By Ngunyi Sonita Nwohtazie
YAOUNDE, Cameroon – As part of the 2025 Think Tank Week, the Nkafu Policy Institute, a think tank of the Denis and Lenora Foretia Foundation hosted a compelling session focused on the addressing conflict and fragility in Central Africa, how think tanks and research institutions can contribute to conflict prevention, peacebuilding efforts, and addressing the root causes of instability in the region.
The session brought together seasoned voices in peacebuilding, conflict prevention, humanitarian response, and grassroots advocacy to share insights on how peace can be both studied and lived.
The discussion, which centred on the theme “Think Tanks and Peacebuilding – Addressing Conflict and Fragility in Central Africa”, explored the critical role that think tanks and research institutions can play in addressing fragility, conflict, and instability in the region. Panellists explored the practical challenges that often hinder the impact of peacebuilding efforts, despite numerous initiatives implemented across communities.
Among the panellists was Esther Omam Njomo, Executive Director of Reach Out Cameroon, a well-respected humanitarian and development leader. Drawing from personal experience, Omam underscored the necessity for peacebuilders to practice what they preach.
“Years ago, I was faced with a tense situation in my own family. It was the kind of test that demanded more than theory. It required action. I chose to practice the peace I advocate for, and that decision changed everything,” she stated.
She went further to emphasise the emotional and practical weight of peacebuilding: “Peacebuilding is not just something we read in books. It’s a real commitment. You must live it, breathe it, and show it even when it is most difficult. I have had moments in my work where I had to put everything I advocate for into practice, especially in moments of deep tension. That is when true peacebuilding begins, not in comfort, but in crisis.”
Her remarks served as a powerful reminder that peacebuilding goes beyond dialogue or diplomacy. It requires courage, consistency, and conviction in everyday life.
Also featured on the panel was Sylvie Ndongmo, President of the Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom (WILPF). Ndongmo provided a candid account of the recurring obstacles that stall peace efforts in the region.
“Donor constraints, language barriers, political resistance, and widespread denial are some of the toughest challenges we face. People claim we are at peace, but the reality says otherwise. We’re not making the progress we should, and that’s something we must address head-on,” she expressed.
Both panellists called for increased support, stronger regional collaboration, and a re-evaluation of how peace efforts are structured and supported. The session concluded with a call to action: for think tanks and policy institutes to go beyond analysis and engage more directly with communities, offering practical solutions that address the root causes of violence and insecurity.
About the Denis & Lenora Foretia Foundation
The Denis & Lenora Foretia Foundation was established to catalyse Africa’s economic transformation by focusing on social entrepreneurship, science and technology innovation, public health, and progressive policies that create economic opportunities for all. The Foundation partners with local governments, policymakers, private enterprises, civil society organisations, and development partners to expand resources available to entrepreneurs, farmers, and small business owners, thereby improving individual livelihoods.
About the Nkafu Policy Institute
The Nkafu Policy Institute is an African think tank with a mission to provide independent, in-depth, and insightful policy recommendations that enable all Africans to prosper in free, fair, democratic, and sustainable economies. The Institute’s team of analysts, experts, and researchers works on governance and democracy, health and education, peace and security, science and technology, and economic policy.
