By Engah Peter Parkers
The national Civic Service Agency for Participation and Development under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Civic education has celebrated the International Volunteers Day with a series of activities in Fako Division, South West Region of Cameroon.
The celebration, which took place at the beach front in Limbe, was led by the Regional Chief of National Civic Service for Participation in Development, Rose Mwambo. In her address, she called on the population to always volunteer by giving their time, energy, and skills for the benefit of their community without any necessary financial compensation.
With this year’s celebration taking place under the theme “every contribution matter”, Mwambo emphasised that volunteerism is not for particular individuals but it’s a call for all, especially those who want to have an impact on their community. She equally encouraged the youths who are at the ages of 17 -21 who are yet to be trained as Conscript to get themselves enrolled when the time comes as the oon-month training takes place between the months of July to August every year.
The celebration in Limbe brought together staff of the Fako divisional delegation of Youth Affairs and Civic Education, Cameroon National Youth Council, Conscript, and some local youth groups who joyously took their time and energy to keep the city clean.
Speaking at the celebration, the Divisional Delegate for Youth Affairs and Civic education for Fako, Musongo Essomba Junior, saluted the brave effort and their time just to make sure that the city of Limbe is clean. He used the occasion to call on others, including stakeholders, to always cultivate the spirit of volunteering in their different neighbourhood and community for the benefit of all.
The International Volunteers Day is celebrated annually on December 5, and this year’s celebration was marked by a call to action for young people to get involved in volunteer work and make a positive impact on their communities.
As the celebration came to a close, participants were encouraged to continue cultivating the spirit of volunteerism and to work together to create a happy and resilient community.
According to Rose Mwambo, Volunteerism is an essential aspect of community development, and it plays a significant role in promoting social cohesion and community engagement. It is an opportunity for individuals to give back to their communities and make a positive impact on the lives of others. In Cameroon, volunteerism is a vital component of community development, and it is encouraged by the government and other stakeholders. The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Civic education has been at the forefront of promoting volunteerism and civic engagement among young people.
Volunteerism has numerous benefits, both for the individual, the community and the nation at large. Some of the benefits of volunteerism include: Personal growth and development: Volunteerism provides an opportunity for individuals to develop new skills and gain experience in different areas.
-Social connections: Volunteerism provides an opportunity for individuals to meet new people and make friends. Improved mental health: Volunteerism has been shown to improve mental health and reduce stress. Community development: Volunteerism is an effective way to make a positive impact on the community and promote social cohesion.
Challenges facing Volunteerism in SW
Despite the importance of volunteerism, there are challenges facing volunteerism in South including limited awareness: Many people are not aware of the importance of volunteerism and the benefits it provides.