FRANCE 24 English published this video item, entitled “LGBT defenders sound the alarm on situation in Cameroon” – below is their description.
As the world marks the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia, LGBT defenders are concerned about the situation in Cameroon. Some 30 homosexuals have been arrested in the last few weeks, according to activists. In particular, the trial of two Cameroonian trans women has been making headlines. They have been sentenced to five years in prison – the maximum penalty in Cameroon, which criminalises homosexuality. Amid this repression, lawyers like veteran barrister Alice Nkom are leading the fight against discrimination. Our correspondents report.
FRANCE 24 English YouTube Channel
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In This Story: Cameroon
Cameroon, officially the Republic of Cameroon, is a country in Central Africa and West Africa.
Cameroon is home to over 250 native languages spoken by nearly 25 million people. Cameroon became a German colony in 1884 known as Kamerun. In 1960, the French-administered part of Cameroon became independent. The southern part of British Cameroons federated with it in 1961 to form the Federal Republic of Cameroon. The federation was abandoned in 1972. The country was renamed the United Republic of Cameroon in 1972 and the Republic of Cameroon in 1984.
The official languages of Cameroon are French and English. Its religious population consists of 70.7% Christians and 24.4% Muslims. It is governed as a Unitary presidential republic and has good relations with the major powers of France, the United Kingdom and China.
The largest cities in population-terms are Douala on the Wouri River, its economic capital and main seaport, Yaoundé, its political capital, and Garoua.
The country is well known for its successful national football team.