In a bid to empower and uplift women living with disabilities in the midst of the ongoing sociopolitical crisis in North West and South West Regions of Cameroon, the Community Association for Vulnerable Persons (CAVP) has completed a groundbreaking project titled "Women Inclusion in New Security (SHE-WINS)."
With support from the US State Government, in partnership with Search for Common Ground and coordinated by Hope Advocate Africa Organization in Buea, this project aimed at strengthening the capacity of women living with disabilities in Santa, Bamenda I, II & III subdivisions, Mezam Division, North West Region on Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) processes, aligning with UNSCR Resolution 1325 pillars on participation and protection.
The project, which took place between January 11th and January 20, 2024, brought together a total of 192 participants, with 180 of them being women and 99 living with disabilities. The initiative included a series of impactful activities designed to empower and educate the community.
One of the key components of the project was the organization of a leadership training workshop for 16 leaders of associations of persons with disabilities and four community trainings for 250 women in Santa, Bamenda I, II, III subdivisions. Through these workshops, participants gained valuable insights into ways to promote peace building processes, inclusion, and participation in leadership and decision-making within their communities.
At the conclusion of the project, significant outcomes were achieved. A total of 99 women living with disabilities in four communities were equipped with awareness on Women Inclusion in New Security (SHE-WINS), UNSCR 1325 pillars, and local strategies to engage in peace-building processes within their communities and humanitarian contexts. Additionally, 292 participants, including men, women, boys, girls, and persons with disabilities, enhanced their knowledge on local approaches to fostering peace building processes and promoting inclusion and participation in leadership roles.
292 community members and leaders of associations of persons with disabilities from the targeted communities received improved knowledge on protection and access to civil status documentation for persons with disabilities and their families. To ensure sustainability and knowledge sharing, beneficiaries were provided with easy-to-read comic booklets designed and produced by CAVP.
CAVP, a women-led organization advocating for the rights of women and girls with disabilities at all levels of community life, has once again demonstrated its commitment to empowering vulnerable populations and promoting inclusivity within the society. The successful completion of the "Women Inclusion in New Security (SHE-WINS)" project underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in creating positive change and fostering a more inclusive and peaceful community.