Justice, Peacebuilding and Reconciliation in Cameroon | The Heritage University Institute of Peace and Development Studies, Nico Halle Law firm Partnership

The April 10, 2026, workshop in Douala opened on a powerful note with a thought-provoking question by Barrister Nico Halle: “What do you show future generations that you passed through this world?”—emphasizing the importance of legacy and the heritage one leaves behind.

Keynote Address: Exploring Justice, Peacebuilding & Reconciliation in Cameroon

Dr. Barrister Nico Halle, an international award-winning peace crusader, delivered the keynote address, stressing the moral and spiritual responsibility of individuals in promoting justice and peace. He highlighted that humanity will give an account to God for how they used their gifts and opportunities. According to him, true justice is rooted in love, integrity, and generosity, drawing from biblical principles such as Matthew 22:37–39 and the Golden Rule (Matthew 7:12).

He underscored that:

- There can be no peace without love and justice.

- Society’s moral decline stems from the absence of spirituality and love.

- True neighborliness is defined not by proximity but by affection.

- Reconciliation requires accountability from all parties involved.

Session 2: Traditional Rulers as guarantors of Justice, Peace & Reconciliation

Rev. Fr. Dr. Tatah Humphrey (Public intellectual and Priest of the Archdiocese of Bamenda) examined the role of traditional authorities in peacebuilding. He noted that many traditional rulers have lost their influence, becoming subordinate to administrative systems. He called for a revival of their original roles as custodians of justice, urging them to reclaim their authority and responsibility in maintaining peace and reconciliation. Peaceful villages mean a peaceful nation.

Session 3: Mediation as an alternative mechanism for Justice and Peacebuilding in Cameroon

Dr. Colonel/Magistrate Didier Sipa, (a mediation expert and former Director of Military Justice) focused on mediation as an alternative approach to justice in Cameroon. He defined mediation as a process where a neutral party facilitates dialogue to achieve mutually acceptable solutions.

Key highlights include:

- Types of justice: distributive, procedural, retributive, and restorative.

- Importance of mediation: it promotes inclusivity, cultural sensitivity, efficiency, and mutual understanding.

- Steps in mediation: convening, opening, negotiation, and conclusion.

- Challenges: participant selection, emotional management, bias, communication barriers, and power dynamics.

The session also emphasized the need for establishing a national mediation center in Cameroon. Through case studies, participants analyzed factors behind successful and unsuccessful mediation processes.

Session 4: Broad-based, Inclusive, and Participatory Engagement in Peacebuilding Strategies

Prof. Willibroad Dze-Ngwa (Senior Peace and Conflict expert, Founding President, Heritage University Complex) discussed the need for inclusive and participatory approaches to peacebuilding. He defined policies as structured ideas guiding governance and emphasized collective responsibility among stakeholders.

Key strategies highlighted:

- Public information and advocacy

- Citizen engagement and dialogue

- Electoral transparency and accountability

- Policy development and planning

He reinforced that love-driven actions lead to meaningful societal transformation and challenged participants to reflect on the urgency of their contributions to peace.

The workshop concluded with a call to action for all stakeholders, including traditional leaders, religious authorities, youth & women leaders, media professionals, researchers, and civil society to actively engage in justice and peacebuilding efforts. To take responsibility in fostering a more just and peaceful society. Tracy Bame & Nfor Miriam | Open Dreams Douala