The Center for Advocacy in Gender Equality and Action for Development (CAGEAD) has made an impressive presence at the National Women Peace and Security Fair, an open day event dedicated to women peace leaders, held in Yaoundé Wednesday 19 June 2024.
The event, organized by Reach Out with support from the Canadian High Commission, according to the organization's Executive Director Esther Njomo Omam focused on Peace Tables organized in conflict affected areas in country with the objective of promoting WPS through a culture of peace and social cohesion in Cameroon."
Led by CEO Waah Clotilda Andiensa, CAGEAD's team showcased their extensive work on Women, Peace, and Security to key stakeholders. The fair provided a platform for CAGEAD to highlight her contributions to peacebuilding in the North West Region.
"We are deeply honored to participate in this event and grateful to Reach Out for inviting CAGEAD," Waah Clotilda Andiensa CAGEAD’s CEO said adding "This fair is a vital opportunity for us to share our work and the positive impact we've made in our communities."
High-Profile Visits and Showcases
CAGEAD's stand attracted notable visitors, including Cameroon's Minister for Women Empowerment and the Family, Prof. Marie-Thérèse Abena Ondoa, the High Commissioner of Canada to Cameroon, the UN Resident Representative to Cameroon, and the CEO of Reach Out.
During these visits, CAGEAD presented their peacebuilding efforts and the localization of the UNSCR 1325 model. They displayed various documents, informational materials, and equipment derived from their community-based peacebuilding initiatives.
CAGEAD received widespread praise for the tangible impact of their She Builds Peace campaign, which includes training community peace ambassadors and creating peace clubs, documented testimonies, and recognition by local authorities such as the Bamenda III Council. Their work in promoting social cohesion in areas like Ntamulung in Bamenda and Santa village, as well as their humanitarian interventions during the COVID-19 pandemic, were also prominently featured.
"Our work on the Localization of UNSCR 1325 and fostering social cohesion has brought measurable improvements to our communities. The positive feedback we received here reinforces our commitment to continue these efforts." Andiensa said
CAGEAD's Ongoing Efforts
In addition to their peacebuilding and social cohesion work, CAGEAD has also been involved in humanitarian efforts, including distributing Menstrual Hygiene Management kits to adolescent girls and providing essential donations during the COVID-19 pandemic.
"We remain committed to advancing peace and security in the North West Region and beyond. Events like this fair are crucial for building partnerships and sharing best practices." Visibly satisfied CAGEAD's Programs Manager Asumpta Lum told the Hilltop Mail.