Among over 25 laureates who gathered in Bamenda on Saturday, 23 November 2024, at the invitation of the Life Time Media Group was the Centre for Advocacy in Gender Equality and Action for Development (CAGEAD) and its CEO, Waah Clotilda Andiensa. Both the institution and the CEO left the Blue Pearl Hotel event with two prestigious accolades, reinforcing their stature as changemakers in Cameroon’s conflict affected North West Region.
CAGEAD was recognised with the Lifetime Achievement Award as Most Impactful Non-Governmental Organisation, acknowledging her work in empowering women and girls for personal and community development. Meanwhile, Waah Clotilda Andiensa received an award as a Peace and Human Rights Advocate, honouring her efforts in promoting peace and engagement in all peacebuilding initiatives especially in the conflict-ridden North West and South West Regions.
The Centre for Advocacy in Gender Equality and Action for Development (CAGEAD), under the leadership of Waa Clotilda Andiensa, has impacted society, especially in promoting peacebuilding and gender equality in the North West Region. Based in Bamenda, CAGEAD has been pivotal in promoting community-driven solutions to the challenges posed by the ongoing socio-political crisis in the region. The organisation empowers women and youth by promoting their involvement in peace processes, leadership, and sustainable development.
Waah Clotilda and some CAGEAD staff Through initiatives such as the Peace Ambassadors Programme, CAGEAD has trained numerous young people and women on conflict resolution, community engagement, and advocacy. The programme includes practical applications of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325, focusing on the inclusion of women in peace and security efforts. The organisation is also known for frequently collaborating with local stakeholders, traditional authorities, and government representatives to create spaces for dialogue and promote understanding between conflicting parties.
CAGEAD also provides sustainable support for women entrepreneurs and rural development, ensuring economic independence for women as a pathway to peace. This blend of grassroots mobilisation and strategic policy influence has made the organisation a model for development in the North West Region.
Laureates at the award event Waah Clotilda Andiensa has consistently championed women’s roles in conflict resolution and nation-building. Speaking at the award ceremony, she dedicated her award to women peacebuilders working tirelessly in local communities.
“This recognition is not just for me but for every woman making strides in promoting peace and inclusion,” she said.
She highlighted the importance of recognising organisations and individuals who contribute to peacebuilding, calling on the media and other stakeholders to spotlight these efforts. Under her leadership, CAGEAD has mobilised women in conflict-affected areas to play a greater role in reconciliation and decision-making processes. Her commitment has also seen traditional leaders pledge their support for initiatives that promote gender equity and non-violence.
Tim Finnian, CEO of Life Time Media Group and an experienced human rights journalist, lauded the efforts of rights-based organisations like CAGEAD. He noted that the awards aim to inspire others to replicate such impactful work.
“CAGEAD’s contributions to human rights, women’s rights and peacebuilding are exemplary. This recognition serves as encouragement for continued efforts,” Finnian remarked.
View of the event hall The awards brings to the fore the critical role of advocacy in addressing societal challenges. CAGEAD’s recognition reflects the power of community-driven solutions, and Waah Clotilda Andiensa’s leadership highlights the necessity of inclusive approaches to peace and development. As CAGEAD continues to empower women and youth, and as Waah Clotilda Andiensa leads by example, their work offers a blueprint for sustainable peace and development in Cameroon and beyond.
By Bakah Derick
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