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Desertion of Cameroonian Soldiers to Fight in Ukraine: Implications for National Stability

The desertion of soldiers from Cameroon to fight in Ukraine poses threats to the operational capacity of African militaries and regional stability. Financial incentives, coupled with dissatisfaction regarding military conditions, are major motivating factors. The issue reflects a broader trend of skilled labor outflow, underscoring the need for reforms within Cameroon’s military structures and policies.

The desertion of Cameroonian soldiers to fight in the Ukraine conflict significantly undermines the military capacity of African nations and threatens regional stability. Cameroon recently acknowledged this shift, which has escalated since the onset of the Russian invasion. Defence Minister Joseph Beti Assomo referred to these actions as ‘illicit involvement,’ indicating an alarming trend where troops abandon their posts to engage in foreign conflicts.

This wave of desertions is partly characterized by a divide between those joining foreign forces as volunteers and others who enlist under Russia’s military command. Although no precise statistics exist on desertion rates, the situation is exacerbated by multiple security threats within Cameroon, including Boko Haram, Central African Republic rebels, and piracy along coastal areas.

Desertions first gained attention in the late 2010s when elite unit soldiers were attracted to lucrative security jobs abroad, specifically in Dubai. Reports indicated that between 300 and 800 soldiers deserted by 2018. By 2020, an estimated 637 soldiers faced dismissal for similar reasons, prompting temporary suspensions of overseas military missions. The ongoing Ukraine crisis has emerged as another avenue for searching better opportunities.

Local recruitment networks have reportedly facilitated the enlistment of Cameroonian soldiers into the Ukraine war, often with attractive financial incentives; some deserters have cited salaries between XAF 1.2 million ($1,976) and XAF 2 million ($3,294) for specialized roles. These figures are consistent with British military intelligence suggesting enticing bonuses and salaries for service under Russian command.

This trend is seen as a consequence of the military professionalization that began in 2001, shifting the perception of military service from a patriotic duty to a livelihood. As soldiers view their military career as a viable income source, they are less inclined to remain committed to their posts. The transition to a professional army has also introduced contracts that provide limited service terms, leading to confusion among soldiers regarding their tenure.

Financial disparities between the salaries of Cameroonian and Russian soldiers further motivate desertions. A Cameroonian private’s salary can start at merely XAF 51,880 ($85), compared to potential earnings exceeding $2,000 in Russia. Additionally, soldiers report feeling overburdened by their duties, as the military landscape grows increasingly perilous.

The current pattern of desertions mirrors a broader issue of skilled labor outflow from Cameroon, impacting various professions. Data from the International Organization for Migration highlighted the departure of 7,448 regular migrants from Cameroon between January and May 2024, amplifying concerns within the Cameroonian Employers Council and national leadership regarding the loss of vital skills.

Consequently, the Cameroonian army now faces challenges in recruitment against the backdrop of rising commitments and alarming desertion rates, which hinder operational readiness and unit coherence. The implications extend to potential risks involving combat-experienced returnees who could threaten national security interests.

To mitigate this issue, the Defence Minister has called for enhanced monitoring of military personnel, with reiterated warnings against desertion, including potential prosecution. Stricter regulations for personnel wishing to leave the country are also being implemented. Furthermore, a comprehensive loyalty strategy, alongside better support systems for soldiers transitioning to civilian careers, has been proposed as essential measures.

Also, the Army Chief of Staff is urged to improve conditions to reduce pressure on troops stationed in high-stress regions. Addressing salary inflation is crucial, as military salaries must align with the increasing cost of living, notwithstanding ongoing debates about compensation fairness. Future reforms may include improved benefits such as housing and healthcare for service members.

In conclusion, the ongoing desertion of Cameroonian soldiers to join the conflict in Ukraine reveals significant challenges for the Cameroonian military. Coupled with financial motivations and increasing dissatisfaction with working conditions, these desertions compromise operational efficiency and highlight a broader trend of skilled labor outflow. Immediate measures, such as stricter regulations and improved support for soldiers, are essential to stabilize the military and retain critical personnel. Addressing these issues thoughtfully can mitigate the ongoing challenges faced by Cameroon’s armed forces in the context of a changing global landscape.

Original Source: www.premiumtimesng.com

Samir Khan

Samir Khan is a well-respected journalist with 18 years of experience in feature writing and political analysis. After graduating from the London School of Economics, he began his career covering issues related to governance and societal challenges, both in his home country and abroad. Samir is recognized for his investigative prowess and his ability to weave intricate narratives that shed light on complex political landscapes.

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