On July 19, 2025, Survivors’ Network, with the generous support of JUSTICE FOR AFRICA, successfully hosted a pivotal “Child Marriage Free World” campaign at the Holy Ghost Parish in Bertoua. This impactful event convened community members, particularly youth and parents, to address critical issues intertwined with child marriage: human trafficking, gender-based violence (GBV), and child marriage itself. Through engaging presentations by Mr. Niba, Felicita, and Irene, participants gained comprehensive insights into the causes, effects, and prevention strategies for
these interconnected challenges. The campaign was a powerful moment of collective commitment, with youth pledging to prioritize education and parents also to protect their children from the hands of early marriage, fostering a united front for a safer, more equitable society. The event commenced with a warm welcome, setting a receptive tone for the day’s critical discussions. The program featured three dynamic speakers, each delivering impactful presentations:
Mr. Niba (Survivors’ Network Representative) provided an insightful introduction to Survivors’ Network’s mission and work. He then delved into the complex realities of human trafficking, meticulously outlining its various forms, underlying causes, devastating effects on victims, and actionable ways for individuals and communities to avoid falling prey to exploitation. His presentation laid a crucial foundation for understanding vulnerability within the community
Felicita (Speaker on GBV) delivered a compelling address on Gender-Based Violence (GBV). She comprehensively defined GBV, explored its diverse manifestations, highlighted its pervasive impact on individuals and society, and discussed avenues for reporting and seeking support. Her session empowered attendees with a deeper understanding of GBV’s intricacies and the importance of challenging harmful norms.
Irene (Speaker on Child Marriage) delivered a powerful and comprehensive presentation on child marriage. She commenced with a clear definition, emphasizing who is most affected. She meticulously explored the multifaceted causes, from economic pressures to cultural traditions. Crucially, Irene detailed the profound and long-lasting impact of child marriage on the individual (education, health, psychological well-being) and the community at large (poverty cycles, diminished human potential). Her session culminated in practical guidance on ways to avoid child marriage, empowering youth with self-protection strategies, and equipping parents with concrete steps to safeguard their children, families, and the wider community.
The presentations were interactive, allowing for questions and engagement from the enthusiastic audience. The speakers effectively used relatable examples and a clear, accessible language, ensuring the messages resonated with all attendees.
The campaign continued in a deeply moving and impactful segment where participants publicly declared their commitment:
⦁ Youth Pledge: Inspired by the knowledge shared, the youth present collectively took a solemn pledge, committing to never abandon their education for the sake of marriage. This demonstrated a powerful recognition of the importance of schooling as a pathway to empowerment and a safeguard against exploitation.
⦁ Parents’ Pledge: Parents, equally moved by the discussions, pledged to actively protect their children from child marriage. This commitment underscored their critical role as guardians and advocates for their children’s rights and well-being, fostering a united community effort for a brighter future.
This event was well documented through photographs, capturing the engaged audience, the speakers, and the powerful moment of the pledges. These visuals serve as a testament to the campaign’s reach and impact.
To conclude, the “Child Marriage Free World” campaign at Holy Family Parish, Bertoua, was a resounding success, effectively raising awareness, fostering dialogue, and inspiring concrete commitments to combat human trafficking, GBV, and child marriage. Survivors’ Network, in partnership with JUSTICE FOR AFRICA, demonstrated the power of community engagement in driving positive social change. The pledges made by both youth and parents signify a crucial step towards building a protective environment where children can thrive, free from exploitation and early marriage.