Outcome CMR_D_2.1

By 2026, populations, in different agro-ecological zones, including youth, women and socially vulnerable groups, live in a healthier environment, sustainably manage environmental resources, including biodiversity, and are more resilient to disaster and climate change shocks. (Outcome 4 /UNSDCF)

Advancing Gender Integration in Decentralization The gender strategy in the decentralization sector is set to significantly enhance the inclusion of gender issues in local policies and development plans . In 2024, technical support was provided to the Ministry of Decentralization and Local Development (MINDDEVEL) to develop a draft Gender Strategy for the Decentralization sector . This strategy is expected to play a crucial role in guiding sectoral ministries and facilitating the decentralization process in Cameroon. Once technically validated, the document will serve as a key tool for integrating gender considerations into local development projects, particularly at the regional and municipal levels. Focus on Sustainable Development and Environmental Management The strategy also emphasizes the sustainable management of the environment and natural resources at the decentralized level, which is essential for improving living conditions in communities. It provides clear orientation on how decentralized territorial entities (CTDs) can address environmental concerns within their transferred competencies, promoting inclusive development that directly benefits grassroots populations. UN Women’s Contribution UN Women’s technical support to MINDDEVEL ensured that gender equality was comprehensively integrated into this important policy document. The support was designed to ensure that gender considerations are not only reflected in regional and municipal development plans but are also addressed in the context of natural resource management. This strategy will help create more equitable and inclusive policies , supporting the improvement of living conditions for local populations in a sustainable manner.

By 2026, populations, in different agro-ecological zones, including youth, women and socially vulnerable groups, live in a healthier environment, sustainably manage environmental resources, including biodiversity, and are more resilient to disaster and climate change shocks. (Outcome 4 /UNSDCF)

In 2025, women members of cooperatives in the project intervention areas strengthened their technical capacities and readiness to adopt improved and more sustainable agricultural practices , including improved fallow techniques, soil conservation methods and the development of shaded crops, following targeted practical training delivered with the support of decentralized agricultural extension services. At the same time, women cooperators’ access to and engagement with gender-responsive economic and social infrastructure were enhanced through the ongoing construction of market sheds, multi-purpose processing units, solar-powered boreholes, warehouses, drying spaces and daycare facilities with gender-sensitive sanitation in selected municipalities. This outcome was supported by improved institutional capacities of municipal authorities , whose strengthened understanding of gender-responsive budgeting and project requirements contributed to more effective planning, coordination and oversight of project-supported investments at the local level. Finally, the capacities of municipal authorities were strengthened through training on gender-responsive budgeting, supporting a more systematic consideration of women’s needs in local planning processes and in the management and oversight of project-supported investments.