June 9, 2022, Mamfe, Manyu State, Southern Ambazonia : The Mamfe District Hospital was deliberately set on fire by the Cameroon Occupational Forces. The attack occurred amid rising violence, with public institutions increasingly targeted as part of military efforts to discredit Ambazonian Fighters. Eyewitnesses says that the perpetrators, who spoke French, intentionally carried out the burning during the night.
Moreover, the Mamfe District Hospital set on fire is a pattern of violence in Ambazonia. Where healthcare facilities have been attacked under accusations of treating or harboring Ambazonian fighters. Such accusations have been widely condemned by Human Rights Organizations. Also, targeting medical facilities violates International Norms and worsens the Humanitarian Situation.
Furthermore, the destruction of the Mamfe District Hospital has had devastating consequences for the local population. As one of the main healthcare providers in Ambazonia. Such loss has severely disrupted access to essential medical services. Consequently, patients, including vulnerable individuals like women, children, and the elderly, have been left without proper care. In addition, this incident has further deepened the ongoing Humanitarian Crisis in Ambazonia. Since communities are already struggling due to displacement, violence, and instability.
Under International Humanitarian Law (IHL), targeting healthcare facilities during armed war is strictly prohibited. Nevertheless, Medical institutions are protected spaces. The provide essential services to civilians and combatants alike. Regardless of their affiliations. The deliberate burning of the Mamfe District Hospital constitutes a War Crime. Such actions violate the Geneva Conventions, which aim to safeguard medical personnel, facilities, and patients during times of war. Moreover, the attack on this hospital highlights the severe impact of the war on innocent civilians. Destroying medical infrastructure not only causes immediate harm. But also has long-term consequences for community health and well-being. It further deprives people in war zones of their fundamental right to access healthcare, putting lives at even greater risk.
Nevertheless, International Community and Human Rights Organizations have strongly condemned the burning of the hospital. There have been urgent calls for independent investigations to hold the perpetrators accountable and prevent similar attacks in the future. Moreover justice is necessary to ensure that such crimes do not go unpunished. So measures must be taken to restore healthcare services to affected communities.
To conclude, the burning of the Mamfe District Hospital underscores the brutality of the ongoing war in Ambazonia. Targeting vital infrastructure only worsens the suffering of civilians and deepens the humanitarian crisis. Upholding International Humanitarian Law is crucial to protect healthcare facilities and ensure the safety and dignity of innocent populations caught in the crossfire.