Aiming at fostering inclusive development in the North West region, the Cameroon Baptist Convention (CBC) Health Services and the Public Independent Conciliator (PIC) for North West have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
This strategic alliance, formalized in a ceremony attended by key stakeholders, July 19, 2014 in Bamenda will revolutionize the approach to disability inclusion and rights protection in the region.
The MoU, signed by Ngum Samuel, Director of CBC Health Services, and Tamfu Simon Fai, the Public Independent Conciliator for the North West, represents a monumental step in addressing the often-overlooked needs of persons with disabilities (PWDs), especially in municipal councils where the later institution wills power. This collaboration is poised to set a new standard for inclusive governance and development practices in Cameroon.
“There is no better partner we could wish for at this time than the Public Independent Conciliator,” declared Ngum Samuel. “This MoU is not just a formal agreement; it is a testament to our shared commitment to human rights, justice and equity in access to resources and opportunities for all sections of our communities, especially those living on the fringes of society,” he added.
The partnership will see the two institutions collaboratively enforce the integration of PWDs in development projects, prevent direct or indirect discrimination against people living with disabilities, strengthening safeguarding and child protection systems in municipal councils, monitor and address issues regarding the treatment and rights of PWDs.
This move comes at a crucial time when Cameroon, like many African nations, is grappling with the challenge of ensuring equitable development. The collaboration between a prominent development institution – the Service of Persons with Disabilities of the CBC Health Services and the Public Independent Conciliator is unprecedented, potentially offering a model for other regions to emulate.
“We have complaints about the treatment of people living with disabilities in councils which go straight into our missions which are to combat exclusion, discrimination, marginalization and fight for the respect of human rights. They have complained that most of our councils are not constructed for them, they are stigmatized. We are here to make sure that Cameroonians are treated equal to belong. We stand for them to make sure that they enjoy fully the amenities of government,” Tamfu Simon declared, emphatically.
A leap towards social inclusion
The MoU is expected to have far-reaching implications, not only for PWDs but for the broader community. By promoting inclusive practices, the partnership aims to tap into the often-underutilized potential of PWDs, contributing to the region’s socio-economic development.
Success could mean a significant leap forward in Cameroon’s journey towards achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in reducing inequalities and promoting inclusive societies.
“This MoU comes at a time when there have been many challenges when it comes to issues of persons living with disabilities especially in councils. There is the bias of information sharing towards them. This MoU is another milestone towards the long journey of inclusion. No step is too small, we keep moving towards an inclusive society,” Nogning Armelle, Board Chair of the Coordinating Unit of Orgnaisations of Persons living with Disabilities, North West posits.
As Cameroon continues to navigate complex social and economic challenges, the CBC Health Services and the Public Independent Conciliator partnership offers a beacon of hope. They demonstrate that through collaborative efforts and shared vision, it is possible to create more inclusive, just, and equitable societies.