A new alleged case of child abuse has sparked outrage in Douala, specifically in the Nyalla neighborhood. An 11-year-old girl reportedly told her parents that she had been repeatedly abused by a neighbor. The events allegedly took place under the threat of a weapon.
The alleged assailant was reportedly caught in the act by a teenager before fleeing. The case quickly ignited social media, sparking strong reactions and calls for swift action by the authorities.
This new incident highlights the persistent problem of child protection in Cameroon and the need to strengthen mechanisms for preventing and reporting violence. The authorities have not yet commented on the progress of the investigation. The public is awaiting clarification and justice for the victim.
Violence against children remains a major problem in Cameroon. In September 2025, the Minister of Women's Empowerment and the Family, Marie Thérèse Abena Ondoa, reaffirmed the government's commitment to making child protection an "absolute priority". This statement followed the release of a video showing a young girl being abused, causing widespread outrage.
UNICEF is working closely with the Cameroonian government to strengthen legal and institutional frameworks, implement prevention mechanisms at the community level, and improve responses to child protection issues. The organization also supports government efforts to create a protective environment for children, including combating harmful practices, violence and exploitation.
Cameroon has ratified several international legal instruments relating to the rights of the child, including the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child and the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child. Despite these commitments and national measures, cases of child abuse remain frequent, highlighting the scale of the challenge.
If child abuse is suspected, the Cameroonian government encourages the public to report cases by calling the toll-free hotline 116, which has been available since December 2022. Everyone's vigilance is essential to ensure the safety and well-being of children. The police are conducting the investigation to apprehend the suspect and bring him to justice.
