Advocating for SRHR of Young Women and Girls in Cameroon

In Cameroon, women and girls face a multitude of challenges in safeguarding their sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR). From the pervasive threat of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) to the limited access to reproductive healthcare, these issues not only hinder their physical well-being but also impede their social, economic, and personal development. It is imperative to amplify the voices of women and girls, advocating for their fundamental rights and ensuring they have the autonomy to make informed decisions about their bodies and lives.

The Scourge of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence

SGBV casts a long shadow over the lives of women and girls in Cameroon. According to a 2018 study by UNICEF, nearly one in three women have experienced physical violence, and one in five have experienced sexual violence. These acts of violence often go unreported and unpunished, perpetuating a culture of silence and fear.

The consequences of SGBV are far-reaching, causing physical and psychological trauma, limiting women’s participation in society, and hindering their economic empowerment. It is essential to break this cycle of violence by strengthening legal protections, providing adequate support services for survivors, and fostering a culture of gender equality that respects and values women.

The Struggle for Reproductive Justice

Reproductive justice encompasses the right to bodily autonomy, freedom from coercion and discrimination, and access to quality reproductive healthcare. In Cameroon, women and girls face numerous barriers to exercising their reproductive rights.

The high prevalence of child marriage, with nearly 32% of girls married before the age of 18, deprives young women of the opportunity to make informed decisions about their education, careers, and families. Additionally, access to modern contraception remains limited, particularly in rural areas, contributing to high rates of unintended pregnancies and maternal mortality.

Ensuring reproductive justice requires a comprehensive approach that addresses the social, economic, and legal factors that hinder women’s reproductive choices. This includes promoting comprehensive sexuality education, empowering women to make informed decisions about their bodies, and ensuring equitable access to quality reproductive healthcare services.

The Need for Collective Action

Advocating for the SRHR of women and girls in Cameroon is not merely a women’s issue; it is a fundamental human rights issue with far-reaching implications for the entire society. By empowering women and girls to make decisions about their bodies and lives, we are investing in a healthier, more equitable, and prosperous future for Cameroon.

The path to achieving SRHR for young women and girls requires a collective effort that involves governments, civil society organisations, healthcare providers, and individuals alike. Governments must commit to upholding their obligations under international human rights law and allocate adequate resources to address SRHR challenges. Civil society organisations can play a crucial role in raising awareness, advocating for policy changes, and providing support services.. Healthcare providers must ensure that women and girls have access to quality, non-judgmental reproductive healthcare services.

Individuals can contribute by challenging gender stereotypes, speaking out against SGBV, and supporting organisations that advocate for SRHR. Together, we can create a society where women and girls are empowered to make informed decisions about their bodies, live free from violence, and enjoy their fundamental human rights.