A few weeks ago, a member of VCF Cameroon’s Adolescent Club carried out a vital sensitization session at the maternity ward of Bangem District Hospital. Speaking with young mothers, she focused on preventing sexual and gender-based violence (GBV), protecting children’s rights, and practical steps families can take to safeguard their children’s futures.
Key messages from the session
- Talk openly with your children. Parents should create safe, non-judgmental spaces where children feel able to speak up if someone harms them or makes them uncomfortable. Sexual violence must not be treated as a taboo subject.
- Be vigilant about caregivers. The majority of abuse is preventable when caregivers pay attention. Mothers were urged to be observant and cautious—even when leaving children with relatives or familiar adults.
- Register your child. Obtaining a birth certificate is a crucial protective step: it secures a child’s legal identity and access to services and rights.
Why This Matters:
During the session, the adolescent club member cited two recent, heartbreaking examples to illustrate the consequences of silence and inattention:
- A child in Buea who experienced sexual abuse by an adult, leaving the child with long-term trauma and serious emotional and physical consequences.
- A case of abuse by a family member, underscoring that abuse can happen within trusted circles and that careful supervision and awareness are essential.
These examples reinforced the urgent need for parents to talk with their children, to listen, and to act promptly when concerns arise.
How families can act today
- Start age-appropriate conversations with your children about body safety and boundaries.
- Teach children how to say “no” and to tell a trusted adult if they feel unsafe.
- Keep an eye on who watches your children and avoid assuming relatives are always safe caretakers without oversight.
- Register births promptly – visit your local civil registry or contact community protection services for assistance.
- If abuse is suspected, seek immediate medical and psychological support and report the incident to the appropriate authorities.
VCF Cameroon’s commitment
VCF Cameroon remains dedicated to empowering adolescents, parents, and communities with the knowledge and tools to prevent GBV and protect children’s rights. Our Adolescent Club members continue to play a powerful role in peer-led education and community outreach.
If you or someone you know needs support, contact local protection services or VCF Cameroon for guidance on reporting, medical care, and psychosocial support.
