Humanitarian needs in Cameroon continue to rise due to ongoing insecurity and violence, flooding, epidemic outbreaks, and widespread displacement. Approximately 970,000 people are internally displaced, and an additional 400,000 refugees from neighbouring countries are residing in Cameroon. Displacement exacerbates the vulnerability of women and girls to gender-based violence (GBV), as well as increases the risk of unplanned pregnancies and complications. The situation in the North-West and South-West regions remains particularly concerning, with ongoing conflict, violence, and lockdowns, which is restricting people’s access to vital health and protection services.
UNFPA is responding to the urgent needs in Cameroon by deploying medical personnel to provide SRH and GBV services, maintaining women and girls’ safe spaces, delivering community information and education, and reinforcing multisectoral coordination to ensure an effective response to evolving needs. During August, UNFPA and its implementing partners reached 41,041 people with SRH services, and 21,782 people with GBV prevention, mitigation and response activities.
However, a severe funding shortage is impacting UNFPA’s ability to deliver these critical services. As of the end of August, only 29% of UNFPA’s US$9 million appeal for Cameroon has been received. Additional funding is urgently required to support the SRH and GBV needs of women, girls and youth.
