Empowering Young Voices: Strengthening Cameroons engagement plan and Global Fund strategies for key populations with CSOs and CCM members

CAGEAD has recently completed a pivotal three-day workshop in Yaoundé, aimed at enhancing community involvement among Young Key Populations affected by HIV, Malaria, and Tuberculosis. This event, is part of the "Community Engagement Strategic Initiative," convened various Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) dedicated to promoting an inclusive approach to health governance in Cameroon.

The workshop's primary objective was to bolster the leadership and participation of individuals from communities most impacted by HIV, Tuberculosis (TB), and Malaria within the context of Global Fund processes. As the funding landscape continues to evolve, it is essential to ensure that the perspectives of those affected are central to the discussions that influence health investments throughout the grant lifecycle. This workshop served as a crucial platform for young key populations from various backgrounds to enhance their understanding of the Global Fund's operations in Cameroon, including the roles and responsibilities of members within the Country Coordinating Mechanisms (CCMs).

Beyond merely sharing information, the workshop encouraged young key populations to articulate their concerns and explore the obstacles to their involvement in decision-making processes. Participants conveyed a strong desire for their issues to be acknowledged and addressed within the frameworks that impact their health outcomes. Through guided discussions, youth were empowered to identify potential pathways for influencing policies and practices related to health issues that directly affect their lives. The workshop underscored the significance of representation, ensuring that young individuals have a voice in discussions concerning their health and well-being.

A key outcome of the workshop was the revision and adoption of a three-year strategic engagement plan designed to enhance the project's implementation in Cameroon. This plan outlines actionable steps to facilitate the project's implementation in Cameroon, ensuring that the concerns and needs of young key populations are integrated into health strategies.
The resounding take-home message from the workshop encapsulated its essence: "Nothing for the youths without the youths." This motto not only reflects the commitment to inclusivity but also underscores the vital role of young people in driving change within their communities.