BERTOUA, CAMEROON . Hundreds of Catholic youths from across Cameroon’s five ecclesiastical provinces have converged on the Archdiocese of Bertoua for the annual National Youth Week, running from July 21 to July 26, 2026. Guided by the central theme from John 16:33—“Take courage, for I have overcome the world”.The young pilgrims are gathering to deepen their faith, build community, and address the pressing spiritual and moral challenges facing today’s youth.
Before reaching the main festival grounds in Bertoua, the delegates made a special two-day stopover in the Diocese of Doumé-Abong’Mbang from July 21 to 23. Local communities and parishes opened their doors to host the traveling contingents, providing space for prayer, liturgical animation, and fellowship. In Dimako, Paroisse Saint Jacques served as the host station for delegates from the Ecclesiastical Provinces of Bamenda and Yaoundé, where young pilgrims actively led the liturgy and engaged in thematic sessions.
A major highlight during the stopover in Dimako was an empowering presentation anchored on a critical question for young believers: “Young men, where are you heading at the crossroad of life? To whom shall we go? Lord, You have the message of eternal life.” Speakers encouraged the youth to stand firm in their Christian identity despite societal pressures, pointing to Christ as the ultimate guide when facing tough decisions.
Among the many participating regions, the Ecclesiastical Province of Bamenda brought a strong and dedicated presence. The Archdiocese of Bamenda sent a total contingent of 25 participants, while the Diocese of Kumbo was represented by 9 youth leaders. The Diocese of Buea was represented by 7 youths alongside two priests,the outgoing and incoming Diocesan Youth Chaplains.
With the two-day prelude in Doumé-Abong’Mbang now concluded, all delegations have embarked on the final leg of their journey to the Archdiocese of Bertoua. The grand national celebration will continue throughout the week, culminating in a solemn concluding Mass on Sunday, July 26.
