Every year, on December 10, the world pauses to reflect on the principles enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted in 1948. These principles remind us that dignity, freedom, and equality are not privileges; they are inherent rights of every human being.
Awardees holding their awards, accompanied by the Canadian High Commissioner, H.E Marie Claude Harvey
As part of the celebration of the 77th edition of Human Rights Day observed this December 10 2025 worldwide, the Canadian High Commission in Cameroon, through its High Commissioner, H.E Marie Claude Harvey, has honoured local human rights activists with the Human Rights Defenders Award. Prominent among the four exceptional Cameroonian awardees and organisations, was the Cameroonian music star group X-Maleya through their foundation, which was recognised for using their music and art to raise awareness and inspire thousands of young people to combat gender based violence.
Addressing the invitees at the grandiose ceremony, the High Commissioner revealed that Canada’s foreign policy rests on the conviction that societies prosper when rights are respected, when diversity is valued, and when every voice can be heard.
Around the world, communities continue to face challenges: conflicts, discrimination, poverty, and injustice, reasons why the fight for human rights remains relevant to Canada.
The reception event that took place at the Canadian official residence in Cameroon, reaffirms Canada’s commitment to promoting and protecting human rights. This year’s theme as highlighted by the United Nations, reminds us that human rights are our everyday essentials as vital as water, air and shelter. The event also marked the end of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, emphasising that living free from violence is a fundamental right. The UNITE campaign drew attention to digital violence, including cyber harrasment and deepfake abuse, underscoring the need for safe and inclusive online spaces.
In an interview with The Post, awardee Haissam Zaiter of X-Maleya Foundation, in the company of teammate Roger Samnig, expressed profound gratitude to the Canadian High Comission for this honour. To them, it will go a long way to boost their peaceful work in promoting and protecting human rights for everyone, and acting as valuable agents for change.
Another recipient of the award, Marie Mballa Biloa founding president of Association Bayam Sallam, ASBY, advocating for market woman’s economic inclusion and fighting gender-Based violence, expressed how grateful she is. Through the support of development partners, peace and respect for the woman, she becomes empowered to engage activities that give her financial autonomy, hence reducing the possibility for her to be subjected to gender based violence.
Other awardees include Sylvie Ngum Chiabi, founder of Heart of Hope Cameroon, championing youth digital rights. Bergeline Doumou promoting democratic reforms through her association Cameroon Ó Bosso. Present at the occasion were Honorable Ministers of State, members of the Diplomatic Corps, representatives of civil society organizations, and media partners who extended diplomatic handshakes, toasting chilled glasses of drinks as they wined and dinned together in the warmness of the residence.
By Solange TegwiÂ
