Media consultant and editorialist Edmond Kamguia has voiced strong condemnation of the inhumane treatment of Cameroonians in some of the country's businesses. During his appearance on the program "Droit de réponse" (Right of Reply) on Équinoxe TV, he denounced acts of mistreatment, sometimes amounting to torture, perpetrated against Cameroonian employees, particularly in foreign-run businesses.
Kamguia cited shocking images circulating on social media, showing scenes of violence where employees are whipped and abused. He pointed the finger at Chinese, Lebanese, and Indian companies based in Douala and other locations, where such abuses are allegedly commonplace. According to him, these acts are often justified by accusations of theft of food or clothing, but he insisted that such allegations cannot justify acts of torture and violence.
"I say that here in Douala, in some stores and businesses, Cameroonians are mistreated, even tortured. And this is happening under the eyes of our authorities," Kamguia stated. He called on Cameroonian authorities to increase their vigilance and regulate the practices observed in certain foreign companies. He stressed the need to ensure respect for the fundamental rights of Cameroonian workers, in accordance with national laws and the country's international commitments.
Kamguia also emphasized that these abuses are not limited to commercial enterprises but are also observed in the artisanal gold mining and agricultural sectors. He called on the Ministry of External Relations to take a closer look at agreements with China to ensure they do not lead to situations where Cameroonians are treated like slaves.
Edmond Kamguia, a well-known figure in the Cameroonian media landscape, is a staunch defender of freedom of the press and human rights. As an editorialist at Équinoxe TV and a media consultant, he has received several awards for his work. His call for the protection of Cameroonian workers comes amid increasing criticism of working conditions in some foreign companies. The Cameroonian government is urged to take firm action to guarantee the rights of its citizens and put an end to these unacceptable practices.
Cameroon has ratified several international conventions aimed at protecting migrant workers and ensuring equal treatment. However, further efforts are needed to enforce these commitments and to combat corruption and complicity of authorities in cases of abuse.
