The military crackdown by the Cameroonian government has turned the lives of civilians in the Northwest and Southwest regions into a living nightmare. Since 2017, after the declaration of Ambazonian independence, the government’s military response has been brutal and has affected innocent people, leaving many with fear and heartache.

At first, peaceful protests were held by Anglophone communities who were simply asking for their rights. But as the movement gained strength, the government responded with overwhelming force. The military’s attacks didn’t just target separatists—it also turned on whole communities. Villages were burned, homes destroyed, and people—many of whom were not involved in the conflict—were dragged from their homes, arrested, tortured, and sometimes killed simply because they were suspected of supporting separatists.

Imagine this: a family, going about their daily life, when out of nowhere, soldiers storm into their home. They set it on fire, taking everything, leaving the family with only the clothes they’re wearing. They must flee, not knowing where to go or when they’ll be safe again. This is a daily reality for many in the affected areas. The military used tactics like random shootings, taking people from their homes without explanation, and burning down entire villages to destroy any sense of stability. Families who weren’t even involved in the conflict were dragged into the violence. Many lost their lives or loved ones in the process.

The impact on civilian infrastructure has been devastating. Schools once filled with children eager to learn are now abandoned or reduced to rubble. The government’s forces deliberately targeted educational institutions, turning schools into places of fear. Children have lost not only their homes but their futures, as entire generations have been deprived of the education that could have given them hope.

The destruction of healthcare facilities has worsened the situation. Hospitals and health centres were destroyed, leaving people without access to even basic medical care. Health workers were forced to flee or became displaced themselves, and now, those who need help the most are left without options. Families watch their loved ones suffer without the possibility of help.

Perhaps the most heartbreaking consequence of the military crackdown has been the displacement of over 500,000 people. Families have been forced to leave their homes and become refugees, some fleeing into neighbouring Nigeria, others displaced within Cameroon itself. Many live in makeshift shelters with no access to food, clean water, or medical aid. Fathers, mothers, and children, once safe in their homes, now face uncertainty and fear every day.

The economy has also been destroyed. Agriculture, the primary livelihood for many, has been disrupted as farmers flee for their safety. Roads have been torn up, making it nearly impossible to transport goods. The markets that once flourished are now empty. What was once a thriving region is now suffering from extreme poverty.

The psychological impact on the people has been severe. The constant fear, loss, and uncertainty have left deep emotional scars. Children, robbed of their innocence, are growing up in a world filled with violence. Families who have lost everything now face the daunting challenge of rebuilding their lives in the face of such trauma.

The government’s military crackdown has only worsened the situation. The cycle of violence continues, and the issues of marginalization and discrimination have not been addressed. The people of the Anglophone regions need a peaceful political solution, not more violence. The international community must step in to ensure that dialogue and compromise can replace the bloodshed.

Until a solution is found, the suffering will continue. The people of the Anglophone regions deserve peace, and the world cannot turn a blind eye any longer.

Author: William Mbe Anchie