Location
Cameroon
North-West &
South-West regions
Beneficiaries
50,000
people
Period
2020 - 2022
24 months
Context:
Cameroon, located in Central Africa, is facing a major humanitarian crisis. In 2022, some 3.9 million people were in need of humanitarian assistance and protection. This situation is exacerbated by armed conflict, natural disasters and epidemics, notably the COVID-19 pandemic. Violence has led to the internal displacement of over 933,000 people. Women and girls are particularly vulnerable, often exposed to gender-based violence and discrimination.
The English-speaking regions of the North-West and South-West are at the heart of this crisis. Historically marginalized since reunification in 1961, these regions have been the scene of violent conflict between government forces and separatist groups since 2017. Basic infrastructure, including health facilities and schools, has been destroyed or closed, limiting access to essential services.
Economically, the conflict has disrupted local activities, exacerbating poverty and food insecurity. Populations, particularly women and children, are exposed to increased violence and human rights violations. Basic infrastructures, including health facilities and schools, have been destroyed or closed, limiting access to essential services.
An intervention project is therefore crucial in this region to provide protection to vulnerable populations, rehabilitate health and education infrastructures, and revitalize the local economy. Immediate intervention is needed to alleviate suffering, promote human rights and foster peace and sustainable development.
Project description:
50,000 people were made aware of the issues surrounding GBV, the protection of vulnerable groups and the services available. This was achieved through the production of educational materials, such as facilitation guides for community dialogue and information on referral mechanisms. In addition, 124 community health workers and members of local organizations were trained to better understand the referral pathway and prevent sexual abuse and exploitation. These efforts have strengthened communities' ability to identify cases of violence and provide an appropriate initial response.
550 vulnerable people received direct support, including livelihood support and referral to protection and health services. To support these interventions, 40 community health workers were trained in community mobilization and psychosocial first aid. Finally, supervision sessions were set up to accompany and support 13 community health workers, thus guaranteeing continuity in the quality of services.
This project plays an essential role in protecting the rights of vulnerable populations, while raising awareness and building local capacity to respond effectively to the challenges of GBV in these crisis areas.
Specific objectives:
• Protect the rights of vulnerable populations living in conflict-affected areas in the North-West and South-West regions of Cameroon;
• Strengthening the capacities of local healthcare providers in the clinical management of gender-based violence (GBV) and rape, including the use of the rape Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) kit;
• Improving the quality of care and ensured that survivors of violence receive appropriate treatment.
Key Themes:
Emergency help
Health
Human rights
CARE Belgium supports the project in collaboration with other members of the CARE network, in particular through communication and fundraising activities.