Stakeholders committed to invest in the future of youth for the emergence of the country.

Invest in youths to make them actors of tomorrow. Invest in youths for an emerging Cameroon in 2035. Those were the key messages that emerged from Bamenda on Friday as the nation celebrated the 2014 World Population Day.

It was a rare moment with the Resident Representative of the United Nation’s Population Fund (UNFPA), Dr Barbara Sow challenging youths to use the opportunity to take leadership for tomorrow.

The Minister Delegate in the Ministry of Economy, Planning and Regional Development, Yaouba Abdoulaye was in the chair with a message that inspired the nation’s youths to take initiatives and shine with the government committing to stand by them towards emergence.

He demonstrated the government’s goodwill with socio-economic programmes and projects that give youths reason to hope.

The U.N System’s Coordinator in Cameroon, Najat Rochdi re-echoed the message of the UN Secretary General which stresses the goal of youth in the post 2015 development agenda.

It is all about putting youths in the picture of future development plans. It was the UNFPA Representative, Dr Barbara Sow who presented the how and why youths must be at the centre of investment.

In the face of multiple problems from antiquated education systems through insufficient employment opportunities to limited access to credit for youth entrepreneurs, vulnerabilities and abuses in sexuality, marriage and child bearing, Barbara Sow said youths deserve attention because they are at the heart of all population issues.

They are the majority and economic growth requires investment in their education, health and their participation in decisions guiding their future.

It is thus, incumbent to diversify and increase educational opportunities for youths, improve access to quality and affordable health, give them a chance and ensure their participation in instances of decision-making especially those concerning their future.

The event was summed up in messages against early marriages and pregnancies, cultural displays and sketches, drawing competition, exhibitions and a match past.

The nation and U.N Agencies in Cameroon showcased generosity with gifts to support youth groups and second-generation agricultural initiatives.

There was a lot to take home in tractors, motor pumps, trucks, delivery and consultation beds for health units and computers for the North West Youth Council.