The Role of the International Organization of Francophonie on Cultural Diversity and Peace in Francophone Africa: The case of the ELAN-Africa Project in Cameroon

ABSTRACT : Following the independence of former French colonies, the International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF) was created to promote French language and culture in former French colonies. Over time, influenced by the 2005 UNESCO Convention on Cultural Diversity, its focus expanded toward promoting multilingualism and peace. In this context, this study examines the ELAN-Africa initiative launched in 2011 to integrate indigenous languages into primary education in Francophone Africa, with emphasis on Cameroon‟s Centre Region. Using a quantitative research design, data were collected from 66 primary school teachers through structured surveys, complemented by secondary data from OIF reports. A descriptive statistical analysis was applied to assess four core variables: frequency of indigenous language instruction, teachers‟ cultural competence, availability of didactic materials, and teachers‟ level of satisfaction. The findings reveal that although indigenous languages such as Ewondo and Basaa are now part of the curriculum, implementation remains limited due to insufficient training, low cultural competence, and lack of didactic materials. Despite challenges, the initiative marks progress toward cultural diversity and peace education. The study concludes that OIF‟s evolving policy reflects a shift from linguistic dominance to cultural pluralism, requiring stronger institutional support to sustain indigenous cultural preservation.

KEYWORDS: Francophonie, Cultural Diversity, ELAN-Africa, Peace, Cameroon,