Assessment of the Needs of Populations Affected by the Demarcation of the Cameroon-Nigeria Border

In 2002, the International Court of Justice issued a ruling on the border dispute between Cameroon and Nigeria. To facilitate the implementation of this decision, the Cameroon-Nigeria Mixed Commission (CMCN) was established with the support of the United Nations Migration Agency – International Organization for Migration (IOM). In this context, the IOM conducted a survey aimed at assessing the needs of populations living along the newly demarcated border between the two countries. To carry out this survey, the IOM sought the participation of various international organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO), the United

Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), and the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS). Key Cameroonian public administrations such as the Ministry of Territorial Administration (MINAT), the Ministry of Social Affairs (MINAS), the Ministry of Water and Energy (MINEE), and the Ministry of Public Health (MINSANTE) were also closely involved. The official data collection mission took place from October 23 to November 1, 2023, in the regions of the Far North, North, and Adamawa. A total of 3,000 households across 70 localities were surveyed. The research team ensured the selection of a representative sample along the border and within each district. Ultimately, 3,212 forms were completed, of which 2,806 were filled out by heads of households, representing 22,448 individuals directly affected by the study.

The survey conducted resulted in the following key findings by sector:

In the trade sector, 84% of traders are not organized into associations. In terms of health, while 70% of households have access to community health services, 25% have no health worker nearby, and 50% find costs too high. Regarding water, 94% of water points are unlit, and 41% of respondents cite poverty as the main barrier to access. In hygiene and sanitation, 90% of toilets are not gender-sensitive, 55% of latrines are in poor condition, and 80% of households dispose of their waste in nature. The assessment of the situation in schools is particularly concerning, as 77% lack a water point, 73% do not have handwashing facilities, and 49% do not have functional toilets. To improve the situation in the area of security, it is recommended to enhance access to electrification in social cohesion spaces. In the commercial sector, support for establishing coordination structures for cross-border activities is necessary. In health, strengthening the capacities of community health workers, raising awareness among populations, and improving access to primary healthcare are essential. In the water sector, investments are required to develop infrastructure and ensure sustainable access to quality water. In terms of sanitation and hygiene, constructing new latrines, promoting healthy hygiene practices, and ensuring access to appropriate cleaning products are priorities, including in schools.

This in-depth study of the needs of border populations between Cameroon and Nigeria aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 1, 3, and 6, relating to the fight against poverty, health, access to water and sanitation, is detailed in the attached documents:

Rapport Mission Conjointe  FR
Needs Assessment Brief  EN
Infosheet Demarcation Nigeria Cameroon  EN

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