Yaoundé, Cameroon — The official launch of Cameroon’s National Action Plan on Youth, Peace and Security (YPS)witnessed a remarkable and symbolic moment when multi-award-winning music artist and peace advocate, Magasco, made a public pledge to support the implementation of the YPS Agenda in Cameroon, Africa, and beyond.

Photo of the Minister of Women Empowerment, Minister of Youth Affairs and Civic Education, UN Resident Coordinator during the ceremony

Standing beside the Minister of Youth Affairs and Civic Education, Magasco reaffirmed his belief that youth participation in peacebuilding is crucial to ending violence and building lasting peace. Drawing from his own experiences of growing up amid the ongoing armed conflict in the North West and South West Regions, he shared heartfelt reflections on the devastating realities of violent conflict and its impact on families and communities.

Magasco delivering his remarks and pledge at the Ceremony

“Peace is priceless. Having witnessed firsthand how conflict tears families apart, I believe every young person has a role to play in restoring hope and building peaceful communities,” Magasco said. “Through my music and activism, I want to use my voice and influence to inspire other young people to choose peace over violence.”

Magasco’s presence and pledge at the YPS National Action Plan launch mark a historic bridge between the creative industry and national peace efforts, highlighting how influential young figures can amplify global agendas through their platforms and artistry.

Music Meets Peacebuilding

Beyond the stage, Magasco has long used his art to speak out against violence, social injustice, and community decay. In 2023, as part of the youth-led NGO Local Youth Corner Cameroon’s strategy to engage influencers and creatives for sustainable development, Magasco was supported in launching his groundbreaking initiative, the “Access to Love” campaign. This youth-driven initiative has reached over 25 schools and engaged 25,000 young people across Cameroon.

Magasco and Richard ( Representative from the Canadian High Commission ) during his Access to Love Campaign.

The campaign promotes non-violence, love, and positive values through school visits, art, storytelling, and dialogues with young people on pressing issues such as drug abuse, crime, and hate speech. Supported by the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives, this initiative demonstrates the power of influential young people in driving social change.

Through his platform, Magasco continues to demonstrate that music is more than entertainment—it is a force for healing, advocacy, and transformation.

 

 

 

 

A Voice that Inspires

Born and raised in the North West Region of Cameroon, Magasco is one of the country’s most respected artists. With 11 albums, millions of streams, and over 2 million followers across social media, his sound blends traditional Njang rhythms with Dancehall, Afropop, Afrobeats, and Rumba, reflecting a truly authentic African identity.

Magasco’s advocacy is deeply rooted in his own life story — one shaped by hardship, resilience, and hope. He sees his influence, independence, and authenticity as assets to the Youth, Peace and Security movement, and calls on other artists and influencers to join hands in making peace a shared responsibility.

“Coming out publicly to support this global agenda is not just symbolic—it’s a call to my peers. Our voices matter. Our influence can change mindsets, heal communities, and build a better Cameroon,” he added.

Magasco receiving a copy of the National Action Plan from the Minister of Youth Affairs

Looking Ahead

As Cameroon embarks on implementing its National Action Plan on Youth, Peace and Security, Magasco’s commitment serves as an inspiring example of how young creatives can play a transformative role in advancing peace and resilience.

He expressed readiness to collaborate with government, civil society, and international partners to take the YPS message closer to young people across the country, using music, dialogue, and community action as powerful tools for change.

 

 

About Magasco

Magasco is a multi-award-winning artist, songwriter, activist, and cultural influencer from Cameroon. A graduate of the University of Yaoundé I, where he studied History, he has built an outstanding career at the intersection of music, culture, and social impact. With over 2 million followers across social media and 11 albums released, Magasco has become one of the most recognizable and impactful voices in Cameroon’s creative industry.

Born and raised in the North West Region, his artistry is deeply shaped by the traditional Njang rhythm, which he effortlessly fuses with Dancehall, Afropop, Afrobeats, and Rumba. This signature blend has given him a vibrant, modern African sound rooted in cultural authenticity.

Magasco’s activism is grounded in his personal journey, including the hardships he experienced growing up and the ongoing armed conflict in the North West and South West Regions, which affected him and his family. These lived experiences have strengthened his commitment to peace, social justice, and youth empowerment.

In 2022, he partnered with UNHCR Cameroon as a Goodwill Ambassador, supporting efforts to engage and uplift refugees affected by the Boko Haram insurgency in the Northern regions. As part of the initiative, he produced a powerful awareness-raising song highlighting the realities and resilience of refugees in Cameroon.

He is also the founder of the Spread Love Initiative, through which he has engaged over 25,000 young people in more than 20 schools across the country. His work focuses on violence prevention, combating drug abuse, promoting positive behaviour change among youth, and inspiring hope through creative expression.

Magasco’s career demonstrates how music and public influence can drive healing, advocacy, and community transformation. He continues to stand out as a leading voice for peace and a beacon of inspiration for young people across Cameroon and beyond.

Magasco Nominated for the Africa Music Award

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