Promoting youth employment, entrepreneurship, economic and civic engagement

Context

The project zone covers 17 municipalities in the three regions of Northern Cameroon (Adamawa, North and Far North). Their populations are confronted with economic shocks, conflicts and insecurity. Fragile state institutions and a weak private sector as well as the impacts of climate change further exacerbate the situation, leading to high underemployment, especially among young men and women. In parts of the Far-North, which are still under attack by non-state armed groups such as Boko Haram, the conditions are even more worrying. Vulnerable youth are recruit targets of both violent terrorist groups but criminals who take advantage of their desperate situation. Furthermore, instability affects the border zones due to crises in the neighbouring countries: the Central African Republic, Chad and Nigeria.

Objective

Vulnerable youth in Cameroon have better employment skills, are experiencing a better economic situation and young entrepreneurs with high potentials are receiving additional support, all of which has led to an increase in youth participation in long-term economic development. Better resilience leads to lasting development within the regions.

Approach

The project “Support of the socio-economic resilience of vulnerable youth in North Cameroon” is implemented in partnership with the Cameroonian Ministry of Youth and Civil Education (MINJEC). In line with its holistic approach, PARSE comprises two complementary thematic areas: promotion of employability and job creation by new small youth enterprises as well as socio-political participation by young people and their associations for the sake of inclusive long-term development. As has been the case during the two foregoing phases, PARSE remains focused on partnering with many civil society organisations and local government.

Last update: September 2023