On August 22, 2025, the Children Momentum Plus (CMP+) project of the Cameroon Baptist Convention Health Services (CBCHS) brought together thirty-six caregivers at the Nkwen Baptist Center for a training workshop on income-generating activities. While the CMP+ project primarily focuses on improving the wellbeing of children living with HIV, supporting caregivers to become financially independent is one of its objectives, designed to strengthen families and ensure better long-term care for affected children.
Project Manager, Mrs Awa Fanny emphasized that in the past, caregivers relied heavily on transport reimbursements and direct support. However, with dwindling funding, this approach is no longer sustainable. Instead, the CMP+ project is introducing seed funding, start-up materials, and equipment to strengthen already established small businesses. This will enable caregivers to generate more income and independently meet family needs, particularly ensuring their children adhere to treatment and care.
The workshop guided participants on business etiquette, record keeping, and the importance of savings for future growth. They were also introduced to Village Savings and Loans Associations (VSLAs), a model that equips rural and marginalized communities with self-managed financial services, including savings, loans, and emergency insurance. By pooling resources together, members gain financial inclusion, stability, and resilience against shocks such as illness, crop failure, or family loss. VSLAs also strengthen social bonds within the community while providing women and caregivers with the tools to build assets and escape cycles of poverty.
One participant, who is now the breadwinner for his younger siblings after losing both parents, expressed deep gratitude for being selected for the training. He pledged to do his best to excel at his chosen business so that he can better support his siblings and give them hope for a brighter future. Another caregiver also thanked the CMP+ project and its funders, ViiV Healthcare, for choosing to stand by them in such bleak times. She acknowledged that the days of relying on outside support are fading and affirmed that they, as caregivers, are ready to take full responsibility for their children’s welfare regardless of whether external funding continues or not.
At the end of the training, caregivers were encouraged to sign commitment contracts as a demonstration of honesty, accountability, and dedication to their income-generating ventures. They were also urged to join and actively participate in VSLAs as a way of building financial discipline and securing long-term growth.
In his closing remarks, Dr. Jude Berenyuy, Coordinator of the HIV Regional Technical Group (RTG) for the Northwest Region, applauded both the caregivers and the CMP+ project for their efforts. “You people are a very good example for others,” he said. “The project is helping the government to assist you, especially at a time when transportation costs are high. If it is difficult for adults to remain adherent to treatment, what more for children? Yet, you are there to ensure they are well taken care of”.
He further noted that the RTG, which is the Ministry of Public Health’s coordinating body for HIV response in the region, highly values its partnership with the CBC Health Services in supporting vulnerable families.
By investing in economic empowerment, CMP+ is ensuring that caregivers are equipped not only to provide better care for their children living with HIV but also to live with dignity and resilience in the face of financial challenges.
