Cameroon - Emergency Assistance to Refugees - Plan International Canada 2015

March 2015 –Cameroon lies directly between two intensifying conflicts in the Central African Republic (CAR) and in Nigeria. In 2015 Cameroon will host a total of 312 000 refugees of which 242 000 come from CAR and 70 000 from Nigeria. Over half of the refugees are living with local host communities or in makeshift sites close to both borders. In 2014 violence purported by Boko Haram also caused the internal displacement of some 40 000 Cameroonians and more violence is expected. Cameroon also suffers from food insecurity particularly in the Eastern Northern Adamawa and far Northern parts of the country. 75% of CAR and Nigerian refugees suffer from malnutrition while 20% experience severe food malnutrition . With DFATD support Plan International Canada is addressing the urgent nutritional needs of over 122 000 Central African and Nigerians refugees and vulnerable host communities in the east and far North regions of Cameroon. Activities include: (1) screening referral and treatment of malnourished children under 5 years old and pregnant and lactating women; (2) provision of aqua tabs and chlorine for safe drinking water; and (3) provision of seeds and tools.

The expected immediate outcomes for this project include: (1) Increased access to safe drinking water and hygiene practices; (2) improved nutritional status; (3) improved food security and livelihoods. The expected intermediate outcome is reduced vulnerability of crisis-affected people especially women and children.