CIFLEN 2026
The International Conference on the Nyong River (CIFLEN 2026) is an ambitious collective initiative born out of the ecological and human emergency facing one of Central Africa’s most important river basins. It brings together stakeholders from public institutions, research, local authorities, local communities and civil society to work together to develop a sustainable future for the Nyong River.
At the heart of this meeting is a clear objective: to safeguard this vital river threatened by pollution, deforestation, climate change and increasing human pressure. CIFLEN 2026 aims to be a space for dialogue, co-construction and commitment. Through thematic sessions, experience sharing and multi-stakeholder mobilisation, the conference aims to develop concrete solutions to preserve the water, biodiversity, livelihoods and cultural memory surrounding this river.
More than a scientific or institutional event, CIFLEN 2026 is a call to ecological awareness, a platform for transformation and an invitation to act together to breathe new life into a precious ecosystem.
THE MINEPDED
The International Conference on the Nyong River (CIFLEN 2026) is held under the institutional patronage of the Ministry of Environment, Nature Protection and Sustainable Development, affirming Cameroon’s commitment to environmental protection, biodiversity conservation and sustainable water resource management. This institutional support gives the event national and international legitimacy, reinforcing its role in combating climate change and promoting sustainable development around the Nyong River.
MEETING WITH THE NYONG
The Nyong flows through lush natural surroundings, between dense forests and bustling villages. More than just a river, it is a living witness to the stories, lives and struggles that unfold on its banks. Through these reports and videos, discover its secrets, the voices that inhabit it and the issues that shape it. A sensitive and sincere immersion, to better understand this unique, fragile and precious river.
Each image, each story is an invitation to take a different look at this multifaceted territory, where ancestral traditions and modern challenges intertwine. By exploring the landscapes, customs and people that shape it, this series takes you on a journey along the river, between beauty, resilience and urgency. The Nyong reminds us how closely nature and humans are linked, and how essential it is to protect this fragile bond.
Conference themes
The 2026 CIFLEN highlights the key issues that will shape the future of the Nyong River. Through three main themes, the conference provides a forum for collective reflection to understand, take action and bring about lasting change in the basin.
Hydrology, variations in climate and river water resources
increasing droughts and unpredictable floods challenge our ability to anticipate. The conference provides a forum for reflection on the natural dynamics of the Nyong, modern monitoring tools and strategies to be implemented to guarantee access to water in an uncertain climate.
Biodiversity and ecosystems of the Nyong
The gradual disappearance of species, the degradation of wetlands and the weakening of ecological balances call for urgent action. This theme explores ways to restore ecosystems, promote biodiversity and restore the Nyong’s central role in regulating the climate and life.
Governance, society and innovation
The river is a source of livelihood for thousands of families. Agriculture, fishing and ecotourism are activities under threat. This is about rethinking the local economic models by accommodating durable revenues, social justice and respect of natural balances in line with territorial resilience.
Join CIFLEN, share your ideas, your solutions, your desire to take action…
Because a defenceless river is a fading memory. Because together, we can change the course of events.
Testimonials
Through these voices,
Discover authentic stories from those who observe the changes in Nyong every day, worry about them… but remain hopeful that it will be revived.
Mr. Etienne
Fisherman in Akomnyada
The Nyong was our life. We never had shortage of fish. Today, the water is murky, the nets come back almost empty, and sometimes there is more plastic than catfish in them. However, I believe that with help, we can still save it. We just need to all work together.
Mama Rose
farmer in Ngomedzap
Before, I didn’t have to walk far to water my crops. The river water was enough. Now, we have to dig deeper, carry water in containers… It’s hard. If the river dries up, our whole way of life will be threatened. We have to protect what we have left.
Paola
Environmental student
I grew up on the banks of the Nyong River. It was when I saw the river drying up that I realised the urgency of the situation. Through my studies and my activism, I want to be the voice of my generation, a generation that still believes in a future where nature and progress can coexist.
Our partners
A collective commitment supported by trusted institutions.
