The desertion of Cameroonian soldiers to join the Ukraine war undermines military capacity and national stability. Following a trend since the late 2010s, soldiers are increasingly drawn by lucrative opportunities in conflict zones. Financial motivations, heavy workloads, and professionalization efforts have contributed to this phenomenon, prompting calls for stricter military oversight and improvements in soldier welfare.
The desertion of Cameroonian soldiers to fight in Ukraine significantly undermines the operational effectiveness of the military and increases instability in the nation. The situation has intensified since the onset of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, as highlighted by Defence Minister Joseph Beti Assomo on March 7. While part of the defectors are foreign volunteers, many are linked to Russia, identified as ‘Putin’s Tirailleurs’.
Desertions trace back to the late 2010s when Cameroonian soldiers began leaving for more lucrative positions in Dubai. Reports from 2018 indicated that between 300 and 800 soldiers had deserted, and by 2020, 637 faced dismissal for the same reason. In response, the government enacted measures to curb overseas missions for military personnel.
What’s notable about this current desertion wave is the direct choice of soldiers to engage in a conflict zone. Recruiters have established local systems to attract these soldiers to the Ukraine front, with reported salaries ranging from XAF 1.2 million ($1,976) to XAF 2 million ($3,294) for specialists. This aligns with reports from British military intelligence indicating entry bonuses and salaries for combatants.
The ongoing trend of desertion reflects broader professionalization efforts in Cameroon’s military since 2001, shifting soldiers’ roles from patriotic service to employment. Soldiers increasingly view their military service as a career choice, which has changed the operational dynamics and contributed to the current recruitment challenges.
Financial motivations prevail as a significant factor in desertions. Comparatively, a second-class private’s salary is XAF 51,880 ($85) monthly, significantly lower than the XAF 2,000 ($2,000) offered by Russian forces for front-line duty. Moreover, the burden of increased military responsibilities amid heightened operational risks has motivated many to reconsider their commitment to the Cameroonian army.
The desertion trend follows a disturbing ‘brain drain’ phenomenon, with many professionals seeking opportunities abroad. The International Organization for Migration recorded a significant number of regular migrants from Cameroon between January and May 2024, compounding recruitment difficulties for the military.
Authorities are particularly concerned about soldiers with combat experience returning home after fighting in Ukraine, as their advanced skills could present threats to national security. To tackle the issue of desertion, measures including stricter oversight and enhanced loyalty strategies have been proposed to ensure better retention of military personnel, as well as improved conditions on the ground.
Long-term solutions also call for revisiting compensation structures and ensuring benefits as pledged by the government for active soldiers. Addressing key issues such as troop rotations and resource allocation is essential for maintaining military stability in Cameroon.
The desertion of Cameroonian soldiers to fight in Ukraine highlights significant vulnerabilities within the military, exacerbated by financial incentives and heightened operational demands. The government’s call for tighter regulations and improved retention strategies aims to address these issues, but it requires a comprehensive approach to military welfare and combat readiness. Moreover, the ongoing trend reflects a broader societal movement of migration for better opportunities, complicating Cameroon’s security landscape.
Original Source: www.premiumtimesng.com
