Building Bridges: From reflection town hall meetings to footballing for peace 

The journey began with a Diaspora Town Hall Meeting in Berlin, held at Makenene Restaurant, where the initiative was introduced to the local Cameroonian community. The event aimed to raise awareness about the ongoing conflict in Cameroon and brainstorm potential roles for the diaspora in contributing to peacebuilding efforts. Participants from various backgrounds and perspectives exchanged their thoughts on advocacy, peace, and possible collaborations. The discussion provided valuable insights into how the diaspora could use its influence to help mitigate the crisis.

  ‘On est fou de foot’ is a popular Cameroonian statement meaning ‘ we are crazy about football. In 2023, the focus shifted to sports as a unifying platform. The Cameroon Diaspora Football Calendar was created with the goal of  documenting football teams in Berlin. This project helped us engage with the diaspora in a cultural dynamic understanding underlying pinings and dynamics of running football associations as migrant groups in Berlin. Our final output was not just the calendar but the year-long engagement process in this football subject engaged the football community in meaningful discussions about the conflict and the role sports can play in peacebuilding. By bringing together athletes and fans, the calendar became a symbol of unity while sparking conversations about the conflict in Cameroon. The project was a successful example of using a shared passion for football to fuel dialogue and action.

Panel Discussions and Moderated Events: Amplifying Voices

In 2024, the initiative expanded its reach with online panel discussions that included a wide range of voices from the diaspora. These virtual events featured Cameroonians of various ages, genders, and cultural backgrounds, ensuring diverse representation and perspectives. The panels discussed not only the political and social dimensions of the conflict but also the role of the diaspora in contributing to peace efforts. These discussions became a platform for diaspora members worldwide to exchange ideas and reflect on how they could engage in peacebuilding back home. Featuring in these prominently were the subject of online hatespeech and prospective roles the diaspora can play in mitigating misinformation and disinformation. 

In addition to online engagements, the r0g office in Berlin hosted two moderated events titled “Navigating Bamenda”. These events featured special guests from Bamenda, Cameroon, who shared firsthand experiences of living and working in the heart of the conflict. Nduku, a community mobilizer and activist, shared a hopeful and resilient message about the spirit of the people living in Bamenda. Stella Mbuh, a journalist, spoke about the challenges of reporting from within the conflict zone, shedding light on the role of media in peacebuilding. These events provided invaluable perspectives and sparked important conversations on how the diaspora can support the people on the ground.

Expanding Outreach and collaboration : The Osnabrück Town Hall

In November 2024, the initiative took another step forward by organizing a physical town hall event in Osnabrück, Germany. Together with local partner organisation: Bridge builders e.V, the one day event was yet another moment of encountering Cameroonians of all works of life along other Africans living within the Osnabrück area. This event focused on engaging Cameroonians in the city of Osnabrück in dialogue about the conflict in Cameroon. It provided a platform for attendees to share their perspectives on the crisis and explore potential solutions as a community. The event fostered an environment of open discussion and unity, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in addressing the challenges facing Cameroon.

A Continued Commitment to Peacebuilding

While the journey has been full of challenges, including the diverse views within the diaspora logistical hurdles,and a scorching difficulty in mobilisation,  the Cameroon Diaspora Dialogues initiative has made great strides in fostering unity, collaboration, and awareness. By engaging the diaspora through various activities, from town halls to football initiatives and panel discussions, the project has created opportunities for diaspora members to contribute meaningfully to conflict transformation in Cameroon.

The initiative has also provided invaluable opportunities for diaspora members to engage with one another, learn from the experiences of those living in Cameroon, and collaborate on potential solutions for the crisis. The Cameroon Diaspora Dialogues is not just about raising awareness, but also about creating pathways for actionable change. It is about amplifying the voices of those living abroad and ensuring that the diaspora plays an active role in shaping the future of Cameroon. By using online platforms, live streaming and digital tools, we strive to encounter or reach out to Cameroonians living abroad irrespective of geographical location.

Challenges 

In the Defyhatenow Cameroon Diaspora Dialogue Initiative, everything has not been a bed of roses. One of the main challenges we face so far has been mobilizing participants. Many Cameroonians abroad are already juggling numerous responsibilities, from paying bills to sending remittances home, making political engagement a lower priority. On top of this, we face financial constraints. Without a dedicated funding allocation for the diaspora initiative, we had to make the most of a limited budget, which certainly made things more creative than we would have liked. It’s easy to imagine the potential if there were a clear and sustainable fund for this cause.

Cultural differences also presented some challenges, particularly when it came to timekeeping. “Cameroonian time” is a very real phenomenon, and punctuality at events often became a bit… flexible. Collaborating across different time norms required extra patience and understanding. Additionally, the fear of expressing opinions on sensitive political topics remains prevalent, even among those living abroad. Many participants tended to be cautious, and it’s understandable given the delicate nature of these discussions.

With a little more support from Cameroonian embassies abroad, we believe we could overcome some of these challenges and foster a more open and engaging dialogue.

Looking Forward

As the Cameroon Diaspora Dialogues initiative moves forward, there is a continued commitment to fostering unity and collective action within the diaspora. With a focus on expanding outreach, strengthening partnerships, and creating more opportunities for meaningful engagement, the initiative aims to build on the successes of the past two years and continue advocating for peace and stability in Cameroon.

The journey is far from over, and the potential for positive change is immense. Through collaboration, solidarity, and dialogue, the Cameroonian diaspora can make a powerful contribution to the ongoing peacebuilding efforts in their home country. Together, the Cameroon Diaspora Dialogues will continue to pave the way for encounter,dialogue ,exchange and calling to action in view of a long lasting solution to the conflict in Cameroon. 

More information can be found on our website: https://defyhatenow.org/cameroon/diaspora-dialogues/

In today’s world, where conflicts and tensions continue to plague nations, it is crucial that we take proactive steps to create a culture of peace. By fostering dialogue and understanding among diverse groups, we can begin to bridge divides and address the root causes of violence. This event serves as a shining example of how we can work together towards a common goal: a peaceful and prosperous society for all. 

In his August 2024 remarks on the 25th Anniversary of the Adoption of the Declaration and Programme of Action on a Culture of Peace, the President of the UN General Assembly Mr. Dennis Francis called for a collective and continued action by various stakeholders such as governments, the UN system, youth organizations, academia, civil society, development institutions and media. More importantly, we recognize the relentless technical and funding efforts that the UN agencies and development partners in Cameroon and across Africa are making to ensure attainment of peace amidst heightening political tensions. These efforts echo that attaining peace entails going beyond conflict resolution to include bettering human lives through respect for life, socio-economic empowerment, education, and good governance.

Hence, the Pan African University cannot overstate the significance of education in nurturing African future leaders who would embody empathy, collaboration, good governance, and cultural tolerance, for the achievement of the continent’s stability. This corresponds to the UN’s emphasis on the ideas of peace and the culture of peace that needs to be cultivated in the minds of children and communities through formal and informal education across countries and generations.

The primary objective of this event is to raise awareness among youth about the significance of a culture of peace. The event will provide them with valuable insights and practical skills that will enable them to become agents of change in their communities. By targeting students of the Pan African University, located in Yaoundé and Buea, this event aims to reach a wide audience and inspire them to take action for peace.

Expected outcomes for this event centers around increased awareness of the importance of cultivating a culture of peace, exchange of ideas on the best approaches to sustainable peace, increased cultural tolerance among the diverse cultures in Cameroon and across Africa and the  increased advocacy for policies that support peacebuilding, understanding and the respect for fundamental human rights.

This event is open to state authorities, United Nations agencies, diplomatic corps, development partners, media, academics, civil society, and university students from the Pan African University and University of Yaounde I and II. 

During the two-day event, participants will have the opportunity to attend workshops and panel discussions on various aspects of peace building. These sessions will cover topics such as conflict resolution, reconciliation, social cohesion, and the role of youth in peace processes. Through interactive discussions and hands-on activities, participants will gain a deeper understanding of the importance of peace as a foundation for sustainable development.

Furthermore, the event will emphasize the need for youth to become active participants in peace processes. By encouraging youth to take action in their communities, these conversations will foster a sense of ownership and empowerment in the participants. 

The event will equally advocate for policies and programs that support peacebuilding among communities. By engaging with local policymakers and stakeholders, participants can gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities that exist in promoting a culture of peace in Cameroon, in Africa and the world too. This advocacy work is crucial in ensuring that actions taken during the event have a lasting impact beyond the immediate time frame.

The collaborative event between PAUGHSS and #defyhatenow is a remarkable initiative that aims to create a culture of peace in Cameroon and Africa. By engaging youth and promoting dialogue and understanding, the event aims to foster inclusive societies and pave the way for sustainable peace. Urging all to take this opportunity to participate and contribute to the journey towards a more peaceful and harmonious world. Let us defyhateNOW and create a future where peace, empathy, tolerance, acceptance and love prevails.

Participants are expected to leave the event with a renewed commitment to promoting peace in their own communities. They will have gained valuable skills in conflict resolution and peacebuilding, which they can apply in real-world scenarios. Despite leaving the event with newfound skills and motivation, participants may face challenges such as resistance from community members who may turn out to be reluctant to change but the strategy is to let them see that positive change is possible and that everyone can contribute in making that happen because we all have a role to play in building a peaceful and secure environment for everyone to live and thrive in. 

Hashtags:

#PeaceBuilding  #Act4Peace #HateFreeCameroon #ThinkB4UClick  #Youth4Peace, #CultureOfPeace

This year’s conference, co-organised by Build Up and Climate Conflict Action, is taking place in Manila, Philippines from November 14-16, 2024 under the theme “Pushing Frontiers, From the Ground Up“, 

The main objective of Build Peace 2024 is to spark new thinking and collaborations in the field of peacebuilding. By pushing the frontiers and exploring new approaches, this conference aims to inspire participants to think outside the box and challenge traditional methods of conflict resolution. Through interactive workshops, panel discussions, and networking sessions, attendees will have the opportunity to learn from each other and gain new insights into how to build peace from the ground up. The conference will also focus on the role of innovation in peacebuilding. With the rapid advancements in technology, there is a growing need to explore how these innovations can be used for peacebuilding and conflict resolution. Attendees will have the chance to learn about cutting-edge technologies and their potential applications in peacebuilding efforts. 

In addition to addressing these crucial topics, Build Peace 2024 will also showcase transformative practices that have been successful in promoting peace and reducing conflict. By highlighting these practices, the conference hopes to inspire attendees to implement similar initiatives in their own communities and contribute to building sustainable peace.

Prior to our presentation at Build peace, we had some working sessions at the MOLD space to make sure that the BrailleRAP was good to present, especially adding the PH version to the project.   

Three days of interactive workshops

The most public aspect of Build Peace is a conference event; it is an interdisciplinary space that runs for three full days, gathering around 300 people annually. Participants come from more than 60 different countries, working in national and international NGOs, the UN system, academic institutions, civil society organisations, grassroots organizing and the private sector. This year, attendees will learn and be skilled on a variety of topics on technology facilitated responses to technology facilitated violence, discovering the intersectionality of conflict and climate, creating mediation spaces to discuss peace building and security, connecting displaced, migrant and conflict survivors to the Internet to learn using the power of self-organization.

r0g_agency for open culture and critical transformation in conjunction with the #defyhatenow team from Cameroon and local Manila ‘makers’ are leading the workshop: “BrailleRap: Creating Community Technologies for Inclusive Peacebuilding” on November 15, 2024. They will focus on presenting a BrailleRAP and leveraging the power of open source hardware for more effective peacebuilding! BrailleRAP is a community accessible Braille embosser (printer) – a digitally controlled machine helping to lower the barrier for visually impaired peacebuilders. Stephen Kovats of r0g_agency, joined by Cameroonian #defyhatenow activists Angaama Joy Amba and Ndum Vianney Forewah, along with Singapore based open cultures entrepreneur and critical maker Saad Chinoy, will demonstrate and show how to build and maintain a BrailleRAP device. Saad, who mentored a group of Manila-based open hardware makers from the MOLD Makerspace, in building a BrailleRap device in the run-up to the conference, will join the team in showcasing the crucial need for inclusion of disabled persons in conflict mitigation, providing an opportunity to strengthen a growing network of inclusive peacebuilding makers. Good news! You can find the BrailleRap device described in full, with links to the open source files and means to build your own device at https://www.braillerap.org/ For the version being developed for #defyhatenow, and the initial prototype built in Manila, you can access the interface to type Brallie now live on the defyhatenow.org server through a click here: https://braillerap.defyhatenow.org/ 

Learn more on the different presentations to be done at the conference here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Kc498qEDHsC76Y7lVwqgtnZykfC3xw9CiBXA1tqPOn8/edit?tab=t.0 

About Us and the Co-organisers  of Build Peace

r0g_agency for Open Culture and Critical Transformation gGmbH

r0g_agency works with grassroots, governmental, and international organizations often to bridge gaps between policy and tangible action on the ground. r0g_agency collaborates with communities in the equatorial regions of Africa and Southeast Asia. Currently most of r0g_agency’s activities are in collaboration with communities and organizations in the Republic of South Sudan, Uganda, Cameroon, Ghana, Kenya, Ethiopia, and The Gambia. https://openculture.agency/ 

#defyhatenow Cameroon

In collaboration with the Association Civic Watch, #defyhatenow works on providing community-based and data-driven solutions to the problem of hate speech, disinformation and misinformation. Our work focuses on creating a framework for increasing trust between stakeholders through mobilizing civic action against all forms of hate speech and incitement to violence. This initiative seeks to support the voices and actions of citizens working against online induced conflict within and outside affected regions by bringing youth, community leaders, grassroots organizations and further civil society stakeholders into a peace-oriented media and information literacy framework. Bridging gaps of knowledge and awareness of social media mechanisms between those with access to technology and those without, #defyhatenow is a growing network of online and offline peacebuilders. https://defyhatenow.org/about/ 

Build Up

It is an organisation that transforms conflict in the digital age. At the intersection of peacebuilding and technology, Build Up uses new tools for old problems, and old tools for new problems. They implement programs, conduct research, and develop technical solutions to engage with conflict and build societies in which everyone can thrive. They work on emergent challenges to peace in the digital age and emergent opportunities to transform conflict with digital technologies. They equally hold spaces within the peacebuilding community for conversations and contributions to collectively learn how to build peace in the digital age through action, reflection and iteration and they conduct research and provide policy recommendations on using technology to build peace and how to address emergent challenges to peace in the digital age.

Follow us on our social media platforms for updates on the developments of the three days workshop. To follow them and remain updated on the next sessions or other related opportunities visit them here: https://howtobuildpeace.org/about-build-peace/ 

Climate Conflict Action (CCAA)

The Climate Conflict Action is an independent non-governmental organization that gathers and analyses climate and conflict data to collaborate with communities towards actions that lead to sustainable peace. Providing climate and conflict data through their  interoperable tools that create robust and insightful reports on communities affected by climate and conflict risks. They collaborate with local communities to monitor, analyze, and understand conflict, peace, and development dynamics in the Philippines to inspire actions and solutions that promote peace and security. To know more and access comprehensive data on conflict monitoring, not just climate induced conflict but also civil conflict and how it has affected the country since 2011 to 2020 read more here: https://conflictalert.info/. You can also know learn about their EWER systems and mapping here: https://conflictalert.info/data-and-mapping/cems

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Sincere appreciation to the support from Build Up and the Build Peace 2024 conference, and to our partners in Manila – MOLD Makerspace, EJ Angeles, Jay Fajardo, and colleagues Saad Chinoy, Vianney Forewah, Angaama Joy Amba along with the r0g_agency, #defyhatenow and BrailleRap teams for making this possible!

Hashtags

#Tech4Peace #PeaceBuilding  #BuildPeace2024  #defyhatenow #BrailleRAP #ASKotec

The digital age offers remarkable opportunities for social change, especially in conflict-affected areas. Recognizing this potential, the #defyhatenow initiative launched the #Tech4Peace project in Cameroon in July 2024. Over the past three months, this innovative program has brought together a diverse group of individuals dedicated to promoting peace through technology and media literacy. The primary goals of the #Tech4Peace project is centred around empowering participants to utilise technology to foster peace and cohesion within their communities. This training aimed at: 

– Enhancing media literacy through the program, educating participants on media and information literacy, helping them critically evaluate online content and combat the spread of hate speech.

– In a bid to instil conflict resolution skills in them, participants learned first hand how to navigate and resolve conflicts peacefully, drawing from their own experiences and surrounding environments. 

– The project provided hands-on training in various digital tools and platforms, equipping fellows with practical skills to create and share peace-promoting content effectively.

– To understand the importance of fostering community engagement by directly engaging with their communities and realising projects, fellows have been empowered to implement peace initiatives that resonate with local needs and cultural contexts.

The #Tech4Peace project attracted a wide array of passionate individuals from various regions across Cameroon specifically from the North West, South West, Centre and the Northern regions. Throughout this period, they demonstrated their eagerness, dedication and passion to gain more skills in technology and were more zealous about how they can use these newly acquired skills or knowledge to build peace in their respective communities. The selected fellows were chosen based on their commitment to promoting peace and their potential to impact their communities positively. This diverse group is composed of youth leaders, activists, creatives and Tech enthusiasts each bringing unique perspectives and skills to the program. Their shared ambition is to use technology as a means of fostering dialogue and understanding among their peers and in communities.

They were opportune to meet and engage with experts who took time out to share their own experiences and perspectives with them around community peace building, media literacy, information disorder, understanding and mastering the mitigation of hate/dangerous speech, design for peacebuilding, web development, AI and content creation for responsible social media engagement.  

As the three-month session comes to a close, a comprehensive bootcamp will be held from October 24-25, 2024, in Yaounde, to celebrate the achievements of the fellows. A three months online training which now allows participants to finally get to meet their peers from other regions for a 2day gathering, will be more of a networking platform to connect with each other and birth or build impactful ideas for the future. This event is structured around several key components:

• The fellows will present their final projects, showcasing how they have applied their training to address specific issues related to hate speech and conflict in their communities. These presentations will highlight innovative solutions and creative approaches, embodying the spirit of the #Tech4Peace initiative. 

• During the bootcamp, participants will engage with mentors and peers to receive constructive feedback on their projects, fostering an environment of collaborative improvement.

• As a formal recognition of their hard work and dedication over the past three months, all fellows will be awarded certificates of completion. This acknowledgment not only rewards their efforts but also enhances their credentials as peace advocates in their communities.

• The bootcamp will facilitate connections among fellows, mentors, and institution professionals. These networking opportunities are vital for building lasting partnerships and amplifying the impact of their initiatives.

The #Tech4Peace project, organised by #defyhatenow, represents a transformative effort to harness technology for peacebuilding in Cameroon. By equipping a new generation of peace advocates with the skills, knowledge, and networks needed to address hate speech and foster social cohesion, this initiative is paving the way for a more peaceful future.

As the bootcamp approaches for October 24 to 25, 2024, the excitement in the air grows, with fellows eager to share their innovations and celebrate their collective journey toward promoting peace using technology. The outcomes of this project have the potential to resonate far beyond the classroom, inspiring communities and igniting a movement toward understanding and unity in the face of division.

For more updates on the #Tech4Peace initiative and further details on the next intake of fellows, stay connected with the #defyhatenow community on our social media platforms (Facebook, Twitter now X. LinkedIn, Tiktok, Instagram). 

Hashtag: #defyhatenow #Tech4Peace, #ThinkB4UClick, #PeaceBuilding, #HateFreeCameroon 

In a world where divisive narratives and misinformation can quickly escalate tensions, initiatives like #defyhatenow play a crucial role in fostering peace, understanding, and resilience. The #defyhatenow creed serves as a guiding principle for individuals and communities working towards these goals. Let’s explore the essence of this creed and how it can help us build bridges in an increasingly polarized world.

The Essence of the Creed

At the heart of #defyhatenow is a commitment to positive change. The creed encapsulates values and actions essential for peacebuilding:

Promote Empathy and Understanding: One of the core tenets of the #defyhatenow creed is empathy. Understanding diverse perspectives and recognizing the humanity in others is fundamental to addressing conflicts and preventing hate speech. By fostering empathy, we can create a culture of respect and inclusivity.

Encourage Critical Thinking: The ability to critically evaluate information is vital in the digital age. The #defyhatenow creed emphasizes the importance of media and information literacy. By teaching individuals to question sources, verify facts, and recognize biases, we empower them to make informed decisions and resist the spread of false information.

Advocate for Open Dialogue: Open and honest communication is key to resolving conflicts and building trust. The creed encourages dialogues that embrace differences and seek common ground. By providing platforms for discussion, #defyhatenow creates opportunities for collaboration and mutual understanding.

Stand Against Hate Speech: Hate speech can fuel violence and division. The #defyhatenow creed calls on us to actively stand against hate in all forms. This means not only refraining from using harmful language but also challenging and reporting hate speech when we encounter it.

Foster Community Engagement: Community is at the heart of peacebuilding. By engaging local communities and leveraging their unique strengths and perspectives, #defyhatenow ensures that peace initiatives are sustainable and culturally relevant. The creed reminds us that everyone has a role to play in the journey toward peace.

Support Resilience and Healing: Conflict can leave deep scars. The #defyhatenow creed recognizes the need for support systems that promote healing and resilience. By providing resources and creating safe spaces, we can help individuals and communities recover and thrive.

How can you live the #defyhatenow Creed in action ?

Living the #defyhatenow creed does not require grand gestures; it starts with small, consistent actions:

• Educate Yourself and Others: Stay informed about media literacy, and share your knowledge with friends and family.
• Engage Respectfully: Participate in conversations with an open mind, and listen to understand, not just to respond.
• Report and Challenge Hate Speech: Be vigilant and proactive in addressing harmful language online and offline.
• Support Local Peace Initiatives: Get involved in community programs that promote peace and understanding.

The #defyhatenow creed is more than just a set of principles; it’s a call to action. It was crafted with pupils and students as the first target, but realising that we all have a role to play in our contribution to community peace building, we believe that everyone everywhere can use it. By embracing empathy, critical thinking, open dialogue, and community engagement, we can create a world where peace and understanding triumph over hate and division. Let’s commit to living these values every day, and together, we can #defyhatenow

Dans un monde où les récits qui sèment la discorde et la désinformation peuvent rapidement faire monter les tensions, des initiatives comme #defyhatenow jouent un rôle crucial en favorisant la paix, la compréhension et la résilience. Le credo #defyhatenow sert de principe directeur aux individus et aux communautés qui travaillent à la réalisation de ces objectifs. Explorons l’essence de ce credo et la manière dont il peut nous aider à construire des ponts dans un monde de plus en plus polarisé.

L’essence du credo

Au cœur de #defyhatenow se trouve un engagement en faveur d’un changement positif. Le credo résume les valeurs et les actions essentielles à la construction de la paix :

Promouvoir l’empathie et la compréhension : L’un des principes fondamentaux du credo #defyhatenow est l’empathie. Comprendre les différentes perspectives et reconnaître l’humanité des autres est fondamental pour aborder les conflits et prévenir les discours de haine. En encourageant l’empathie, nous pouvons créer une culture du respect et de l’inclusion.

Encourager l’esprit critique : La capacité à évaluer l’information de manière critique est vitale à l’ère numérique. Le credo #defyhatenow souligne l’importance de l’éducation aux médias et à l’information. En apprenant aux individus à questionner les sources, à vérifier les faits et à reconnaître les préjugés, nous leur donnons les moyens de prendre des décisions éclairées et de résister à la diffusion de fausses informations.

Plaider en faveur d’un dialogue ouvert : Une communication ouverte et honnête est essentielle pour résoudre les conflits et instaurer la confiance. Le credo encourage les dialogues qui embrassent les différences et cherchent un terrain d’entente. En offrant des plateformes de discussion, #defyhatenow crée des opportunités de collaboration et de compréhension mutuelle.

S’opposer au discours de haine : Les discours de haine peuvent alimenter la violence et la division. Le credo #defyhatenow nous invite à nous opposer activement à la haine sous toutes ses formes. Cela signifie non seulement s’abstenir d’utiliser un langage préjudiciable, mais aussi contester et dénoncer les discours haineux lorsque nous les rencontrons.

Favoriser l’engagement communautaire : La communauté est au cœur de la construction de la paix. En engageant les communautés locales et en tirant parti de leurs forces et perspectives uniques, #defyhatenow garantit que les initiatives de paix sont durables et culturellement pertinentes. Le credo nous rappelle que chacun a un rôle à jouer dans le voyage vers la paix.

Soutenir la résilience et la guérison : Les conflits peuvent laisser de profondes cicatrices. Le credo #defyhatenow reconnaît la nécessité de systèmes de soutien qui favorisent la guérison et la résilience. En fournissant des ressources et en créant des espaces sûrs, nous pouvons aider les individus et les communautés à se rétablir et à prospérer.

Comment pouvez-vous vivre le credo #defyhatenow en action ? 

Vivre le credo #defyhatenow ne nécessite pas de grands gestes ; cela commence par de petites actions cohérentes :

• Éduquez-vous et éduquez les autres : Restez informés sur l’éducation aux médias et partagez vos connaissances avec vos amis et votre famille.
• Engagez-vous avec respect : Participez aux conversations avec un esprit ouvert et écoutez pour comprendre, pas seulement pour répondre.
• Signalez et contestez les discours haineux : Soyez vigilants et proactifs en vous attaquant aux propos préjudiciables en ligne et hors ligne.
• Soutenir les initiatives locales en faveur de la paix : Participez à des programmes communautaires qui promeuvent la paix et la compréhension.

Le credo #defyhatenow est plus qu’un simple ensemble de principes, c’est un appel à l’action. Il a été conçu avec les élèves et les étudiants comme première cible, mais en réalisant que nous avons tous un rôle à jouer dans notre contribution à la construction de la paix dans la communauté, nous pensons que tout le monde, partout, peut l’utiliser. En adoptant l’empathie, la pensée critique, le dialogue ouvert et l’engagement communautaire, nous pouvons créer un monde où la paix et la compréhension triomphent de la haine et de la division. Engageons-nous à vivre ces valeurs au quotidien et, ensemble, nous pourrons #defyhatenow 

Six years on and one year away from the next elections in Cameroon, the relatively intact capacity for nuisance of accounts and/or pages stimulating tribal rivalries through the propagation of false information, the influence of purposely created fake news shadow cabinets, the traces and impact of online disinformation campaigns remain indelible and continue to weigh on the current national media landscape. To address this threat to peace, a number of local and regional initiatives have been launched, including the Africa Factchecking Fellowship and the 237 Check open platform run by #defyhatenow / Civic Watch Cameroon, which to date has equipped over 220 media professionals and community leaders in information verification techniques and methods. Over the past few years, these initiatives, led mainly by civil society and some media actors, have succeeded in raising public awareness and sounding the alarm about the dangers of false information. However, with just a few months to go before the upcoming elections, fears of a resurgence of disinformation and propaganda campaigns remain strong, especially given the information dynamics currently taking place on social media and in the press in relation to public governance, socio-political and even football issues.

Understanding the relationship between elections and disinformation 

Elections constitute an important moment in a process of democratization in Africa. It’s the indicated means of ensuring the orderly process of leadership succession and change and an instrument of political authority and legitimation. The failure of having credible elections or their absence is considered as a symbol of political dictatorships and personalized rule by the international community. Electoral process is the longest moment of the electoral cycle and it can be divided into three key phases: pre-voting, voting, and post-voting. Credible and transparent media coverage is crucial to ensuring greater citizen participation, strengthening social cohesion and promoting democracy.

The treatment and quality of information provided by the media is therefore particularly important at this time, as it could have a decisive impact on the outcome of the election, the turnout and, above all, the consolidation of peace. Nevertheless, in today’s digital age, disinformation appears to threaten the integrity of elections.

In Cameroon, as in most other African countries, misinformation or false rumours (the term ‘false rumours’ is more commonly used in sub-Saharan African legislation to describe fake news) are spreading rapidly thanks to widespread access to digital platforms such as WhatsApp, which is used more for private exchanges. The electoral experience of Gambia in 2021 and Nigeria in 2019 illustrates the role that WhatsApp can play in amplifying the proliferation of false information influencing the voting process and citizen participation.

On the other hand, the traditional and complex word-of-mouth information ecosystem sometimes perpetuates prejudices and false narratives developed in a context where Internet access does not reach 50% of the population. In such an environment, false information spreads rapidly, fuelling violence and political tensions because local communities have very few means of checking the data or content they receive.

In addition, socio-economic inequalities and exacerbated ethnic tensions, which are reinforced by biases and regularly used by politicians to manipulate the masses, also constitute a vector for disinformation. This observation is corroborated by the analysis of Anuragini Shirish and Kanika Kotwal revealing that a higher level of economic development of people in a State curbed its fake news propensity. In Africa instead, political actors work to construct ethnic enemies by maliciously exploiting weaknesses in information systems, hate speech and the fabrication of imaginary stories aimed at mobilising popular support for their personal interests during elections. In other words, repeated exposure to fake news and conspiracy theories help fuel hate speech, social polarization and violent extremism (Hassan et al. 2019). This has the effect of dividing communities, most of whose members do not always have the critical ability to properly analyse the truth from the false, or to identify the real causes of the social, political and economic problems they face, or to help formulate and monitor effective responses as it’s explained by Steven Livingston.Also the cases of Kenya’s elections in 2022 and Nigeria’s elections in 2023 prove that local politicians are increasingly using disinformation as a strategy to acquire popular supports.

 So, to avoid a repeat of catastrophic experiences in other countries and given that socio-political stability and the promotion of peaceful coexistence depend to a large extent on the establishment of a credible national information system made up of dynamic agents capable of producing and disseminating good information in a timely manner while respecting human rights, the 10th cohort of the #AFFCameroon program is one of #defyhatenow’s leverages for strengthening the capacities of mainstream and digital media, improving access to good information and developing intra-societal and community communication.

Perspectives for cohort 10 #AFFCameroon

The main objective of this 10th cohort is to improve understanding of the phenomenon of disinformation in real time, especially with the advent of artificial intelligence, in order to develop strategies to prevent people from adhering to conspiracy theories by defusing election-related fake news. To ensure that the conduct of elections poses no threat to peace, it is important that citizens have sufficient access to reliable information. For the coordinator of the Africa Factchecking Fellowship, Donald Tchiengue, the #AFFCameroon fellows must be upstream and downstream of the circulation of good information, helping to shape democratic debate and public opinion by preventing and mitigating fake news while producing verifiable and verified information. 

As peacekeepers, these media professionals (journalists and bloggers) and community leaders must give themselves a mandate to track down and denounce any attempt to influence or manipulate the masses online and offline. To this end, during their training they will be trained and equipped to:

• Verify claims made by politicians and media outlets, ensuring that information disseminated to the public is accurate and reliable. Through investigative content and factchecking articles to be publish on www.237check.org they should debunk disinformation campaigns and tactics employed to manipulate public opinion
• Educating the public through meetups on how to identify and discern misinformation, equipping individuals with the necessary tools to navigate the complex landscape of information 
• Promoting media and information literacy by promoting in-depth analysis to voters for them to have the necessary insights to make informed decisions.
• Contribute to the establishment of a monitoring and fact-checking unit in their media’s organization in other to be trusted sources of information. The purpose is the level of transparency about their sourcing and reporting processes, fostering trust and credibility among their audience.

In an era where the lines between fact and fiction can often blur, this contribution of #defyhatenow with the factchecking program #AFFCameroon is to promote democracy and transparency for the vital need of peace and social cohesion for a #HateFreeCameroon.

Here is our conversation with Jabi:

Why did you decide to create the documentary?
I chose to create the documentary because I’ve personally experienced the impact of hate speech. In our society, being raised by a single parent is often stigmatized. Growing up, I faced bullying and derogatory remarks like being called a bastard, and even witnessing my mother being called as a prostitute. Participating in the #defyhatenow fact-checking program inspired me to engage in media advocacy, and I found sharing my own story through a documentary to be the most effective approach.

What is the main message you want to convey through the documentary?
My primary message is the importance of creating a conducive environment for youth and children. Reflecting on my own experiences, I realized that we did not have the influence of social media or extensive television exposure at the time, but children still knew to use such hurtful language. They learn these behaviors from adults around them, including their parents. The words we speak about others, whether it’s about different tribes, races, or individuals, deeply impact how children perceive the world. It’s crucial to be mindful of our words and actions, as children absorb and interpret them, shaping their perspectives accordingly.

Any final thoughts you’d like to share?
I urge everyone to prioritize teaching and practicing love. By instilling love in our children and practicing it ourselves, we will be living our #defyhatenow values.

Jabi Katy is a journalist, documentary film maker and content creator from Cameroon who is enthusiastic about fighting social causes through the art of storytelling.
She is a breed of the cohort 8 of the African Fact checking Fellowship Cameroon cohort 8, organized by Defyhatenow and Civic watche Cameroon.

Watch the documentary below and share:

1. Share a bit about what you do and why you chose that field 

Currently,  I am a graduate teaching assistant at the University of Bamenda and I sometimes train members of organizations and youth bodies on public speaking and effective communication.  My passion for education particularly on gender, language, and communication, motivated me to study the English language. I believe that my background and experience have prepared me well for this role, and I am equally excited to continue learning and growing in this field.When I made up my mind on what to study in university, I knew that I wanted to pursue a field that would allow me to make a meaningful difference in the world. Studies in gender, language and communicative styles seemed like the perfect fit, as it’s a field that can have a profound impact on the lives of individuals and communities. I also knew that I wanted to focus on language and communication, as I have always been fascinated by the way people communicate and connect with each other. I believe that language is a powerful tool that can be used to build understanding and create positive change in the society.

2. ⁠You are a recent PHD holder, what motivated you to do it?

 My motivation to pursue a PhD was driven by several factors. Firstly, I was passionate about my field of study and wanted to deepen my knowledge and understanding. Secondly, I wanted to challenge myself and push the boundaries of my capabilities. Finally, I wanted to make meaningful contributions to the body of knowledge where simple yet complex aspects such as gender in relation to communication are concerned. I equally wanted to help others to learn and grow through my research and most importantly to wipe off the stereotypes that only men can achieve higher in education.

3. Did you experience challenges in terms of inclusion? How did you overcome these challenges?

I experienced several challenges some of which include: As class coordinator throughout my University studies, I will face bullying and belittlement from men and at times from family and friends too. Sometimes, people will say “why are you doing PhD? No man will ever marry you because you are too educated” But I am currently happily married.

Also, financial instability was a bigger problem. I needed to travel out of town to collect data, at times when I get to Yaounde for example, I will not meet my respondents but steadfastness and my passion to make it big in the academic market kept me going. 

I must say that, despite all the challenges I faced, I now see them as opportunities which were geared to prepare me for a better future and I almost everyone is proud of my achievement.

I overcame these challenges through one word “Persistence” I was and will still be persistent till the end not forgetting all the support, love and financial assistant I got from some kind hearted people.

4. What inspires you to advocate for inclusion ?

I have experienced my own share of discrimination, from family, from friends, from co-leaders and workers and I understand what it means for people not to believe in you talkless of even giving you that space. I have lived in a minute cite where majority of its tenants were persons living with disabilities, I saw them suffer, I saw them struggle to get to school, carry water etc, all these motivated me to amplify my voice in the fight for inclusion particularly inclusion of women