Archbishop Andrew Nkea Fuanya prepares catechism on peace

In brief

Archbishop Andrew Nkea Fuanya of Bamenda is preparing a catechism on peace to help young people in Cameroon's North-West Region recover from a decade of conflict. The text will feature 100 questions and answers intended to teach children and youth of all faiths about human dignity, reconciliation, and respect for life.

The Archbishop said that young people in the region have grown up surrounded by violence due to ten years of war between separatist rebels and Cameroonian armed forces. The project draws inspiration from the message of Pope Leo XIV, who warned against those who manipulate religion for military, economic, or political gain.

With support from Aid to the Church in Need, the catechism will be printed and distributed to young people throughout the North-West Region. Archbishop Nkea estimated that between 8,000 and 10,000 people have died in the conflict, though he believes the actual number may be higher.