In the tapestry of Cameroon, where cultures weave Hate speech stains fabrics causing victims to grieve As the wise sages say, there is power in the tongue ; " Words have power profound, Handle them with care, let empathy resound" As the sun sets over Mt Fako 's peak Communities suffer , while the meek and weak Are subjected to the harshness of hate' s cruel brew Like a riddle wrapped in a mystery, Trauma runs deep as low self-esteem grows and hope dispels , War and conflict loom over the horizon Fed by anger's flame a deadly scorpion.
From the grasslands of the Bamileke to the forests of the Bassa Hate speech lurks, a venomous sign Accusing identities with slang of disdain Where bullying thrives causing hearts to pain As ethnicity becomes a weapon of choice Even in the digital realm where anonymity reigns and hatred finds its voice As negative comments drip like venom poisoning minds, Odd crimes of prejudice leaves scars behind .
From the Highlands of the Fulani to the shores of the Duala Homes suffer in the grip of bigotry As hate speech festers like poisonous fumes Divinity weeps at the words that divide As pain and sorrow grips the land With different brothers fighting brothers , hand in hand Foot- to- foot , chest- to-chest, Flesh - to- flesh and blood - to- blood, But if we look closely in the eyes of darkness, There's a glimmer of light As good voices rise up , ready to fight Uniting across regions, tribes and lands Together , we can change narratives and stand .
From the hills of Alou to the plains of Ndop Let us advocate to defy hate's grip From the ancient wisdom of the Bantu to the songs of the Tikar With you and I as the antidotes Breaking the chains for love to extend Through dialogue and understanding, A magnetic force to behold The healing balm for every cold Rising above the boiling point of violence Like a soaring dove seeking gold For embracing diversity, we find our strength And in oneness , we go to any length, Where hope bloom and unity is our shield And value blossom as solidarity our sword In the fight against hate speech, Let's love be restored as rise beyond hate.
Emiliene Atabong