UPF Cameroon and IAPP Mobilize Parliamentarians for Peace at National Assembly

Written by UPF-Africa

Yaoundé, Cameroon — June 24, 2025

In a significant step toward building lasting peace and national unity, the Universal Peace Federation (UPF) Cameroon and the International Association of Parliamentarians for Peace (IAPP) Cameroon hosted the “Parliamentarians Action Day for Peace” at the National Assembly. The event gathered 67 Members of Parliament and partners under the theme: “Building National Unity by Strengthening Members of Parliament.”

The aim was clear: to sensitize lawmakers on their essential role in resolving the country’s crises through a peace-centered approach in line with the vision of the UPF founders. The initiative was also inspired by the Cameroonian delegation’s recent experience in Korea, led by Vice Speaker Hon. Meboka Muyali Marie Boya, who returned with a renewed commitment to peace advocacy through legislation and interfaith cooperation.

A Program Rich in Insight and Dialogue

The program opened with the Cameroon national anthem, followed by a welcome message from Hon. Emabote Brigitte, President of IAPP Cameroon. Representing the National Assembly leadership, Hon. Meboka Muyali Marie Boya, Vice President of the National Assembly, gave opening remarks that emphasized the urgency of working together across political and ideological lines to restore peace in the nation.

The Nuncio Apostolic of the Vatican in Cameroon also offered a brief word of blessing and encouragement before participants gathered for an official photo.

The conference’s first session featured a Catholic priest who spoke on the theme “Planting Peace in Hearts”, illustrating his message with symbolic images of children planting trees. He was followed by an imam who shared the Islamic perspective on peacebuilding. These spiritual insights set the tone for interreligious harmony.

Next, Rev. Sou Danwere, FFWPU Vice Continental Director and Central Africa Coordinator, gave a presentation on the foundational role of the family in peacebuilding. Rachel Van Iersel, IAPP National Coordinator, introduced UPF’s global vision and its primary associations. She revisited the five principles of Ambassadors for Peace and shared highlights from the World Summit 2025 held in Korea earlier this year.

A dynamic Q&A session followed, led by Hon. Meboka Muyali, in which MPs raised crucial issues, including religious divisions, injustice, and the erosion of moral values in society. A resolution was proposed and unanimously approved, offering practical solutions to reinforce peace efforts nationwide.

Deep Reflections and Collective Resolve

Participants expressed deep appreciation for the program, noting its educational value and emotional impact. Many MPs described the session as eye-opening, particularly on the topic of family breakdown as a root cause of social disorder. Discussions also underscored a shared responsibility across faiths, institutions, and political lines to work together for peace.

One participant noted: “We came in as parliamentarians, but we’re leaving as ambassadors of peace with a responsibility to shape not only policies, but hearts.”

Youth Involvement

Four youth representatives from the second generation of the Heavenly Parent's Holy Community were actively involved, with one offering a musical interlude that touched the hearts of many. Their presence reflected the intergenerational commitment to peace that UPF promotes.

Next Steps

The next phase includes submitting the approved resolutions to the Speaker of the National Assembly for endorsement, followed by advocacy efforts to see them implemented. The organizers also plan to offer continuous capacity-building sessions—both online and in-person—to strengthen parliamentarians’ role in peace processes.

Follow-up will be sustained through social networks, targeted invitations to future events, and direct contact with MPs and key allies.