ESFA, Hope of Change Empower Single Mothers on Parenting and Women’s Rights in Buea, Southwest, Cameroon
On 13 August 2026, Single mothers in Mile 16, Buea, have benefited from a community-based workshop focused on positive parenting, healing, women’s rights and access to legal and institutional protection.
The one-day workshop was organized by Ethical and Sustainable Future for All (ESFA) and Hope of Change (HOC) on August 13, 2026. The initiative provided a safe and inclusive platform for single mothers to share experiences, learn from one another and discuss some of the social, economic and emotional challenges associated with single parenthood.
The workshop went beyond conventional training, creating an environment where participants could speak openly, exchange perspectives, build connections and encourage one another.
Single Mothers Discuss Challenges of Parenting
The parenting session was facilitated by Yong Harriette, President of Hope of Change, and examined several issues affecting parents and children in contemporary society.
Participants discussed the roles and responsibilities of parents, with emphasis on creating supportive environments that promote children’s emotional, social and personal development.
The session also explored raising children in the 21st century, including the importance of introducing positive values early, leading by example, spending quality time with children, promoting empathy and compassion, establishing healthy boundaries and using appropriate corrective approaches.
Participants further examined signs of poor parenting and how negative parenting behaviours can affect children’s emotional wellbeing, confidence, social relationships and personal development.
Workshop Addresses Realities of Single Parenting
The discussions also focused on the distinction between single parenting and co-parenting, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing the best interests and wellbeing of children regardless of family structure.
Single mothers reflected on challenges including financial pressure, limited support systems, social isolation, stigmatization and insufficient time for rest and self-care.
The workshop also explored steps towards healing, encouraging participants to work towards forgiveness, release past emotional burdens and develop healthier approaches to personal wellbeing and family relationships.
Women Learn About Legal Protection in Cameroon
An important component of the workshop was a session on the legal and institutional framework protecting women in Cameroon, facilitated by Berinyuy Cajetan, President of ESFA.
The session introduced participants to key national, regional and international instruments that protect women’s rights, including the Constitution of Cameroon, the Cameroon Penal Code, the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) and the Maputo Protocol on the Rights of Women in Africa.
The discussion sought to strengthen participants’ understanding of their rights and the legal protections available to them when they experience discrimination, violence, abuse or other violations.
Participants were also informed about institutions and structures through which women may seek assistance and report violations, including courts, traditional authorities, religious institutions, civil society organizations and non-governmental organizations.
The rights-awareness component emphasized the importance of knowing where to seek help and understanding available reporting and referral pathways.
Creating Safe Spaces for Women
Beyond the technical discussions, the workshop created an important community space where women could share their experiences without fear of judgment.
For ESFA and HOC, creating such spaces is an important part of community empowerment. Women facing social and economic challenges can benefit from opportunities to access information, develop supportive networks and connect with organizations and institutions capable of providing assistance.
The initiative also demonstrated the connection between women’s empowerment, human rights awareness, positive parenting and community resilience.
ESFA and HOC Reaffirm Commitment to Community Empowerment
The partnership between ESFA and HOC reflects a broader commitment to creating communities where people are seen, heard, encouraged, equipped and connected to opportunities.
The organizations believe that empowering women requires more than providing information. It also involves creating supportive environments where women can build confidence, understand their rights, strengthen their parenting skills and develop networks of solidarity.
The Mile 16 workshop therefore represents another step towards strengthening women’s access to rights information and community support while promoting healthier families and more resilient communities.
ESFA and Hope of Change say they remain committed to community development initiatives that promote human rights, women’s empowerment, sustainable development and social inclusion in Cameroon.
Berinyuy Cajetan is the founder and publisher of Human Rights and Legal Research Centre (HRLRC) since 2017. He has intensive experience in strategic communications for Civil Society Organizations, campaign and advocacy, and social issues. He has an intensive experiencing in human rights monitoring, documentation and reporting.
