Empowering Women: The Story of WIHD's Impact in Cameroon

Amidst the rich tapestry of Cameroon's diverse landscapes, a group of ten activists found themselves deeply moved by the stories of resilience echoing from the remote corners of their nation. It was in these far-flung communities, where women toiled tirelessly to sustain their families amidst adversities, that the seeds of change were planted.

In the year 2016, Cameroon faced unprecedented challenges, with over 712,000 individuals displaced within its borders, seeking refuge from the turmoil in the Anglophone regions. Witnessing the plight of these displaced populations, particularly women and families, a collective resolve emerged among the activists. They recognized the urgent need to support these individuals as they sought shelter and stability in urban areas, far from their homes.

From this recognition, the vision of Women in Humanitarian Dynamics (WIHD) was born. WIHD aimed not only to provide immediate relief to these individuals but also to address the underlying economic vulnerabilities faced by those in the informal economy, particularly women who were often marginalized and overlooked in broader policy discussions.

Fueled by compassion and a commitment to transformative change, WIHD set out to empower these individuals from conflict-affected remote communities. Their mission was clear: to create targeted initiatives that would uplift the working poor in the informal economy, offering them opportunities for economic advancement and self-sufficiency.

For instance, WIHD launched a microfinance program specifically tailored to provide small loans to women entrepreneurs in the informal sector, enabling them to start or expand their businesses. Additionally, the organization partnered with local training institutions to offer vocational skills training programs in areas such as tailoring, food processing, and craft-making, providing women with the tools they need to generate sustainable income.

Today, WIHD's mission has evolved into a multifaceted approach aimed at supporting, strengthening, and connecting organizations of the working poor. Through advocacy, research, and direct support, WIHD amplifies the voices of these individuals in policymaking arenas and seeks to improve their visibility and recognition within society.

With a focus on key occupational groups such as Domestic Workers, Street Vendors, and Waste Pickers, WIHD continues its journey characterized by resilience, determination, and empowerment. As the organization strives to integrate women from remote communities into urban cities in a more equitable manner, it remains steadfast in its commitment to creating a brighter, more inclusive future for all.

"Embracing the power of the informal economy is fundamental to driving sustainable economic growth and fostering social justice within nations." - Sandrine ATABONG