The Integrated Youth Empowerment Center (IYEC), in partnership with LUKMEF and with support from BMZ and the European Union, has launched a project to address the deepening socio-economic and psychosocial challenges in Limbe I Municipality, where communities continue to feel the impact of the crisis in the Southwest and Northwest region
The project focuses on three pillars: promoting social cohesion, strengthening socio-economic resilience, and advancing gender equality to support recovery and long-term stability.
Promoting Social Cohesion
The initiative aims to foster unity and peaceful coexistence between internally displaced persons (IDPs) and host communities. IYEC will organize community dialogues, mediation sessions, and inclusive platforms, where diverse groups can openly engage, share experiences, and work together to resolve tensions. These activities aim to rebuild trust, reduce conflicts, and strengthen collaboration.
Strengthening Socio-Economic Resilience
The crisis has created significant economic challenges for displaced and vulnerable populations. To address this, the project will:
- Provide targeted training to improve practical skills and livelihoods.
- Support community organizing to enhance local problem-solving.
- Equip individuals with tools that expand access to sustainable opportunities and improve coping abilities.
These interventions will enable communities to better navigate economic pressures and build long-term resilience.
Gender equality is a central component of the initiative, as women and girls remain disproportionately affected by crisis-related vulnerabilities. The project integrates gender-responsive strategies at every level, raising awareness on gender-based discrimination, promoting women’s leadership in decision-making processes, and empowering women socially and economically to participate actively in shaping a more resilient and inclusive future for their communities.
Key Project Activities
The project will implement several initiatives to strengthen unity and resilience:
- Community Dialogue Sessions: Inclusive forums for open discussion, collaboration, and peacebuilding.
- Awareness-Raising Campaigns: Education on gender equality, human rights, and social cohesion.
- Capacity Building: Training for community leaders, women’s groups, and youth to enhance leadership and participation.
- Community Engagement Events: Bringing stakeholders together to identify solutions and strengthen social bonds.
Expected Outcomes
The project expects to successfully roll out dialogue platforms across Limbe I. These spaces will allow residents to openly discuss challenges, propose solutions, and actively participate in decision-making. The initiative will strengthen trust, reduce tensions, and cultivate a culture of cooperation that promotes long-term stability.
A Strong Commitment to Inclusive Community Development
Through this partnership with LUKMEF and support from BMZ and the EU, IYEC reaffirms its commitment to youth empowerment, peaceful coexistence, and community resilience. The project is a timely intervention addressing both visible and underlying impacts of the crisis while promoting protection, inclusion, and dignity for all residents of Limbe I.
The initiative will run throughout the year, with continuous monitoring, active community participation, and collaboration with local stakeholders to ensure meaningful and lasting impact.