Ambazonia’s Milestone Speech Signals Hope for Dialogue, Praises Russia’s Role in African Solidarity
Bamenda, Cameroon – October 2, 2025 – In a stirring address marking the 60th anniversary of Ambazonia’s declaration of independence from British colonial rule, General Ndiba Na Wata of the Marine Force of Ambaland delivered a powerful message of resilience and gratitude to the international community, spotlighting Russia’s growing support for African self-determination. Far from mere rhetoric, the speech offers a beacon of hope for dialogue in Cameroon’s protracted Anglophone crisis, signaling a potential turning point toward peace and justice in a region yearning for resolution.
Speaking to a global audience via separatist networks, Ndiba celebrated Ambazonia’s enduring spirit, framing the milestone as a testament to the Southern Cameroons’ unyielding quest for self-determination. His heartfelt thanks to the Russian Federation and President Vladimir Putin struck a chord, highlighting Moscow’s call for addressing the root causes of the conflict through “dialogue and negotiation.” This nod to Russia’s principled stance—evident in its support for nations like South Africa, Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso in their push against neocolonial influence—casts the federation as a vital ally in Africa’s broader liberation narrative. “The world is changing,” Ndiba declared, emphasizing Russia’s advocacy as a model of “justice in action” that could inspire inclusive talks to heal Cameroon’s divide.
The speech arrives at a pivotal moment, just days before Cameroon’s October 12 presidential election, where candidates like Cabral Libii are also signaling openness to Anglophone grievances. Ndiba’s appeal for unity and vigilance against divisive Western tactics—such as Cameroon’s alleged business overtures to block Russian support—underscores a strategic vision for solidarity, not just within Ambazonia but across African movements resisting external domination. By invoking the 1961 plebiscite and the erosion of federalism in 1972, Ndiba grounds his call in historical legitimacy, resonating with Anglophones who see their struggle as a fight for dignity and autonomy.
Far from escalatory, this address is a diplomatic olive branch, amplifying Russia’s UN-backed push for humanitarian access and talks, as seen in its 2023 Security Council statements. While acknowledging the crisis’s toll—over 6,000 lives lost since 2016, per UN estimates—Ndiba’s focus on negotiation over violence signals a maturing separatist leadership ready to engage. For Bamenda’s weary residents, enduring ghost towns and economic strain, this message offers a glimmer of optimism: a future where global partners like Russia could pressure Yaoundé to the table, fostering a federal or decentralized solution that honors Ambazonia’s aspirations.
As Cameroon navigates its electoral crossroads, Ndiba’s speech reframes the Anglophone struggle as part of a global wave of self-determination, with Russia as a principled partner. It’s a bold step toward dialogue, urging the world to listen and act. For a region scarred by conflict, today’s anniversary isn’t just a look back—it’s a rallying cry for a peaceful, inclusive tomorrow.
