Camerun records nearly 70 gender-related killings this year, up from 67 in 2024

The Cameroonian government is preparing to submit a new bill to parliament this month that would define femicide as a standalone criminal offense. The legislative move follows a reported surge in the number of women killed for gender-related reasons. The Ministry of Women's Affairs stated that nearly 70 women have been murdered in Cameroon this year. This figure represents an increase from the 67 cases recorded in 2024 and the government's estimated 50 cases in 2023.

The rising death toll has sparked public demonstrations in major cities, including Yaounde and Douala. Thousands of residents gathered in the streets to demand stronger government intervention. Organizers cited the high number of unsolved cases and the lack of specific legal provisions addressing the killing of women. The protests reflect growing frustration among activists who argue that current laws are insufficient to protect women and punish perpetrators.

The case of Geraldine Achiah, a primary school teacher, has become a focal point for the movement. Achiah was killed in September, two months after her marriage in July. Her family alleges her husband, Manfred Amambua, struck her during a domestic dispute. Police have formally charged Amambua with murder, and he is currently in prison awaiting trial. He has denied killing his wife, according to police reports. His lawyer was not available for comment on the situation.

Hospital records obtained by the Associated Press indicate that Achiah had several bruises on her face and lips before she died. An agent named Ndzana Bienvenu, who participated in the investigation, said police collected various pieces of evidence. These items included video recordings of Achiah and her husband following the alleged beating. Investigators also secured a bloodstained sheet from the scene.

Achiah's 18-year-old son, Courage Abombi, attended a university entrance exam the day after his mother's burial. He described his mother's death as unexpected and painful. Abombi said he prays for justice for his mother and for her killer to be held accountable by the law. He also mentioned that his mother continues to appear in his dreams, comforting him and telling him not to lose hope.

Regina Ngukum, a cousin of Achiah, stated that the family seeks justice not only for her but for other victims of femicide. She noted that Achiah was a teacher who imparted knowledge to thousands of young Cameroonians. The family gathered in Yaounde for Achiah's burial, where they expressed their grief and their determination to seek answers.

Marie-Therese Abena Ondoa, the Minister of Women's Affairs, described the proportion of femicide cases in the country as cruel and alarming. She spoke to the state television chain recently, promising greater government intervention in these matters. Ondoa added that the current economic situation in the country does not help. She explained that with limited resources, many women tend to endure violence in their marriages, hoping their husbands will change, which usually does not happen.

Activists point to economic dependence and unequal control over family assets as primary drivers of the crisis. They argue that Cameroon is widely considered a patriarchal society where women face significant barriers. Carole Grace Mbarga, a Cameroonian activist residing in the United States, noted that judicial processes can be delayed by tactics such as intimidation, corruption, or procedural errors. These delays can lead to reduced charges or even the acquittal of accused individuals.

Mbarga warned that when investigations drag on, evidence deteriorates and witnesses lose confidence. She said this discourages families from pursuing justice. In 2025, a man who pleaded guilty to killing his wife was sentenced to five years in prison with a suspended sentence. He was also fined 52,000 CFA francs, which is approximately 90 dollars. Laura Sen, one of the protest organizers, said that while the new law is necessary, it must be accompanied by efforts to address systemic barriers and strengthen support for victims.