Our reporter
The Cameroon Volleyball Federation (FECAVOLLEY) has found itself embroiled in a sex scandal after accusations emerged that several young players, aged between 16 and 18, were impregnated by national team coaches.
The allegations have prompted a severe backlash and calls for an in-depth investigation into the federation’s practices.
The scandal surfaced when a professional volleyball player penned an open letter condemning the pervasive “droit de cuissage” (right of first night) and “organized debauchery” allegedly endorsed by FECAVOLLEY’s president.
The player, (name withheld) accused certain coaches of harassment and sexual abuse of young female athletes. This revelation was further amplified by sports journalist Richard Naha, who reported that five underage volleyball players were currently pregnant due to relations with federation officials.
In response, FECAVOLLEY has issued a strong denial. In a statement, the federation distanced itself from the accused individuals, labeling them as “impostors” who falsely claim affiliation with the Cameroonian Federation of Volleyball.
The federation, led by Mr. Julien Serge Abouem, reaffirmed its commitment to ethical management and the development of volleyball in Cameroon.
• #Cameroun | 5 volleyeuses, dont l’âge est compris entre 16-18 ans, ont été mises enceinte par des encadreurs de l’équipe, a révélé le journaliste sportif, Richard Naha. pic.twitter.com/rp1QhAWx4K
— Chroniques 225 (@Chroniques225) July 18, 2024
“The Cameroon Volleyball Federation, under the leadership of Mr. Julien Serge Abouem, wishes to inform both national and international public opinion that FECAVOLLEY is not involved in the tumult of moral affairs prevalent in the media, especially on social networks,” read the statement.
FECAVOLLEY emphasized that it remains committed to promoting volleyball and maintaining high standards of conduct.
The federation’s statement also called on parents, supporters, patrons, sponsors, and public authorities to continue placing their trust in FECAVOLLEY, urging for the necessary support in implementing public policies in sports and physical education.
This scandal is the latest in a series of issues plaguing sports federations across Africa, where allegations of misconduct, corruption and abuse have frequently surfaced.
It underscores the urgent need for effective protection mechanisms for athletes, particularly minors, to safeguard against exploitation and abuse.
The international sports community is closely monitoring the developments within the Cameroon Volleyball Federation as the situation unfolds.
