On 6 May 2026, CBM Cameroon officially launched two major social projects in Batouri in partnership with CODAS Caritas Batouri. The initiatives aim to strengthen the inclusion of persons with disabilities, improve access to healthcare and rehabilitation services, and support vulnerable populations across the East region of Cameroon.
The official launch ceremony took place at the PBF Academy hall within the Batouri Bishopric. It brought together administrative authorities, religious leaders, technical partners, and representatives of persons with disabilities, all gathered to celebrate what many described as a significant step forward for social inclusion and community resilience in the region.
The first initiative, identified as Project P11083, focuses on strengthening community resilience and promoting the inclusion of persons with disabilities through improved access to healthcare, protection services, and sustainable livelihoods. Scheduled to run for 14 months, the project is expected to benefit around 3,500 people, including more than 2,100 women.
Activities under the project will include expanding healthcare access, supporting income-generating activities, and improving water, hygiene, and sanitation services. Special attention will be given to ensuring that persons living with disabilities are fully included in all interventions.
The second initiative, Project P11067, is dedicated to strengthening rehabilitation and orthopedic care services in the East region of Cameroon. Running over a 30-month period, the project aims to directly support 2,750 beneficiaries while indirectly impacting more than 10,000 people.
A key component of the project is the rehabilitation and modernization of the Batouri Motor Disability Center, with the objective of improving access to quality orthopedic care and functional rehabilitation services. The initiative also seeks to promote greater inclusion of persons with disabilities through more accessible and integrated healthcare systems.
Speaking during the ceremony, Julius Fon, Country Director of CBM Cameroon, commended CODAS Caritas Batouri for its professionalism and strong track record in implementing previous projects.
“The funding for these two projects is the result of the seriousness with which CODAS Caritas implemented the previous projects and achieved good results,” he stated.
One of the highlights of the event was the official handover of a new pickup truck to CODAS Caritas Batouri. According to Julius Fon, the vehicle will help improve field operations and facilitate access to remote communities where vulnerable populations often face challenges receiving support.
“This pickup should make it possible to go further to bring hope to the poorest and most vulnerable, always giving special and specific attention to persons with disabilities,” he added.
The Bishop of Batouri, Mgr Marcellin Marie Ndabnyemb, also welcomed the partnership and blessed the newly donated vehicle during the ceremony. He expressed optimism about the impact the projects would have on local communities.
“Today, with the launch of these two projects, as Bishop of Batouri, I am very happy for all these populations who will now be supported daily to regain the dignity of standing as a person,” he said.
Representatives of persons with disabilities equally expressed gratitude to CBM Cameroon and CODAS Caritas for their continued support and commitment to improving lives.
“We are very happy and sincerely thank CBM for changing our lives. They have provided us with diverse and significant support, such as assistive devices and treatment for several illnesses. Today, our children are cared for and can go to school peacefully,” a representative of the disabled community shared.
Through these two new projects, CBM Cameroon and CODAS Caritas Batouri reaffirm their commitment to inclusive and sustainable development in the East region. At a time when social and healthcare needs remain high, the initiatives are expected to bring meaningful support and renewed hope to thousands of vulnerable people, especially persons living with disabilities.
