On 29 November 2024, at the Mont-Febe Hotel in Yaoundé, the Ministry of Social Affairs (MINAS) and the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) signed a revised Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) consolidating their partnership initiated in 2019 for the protection of indigenous peoples' rights and the conservation of biodiversity in Cameroon.

This revision, which follows an in-depth evaluation of the

previous agreement, is an important milestone in the collaboration between the two institutions. According to the Minister of Social Affairs, this new version of the agreement reflects the Cameroonian government's strong commitment to ensuring coherence between environmental and social policies. In particular, it aims to ensure that the rights of indigenous peoples are better taken into account in the conservation of ecosystems and to improve their social, economic and cultural well-being.

Clear and ambitious objectives

This revised MOU is based on fundamental principles which aim to

1. Protect the rights of indigenous peoples: The partnership focuses on the active participation of indigenous peoples in the management of their lands and natural resources, while ensuring their inclusion in conservation projects.
2. Contribute to the conservation of biodiversity: Cameroon, with its unique biodiversity, is facing major environmental challenges. This partnership with WWF aims to strengthen efforts to conserve ecosystems, while reconciling these actions with the needs of vulnerable communities.
3. Promote sustainable social development: In addition to conserving nature, the revised MOU aims to improve the living conditions of indigenous peoples by integrating social, economic and cultural dimensions into environmental initiatives.

A shared vision for a sustainable future

This strengthened partnership embodies the desire of MINAS and WWF to work together for a fairer and more sustainable future. The signing of this agreement also reflects the commitment of the Cameroonian government to ensure that environmental policies go hand in hand with social policies. Protecting human rights and conserving the environment are two priorities for harmonious development.

In the months and years to come, the two institutions hope that this partnership will advance the rights of indigenous peoples while conserving Cameroon's exceptional biodiversity for future generations. MINAS and WWF are committed to ensuring that the country's natural resources are managed in an inclusive, equitable and sustainable manner.

Conclusion

This revised Memorandum of Understanding, signed by MINAS and WWF, reaffirms their shared desire to strengthen synergies between social protection and nature conservation. This partnership paves the way for closer collaboration in favour of a fairer, greener and more sustainable Cameroon.

MINAS and WWF are determined to ensure a better future for the country's indigenous people, while conserving the country's vital ecosystems.

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