Cameroon’s far north: sustainable water access project launched in minawai refugee camp
Cameroon’s Far North: Sustainable Water Access Project Launched in Minawao Refugee Camp
A landmark partnership between national water utility Camwater and the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) is set to transform access to clean water in the Far North region.
The initiative, formalized through a June 30 agreement in Yaoundé, targets the Minawao refugee camp and surrounding host communities struggling with water scarcity.
Under the agreement, Camwater will lead infrastructure development while UNHCR strengthens water governance and hygiene practices. The project aligns with efforts to ease pressure on local water resources amid growing displacement.
Partnership Structure and Implementation
The agreement was signed by Dr. Blaise Moussa, Camwater’s Director-General, and UNHCR representative Yvette Muhimpundu. It builds on the Alternative Solutions for Minawao Camp initiative, supported by the European Union and German Cooperation (GIZ).
Key objectives include:
- Expanding potable water supply networks
- Training local teams on sustainable water management
- Reinforcing hygiene standards in displacement-affected zones
Impact on Local Communities
By improving water access, the project aims to reduce conflicts over resources while boosting health outcomes for both refugees and host populations. The initiative reflects broader efforts to build resilience in the Sahel region’s most vulnerable areas.
