At Working For Our Wellbeing (WFW), we’re deeply committed to building a more just and equitable society for all in Cameroon. As we reflect on 2024, our annual report paints a vivid picture of the challenges faced by sexual and gender minorities (SGM) in our country, and the unwavering dedication of our team to making a real difference.
The Harsh Reality We See in Cameroon
Cameroon, a nation we love for its rich culture and diversity, sadly grapples with deeply ingrained prejudices. Our report reveals a stark reality: SGM individuals face discriminatory laws, physical and psychological violence, and pervasive social exclusion. Gender-based violence, including hate crimes and torture, often goes unpunished, leaving SGM individuals and their allies vulnerable and marginalized.
“Discrimination and violence against sexual and gender minorities persist, and our commitment to human rights is more crucial than ever,” we state in our report. This isn’t just a statistic for us; it’s a call to action that fuels our daily work.
WFW: Our Lifeline for the Vulnerable
Amidst this challenging landscape, WFW stands as a lifeline, offering a comprehensive range of services to support and empower MSG individuals. In 2024, our work has been nothing short of inspiring, and we’re incredibly proud of the impact we’ve had:
• Providing Safe Havens: We offer emergency accommodation for young MSG individuals facing family rejection, protecting them from the dangers of homelessness and violence.
• Healing and Empowerment: Through psychological support, we help victims of GBV rebuild their self-esteem and develop healthy coping mechanisms.
• Fighting for Justice: We provide legal assistance to those arbitrarily arrested and imprisoned, ensuring their rights are protected.
• Building Knowledge: We conduct awareness-raising campaigns, educating communities about sexual health, human rights, and the importance of inclusion.
• Economic Empowerment: We integrate individuals into empowerment programs, providing vocational training and economic assistance to start small businesses.
Key Achievements We Celebrated in 2024
We’re thrilled to share some of our remarkable achievements:
• Comprehensive support provided to 55 individuals from SGM communities and their families, including psychological care and medical/social assistance.
• 15 individuals integrated into empowerment programs, with 5 benefiting from vocational training and 10 receiving economic assistance.
• Legal support provided to people arbitrarily arrested, leading to the release of 4 prisoners.
• 60 cases of GBV documented in the 3 regions where the project was implemented.
• 16 victims of arbitrary arrest and imprisonment received legal assistance.
Partnerships: Our Key to Success
We firmly believe that collaboration is essential. We actively partner with donors, civil society organizations, active forces, administrative authorities, the media, activists, and human rights defenders to amplify our impact and achieve ambitious goals.
Challenges We Face and the Road Ahead
Despite our successes, we face significant challenges, including limited data, funding constraints, and opposition from conservative groups. However, we remain resilient and determined.
Looking ahead to 2025, we’re committed to:
• Strengthening our presence in the field and expanding our activities.
• Developing new programs and innovative projects.
• Increasing our funding capacity.
• Strengthening collaboration with our partners.
• Intensifying advocacy for legal reform and better protection for sexual and gender minorities.
Join Our Movement
Our annual report is more than just a document; it’s a testament to the power of compassion, resilience, and unwavering commitment to human rights. It’s a story we want to share, and a movement we hope you’ll join.
Stay Connected!
We invite you to explore our website further to learn more about our work, read inspiring stories, and discover how you can get involved. Check back regularly for updates, news, and opportunities to support our mission. Together, we can build a brighter future for all in Cameroon.
Link to Donate https://ourwellbeingcameroon.org/support-us/
Link to Contact Us https://ourwellbeingcameroon.org/contact/
Working for Our Wellbeing 