Accelerate Accompanying Efforts

In the past years, Cameroon’s defence and se­ curity forces have engaged in different fronts in their line of duty to protect the territorial so­ vereignty and integrity of the Fatherland. It be­ gan with the clash between Cameroon and Ni­ geria over the oil-rich Bakassi peninsular in the 1990s. Then came the attacks of Boko Haram terrorist group in the Far North Region in 2014 and few years later, the secessionist group sho­ wed up in the North West and South West Re­ gions. In its traditional role of protecting the so­ vereignty, territorial integrity and the people of Cameroon, the Defence and Security Forces res­ ponded adequately to the various threats. In the course of protecting the territorial integrity of the Republic of Cameroon, some soldiers un­ fortunately lost their lives, making an ultimate sacrifice of their blood for the Fatherland. Meanwhile, others survived with war scars that will always remind them of their contribution to peace, unity, stability and territorial integrity of the country. As ex-servicemen today, they are looking behind with unforgettable memories of service to the nation which they rendered with patriotism, loyalty and discipline. As the saying goes, to whom much is given, much is expected. The ex-service-men and war victims are today looking up to the State not just for compensation for their sacrifices but also to honour the memories of the fallen sol­ diers. In 2010, President Paul Biya, who is the Commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces, an­ nounced the creation of the Secretariat of State for Defence in charge of Ex-Servicemen and War Victims during the celebration of the 50th anniversary of Cameroon Army. The structure with a mission to pay tribute to military person­ nel who served the flag, support ex-service­ men, former military personnel and war victims and help them to reintegrate into civilian life as well as preserve the memory of those who died for the Fatherland, went operational in 2011. Through the National Office of Ex-Servicemen, former soldiers and war victims of Cameroon (ONACAM), the government has been providing social and material support, medical a...