Women’s Grassroots Efforts to Address Gender-Based Violence in Nwsw Cameroon

This paper examines the grassroots efforts of women in Cameroon to combat gender-based violence (GBV) amidst ongoing socio-political challenges. In conflict-affected areas of Cameroon, specifically NOSO, gender-based violence (GBV) persists, despite ongoing socio-political interventions, necessitating effective grassroots efforts to combat this issue. Drawing on qualitative research and case studies, it highlights the innovative strategies employed by local women’s organizations and community leaders to address GBV at the community level. The paper explores the cultural, legal, and economic barriers that exacerbate GBV in Cameroon, emphasizing the resilience and agency of women who mobilize to create safe spaces, provide support services, and advocate for legal reforms. Through grassroots initiatives, women have established networks that raise awareness, educate communities, and empower survivors, effectively challenging societal norms that perpetuate violence. The findings underscore the critical role of women’s grassroots movements in fostering social change and enhancing women’s rights, suggesting that local actions can significantly contribute to broader efforts to eradicate gender-based violence in Cameroon. This study goes further to explore the importance of supporting and amplifying women’s voices in the fight against GBV, advocating for a more inclusive approach to policy-making that incorporates the insights and experiences of women on the ground.