YAOUNDÉ, Cameroun – Children aged 4 to 16 in Yaoundé, Cameroun, will have the opportunity to participate in a free sports camp during the Easter holiday period. The Highlanders Youth Sports Academy (HYSA) is organizing the camp, open to all, at the Complexe Sportif Municipal de Borne 10 in Odza. The initiative will focus on basketball and badminton, providing instruction and supervised play at no cost to participants.
Dubbed “Giving Back Through Sport” – or Redonner à la Jeunesse à travers le Sport – the program specifically targets children and adolescents in the Odza neighborhood, one of the most densely populated areas of Yaoundé. Organizers aim to transform the municipal sports complex into a hub for athletic development during the school break, offering a positive alternative to idleness.
The camp’s curriculum centers around basketball and badminton, sports that are often inaccessible to young people in Yaoundé’s working-class neighborhoods due to financial constraints. HYSA hopes to provide a safe and stimulating environment for children to develop their skills and stay active during the Easter vacation. This initiative is particularly noteworthy as it operates without any sponsorship or public funding, relying solely on the dedication of volunteers.
“Your support, even by simply sharing this information, could really make a big difference for these young people,” said Fabrice Koupeguiang Mbevo, the founder and head of HYSA. The academy is actively seeking community support to ensure as many children as possible can benefit from the program.
The demand for such initiatives is underscored by broader efforts to support youth development through sports in Africa. The UEFA Foundation, for example, has funded projects aimed at providing psychosocial support to children affected by conflict through participation in sports and games. The YES! (Youth Empowerment through Sport) project in Cameroon, though distinct from HYSA’s initiative, highlights the recognized value of sports as a tool for healing and resilience-building.
HYSA’s “Giving Back Through Sport” camp is a grassroots effort, demonstrating a commitment to community upliftment. The academy’s launch of activities, including this free camp, marks an official opening and a dedication to providing accessible sports opportunities for the youth of Yaoundé. The program’s focus on basketball and badminton offers a chance for children to learn new skills, build teamwork and experience the benefits of physical activity.
For those interested in participating or supporting the camp, Fabrice Koupeguiang Mbevo can be contacted at 654 55 71 63. The organizers are encouraging widespread sharing of information to maximize participation and ensure the success of this community-driven initiative.
This camp represents a valuable opportunity for young people in Odza to engage in positive activities during their school break. It’s a testament to the power of community spirit and the belief that every child deserves access to sports and recreation. The Highlanders Youth Sports Academy’s commitment to providing this free camp is a welcome development for the youth of Yaoundé.
What’s Next: The camp will run throughout the Easter holiday period. HYSA is actively seeking volunteers and donations to support its ongoing programs and expand its reach within the community. Further updates and information can be obtained by contacting Fabrice Koupeguiang Mbevo.
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