Youth Day in Cameroon

Every February 11th is celebrated as Youth Day in Cameroon. This is a holiday that honors and recognizes the contributions to the country that have been made by its young people. The youth of the country has been pivotal in shaping the future of the nation, especially through the periods of turmoil that the country has experienced in the past.

This day is a platform from which to highlight the potential, talents, and achievements of young people in fields such as community development, education, sports, arts, and business. Accompanied by a colorful parade and a variety of other activities, this day is observed with joy in towns and cities all across Cameroon.

The History Of Youth Day In Cameroon

This holiday can be traced back to the 1960s when the country was beginning to enter a period of political transformation. On February 11th, 1961, the Tripartite Youth Conference took place in the capital city of Yaounde.

During this conference, representatives from British Cameroon, French Cameroon, and Southern Cameroon gathered together to discuss plans for the nation’s future. It brought together young Cameroonians from different cultures and regions to express their aspirations and to engage in a productive dialog that discussed the potential for a unified and independent Cameroon.

Ever since that faithful day in 1961, the 11th of February has been observed as Youth Day in Cameroon. It’s a day that highlights the potential of young people, as well as their talents and achievements. It’s a day that’s observed at every level of government — from the local level all the way up to the national level.

Observing Youth Day In Cameroon

A big part of this holiday is the colorful parade of young people that happens in many towns and cities across the country. However, that’s not the only way, or even the most interesting way, that this holiday is celebrated in Cameroon.

There are also theatrical and dance performances, concerts, and displays of traditional costumes. There are also plenty of local musicians playing music for the people and fairs.

Participants include students from schools and universities, youth organizations, cultural groups, and various associations from around Cameroon. To spread the word about this holiday, the hashtag #YouthDayCameroon can be posted to social media.

Where is it celebrated?
Cameroon (Public holiday)
When is it?
This year (2023)
February 11 Saturday
Next year (2024)
February 11 Sunday
Last year (2022)
February 11 Friday