Cameroon has made notable progress in stabilising its Far North region and reviving local economies under the Regional Stabilisation Facility for the Lake Chad Basin, implemented with support from the United Nations Development Programme.
The programme targets communities affected by insecurity and climate pressures, aiming to strengthen security, rebuild public infrastructure, and restore livelihoods.
Officials reported progress during the sixth national steering committee meeting of the Cameroon RSF last Saturday. The programme has focused on restoring public authority and reinforcing security systems across multiple localities. Since its inception, 78 security and justice facilities have been built, rehabilitated, or equipped.
Training has been provided to 4,935 members of security forces and human rights personnel on international humanitarian law, civil protection, and gender-based violence prevention. An additional 1,812 judicial police officers have received training in criminal procedures adapted to crisis contexts.
Community-based conflict prevention has also been strengthened through 16 peace and stabilisation committees and the training of 5,002 members of local vigilance groups to bolster early warning mechanisms. Operational capacity has been enhanced with the provision of 276 vehicles, including four-wheel-drive pick-ups and motorcycles, for security services.
Economic recovery and livelihoods
Alongside security efforts, the programme has prioritised economic recovery and income generation. A total of 5,566 farmers and aquaculture producers received training in improved agricultural techniques, while 5,093 participants were provided with agricultural kits.
Infrastructure support for economic activities included distributing 394 tricycles to community groups to facilitate transport and trade, and providing eight tractors to departmental agricultural delegations to support mechanised farming. Women’s economic participation has been promoted, with 316 women trained in leadership, gender equality, economic empowerment, and advocacy.
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The programme has also invested in social infrastructure to improve living conditions. This includes constructing and equipping 92 classrooms, rehabilitating or building eight health facilities, and installing 125 potable water points benefiting approximately 50,000 residents. Public infrastructure improvements include 540 solar streetlights to enhance safety and mobility. Additionally, 70 facilities supporting economic recovery have been developed to strengthen local markets and productive activities.
Stakeholders’ reactions
Mathieu Ciowela said the progress demonstrates that coordinated action between the state, development partners, and local communities can yield tangible improvements in people’s lives.
The German Ambassador to Cameroon, Christian Sedat, highlighted the importance of institutional collaboration in consolidating stability in the Lake Chad Basin.
Addressing the meeting, Alamine Ousmane Mey said the programme rebuilds public confidence in peace-building initiatives by tackling concrete challenges faced by communities. He also acknowledged the role of defence and security forces in supporting stabilisation and local recovery efforts.
Authorities said the programme will continue in the coming years, with further investments and projects planned to consolidate gains and expand economic and social infrastructure in the Far North region.
