The U-Reporters are leading the response against polio in the North and Far North of Cameroon

Immediately after the campaign briefing, the U-Reporters spread out across public spaces, streets and households to relay prevention messages, combat rumours and encourage parents to have their children vaccinated against polio. Equipped with megaphones, visual aids and, above all, contagious energy, they knocked on doors and led educational discussions.

"We are the voice of children and young people. If we don't get involved, who will? Polio can be prevented, and it starts with us," says Fadimatou, a committed U-Reporter from Garoua.

For many, this participation goes beyond simple volunteering. It represents a civic duty and a commitment by young people to make their voices heard and participate in community actions.

"When I see a mother hesitating and then, after discussion, agreeing to have her child vaccinated, I tell myself that our presence really makes a difference," says Abraham, U Reporter Maroua.

In some communities, misinformation persists. U-Reporters have played a key role in debunking myths about the vaccine by showing videos of people affected by polio.

"We sometimes hear that vaccines cause infertility or make people ill. We patiently explain that these rumours are false. Vaccination protects and saves lives," explains Nasser, U Reporter Mokolo.

Thanks to their proximity to the community and their mastery of social media, they also disseminated awareness messages online, thereby reaching a wider audience.

"My social media page received over 10,000 views in 24 hours on the posts I shared as part of this polio campaign. I am convinced that this has helped save lives," says Rodrigues U Reporter Lagdo.

Beyond vaccination, this campaign strengthened the leadership skills of the young participants. Through public speaking and teamwork, the U-Reporters developed skills in social mobilisation in mass campaigns.

"Participating in this campaign has taught me that we young people are ready and willing to serve our community. We can take action now," emphasises Bintou, U Reporter Kolofata.

Polio remains a threat in several regions of the country, but every child vaccinated brings communities closer to its definitive eradication. Thanks to the commitment of young people alongside partners, hope remains strong. When young people mobilise, no cause is too great. From the North to the Far North, in more than twenty villages (Garoua, Gachiga, Pitoa, Lagdo, Moutourwa, Yagoua, Kaikai, Maga, Bogo, Maroua, Mokolo, Koza, Mozogo, Meri, Meme, Kolofata, Kousseri and Logone Birni), U Reporters have remained dynamic and committed to protecting every life.