Cameroon is home to thousands of refugees from neighboring countries, primarily the Central African Republic and Nigeria. These individuals were forced to flee due to security concerns and are being managed through a framework combining national policy with international humanitarian partnerships. This approach aims to preserve their dignity, rights, and access to basic social amenities. The framework has been crucial in addressing the needs of these vulnerable populations.
On October 27, 2026, Minister Delegate to the Minister of External Relations in charge of Cooperation with the Commonwealth, Felix Mbayu, met with Yvette Muhimpundu, the Multi-Country Representative of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in Cameroon. The meeting focused on evaluating the progress made in refugee management since the beginning of the year and discussing the new vision of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees.
During the meeting, Mbayu and Muhimpundu expressed satisfaction with the close cooperation between the Cameroonian government and the UNHCR regarding the protection of forcibly displaced people. The Minister provided an update on the work of the Refugee Status Eligibility Commission, established by the State to issue refugee status documents to applicants. This commission plays a vital role in formalizing the status of refugees in Cameroon.
The collaboration between the government and the UNHCR has been instrumental in addressing the challenges faced by refugees in Cameroon. The country has made significant strides in ensuring that refugees have access to basic services and are protected from harm. The meeting between Mbayu and Muhimpundu highlighted the importance of continued cooperation in this area.
The UNHCR has been working closely with the Cameroonian government to ensure that refugees receive the necessary support and protection. The agency has been providing assistance to refugees, including access to education, healthcare, and livelihood opportunities. This support has been crucial in enabling refugees to rebuild their lives in Cameroon.
The Refugee Status Eligibility Commission has been working to issue refugee cards to applicants, providing them with a vital document that formalizes their status in the country. This process has been essential in ensuring that refugees have access to basic services and are able to integrate into Cameroonian society.
The meeting between Mbayu and Muhimpundu concluded with a commitment to continued cooperation and collaboration in the management of refugees in Cameroon. The two officials recognized the importance of working together to address the challenges faced by refugees and to ensure that they receive the necessary support and protection.
Key points
- The Cameroonian government and the UNHCR are working together to protect and support refugees in the country.
- The Refugee Status Eligibility Commission has been established to issue refugee status documents to applicants.
- The collaboration between the government and the UNHCR has been instrumental in addressing the challenges faced by refugees in Cameroon.
