Cameroon promotes children’s rights through the Mbole and Slam song competition. The event, launched by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the Advanced School of Mass Communication (ASMAC) at the University of Yaounde II, aimed to encourage young people to create music. The competition’s final phase, which included the award ceremony, was held on May 13, 2023, in Ngoa-Ekelle, Yaounde.
Winners celebrate their first-ever slam competition
Serge-Vianney Kamga, also known as TKS, was the winner of the slam song competition. He expressed his delight, stating that this was his first time participating in a slam competition. Kamga emphasized that he will continue to engage in slamming because it is a hobby he enjoys. He also stated that the prize was a win for all children who deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. Nesse Tagenang Patrick, also known as Freshboy, won the Mbole song competition. Patrick expressed gratitude to the organizers and UNICEF for promoting children’s rights. He said that Mbole music is now recognized as part of Cameroon’s culture.
UNICEF and ASMAC partner for children’s rights
According to Laure Anny Atangana-Menounga, Communication Specialist with UNICEF Cameroon, the competition enabled young people to inform their peers about children’s rights. The theme of the competition was “For a more equal and inclusive world.” The event offered an opportunity for UNICEF to sensitize ASMAC students on its work in promoting children’s rights. UNICEF and ASMAC are about to sign a partnership agreement that will offer opportunities to ASMAC Journalism and Communication students.
UNICEF promotes children’s well-being
Addressing the audience, Khaled Halouane, UNICEF Cameroon Interim Country Representative, commended ASMAC for organizing the event, especially for creating an avenue for young people to take an interest in children’s rights. Halouane stated that UNICEF’s new country program for 2022-2026 calls for a better Cameroon for children. “Reinventing a better Cameroon for children is also about building a world in which each child is seen, taken into account and included.” – he said. Halouane acknowledged the crucial role of communication in achieving social inclusion and equality.
Music as an advocacy tool for social change
Mbole music is one of the most popular genres of music among young people in Cameroon. It draws inspiration from their culture and daily lives. Halouane noted that UNICEF and ASMAC share the same views on promoting children’s rights and implementing programs to support their well-being. The competition encouraged young people to express themselves through music, and promoted an interest in children’s rights.
