The Center for Advocacy in Gender Equality and Action for Development (CAGEAD) has been overwhelmingly endorsed by nearly 20 civil society organizations as the leader of the Network for Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights Organizations in the North West Region.
The endorsement was made during the Stakeholders Advocacy meeting on Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM) Policies in Schools on Thursday 23 May 2024 in Bamenda.
The event which was to highlight the importance of proper menstrual hygiene management in enhancing girls’ educational outcomes, brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including government officials, traditional and religious leaders, educators, health professionals, and civil society representatives with the aim to advocate for comprehensive menstrual hygiene management (MHM) policies in schools and to address the various challenges girls face in managing menstruation.
CAGEAD CEO Waah Clotilda Andiensa articulated the objectives of the meeting, emphasizing the need for a collaborative approach to improve menstrual hygiene management. “By working together, we can ensure that all girls have the resources and support they need to manage menstruation with dignity and continue their education,” she said.
Throughout the event, the achievements of the project were showcased, including training 160 teachers, 75 peer educators, and reaching 750 students directly through MHM clubs. The project has also sensitized over 10,000 students and engaged 520 individuals through community sensitization sessions.
The highlight of the day was the endorsement of CAGEAD as the leader of the Network for Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights Organizations in the North West Region. This endorsement reflects the trust and confidence that these organizations place in CAGEAD’s leadership and expertise in advancing MHM initiatives.
“We are committed to supporting CAGEAD in leading this network and advancing the sexual and reproductive health rights of our community,” said a representative from one of the endorsing civil society organizations. “CAGEAD has demonstrated exceptional leadership and expertise in this field, and we are confident in their ability to drive meaningful change.”
“We are honoured to be entrusted with this responsibility,” said Waah Clotilda Andiensa. “This endorsement is an indicator to the collective effort and dedication of our team and our partners. Together, we will continue to advocate for policies and initiatives that support the sexual and reproductive health rights of our community.”
The endorsement of CAGEAD as the leader of the Network for Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights Organizations in the North West Region marks a significant step forward in the fight for gender equality and the promotion of menstrual hygiene management. This collaborative effort ensures a comprehensive approach to addressing the diverse needs of girls and women in the region.
The commitment of various stakeholders to improving menstrual hygiene management was evident throughout the event. The Iman of the Bamenda Central Mosque pledged to educate the Muslim community about the misconceptions surrounding menstruation, while the representative of the Fondom of Bamendakwe committed to encouraging the construction of menstrual hygiene-friendly toilets. The Mayor of the Bamenda I Council highlighted ongoing efforts to improve sanitation facilities in the municipality.
Representatives from the Ministry of Secondary Education, school principals, and Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs) also committed to ensuring regular water supply in schools and maintaining hygienic toilets. The Ministry of Women’s Empowerment and the Family, along with the Regional Assembly, expressed appreciation for CAGEAD’s efforts and promised continued support for MHM policies.
Created in 2007 and legalized in 2011, the Center for Advocacy in Gender Equality and Action for Development (CAGEAD) Cameroon is a leading organization dedicated to promoting gender equality and empowering women and girls through advocacy, education, and community development initiatives. CAGEAD is strongly committed to working with women and youths to fight poverty, prevent disease, and inequalities and promote sustainable peace in their communities. The non-profit organization is committed to improving and transforming the lives of vulnerable women and girls and promoting their Socio-economic wellbeing by empowering them to acquire relevant skills and access live changing opportunities through advocacy and inclusive activities that promote skill-building and Leadership development.