Physical Health Cameroon Project #34453

End HIV/AIDS in 28 Villages in NW Cameroon, Africa

by John Retreat Foundation International USA Inc (JRFIUSA-INC)

End HIV/AIDS in 28 Villages in NW Cameroon, Africa

Project Report | Nov 15, 2024
Updates End HIV/AIDS in 28 villages in NW Cameroon

By Giddy, Celine, Dr. Sam, Sylvester | Team leaders

Greetings to our Donors and Supporters;

Today, we mourn and celebrate the profound and beautiful life of a remarkable woman, Ma Salome . Her life was an enduring testament of faith, and love. A woman whose quiet strength and kindness spoke louder than most women in her age category. To the many family and friends in the villages and wherever she traveled around the world she has a legacy that is written in the hearts of all who were fortunate to have known her while she was still here on earth. Mama Salome was a unifier, a bridge-builder, tirelessly working to bring together people from every walk of life. Her mission was simple yet profoundly impactful: to spread love, strengthen communities, and inspire faith in God. She lived everyday as a testament to her belief that all things were possible through unity and unwavering trust in the Almighty. Not only was she a wife and a mother to her children but a guiding light to many, extending her heart and home to others outside of the village and the community. Her legacy continuefd to shine bright as she traveled with her son and family as he was a career soldier in the US Army. One memory that captures her son's mind was her spirit took place in the heart of the Tuseh jungles when she and Patriarch PA John gave birth to a son, Giddy, under the shelter of a palm tree. It was her steadfast courage and faith in action—a moment that epitomized her strength and determination. While in California with her profound son and beautiful, loving family, her, resilience inspired others, like young Americans Steve and Julie, to travel from California to the Guest House in Kwojeoh Tuseh Zang-Tabi Meta Cameroon, Africa home lands, drawn to witness her work and the bonds she forged between Cameroon and the United States. Her reach was global, yet her heart was rooted in the place where it all began.

Mama Salome’s love for community and commitment to service were boundless, manifesting in the countless initiatives she led in the church, villages and the community. She dedicated herself to her community in Cameroon and later in the United States, where she settled in 1997 to be close to be with her son who had serving in the US Army in his new country with pride and dedication. Her life journey took her from the humble village of Zang-Tabi, where she was born on August 19, 1938, to building bridges that spanned continents. Even in her new home, her spirit remained deeply connected to her roots, uniting the best of both worlds. In all she did, my mother lived her faith boldly stated her son. She was a strong leader in the Christian Women Fellowship, an advocate for empowering young girls in Africa, and a true believer in the strength of the family. The teachings of her beloved parents, Simon T.Engoh T. guided her, whose love and resilience she passed down to her children and grandchildren. She taught us to believe in ourselves, trust in God, and never envy, but work tirelessly for what is right and just for mankind. Her dream was for a world where boys and girls alike could shine their lights. This dream will live in the “ Guest House American Corner in Kwojeoh,” where her vision for unity and empowerment across oceans and cultures will continue to inspire. Her legacy will echo in the laughter of children in Tuseh celebrating Christmas traditions, her lasting message of love bridging generations and communities, especially with the Tewara Dance of Tuseh ZANG-TABI TAAH META CAMEROON, AFRICA, an ideal she encouraged by our Indige- nous loving community she leaves behind. We are eternally grateful for everyone who was part of her journey and for the prayers, love, and support from across the globe. Mama Salome’s spirit, love, and unshakeable faith are smiling down on us all, her presence forever embedded in our hearts.

Thank you, Lord, for the life of our mother, Ma Salome. She was our rock, our teacher, our guide. Mom, if God gave me a chance, I would have moved mountains to keep you here with us beyond September 8, 2024, when I received the call that marked your final journey. I love you, Mom, and though God has the final word, I am forever grateful that you and Dad are now together. I am your humble son, forever blessed by your love. May your souls rest in perfect peace. I will forever cherish and honor you both. Adieu. From T.Gideon

loved Mom My companion l will forever be grateful to the almighty God for your life on this earth. When l remember Sunday evening, the 8th of September 2024 when I went to look for the medication the nurse ask me to go and get it for you and on my returning back from from buying it after a long struggle to get the medication, you gave me the last breath on earth Mom rest in perfect peace till we meet again to part no more. l thank you so much for you stood up for me and my sibilings. RIP Ma Saloma. We thank you for your support. No amount is too small or too large. We are truly grateful for your support .

Support Team

Links:

Mom activities in community

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Jul 23, 2024
updates End HIV/AIDS in 28 villages in NW Cameroon

By Giddy, Celine, Dr. Sam, Dorine | Team leaders

Chairman's visited the World HQ in Kwojeoh

Greetings To Our Sponsors and Supporters;

It is our pleasure to report progress on our project to end HIV/AIDS in 28 villages in the English speaking NW Region of Cameroon, Africa. According to a report from the Ministry of Health in Cameroon, Burden of diseases and Causes of deaths since the conflict continues. Since 2013 as reported by the ministry of health in Cameroon, Communicable Diseases (CDs) accounted for 40.7% of the burden of disease in Cameroon. (HIV/ AIDS : 11.5% ; malaria : 10.80% ; lower respiratory tract infections : 10.10% ; diarrheal diseases : 5.60%; tuberculosis : 1.40% and STIs : 1.30%. These CDs account for 41.1% of deaths (Global Burden of Disease, 2013).

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) accounted for 14.2% of the burden of disease.The main ones are: cardio vascular diseases : 4.7% ; road trac accidents : 4% ; unintentional accidents : 2.9% and chronic kidney disease : 0.7%. However, they are responsible for 23.3% of deaths, excluding Diabetes. Maternal, child and adolescent related diseases account for 18.3% of the burden of disease and 14.4% of deaths. Neurological diseases account for 4.7% of the burden of disease and is responsible for only 1.2% of deaths.

Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) account for only 1.8% of the burden of disease with an estimated death rate of 0.2%.

We can report that over the last three months we have gone through some major changes within our organization that should have an impact on the kind and types of services that we are able to provide to the 28 villages in the English speakiing region of Cameroon, Africa. For example, we have move our office to a new location in order to be able to better serve our population. Secondly, we have recruited a family nurse who will be able to visit in all five zones and bring much needed health and wellness services to these 28 villages. Third, we have designed our delivery model in such a way that it will be able to offer health and wellness service to our IDPs. Fourth, we are working on strategies to fund raise in such a way that will bring much needed funds to our organization that will allow our IDP population to benefit from modern health and wellness services. Fifth, our newly appointed staff brings much needed expertise in the area of Health and Wellness and they have demonstrated according to their resumes and interviews with other organization that they know how to work with our population including making home visits, workshops and one on one visits to their homes in the villages.

Report on the Awareness Campaign on HIV/AIDS and the Disadvantages of the B Festival in the M Community in Zone 2

Introduction

The Local AIDS Control Committee was established to follow up on HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention activities. This report covers the three-day awareness campaign conducted from July 15 to July 17, 2024, in the Mbororo community. It focused on the disadvantages of the Barala Festival and the transmission, prevention, and treatment of HIV/AIDS.

Objectives

- Develop comprehensive educational materials on HIV/AIDS transmission, prevention, and treatment.

- Conduct awareness campaigns through various channels such as schools, community workshops, workplaces, and social media.

- Encourage condom use among the youth.

- Train healthcare professionals and volunteers to conduct HIV testing.

Campaign Phases

The campaign was divided into three phases, targeting boys, girls, and the general population (boys, girls, men, women, and children).

Day 1: Boys

The first day focused on engaging boys, discussing the following questions:

1. What is the meaning of HIV/AIDS?

2. How can you contract HIV/AIDS?

3. What is the B Festival?

4. What are the advantages and disadvantages of the Barala Festival?

Participants' ideas were written on the board, followed by explanations about the history, spread, and threats of HIV/AIDS and the disadvantages of the Barala Festival.

Day 2: Girls

The second day mirrored the first day’s activities but targeted girls. The turnout was impressive, and the same guiding questions were used to facilitate discussions.

Day 3: General Population

The final day targeted the entire community, providing education, testing, counseling, and support services to individuals and families affected by HIV/AIDS. The campaign aimed to reduce HIV transmission, enhance the well-being of affected individuals, and provide a supportive community.

Objectives and Activities

- Raise Awareness on the Evils of the Barala Festival:** Highlighting the negative impact of the festival, including prostitution, unwanted pregnancies, HIV/AIDS, and STDs.

- Raise Awareness and Knowledge about HIV/AIDS: Educating the community on the transmission, prevention, and treatment of HIV/AIDS.

- Promote Regular HIV Testing and Counseling:** Ensuring early diagnosis and treatment of HIV/AIDS.

-Provide Services for Affected Individuals and Families:** Access to healthcare and referrals to relevant resources.

- **Reduce Stigma Associated with HIV/AIDS:** Through community engagement and advocacy efforts.

The B Festival

The B Festival, organized yearly by the Mb Mb Social Cultural and Development Association, aims to unite Mbyouth. The festival includes singing, dancing, horse racing, and fashion parades. However, it has led to such problems as:

- Prostitution among youth, leading to multiple sexual partners.

- Unwanted pregnancies, HIV/AIDS, STDs, pain, and stress.

- Many youths remain unmarried and suffer from the negative consequences of the festival.

Community Response

The parents expressed regret for subjecting their children to the harmful practices of the Barala Festival. They committed to abolishing the festival and addressing its negative impacts. During the campaign, many youths tested positive for HIV; some had STDs, and others were pregnant.

The seminar concluded with joy and satisfaction among the participants. The community showed a willingness to change and support efforts to combat HIV/AIDS and the adverse effects of the B Festival. The campaign raised awareness and provided crucial education and support services to the Mb community.

In our staff development training and workshop we have determined that we have to change the mindset of IDPs who have suffered for generations. Our future development will include vocational training and skill development for our females ages 14 to 36 which will provide them with the choice for a new life style rather than repeat the old life style.

Currently, we are in the process of applying for a International Global Grant that will provide us with funds to develop our Health and Wellness Department that will benefit most IDPs in the 28 villages to include medical support for AIDS/HIV. We are developing SMART GOALS and ACTION STEPS that will benefit our five Zone Directors as they implement our new strategies. Due to the fact that we have to have 30 per cent matching funds for the grants, we are asking for any support to help us meet our challenges. No amount is too small and will bring smiles to the faces of those whom we serve.

Thank you in advance for your financial support and believing in us to bring a solution to a problem that has impacted the lives and daily living habits of our IDPs in 28 villages for generations.

Kind Regards,

Health and Wellness Team

JRCCA

Links:

ministry of health in Cameroon

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Mar 26, 2024
UpdateHIV/AIDS Progress Report - March - 2024

By Dorine, NI Giddy Celine, Rose Dr. Sam and Carol | Project Leaders

Greeting Donors and Supporters;

The purpose of this report is to let you know that our HIV/AIDS project is at an all time stand still and that we are not meeting the SMART GOALS and ACTION STEPS that we have outlined for this project. Despite the fact that there are many issues that have a higher priority such as the ongoing Civil conflict, lack of medical and health care, lack of clean water while others are hiding in the jungle, lack of food, negative attitude toward the concept as witch craft and low or lack of education awareness which will allow them to become aware of how this disease will impact their life and the life of several generations.

I am reporting that many of the IDPS that we are trying to provide support for have second thoughts and have changed their mind about participating in our project. The main reason that is being given is the lack of trust and threats from the Rebels who have been resisting the military and have chosen to engage in all types of behavior to encourage the ongoing conflict with the military. The project has suffered for a lack of funds to buy the supplies that we need for this project to be successful. The Rebels prevent the free movement of the people throughout the villages by threatening to kill them.

Despite the negative concerns of the people, we will never give up on our plan of action for the month of April to September

- Buying and supplying of yam seeds to the farmers of Zones 1,2,3,4,5 Liberia and Ghana affiliates

- launching of the pa John Ticha yam planting and the PA John Ticha Memorial scheduled for April 2024.

- Hiring Human Resource managers and Assistant human resources Directors to be working with the Zonal Directors. - -Leadership training on how to write smart goal and Action steps, filling activity logs.

- How to produce reports on activities that are taking place on the fields - putting in place some income generating activities that is going to benefit the NGO and the communities at large.

This income generating activities will include; (1)oil and kennell mill. This oil and kennel mill shall be planted at Tuseh. People will mill their nuts and pay the money to the NGO. The NGO will buy their oil and sell it in towns like Bamenda, Yaounde, Douala and even to some neighboring countries like Gabon, E. Guinea Nigeria etc. We will extract oil from the kennel and sell it to towns and use some for soap production, rubbing oil, cooking oil etc. The chaffing shall be sold out to pig farmers as kennel cakes for pigs, (2)cassava mill and garri oven for frying of garri. This will facilitate the production of garri which one of the most expensive foodstuffs in the market now. (3)Bee farming. We will help the bee farmers with materials to make the hives. They will harvest the honey and sell it back to us. We shall export some America, France Briain etc., (4)Documentation for typing, photo copy, internet etc. The people will not longer travel to distance places to do photocopy or use the internet .(5)health unit. This will save for consultations and selling drugs. Except for critical cases where people can be referred to hospitals like Acha hospital and Mbengwi District hospital. (6)sale of Raw materials for making soap, omo,etc., (7)Water Rehabilitation and extension.

We shall rehabilitate our water system here and extend it to where portable water is not available. We will have enough to drink. Our people will not be dying of water born disease like cholera etc. (8). Women and youths employment centers--Here the women shall be trained on soap making, other income generating activities, marking of traditional regalia, tie and dye, home keeping, child care, farming techniques, cultural activities etc. The youths shall also be trained on youths affairs eg premarital sex, importance of education, vocational training, Nursing, good manners disadvantages of early marriages , sexually transmitted diseases etc 10) A giant Generator for the World Headquarters This will serve in times of light seizures and people will need to charge their phones . Others like photocopying etc will be done using generator etc.

In the English Speaking NWR, we need to combine all of our resources and including the involvement of our government to provide resources that have been neglected for so long with outside fund raising resources who will provide the needed funds for us to begin the overall rebuilding process caused by the Civil unrest over five years ago. No donation is too small! We are begging for financial resources that can help up save lives and make our children grow. We thank you for your past support and we are looking forward to your future support and donations. This income generating activities will keep the NGO moving and will never lack as well as the people of the communities . The World HQ is going to be a great again. People will come from neighboring cities, countries to visit the place.

Kind Regards,

Health and Sanitation Department

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