By Ikome Christie-Noella Eposi in Buea
The South West Regional Delegation of Social Affairs launched activities marking the 31st edition of the International Day of Indigenous and Tribal Population, celebrated this year under the theme “Indigenous Peoples and Artificial Intelligence (AI): Defending Rights, Shaping the Future.” The ceremony which held at the Cameroon Cultural Centre in Buea recently, brought together government officials, civil society leaders, and representatives of indigenous communities to spotlight the role of AI in promoting inclusion, protecting rights, and shaping sustainable futures for vulnerable populations.
The Regional Delegate for Social Affairs, Njie Fidelis Ewumbue, expressed satisfaction with the quality and richness of discussions during the week-long preparatory activities, highlighting the innovative approach adopted for this year’s celebrations. He revealed that although the UN-designated date for the event is August 9, the South West celebration will take place on August 12 in Tiko, to allow for additional preparatory activities. “This year, we are integrating new methods to ensure our communities are well-informed so that we face fewer challenges,” he said, adding that the approach will be replicated for upcoming events such as the International Day of the Elderly on October 1 and the International Day for Persons with Disabilities on December 3.
In an interview with the press, the Regional Delegate underlined the importance of narrowing the global AI discourse to the realities of indigenous and tribal populations in Cameroon. He emphasised that the focus is not only on explaining AI but also on identifying sectors where it can directly improve indigenous livelihoods. “Our role is to coordinate, disseminate new innovations, and ensure that stakeholders work alongside indigenous populations in planning, execution, and evaluation,” he noted.
-Understanding the theme
The Regional Chief for National Solidarity and Fight Against Social Ills, Ngechu Maglise, provided background on the theme’s relevance. She noted that Cameroon joined the global observance of the day in 2008, and while the world marks its 31st edition this year, it is the country’s 18th. Indigenous peoples in Cameroon include the Mbororo, Baka, Bakola/Bagyeli, and Bedzan communities groups that represent a unique cultural heritage yet face socio-economic marginalisation.
She explained that AI should be seen as a complement to indigenous knowledge rather than a threat. “AI can foster critical thinking, provide in-demand job skills, overcome language barriers, enhance inclusiveness, and even support climate adaptation,” she said. The theme also calls for the protection of indigenous intellectual property, cultural heritage, and traditional knowledge.
-Spotlight on the Mbororo community
A situational report presented by Mr. Manu revealed that there are about 13,000 Mbororo inhabitants in the South West Region, though the number is likely higher due to displacements caused by the Anglophone crisis. Concentrated in towns like Buea, Mutengene, and Limbe, they face challenges such as land disputes, limited access to education and healthcare, and social discrimination.
Traditionally pastoralists, the Mbororo are diversifying into farming, small businesses, and capacity-building initiatives. AI is already helping them monitor livestock movements and improve pasture management, bridging communication gaps that once hindered development.
-Municipal and national commitment
Speaking on behalf of the Mayor of Buea, Enjema Lyonga welcomed participants to the city and reaffirmed the council’s commitment to supporting indigenous rights. She noted that the government is working with civil society, NGOs, and partners such as WWF to recognise indigenous land and resource rights, promote inclusive elections, and integrate indigenous concerns into national development strategies.
She urged stakeholders to reflect deeply on this year’s theme, stressing the need to involve indigenous communities in AI-driven strategies for agriculture, healthcare, education, and job creation. “We must promote made-in-Cameroon AI solutions rooted in African values,” she said.
-Looking ahead
The celebrations will feature awareness campaigns, ICT and AI training for indigenous communities across the ten regions, and ongoing inter-ministerial collaboration. The expected outcomes include increased access to citizenship documentation, enhanced social inclusion, and stronger indigenous participation in the digital economy.
With over 476 million indigenous people worldwide representing 6.2% of the global population but 15% of the world’s poor, advocates say AI can be a game-changer if applied responsibly. As the South West prepares for the August 12 celebration in Tiko, the message is clear: technology must serve as a bridge to empowerment, not a barrier to identity and rights.