Mutengene – July 5, 2025 – A four-day refresher workshop, aimed at improving healthcare delivery to survivors of gender-based violence (GBV) including rape and intimate partner violence (IPV) has been completed by 25 medical practitioners from some government and CBC Health facilities in the Southwest Region. Held from July 2-5, 2025, at the Health Services Complex in Mutengene, the workshop focused on equipping participants with the necessary skills to provide comprehensive, dignified, and inclusive healthcare informed by the Minimum Initial Service Package (MISP) and the Interagency Emergency Reproductive Health (IARH) Kits.
The training was designed to enhance the capacities of healthcare providers, especially in crisis-affected hard-to-reach communities. Topics covered included effective data management, a comprehensive introduction to the IARH Kit 3, and a detailed understanding of the GBV referral pathway. Additionally, sessions on MISP, clinical examination techniques, informed consent, confidentiality, forensic evidence collection, and the prescription of appropriate treatments were included.
The workshop provided a refresher course on Emergency Obstetric and Neonatal Care (EmONC) to ensure participants are prepared for high-quality maternal and neonatal care in emergency settings. A hands-on exercise focused on IPV and a plenary discussion reinforced practical applications of the learned skills.
Key stakeholders, including Dr. Eko Eko Filbert, the Regional Delegate of Public Health for the South West Region, highlighted the significance of such training in the current crisis-affected healthcare context. He emphasized the importance of collaboration, self-reflection, and active participation.
Mr. Ngum Samuel, Director of CBC Health Services, addressed the participants, stressing the need for strong partnerships and confidentiality in healthcare provision. He emphasized the importance of continuous learning, quoting, “If you stop learning, you should stop practicing,” and urged a transformative approach to healthcare that leaves communities in a better state.
This workshop is part of the project “Delivering Lifesaving Integrated and Holistic Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) Services to Women and Girls in Hard-to-Reach Conflict-Affected Localities in the North West and South West Regions of Cameroon,” funded by UNFPA and ECHO. This initiative aims to improve access to critical reproductive health services, ensuring survivors of GBV receive timely and respectful care. Similar workshops have been conducted in the North West Region, further extending the reach of this important initiative.
The successful completion of the workshop marks a significant step forward in strengthening the healthcare system in these regions. Through continued partnerships, learning, and best practices, Cameroon is advancing its efforts in improving the health and well-being of women and girls in conflict-affected areas.
