Single Events

On November 15, Family World International (FAWOI) participated in a symposium organized by The Movement for Democracy, Development, and Transparency (MDDT) and Cliq Empire at Mountain Hotel, Buea. The symposium utilized the Cameroon International Music Festival – CIMFEST platform to provide capacity-building training on gender inclusion, youth civic integration, and gender-based violence (GBV) prevention.

The symposium brought together a diverse audience, including government officials, civil society representatives, private sector leaders, artists, and youth, and it aimed to increase understanding and programming to promote gender inclusion, youth civic integration, and GBV prevention. It established a collaborative network for stakeholders and elevated the leadership voices of women, youth, minority groups, persons with disabilities, and other marginalized communities. The symposium also aligned policies and mobilized resources to meet these groups’ needs.

The event started with opening remarks by Mme Vivanje, Deputy Lord Mayor of Buea Council, who urged youth participation in civic engagement and GBV prevention. The keynote address by achaleke christian leke, CEO of Local Youth Corner Cameroon, highlighted the challenges of inclusion and the importance of youth taking ownership of their actions.

Panel discussions focused on empowering stakeholders’ understanding of gender inclusion and developing strategies for youth integration and civic participation. The importance of inclusivity beyond biological sexes to encompass minorities and marginalized groups was emphasized, and the role of CSOs and NGOs in facilitating gender inclusion was highlighted.

Artists like Aunty Caro and Askia shared their journeys in music and comedy, advocating for societal change through art. Awards were given to various youths and stakeholders for their contributions to gender inclusion and GBV prevention with an exposition of the US Exchange IVLP program by Nenapa Christelle.

The symposium successfully increased awareness and collaboration among stakeholders to promote gender inclusion, youth civic integration, and GBV prevention in Cameroon, setting the stage for future initiatives and partnerships to build safer, more inclusive communities.