As the world concluded the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the Diocese of Buea, through its health sector, held a crucial capacity-building workshop aimed at strengthening mental health and psychological support for survivors of GBV. The workshop, which began on Wednesday, December 10th, 2025, took place at the Conference Hall of the Bishop Pius Awa Memorial Pastoral Center. The training was organized with technical support from UNFPA and brought together service providers committed to improving the quality of survivor-centered care across diocesan health facilities.
The session focused on equipping health workers with practical skills to offer empathetic, trauma-informed, and culturally appropriate support to victims of violence. Through interactive modules and guided discussions, participants deepened their understanding of mental well-being and enhanced their ability to respond holistically to survivors’ physical and psychological needs.
participants pose for family picture
A moving candle-lighting ceremony formed part of the event, held in honor of victims and survivors of gender-based violence and trauma. Each candle symbolized hope, solidarity, and the shared commitment to eliminate violence in all its forms. The ceremony served as a powerful reminder that every life impacted by GBV matters, and that collective action can bring light into situations of darkness, pain, and abuse.
With this training, the Diocese of Buea health sector is expected to further enhance its response mechanisms for GBV cases. Trained health workers are now better equipped to identify, manage, and refer survivors in need, integrating mental health and psychosocial support into routine health services. The initiative will contribute to reducing stigma, improving early intervention, and fostering community healing.
