials stressed that these acts are not only criminal, but constitute grave violations of human dignity and the social contract.

The Government outlined ongoing response measures, including victim support services, psychosocial care, emergency medical assistance, legal aid, and reintegration programmes for survivors. It also noted the existence of around 100 “safe spaces” nationwide for victims of gender-based violence.

Authorities highlighted the strengthening of gender desks in police and gendarmerie units, specialised child protection structures, and toll-free hotlines to facilitate rapid reporting and intervention.

Preventive actions include intensified awareness campaigns on positive parenting, community sensitisation on non-violence, and reinforced training for security, judicial and health personnel handling abuse cases.

Cameroon’s legal framework, including the Criminal Code and laws on child protection, trafficking and cybercrime, was reaffirmed, alongside international conventions ratified by the country.

Officials insisted that impunity will not be tolerated and urged communities to expose perpetrators, stressing that silence or protection of offenders contributes to further tragedies.

The press conference ended with a renewed call for vigilance and collective action, but with a clear message: those who prey on women and children will be pursued, prosecuted and punished.

By Lasha Kingsly