The Society of Gynecologists and Obstetricians of Cameroon, SOGOC are standing in solidarity with women and girls facing myriad forms of violence, including the rapidly emerging threats of digital violence.
Cross section of SOGOC-Media Platform members on sensitisation walk against GBV on Yaounde streets
The stance of SOGOC is in line with the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, GBV which the organisation launched in the nation’s capital of Yaounde on November 28, 2025. This year’s commemoration is placed under the theme: “End All Forms of Digital Violence Against Women and Girls.”
“It thus emphasises the urgent need to address online harassment, abuse, and exploitation, which significantly contribute to the broader spectrum of GBV affecting our communities,” SOGOC notes in a statement on the occasion.
The launching event was marked by a sensitisation walk by members of the SOGOC-Media Platform on the streets of Yaounde with a particular focus on the Nkoleton market in the Yaounde 1 council area of the Centre Region.
Led by the Project Manager of the Advocacy for Comprehensive Abortion Care, ACAC project at SOGOC; Rita Yenjong, the interaction by members of the platform during the sensitisation walk was quite revealing. While some members of the targeted audience questioned why men were part of the team sensitising the public, especially when they are talking about GBV, others sought clarifications on what the theme was all about.
It was therefore an opportunity for the SOGOC-Media Platform members to explain that GBV deals with issues affecting both the men and women highlighting the fact that dialogue must triumph in all circumstances with the human rights of each respected in harmony. Concerning the theme of this year, it was explained to the curious population that it has to do with combating violence being perpetrated against women and girls on the social media platforms.
Meanwhile, one of the many testimonies listened during the sensitisation walk was that of a roadside trader who said he has three wives with whom they interact in harmony, and that never in his life has he ever raised his hand on any of them.
However, the SOGOC statement notes that in Africa, statistics reveal that an estimated 1 to 3 women have experienced physical or sexual violence in their lifetime, while digital violence remains an alarming reality. “In Cameroon, the situation is equally concerning, where approximately 36% of women have encountered some form of GBV, including online harassment and threats. This violence often intersects with women’s reproductive health, leading to increased stress and health complications.”
It states further that the impact of GBV on maternal health is devastating. “SOGOC estimates that 25% of maternal deaths is linked to unsafe abortion practices – a tragic consequence of unwanted pregnancies resulting from violence. Many women are forced to resort to clandestine abortions due to lack of access to safe services, often resulting in severe complications or even death.”
SOGOC holds that as a society, they are dedicated to advocating for comprehensive reproductive health services, including safe abortion access for survivors of rape and sexual violence. “Every woman deserves to make informed choices regarding her body, and it is crucial that we provide safe spaces for them to do so. This includes addressing the barriers posed by digital violence, which can deter women from seeking help.
“We call upon policymakers, healthcare providers, and civil society to take immediate action to combat digital violence, ensuring that our digital environments are safe and supportive. Education and awareness initiatives are vital in empowering women and providing them with the tools to navigate these challenges without fear.
“Together, let us strive to end all forms of violence against women and girls, both in the physical and digital realms. By fostering a culture of respect and support, we can create a future where every woman in Cameroon lives free from violence, has access to quality healthcare, and can thrive in a safe environment,” SOGOC maintains.
By Nformi Sonde Kinsai
