According to the United Nations, over 300,000 Cameroonians have illegally left their country in search of greener pastures in America, Europe and other parts of the world.
During a conference on illegal
Immigration at the youth village on February 5, stakeholders said the phenomenon is becoming alarming.
The U.N says over 272 million people , including refugees and asylum seekers are illegal migrants . 23% of them are less than 24 years old, and 15% btw ages 16-24 are illegal.
Why is the phenomenon growing in Cameroon?
Immigration experts say poverty, overpopulation, unsatisfactory economic growth, impatience and an obsession with Western life are some of the reasons why Cameroonians youths are migrating to other countries.
Most youths say succeeding in Cameroon is way too difficult compared to other countries. Some of the youths leaving the country habor fantasies of a beautiful and rosy European life.
Many youths have died in the Mediterranean sea leaving their families in grief and utter hopelessness. Others, especially women, have been tortured and brutally killed by their employers.
Government Response
In order to curb illegal immigration, the government has come up with projects for the socio-economic integration of youths.
Over 1713 youths of the diaspora in need of government support have registered with the National Youth Observatory and Peri-Jedi . Mr. Epoko Ansel, Cordinator of Pari-Jedi says 2600 youths have been accompanied to reintegrate in society upon return to the country.
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