The interference of the Ministry of Sports and Physical Education (MINSEP) in the management of sports federations in Cameroon has reached a worrying level, threatening the unity and effectiveness of sports organizations while exposing young athletes, especially women, to intolerable abuse. Recent scandals involving young Cameroonian volleyball players, several of whom became pregnant following sexual abuse by members of the management, highlight the negative effects of this interference and raise essential questions about the governance of sports in the country.
Divided and Weakened Federations
For years, MINSEP has been accused of interfering in the internal affairs of sports federations by imposing decisions that should normally fall under the authority of independent management bodies. This unwarranted intervention has caused internal tensions, leadership conflicts, and significant divisions within federations. Instead of focusing on the development of sports and the protection of athletes, many of these federations find themselves mired in administrative and political disputes.
The consequences are disastrous: ineffective talent management, inadequate training programs, and an inability to ensure the safety and well-being of young athletes. This chaotic situation creates fertile ground for all kinds of abuses, with young athletes, particularly young girls, being the primary victims.
Sexual Exploitation and False Promises: A Scandal Rocks Cameroonian Volleyball
The recent scandal shaking the Cameroonian Volleyball Federation is the most blatant example of how interference and mismanagement can lead to serious abuse. According to reports published by the international press, five young volleyball players under 18 became pregnant after being sexually exploited by members of the Federation. These young girls, aged 16 to 18, were victims of false promises of international careers, financial assistance, or scholarships. In return, they were forced into non-consensual sexual relationships.
This scandal comes at a critical time as Cameroon prepares for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. The volleyball federation faces an unprecedented media storm, and revelations continue to surface. A professional player recently denounced in an open letter the “rights of the first night” and “organized debauchery” by certain Federation officials, including inappropriate behavior by some coaches.
Response of the Cameroonian Volleyball Federation and Denial of Responsibility
In response to these accusations, the Cameroonian Volleyball Federation (FECAVOLLEY), led by Julien Serge Abouem, issued a statement denying any official involvement in these moral misconduct cases. FECAVOLLEY stated that these behaviors are the actions of “impostors” who “never find a framework of expression at FECAVOLLEY,” and it urged parents, sponsors, and public authorities to continue to trust and support its development plan.
However, this denial of responsibility does not suffice to calm the anger and indignation rising among the public and sports stakeholders. Minimizing these serious allegations as mere “unworthy individual behaviors” raises questions about the transparency and credibility of the Federation’s leaders. If FECAVOLLEY is “in no way concerned” with these scandals, how did these abuses occur within its operational framework?
An Urgent Need for Reform and Protection of Athletes
This scandal highlights the need for a complete overhaul of sports governance in Cameroon. Federations must be endowed with real autonomy, allowing them to operate without political interference. It is essential to establish robust mechanisms for protecting athletes, especially young women, to prevent such abuses in the future.
Authorities must conduct a thorough investigation into these allegations and ensure that those responsible for sexual abuse and power manipulation are held accountable. Additionally, awareness campaigns on athletes’ rights and the establishment of safe and anonymous reporting channels are crucial to combating the culture of impunity.
A Call to Action for the Dignity and Safety of Athletes
Young Cameroonian athletes, like their counterparts worldwide, have the right to practice their sport in a safe, respectful, and fair environment. Sports and government authorities must take concrete steps to restore trust and protect the integrity of sports in Cameroon. Victims of sexual abuse must no longer be silenced by fear or shame. Their voices must be heard, and justice must be served.
The future of Cameroonian sports depends on the ability of MINSEP and the federations to end political interference and create a framework of transparent and responsible governance. The dignity, safety, and future of our young athletes are at stake.
