By Doh James Sonkey
The Ambassador of the United States of America to Cameroon, Christopher John Lamora, has used the art work of American Photographer, Emily Pinna, to task all in Cameroon to work towards peace.
A photographic exhibition of the Planting Peace Project in Cameroon took place recently at the National Museum in Yaounde
Speaking at the occasion, US Ambassador, Christopher John Lamora said, the exhibition is being done within the framework of World Peace Day observed last September 21, 2024. He said, “This exhibit is a powerful testament to the role of art and human connection in fostering peace and understanding. I also want to express my sincere gratitude to His Excellency, the Apostolic Nuncio, for his unwavering support and commitment to advocating for peace in Cameroon. You’ll recall that today’s event was born of a conversation you and I had over dinner at your Residence a couple of months ago. I thank you for the inspiration. Your leadership in fostering dialogue and promoting harmony is an inspiration to us all”, Lamora said.
He went on that, “today, we are surrounded by the beautiful and profound work of American photographer Emily Pinna. Her photographs capture the innocence and strength of children as they convey powerful messages of peace. As I first viewed these images at the Nuncio’s residence, I was deeply moved by the raw and simple expressions of what peace means to them. Their words and images remind us that peace, at its essence, is innocent, pure, and rooted in love. It is this simplicity that makes peace so powerful, and it reminds us all of the values we must strive for every day.”
Lamora stressed that “but in truth, peace cannot have a set date, because peace should endure forever. Indeed, this exhibition celebrates the incredible potential of youth, art, and storytelling in advancing peace building efforts in Cameroon and beyond. Let us carry their message forward and ensure that the seeds of peace planted here today grow into fruitful actions that uplift our communities.”
The American Diplomat reminded all those present that, “these images and the stories behind them are not just works of art; they are seeds—seeds that we plant today with the hope that their stories will inspire peace across communities. The peace these children envision is the foundation for building stronger, more prosperous nations—not just here in Cameroon, but around the world. My sincere hope is that their messages will inspire all of us to renew our commitment to building a peaceful future. Your presence here signifies a collective commitment to a peaceful Cameroon. Let us leave inspired and ready to continue planting the seeds of peace.”
The event brought together the Ministers of Labour and Social Security, Gregoire Owona, Women Empowerment and the Family, Prof Marie Therese Abena Ondoa, Minister Delegate to the Minister of External Relations in charge of Relations with the Commonwealth, Felix Mbayu, as well as other dignitaries including, the Apostolic Nuncio to Cameroon, Archbishop José Avelino Bettencourt, French Ambassador to Cameroon, Thierry Marchand, National Human Rights and Freedoms, James Mouangue Kobila among others.