Youth Day in Cameroon

A national holiday on 11 February

Cameroon’s Ministry of Tourism and Leisure lists Fête de la Jeunesse among the country’s civil holidays and gives its date as 11 February. The Presidency also lists Youth Day on that date among Cameroon’s secular public holidays.[1][2]

The date is fixed rather than tied to a weekday. Check with individual shops, banks, schools and transport services about their opening hours and schedules before making plans.

An observance shaped by Cameroon’s history

A Ministry of Youth and Civic Education account links the holiday’s origins to the referendum after which Cameroon lost part of its territory and citizens. It says federal authorities then dedicated a national day to young people partly to bring youth from the two parts of Cameroon closer together.[3]

The same account describes the day as a way to recognize young people’s role and give them a setting for expression and personal development. In official speeches, the Presidency also presents young people as contributors to the country’s future, peace and unity.[3][5]

Parades and youth activities

Official accounts describe organized activities around Youth Day, including parade preparations involving school groups. A Ministry report on preparations in Yaoundé describes participants from basic education, secondary education, vocational training and extracurricular programmes marching in formation, singing patriotic songs and carrying messages about peace and living together.[4]

Youth Day programmes can also include activities beyond the parade. Ministry accounts describe youth events involving discussions with government representatives, competitions and other educational or civic activities. The programme varies, so these examples should not be taken as a complete or identical schedule for every place or year.[3][4]

Planning your day

Because Youth Day is designated a national civil holiday, residents and visitors should check directly with a bank, school, shop or transport provider before making plans. Check opening hours and transport schedules with the provider before you go.[1][2]