Youth Forum on Peace and Governance in Maroua, Cameroon

23 January 2026, Maroua, Cameroon

On 23 January 2026, the city of Maroua, Cameroon, became a vibrant hub for youth dialogue and civic engagement as ComDev Africa hosted the Youth Forum on Peace and Governance at the Multifunctional Youth Centre. The in-person event brought together 211 participants, including civil society leaders, young community leaders, students, and youth delegates, all committed to shaping a more inclusive and peaceful future.

Organized under the AU-EU Youth Voices Lab – Power of the Collective programme, the forum aimed to strengthen youth participation in peacebuilding and governance processes at the local level. Through a dynamic programme of panel discussions and interactive workshops, participants explored key topics such as local governance, civic responsibility, and youth entrepreneurship.

The forum created a platform for meaningful exchange, allowing young people to share experiences, build knowledge, and reflect on their role in decision-making processes. Discussions highlighted the importance of youth-led initiatives in fostering social cohesion and sustainable development within communities.

A participant captured the spirit of the event, stating, “Youth are the engine of change.” This message resonated throughout the day, reinforcing the critical role young people play in driving progress and innovation.

Beyond knowledge-sharing, the forum also contributed to building a strong network of engaged youth in Maroua. By connecting diverse actors—from students to civil society leaders—the initiative laid the groundwork for continued collaboration and local action. By investing in youth leadership and dialogue, the programme continues to advance its vision of a more responsive, participatory, and peaceful society.