Cameroon

Defined by its different cultures, ethnicities, and tribes, Cameroon is currently navigating multiple challenges including violence and displacement related to Boko Haram in the Far North, the refugee crisis in the East, the COVID-19 pandemic affecting the entire country, and political issues in various regions. The arrival of Boko Haram ten years ago brought violence and conflict to the Lake Chad Basin and led to massive internal and cross-border displacement, the destruction of livelihoods and property, and the disruption of trade and flow of food.

Through an integrated human security approach, the programme strengthened collaboration between a broad range of stakeholders to build the resilience of communities, de-escalate the crisis in the Far North, and stem the spread of violent extremism in the region. Through initiatives that helped mitigate farmer-pastoralist conflicts, provided alternatives to youth vulnerable to recruitment by extremist groups, and improved municipal capacities to deliver social services and manage disaster risk, the programme responded to the root causes of economic, environmental, health, community and personal insecurity in the region, with a focus on the most vulnerable women, youth and displaced populations.