Paper short abstract:

This study investigates the pivotal role of popular defense in containing Boko Haram in Cameroon's Far North. The findings stress the significance of grassroots involvement in crafting effective strategies against Boko Haram, offering valuable insights for future containment approaches.

Paper long abstract:

This study aims to explore the significant contribution of “popular defense” to the containment of Boko Haram in the Far North of Cameroon, highlighting the crucial impact of this initiative on security and community resilience. Popular defense encompasses the involvement of populations in the war effort. It involves a range of local actions, such as vigilance and collaboration, aimed at strengthening resilience against threats, as illustrated in the fight against Boko Haram in Cameroon. It relies on local expertise to develop effective resistance strategies.

The research is based on in-depth field investigations, focusing on the experiences, local knowledge, and self-protection strategies of community members affected by Boko Haram activities.

The adopted data collection methodology is participatory, including participant observation, in-depth interviews, group discussions, and workshops. The results emphasize the relevance of “popular defense” based on local expertise and a profound understanding of the context. Initiatives such as community vigilance, regional calls, expressions of support, ecumenical prayers for victims and soldiers engaged in the theater of operations, information sharing, and inter-community collaboration are identified as critical elements of “popular defense” in the fight against Boko Haram.

The data, consolidated in detailed reports, incorporate testimonials and contextual analyses. By highlighting the crucial role of local populations, including vigilance committees, this summary underscores the importance of popular defense in resisting Boko Haram. Data obtained through participatory means provide a solid foundation for understanding popular defense practices, thus contributing to developing more effective containment strategies.