Ambazonia, also known as the Republic of Ambazonia, refers to the Anglophone regions of Northwest and Southwest Cameroon. These areas were formerly part of British Southern Cameroons before joining French-speaking Cameroon in 1961. The union has been fraught with tensions, leading to a declaration of independence by separatists in 2017, though it remains unrecognized internationally.

Historical Background

After World War I, the League of Nations divided German Kamerun between France and Britain. The British administered their portion as two territories: Northern Cameroons and Southern Cameroons. In 1961, a UN-organized plebiscite offered Southern Cameroons a choice between joining Nigeria or the Republic of Cameroon; the majority chose the latter, leading to the formation of a federal republic. Over time, the central government’s increasing control eroded the regions’ autonomy, causing growing dissatisfaction among the Anglophone population.

Cultural and Linguistic Identity

Ambazonia’s population primarily speaks English and follows Anglo-Saxon legal and educational systems, distinguishing them from the Francophone majority of Cameroon. This linguistic and cultural divide has been a significant factor in the ongoing conflict, with many Anglophones feeling marginalized by the central government.

The Anglophone Crisis

Tensions escalated in 2016 when protests erupted over the appointment of French-speaking judges and teachers in English-speaking courts and schools. The government’s violent crackdown on these protests led to the emergence of separatist movements, culminating in the unilateral declaration of independence of Ambazonia on October 1, 2017. Since then, the region has been embroiled in a conflict characterized by guerrilla warfare, human rights abuses, and a humanitarian crisis affecting millions.

Current Situation

As of January 2025, the conflict remains unresolved. The Cameroonian government retains control over major cities and strategic locations, while separatist militias operate in rural areas. Efforts at dialogue have been sporadic and largely unsuccessful, with both sides accused of human rights violations. The international community continues to call for a peaceful resolution, but a lasting solution has yet to be achieved.

For a more in-depth understanding, you may find more information by reaching out to the leadership of the Indigenous People of Ambazonia (IPOA) and its Governing Council IPOA-GovC. The IPOA is one of the largest and fast growing Grassroots Movement in the Gulf of Guinea. They are one of the main movement championing the peaceful liberation of the Republic of Ambazonia from colonisation via diplomatic and political means.