Authorities in Cameroon have been urged to step up the fight against the recent outbreak of cholera that has killed at least 40 persons and left about 600 affected.

In reaction to the cholera outbreak in the Far North regions of Cameroon, Greenpeace Africa urged Cameroon expressed sympathy for the bereaved family and urged the Government to improve its efforts to fight against the epidemic.

“Greenpeace Africa empathizes with the bereaved families of the Far North region of Cameroon. We stand with the love ones and dependant of the many deceased from this health crisis and hope they find solace in this difficult time. We also wish the many people affected a quick reprieve from the cholera attack and for their lives to return to normal,”Greenpeae Africa Mobilization Officer, Andoh Rex said.

“However, Greenpeace Africa knows this is a health crisis that could and should have been avoided. The Cameroonian public health management system leaves a lot to be desired. From the lack of potable water in almost every major city to huge rubbish pile in many streets, it might only be a matter of time before other regions become affected with the health crises rocking the northern regions. The regime should guarantee every Cameroonian the right to a clean environment which is a universal human right.

“Greenpeace Africa is aware of the plethora of economic and social challenges facing the Biya regime. But, putting the interest of the people at the forefront of affairs should be the major preoccupation of any decent government. The campaign to eradicate cholera in Cameroon schools launched by Basic Education Minister Youssouf Adjidja Alim and dubbed “My School Without Cholera,” leaves much to be proud of. This campaign should be holistic in approach by addressing not only basic hygiene issues in schools, but other problems across the board in every facet of Cameroonian lives.

“Greenpeace Africa thinks it would be pathetic for the Cameroonian regime to keep talking about economic emergence in 2035. To say the amenities are crumbling is an understatement. The lackluster public health and social system need a solid re-organization and foundation to set the country on a right footing to cater for all Cameroonians. We strongly hope the Cameroonian regime will provide the right to a clean environment for all its
citizens.”