The town of Doumé, in the Eastern Region of Cameroon, was struck by tragedy on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, the day the nation celebrated National Unity Day. A 17-year-old boy drowned in a lake in the Plateau district while the population gathered for the festivities.
According to eyewitness accounts, the young man had gone to the lake with friends. Unable to swim, he reportedly ventured alone into a deep area, located past a pipe and surrounded by trees. It was there that he lost his footing and struggled in vain, before the helpless eyes of his companions.
"He was shouting for help while gradually disappearing beneath the surface," witnesses reported, emphasizing the panic that gripped the young people present. Two children ran to alert adults in the neighborhood, while a little girl screamed to attract the attention of local residents. Unfortunately, a large part of the population had gathered at the festival grounds for the May 20 celebrations, leaving the neighborhood relatively deserted.
Alerted, local residents rushed to the lake and dived in to try to rescue the teenager. Despite their efforts, help arrived too late. Doctors dispatched to the scene tried to revive the young man, but he was pronounced dead at the scene.
The victim's body was transferred to the morgue of the Bertoua Regional Hospital. The burial is scheduled to take place between May 29 and 30. This tragedy has plunged the community of Doumé into mourning on this national holiday.
