Darem organization has successfully conducted a baseline survey for its project aimed at enhancing indigenous women’s roles in natural resources governance for peace and security in the West and Southwest regions of Cameroon. This initiative, funded by ALVF Cameroon, seeks to empower indigenous women as key stakeholders in environmental conservation and conflict resolution within their communities.
The baseline survey was carried out in various indigenous communities to assess the current level of women’s participation in natural resource management, identify challenges, and propose strategies to strengthen their involvement. Through structured interviews, focus group discussions, and stakeholder engagements, the survey provided valuable insights into the socio-economic and environmental realities faced by indigenous women.
According to the Darem’s M&E coordinator, “This survey was a crucial first step in understanding the gaps and opportunities in indigenous women’s participation in natural resources governance. It has provided us with clear data that will inform the implementation of activities aimed at ensuring women’s voices are heard in decision-making processes.”
Findings from the baseline study revealed that while indigenous women play a significant role in managing local ecosystems, their contributions are often undervalued or overlooked in formal governance structures. Many women expressed concerns over limited access to decision-making platforms, land ownership rights, and the impact of environmental degradation on their livelihoods. Additionally, the survey highlighted the link between natural resource conflicts and gender-based vulnerabilities, underscoring the need for inclusive peacebuilding approaches.
One of the key successes of the baseline survey was the high level of community engagement and participation. Traditional leaders, women’s groups, and local authorities welcomed the initiative, recognizing the importance of strengthening women’s leadership in environmental governance. “We have long relied on women for their knowledge of natural resources, but their voices need to be amplified in governance,” stated a community leader from the Southwest region.
The data collected during the survey will serve as a foundation for developing targeted interventions, including capacity-building workshops, advocacy campaigns, and policy recommendations that support gender-inclusive natural resource management. Darem organization remains committed to fostering a more equitable and sustainable approach to governance, ensuring that indigenous women are not only recognized but actively engaged in shaping the future of their communities.
As the project moves into the implementation phase, Darem organization looks forward to collaborating with local stakeholders to translate the survey findings into impactful actions. With the support of ALVF Cameroon, this initiative marks a significant step toward integrating gender equality into environmental governance and promoting lasting peace in Cameroon’s West and Southwest regions.
Conclusion
The baseline survey conducted by Darem organization has laid a strong foundation for enhancing indigenous women’s roles in natural resources governance for peace and security in Cameroon’s West and Southwest regions. The findings underscore the critical need for inclusive decision-making, capacity-building, and policy reforms that empower women as key actors in environmental sustainability and conflict resolution. With strong community engagement and support from ALVF Cameroon, the project is well-positioned to drive meaningful change. Moving forward, Darem organization remains committed to translating these insights into concrete actions that will ensure indigenous women have a voice in shaping the governance of their natural resources, ultimately fostering peace and sustainable development in their communities.
