News dated
A document can be a door that stays closed for years. In Cameroon, 124 adults from Baka and Bantu communities have received new birth certificates through the EU-funded Natura Sud Est project. UNESCO reported the result on 4 September, linking it to activities around the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples on 9 August. [1]
The certificates were issued in areas near Lobéké National Park and the Dja Reserve, working with local associations, conservation services and municipal authorities. This brings the project’s total to 204 documents, for 112 women and 92 men. [1]
The step matters because a birth certificate is needed to obtain a national identity card, which is important for access to public services, employment and civic rights. Support with obtaining identity cards is the next announced phase: the new birth certificates are an achievement already delivered, while that next step still needs to be completed. [1]
The bright side
Practical administrative barriers have been removed for people who were previously excluded. [1]
Straight from the source.
- UNESCO strengthens citizenship among Indigenous and vulnerable populations living around natural World Heritage sites in Cameroon. UNESCO · 4 Sept 2026
Original reporting summaries prepared with AI assistance and accessible sources. Our editorial method.
