By Sendy Forlemu
The International Committee of the Red Cross, ICRC, has handed over essential materials and completed rehabilitation works at the Associated Rehabilitation Centre for the Handicapped, ARCH, in Buea, Cameroon. This significant contribution enhances healthcare services for victims of the ongoing conflict in the Northwest and Southwest regions.
The ICRC’s donation includes crucial equipment, 20 beds, and mattresses. The rehabilitation works involve fencing the compound, constructing a waste management area, and conducting feasibility studies for an additional ward. This initiative aims to improve the lives of individuals who have lost limbs due to the conflict.
Since 2022, the ICRC has provided prostheses to over 140 victims, with 84 individuals both from the Northwest and Southwest regions receiving prosthetic limbs in 2024 alone. The organisation has also supported the ARCH centre by covering transportation costs for patients traveling to and from the centre, providing accommodation and meals during their stay, and funding both prostheses and maintenance, as well as physical rehabilitation services.
ICRC delegation and Buea Diocese Representatives in a group picture during feasibility studies for the construction of new wards.
Aly Ouatara, Health Coordinator of the ICRC in Central Africa, stated, “Our goal is to provide quality services to our beneficiaries. We are committed to supporting the ARCH centre in delivering prostheses and rehabilitation services.”
The ICRC’s partnership with the Diocese of Buea has been instrumental in delivering these vital services. Father Jude Thaddeus Wanki, Health Coordinator for the Diocese, praised the ICRC’s support, saying, “We are content and confident that our partnership will continue to provide hope and dignity to those affected by the conflict.”
Katrien Turgeon, ICRC head of Sub-Delegation Buea, emphasised, “Supporting physical rehabilitation services is a flagship initiative for the ICRC. We work closely with the Diocese of Buea to provide essential services to those in need.”
The ICRC’s efforts have significantly impacted the lives of conflict victims in Cameroon. As the conflict continues, the need for humanitarian aid remains pressing. The ICRC is committed to providing vital services to those affected while promoting international humanitarian law and strengthening universal humanitarian principles.