The Cameroon Renaissance Movement (CRM) party has expressed outrage over the increasing incidence of femicides in the country, attributing many cases to domestic violence. The government, represented by Minister for Women’s Empowerment and the Family Marie-Thérèse Abena Ondoa, acknowledged the alarming trend and stated that measures are being taken to address the issue, including a proposed bill aimed at protecting women from gender-based violence. However, civil society and women’s rights advocates criticize the government’s slow progress in enacting the legislation, which is currently under review by the prime minister. With a parliamentary session scheduled for November, concerns have been raised that the focus on budgetary debates may hinder the bill’s passage. According to recent UN data, Africa recorded the highest number of femicide victims globally, with an estimated 22,600 cases in 2024.
Why It Matters
The rise in femicides in Cameroon reflects a broader trend seen across Africa, where the continent has both the highest total number of femicide victims and the highest rate relative to its population. The UN’s 2024 data indicates significant underreporting of such cases, as many incidents go unlogged by governments. This highlights systemic issues in addressing domestic violence and gender-based violence, as well as the urgent need for legal frameworks to protect women. The proposed legislative measures are critical in establishing a legal basis for women’s rights and safety, making the outcome of the upcoming parliamentary session particularly significant for advocates and civil society groups.
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