In his National Youth Day address on Monday 10 February 2025, President Paul Biya acknowledged the growing concern of irregular migration among Cameroonian youth, calling for a renewed commitment to national development and economic opportunities within the country.
While highlighting government efforts in employment creation, vocational training, and entrepreneurship, the President expressed concern over the increasing number of young people embarking on perilous journeys in search of better livelihoods abroad.
"I can understand the frustration of many of you. Unfortunately, this frustration leads some of you to wander off the beaten path, and to go astray. Others, in desperation, choose the perilous and devious route of illegal immigration, with often tragic outcomes, as we are aware," he stated.
Irregular migration from Cameroon to Europe and the Americas has seen a worrying rise in recent years. The European Commission reported that in 2022 alone, approximately 7.03 million people migrated to the European Union (EU), with irregular migration constituting a small but significant fraction of that number. Many Cameroonian migrants attempt to reach Europe through North African transit routes, facing life-threatening conditions in the Sahara Desert and the Mediterranean Sea.
Similarly, the United States has also witnessed an increase in African migrants, with 52,000 individuals from African countries being apprehended at the U.S.-Mexico border in the fiscal year 2023 according to the Wilson Center. This number includes Cameroonians fleeing economic hardship, unemployment, and political instability.
The primary drivers of irregular migration from Cameroon are economic hardship, unemployment, and limited access to opportunities. Youth unemployment remains a pressing issue despite ongoing government initiatives. President Biya highlighted efforts to bridge the employment gap, including vocational training, professionalisation of education, and the establishment of municipal employment offices.
"Many government services are being mobilised, and substantial financial resources are allocated each year to fight unemployment," he reassured.
However, critics argue that the employment sector has not expanded sufficiently to absorb the growing youth population. The frustration of young people has been exacerbated by rising inflation, limited job openings in the public and private sectors, and political uncertainties.
President Biya has urged young people to explore opportunities in agriculture, entrepreneurship, and digital technology, citing success stories like Samuel Tony Obam Bikoue, who established an agro-industry, and Tata Bakary, who runs a large farming complex.
"You are definitely the most technology-savvy generation. Take advantage of digital technology to create self-employment opportunities and to address the challenges of your time," he encouraged.
Additionally, he highlighted government initiatives such as the Green Jobs Promotion Programme, which aims to create over 10,000 jobs in environmental conservation, waste recycling, and organic farming. Scholarships and vocational training centres are also being expanded to equip young people with practical skills for the job market.
The President also cautioned against being misled by "false and often unachievable promises" from external influences, urging youth to participate constructively in national development. With elections scheduled for later this year, he reminded eligible voters of their civic duty to engage peacefully and responsibly in the democratic process.
Despite government efforts, the reality remains that many young Cameroonians feel compelled to seek better opportunities abroad, sometimes through dangerous and illegal means. While the President’s speech reaffirmed state commitments to job creation and economic growth, the effectiveness of these measures in curbing migration will depend on their implementation and impact on the lives of ordinary citizens.
As Youth Day celebrations continue, the question remains: Will the youth heed the call to invest in their homeland, or will the lure of greener pastures abroad continue to drive irregular migration?
By Bakah Derick
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