On the occasion of the National Day of the Republic of Cameroon, also known as National Unity Day, celebrated this Wednesday, May 20, 2026, the Director General of the African Training and Research Centre in Administration for Development (CAFRAD), Dr. Coff Dieudonné ASSOUVI, and all the staff extend their sincere and warmest congratulations to His Excellency Mr. Paul BIYA, President of the Republic, Head of State, the Government, and the people of Cameroon.

Cameroonian National Day (also known as Unity Day) is celebrated annually on May 20, marking the establishment of the unitary state. It is the country’s principal national holiday. It commemorates the abolition of the federal system in favor of a unitary state by President Ahmadou Ahidjo, the transition from a federal republic to a unitary republic symbolizing the reunification of Anglophone and Francophone Cameroon following the constitutional referendum of May 20, 1972.

This former German colony, divided in 1916 between the United Kingdom and France, was first placed under a League of Nations mandate in 1919, then, in 1946, a trust territory, before gaining independence in 1960 within the context of the decolonization sweeping the African continent. It has since become one of the few bilingual French-English states, a success story to this day.

Unlike most sub-Saharan African states, Cameroon celebrates May 20^th not as the anniversary of its independence, but as the reunification of the country’s Anglophone and Francophone regions, both formerly under British and French influence. So, this Wednesday, May 20, 2026, in all its diversity, Cameroon celebrates its reunification under the theme: “National Unity, Pillar of Our Defense and Foundation of Cameroon’s Development.”

The theme of this 54^th edition, chosen by the Government, naturally revolves around consolidating Cameroon’s national unity and its economic development. It highlights national unity as a pillar of defense and the foundation of development. It is a powerful moment for social cohesion and the promotion of peace, particularly in a complex security context.

The commemoration is characterized by parades throughout the country, including the defense and security forces, as well as political parties, associations, and students. A highlight of these celebrations is the grand parade held on Boulevard du 20 May in Yaoundé, presided over by the Head of State, President Paul Biya.

This celebration of the 54^th anniversary of Cameroon’s reunification is intended as a moment to strengthen the unity of the Cameroonian people from all corners of the country, a place to reaffirm their commitment to peace and social cohesion, essential for building a stable nation with sustainable and inclusive development.

CAFRAD takes this opportunity to reaffirm its commitment to continuing its concerted efforts with this very active member country, aimed at the administrative transformation of Cameroonian institutions.

CAFRAD is pleased to extend its best wishes for lasting peace, happiness, and prosperity to the Cameroonian people, who are once again celebrating the country’s restored unity today.