Oasis Belgium

Human Trafficking: A serious problem in Cameroon, but government seems uninterested

Human trafficking is fast becoming a serious problem in the republic of Cameroon, and most victims here are child labourers. The situation is so severe owing to the fact that in Cameroon there is no law prohibiting the trafficking of adults and the draft national plan for combating trafficking has not move forward. Meanwhile, the 2005 law prohibiting child trafficking remains weak, as many law enforcement officers were unaware of the law.

Today's slavery

"You must be mindful to have your Negroes shaved and made Clean to look well at every Island you touch at and to strike a good Impression on the Buyers..." - Humphrey Morice, Member of Parliament, Governor of the Bank of England, slave trader, England, 1730s

"I've paid $45,000; why can't they look decent."
- Trevor "Papa" McIvor, brothel owner, Australia, 2000s

The alternate view is that being on "contract", being forced to pay off imaginary debts of up to $50,000 through unwanted prostitution, is indeed a modern form of slavery. We should not look for shackles - the enslavement tool of the transatlantic slave trade - but rather at the impact of the slave traders, at their power to reduce a person to a commodity.

We often think of slavery in terms of ill-treatment, and imagine that violence is unrelenting. But slavery does not necessarily mean constant abuse. Eighteenth century slave trader Humphrey Morice had firm views on the treatment of slaves - he thought they should be treated well. "Take care your Negroes have their Victualls in proper Season and at regular times and that their food be well boyled and prepared," he told his captain in 1721, "and do not Sufferr any of your Shipp's Company to abuse them".

Get involved

You, your church, youth group, school or organisation can get involved with our chocolate campaign. Contact us and we will be more than happy to come and speak to your group explaining about human trafficking and also ways you can get involved in the chocolate campaign. You can also get more information through the website www.stopthetraffik.org