As Cameroon celebrated the International Day of the African Child on June 16th, discussions surrounding the country's laws on abortion and child protection online have continued to raise concerns among the youth. These issues, alongside the need for greater access to ICT education, highlight the complex challenges facing young people in the country.
Under Cameroon's Penal Code Law, abortion is not banned but is heavily restricted. Any woman procuring or consenting to her own abortion can face imprisonment or a fine, while those who procure the abortion of a woman without her consent can face even harsher penalties. However, the law does allow for abortion in cases where the mother's life is in danger or where the pregnancy resulted from rape.
These restrictions have led to confusion among many young people as to what their rights are when it comes to reproductive health. While the government has made efforts to promote a culture of cybersecurity and responsible social media use, concerns have also been raised about the risks that young people face online.
Legalizing abortion could have several advantages for young people in Cameroon. Eveline Kum, a social worker in Yaoundé says abortion should be allowed only specific situations. “It could reduce infant mortality by allowing for the safe termination of high-risk pregnancies, lowering the number of infants born with medical conditions who may not survive” she states. “This could also improve child and maternal health by allowing women with medical complications to have safe abortions, preserving their health and ability to have future healthy children.”
Women's empowerment groups are advocating for legal abortions to empower women by giving them more control over their reproductive choices, a key element of gender equality and women's empowerment. When women have autonomy, their children benefit, leading to better outcomes for families and communities, they say.
Children’s Online Rights
Speaking at a recent event organized by the observatory on the Rights and Welfare of the Child for Central Africa (ODEAC), the Minister of Posts and Telecommunications, Minette Libom Li Likeng, reassured the public of the government's commitment to protecting children's rights online. She highlighted the need for greater awareness of the risks that children face online and the importance of protective measures to ensure their safety.
The event, which was held in prelude to the International Day of the African Child, provided a platform for children to advocate for their rights and to raise awareness of the risks associated with social media use. During the event, the Junior Parliamentarian of Yaounde 3, Nadine Annie Ndongmo, spoke about the different forms of violence that children face and the advantages and disadvantages of social media for children.
The Minister noted that 90% of children who are connected online are registered on social media platforms such as WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, and Twitter, with more than half of them being connected 12 hours out of every 24. These statistics highlight the need for greater awareness of the risks that children face online and the importance of protective measures to ensure their safety.
Access To ICT
In addition to concerns surrounding reproductive health and child protection online, there is also a growing need for greater access to ICT education for young people in Cameroon. The recent World Day of the Girl in ICT saw six award-winning girl groups recognized for their efforts to promote ICT education and inspire more young women to pursue careers in the field.
While there are certainly challenges facing young people in Cameroon, there are also many reasons for optimism. The government's commitment to protecting children's rights online and promoting a culture of cybersecurity is a positive step, as is the recognition of the importance of ICT education for young people. As Cameroon's youth continue to advocate for their rights and push for change, there is hope that these complex issues can be addressed and that the country's future will be a bright one.
Sa'ah Siona Ikei, The Post Newspaper.
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