“We Are Waiting For Official Instructions”

Are you aware of the families staying in deplorable conditions at the Complexe Avicole de Mvog-Betsi?
Yes, we are aware. The security crisis in the North West and South West regions has led to an influx of internally displaced persons (IDPs) into Yaounde VI. We have made efforts to register all these IDPs, in partnership with civil society actors who had already taken some action independently of the Divisional Office. These figures are then forwarded to the Ministry of Territorial Administration and the Ministry of Decentralization. The names of all the IDPs residing at the Complexe Avicole are available at the appropriate headquarters. It is a government structure, and as of now, the State has not expressed any intention to evict them. I am also not aware of any private efforts to that effect. 

There seems to be confusion regarding the ownership of the land at the Complexe Avicole. What do you say to clear these doubts?
The Complexe Avicole has had its difficulties. Currently, the State is managing the property. We should not confuse an individual who may wish to relaunch poultry activities with the original government structure. Up to this point, I have not seen any document on my desk indicating any plans to resume those activities. The State has deemed it necessary to lodge the IDPs there for the time being, until a better solution can be found. They are living in deplorable conditions, yes? but it is that or homelessness. The buildings belong to the state, and they will decide on long-term plans in due time.

What steps have been taken to support the internally displaced persons living there?
We have collaborated with civil society, educational institutions, and private health facilities to support the IDPs. For example, children are able to attend school without paying fees, and there is a partnership with a private hos...