Community Peace Ambassadors equipped to tackle GBV, strengthen conflict resolution in North West Cameroon

COWOPNET launches three-day training for peace ambassadors from Mezam, Momo and Boyo to strengthen survivor protection, community mediation and grassroots peacebuilding in crisis-affected communities

Thirty Community Peace Ambassadors drawn from Mezam, Momo and Boyo Divisions have begun an intensive three-day training on conflict resolution mechanisms, gender-based violence (GBV) prevention and survivor protection as part of efforts to reinforce community resilience and peacebuilding in North West Cameroon.

Organised by the Community Women Peacebuilders Network (COWOPNET), the training forms part of a broader project titled "reinforcing conflict resolution mechanisms and strengthening gender-based violence prevention and p[rotection of survivors in crisis-affected communities in the North West Region of Cameroon."

The initiative seeks to equip grassroots actors with practical tools to identify, prevent and respond to conflict-related gender-based violence while improving referral pathways and support systems for survivors.

Speaking to Hilltopvoices.com, the Chief Executive Officer of the Center for Advocacy in Gender Equality and Action for Development, CAGEAD and COWOPNET vision bearer, Andiensa Clotilda Waah, said the training represents a shift from awareness raising to practical action.

"Last year we trained Community Peace Ambassadors on the Women, Peace and Security Agenda. This year, we are focused on conflict-related gender-based violence and how these ambassadors can identify survivors, support them and connect them to appropriate services," she said.

CAGEAD and COWOPNET vision bearer, Andiensa Clotilda Waah speaking during the session 

"We are moving from theory to practice. When community actors understand how to identify cases, make referrals and engage survivors appropriately, more people will come forward, report abuses and receive the services they need." she added

The first day focused on understanding gender-based violence within the North West crisis context, examining its causes, forms and impact on peacebuilding efforts. Participants also explored prevention strategies, community engagement approaches, male involvement, and survivor-centred communication.

Lead facilitator Josephine Nsono described the training as part of efforts to localise the United Nations Women, Peace and Security Agenda at the community level.

"We expect these peace ambassadors to become the eyes, ears and links within their communities. They will listen to survivors, identify signs of abuse and connect affected persons to available services," she said.

Josephine Nsono, facilitating session 

According to Josephine Nsono, participants are being trained on the internationally recognised LIVES approach, which emphasises listening, inquiring, validating, enhancing safety and supporting survivors.

"We want communities where social cohesion thrives, where families are not fragmented by violence and where people can move freely without fear," she added.

Another facilitator, Maurine Boyo, highlighted the links between gender inequality, misuse of power and violence within communities.

"Gender-based violence is often a driver of conflict and instability. Understanding how harmful social norms, discrimination and unequal power relations contribute to violence is essential for prevention," she explained.

Maurine Boyo, facilitating session 

Boyo noted that participants examined various forms of GBV, including psychological, physical, economic and sexual violence, while also discussing how harmful traditional practices can undermine justice and human dignity.

Beyond the current training, the project will also provide psychosocial and economic wellbeing training for 30 GBV survivors, sensitise administrative authorities on survivor protection, and establish a community of practice dedicated to GBV prevention and survivor support.

Organisers believe the initiative will strengthen local capacities to prevent violence, promote peaceful coexistence and ensure that survivors receive timely and appropriate assistance across conflict-affected communities in the North West Region.

By Bakah Derick for Hilltopvoices Web

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