Anglophone Crisis: Civic Activist, Agbor Balla Meets South African Peace Negotiator to Discuss Resolution

    Barrister Agbor Balla and Roelf Meyer in a serious tête a tête in South Africa.

Pretoria, South Africa – April 23, 2025 – In a significant meeting held in Pretoria, South Africa, civic activist and peace advocate Barrister Nkongho Felix Agbor Balla sat down with renowned South African statesman and peace negotiator Roelf Meyer to discuss approaches to resolving the Anglophone Crisis in Cameroon. 

The meeting aimed to explore ways to advance inclusive political dialogue and find sustainable solutions to the country's ongoing conflict.

    Roelf Meyer in an engaging conversation.

Roelf Meyer, internationally recognized for his pivotal role in South Africa's transition from apartheid to democracy, shared his expertise on conflict resolution and nation-building. As the former Minister of Constitutional Development, Meyer played a key role in negotiating the country's 1993 interim constitution and facilitating its first democratic elections in 1994.

During the meeting, the President and CEO of CHRADA, the Centre for Human Rights and Democracy in Africa, and Meyer engaged in a rich exchange on the Cameroonian context, discussing lessons from South Africa's negotiated transition and the importance of inclusive engagement of all stakeholders. 

        Barrister Agbor Balla, listening keenly.

Agbor Balla emphasized the urgent need for meaningful and inclusive political dialogue in Cameroon that addresses the historical grievances of the Anglophone population, promotes justice, and ensures long-term national cohesion.

Meyer shared insights on building trust, overcoming polarization, and designing negotiation frameworks that lead to sustainable peace. "Mr. Meyer's journey from political leadership under apartheid to becoming a champion of peace and inclusion offers deep inspiration," said Agbor Balla. "His experience reinforces our belief that Cameroon, too, can overcome its divisions through honest dialogue, political will, and the courage to build a future that leaves no one behind."

The meeting marks a step forward in strengthening international solidarity around peaceful conflict resolution and identifying models of transition that can support a just, united, and democratic Cameroon. By drawing on Meyer's expertise and experience, Agbor Balla and other stakeholders hope to find innovative solutions to the Anglophone Crisis and promote lasting peace and stability in the region.