For many communities across Cameroon, access to clean water, environmental degradation, declining ecosystems and the growing effects of climate change remain pressing challenges affecting livelihoods, agriculture and public health.
For three decades, Strategic Humanitarian Services (SHUMAS) has been working with communities to address these challenges through sustainable development interventions. The organisation's contribution to environmental protection and humanitarian service delivery came into the spotlight on June 5, 2026, during activities marking the 54th World Environment Day in Bamenda.
SHUMAS was among institutions celebrated by the Cameroon Climate Journalism Network (CCJN), receiving the 2025 Cameroon Media Award of Excellence under the category of Champions in Humanitarian Service Delivery and Nature Protection as well as the Nation Builders Award.
The distinction formed part of a larger event that saw the launch of the Cameroon Climate Ecology Mantra (CCEM), described by organisers as the country's premier climate-nature study textbook for colleges and universities.
Speaking during the event, Chief Executive Officer of World Echoes Media Group and President of the Cameroon Climate Change Journalists Network, Tamukong Roland, said the initiative seeks to strengthen climate awareness and environmental education under the theme, "Inspired by Nature, for Climate, for Our Future."
According to him, the 64-page working document aligns with UNESCO's Greening Education Programme and is intended to support collective action against climate change by encouraging institutions to "go green, teach green and act green."
The recognition of SHUMAS highlighted 30 years of interventions in environmental sustainability, climate action, renewable energy promotion, climate-smart agriculture, water resource protection and community development.
Across several regions of Cameroon, the organisation has supported communities with access to clean drinking water, improved agricultural practices, renewable energy solutions and initiatives aimed at protecting natural resources while reducing environmental degradation.
Speaking to Hilltopvoices following the event, Executive Director of SHUMAS, Yaa Bilian Nyuykighan, described the distinction as a reflection of the organisation's longstanding commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable development.
"This environmental award is a prestigious recognition of SHUMAS' 30 years of commitment to environmental sustainability, climate action, renewable energy, climate-smart agriculture, water access, environmental mainstreaming and community resilience," she said.
She dedicated the distinction to the communities served by SHUMAS, staff, volunteers, partners, donors and the late founder of the organisation, Nfoome Ndzerem Stephen Njodzeka, whose vision and leadership, she noted, laid the foundation for the institution's achievements.
Nyuykighan said the acknowledgement would further inspire SHUMAS to strengthen climate action initiatives, promote environmental protection across its programmes, expand access to green technologies and encourage tree planting among beneficiaries as a contribution to environmental conservation.
"We remain committed to empowering communities to protect natural resources, reduce environmental degradation and build a greener, more sustainable future for generations to come," she added.
As climate-related challenges continue to threaten livelihoods and natural ecosystems, stakeholders at the event stressed the need for stronger partnerships, environmental education and community-driven solutions.
For SHUMAS, the spotlight on its work serves as a reminder of the growing importance of investing in clean water access, ecosystem conservation, sustainable agriculture and environmental protection as communities seek practical responses to the challenges posed by climate change.
By Bakah Derick for Hilltopvoices Web
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