Cameroon: Situation Report, 6 February 2024

HIGHLIGHTS

• An IED explosion in Nkambe kills one and injures over 100 people: humanitarian actors mobilize resources and provide relief

• About 3,000 people fled violence in the South- West region between 16 and 26 February

• Cameroon: A country impacted by three complex crises and humanitarian challenges

• Providing a protective learning environment to children affected by crises: a priority for humanitarian partners

• Living with HIV amid crises: the challenges and opportunities for PLHIV in Cameroon

Cameroon: A country impacted by three complex crises and humanitarian challenges

In December 2023, the global humanitarian appeal for 2024 was launched, requesting US $46.4 billion to provide aid to 180.5 million people most vulnerable across the world with life-saving assistance and protection. In 2024, nearly 300 million people need humanitarian assistance and protection worldwide.

The Global Humanitarian Overview is the most comprehensive and authoritative assessment of the world's humanitarian needs and response plans. It provides an overview of global trends, analyzes the drivers of humanitarian needs, and discusses response plans and resources needed to effectively support communities and deliver better humanitarian assistance.

Cameroon is among the 35 countries covered by the appeal. With three complex humanitarian crises, Cameroon is facing multiple humanitarian challenges, driven by violence, climate shocks, and disease outbreaks. These are compounded by structural development weaknesses and other vulnerabilities.

The Far North region of Cameroon is affected by the Lake Chad basin conflict, with 1.6 million people in need of humanitarian assistance and protection services in 2023. The region suffers from one of the highest rates of chronic food deficits and acute malnutrition in the country. The Cadre harmonisé analysis of October 2023 estimated that more than 900,000 people will face acute food and nutritional insecurity during the next lean period (June to August 2024).

The socio-political crisis of the North-West and South-West regions has left 1.7 million people in need of humanitarian assistance in 2023. Protection, access to food, education, and drinking water are some of the most acute needs in these regions.

In the Eastern regions, the impact of the influx of refugees from the Central African Republic has driven the humanitarian needs of both the host and the refugee populations. The refugees face protection risks, such as gender-based violence, exploitation, and abuse, as well as limited access to basic services and livelihood opportunities. The host communities suffer from high food insecurity, malnutrition, and poverty rates.

In addition to these crises, Cameroon is also affected by climate-related disasters, such as floods and droughts, which affect the livelihoods and resilience of the people.

As of 31 December 2023, donors generously contributed US$125.8 million for the humanitarian response in the country. However, this represents only 31 per cent of the requirements. Limited funding has led to reduced assistance, leaving people without critical assistance and protection services.