19 August 2025 — Addis Ababa

On this year’s World Humanitarian Day (#WorldHumanitarianDay), I join the international community in honoring the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of humanitarian workers who continue to serve in some of the world’s most challenging environments.

Under the global theme #ActForHumanity, today’s commemoration is a solemn reminder of the urgent need to protect humanitarian personnel, safeguard civilians in conflict zones, and strengthen accountability in international humanitarian response.

In Addis Ababa, IOM and fellow members of the Humanitarian Coordination Forum amplified frontline voices, advocating for protection, accountability, and action. I am proud to stand in solidarity with migrants, refugees, returnees, and internally displaced persons (IDPs) across Africa — populations whose dignity and security remain central to our collective future.

Sadly, recent global reports reveal the highest number of humanitarian worker casualties on record in 2024, with more than 380 aid workers killed — nearly half of them in Gaza. These alarming figures underscore why today must go beyond commemoration and inspire renewed commitment to action.

As Cameroon’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, Djibouti, and the African Union, I reaffirm our dedication to ensuring that humanitarian principles are upheld and that those forced to flee their homes are given protection, dignity, and hope.

Together, let us transform solidarity into meaningful, lasting action.

H.E. Churchill Ewumbue-Monono
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Cameroon to Ethiopia, Djibouti & the African Union