Summary
From 2021-2024, WAA Cameroon implemented "Transforming Youth Mindsets" in conflict-affected Northwest Cameroon. The project found that orphaned girls, especially in enclaved villages, lack access to education due to parental loss during the conflict and gender bias favouring boys. Child marriage is rising, worsening the cycle of poverty. WAA aims to sponsor 2,000 orphaned girls, breaking this cycle and ensuring education transforms entire communities.
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Challenge
WAA Cameroon has helped 500 children return to school in the Menchum Division by equipping burnt schools, sponsoring fees, and replacing lost birth certificates. Yet, over 5,000 displaced orphans remain in dire conditions. Girls like Stella, whose father was killed, face school dropout, child marriage, and poverty. With September approaching, many still dream of becoming doctors, pilots, and accountants but lack support. Urgent action is needed to secure their future through education.​
Solution
Over five years, WAA Cameroon will sponsor school fees for 2,000 orphaned girls, provide study materials, and restore lost birth certificates. Additionally, 100 married out-of-school girls will receive vocational training for job market integration. To build resilience, WAA will organize psychotherapy education and create think tank groups, ensuring these girls overcome trauma and stay committed to their education and future careers.
Long-term Impact
Reintegrating 2,000 orphaned girls into education will help them achieve their dreams, reduce child marriage, and break the poverty cycle caused by illiteracy. Educating girls empowers them to become independent, informed decision-makers, benefiting families, communities, and nations. Vocational training for married girls equips them with skills, improving their quality of life and enabling them to support other girls' education, creating lasting change and social cohesion.
