Douala: Anglophone crisis IDPs engage in ‘canda’ business to survive.

Originally sparked by tensions between the lawyers and teachers in the English-speaking regions and the government, the conflict has led to severe humanitarian consequences. 

As of mid-2023, the crisis had resulted in the displacement of over 638,000 individuals within the Anglophone regions and left approximately 1.7 million in urgent need of humanitarian assistance, according to a Human Rights Watch report.

The North West and South West Regions, which have borne the brunt of the violence, have seen residents fleeing their homes in search of safety. Many have sought refuge in larger urban areas such as Dschang, Bafoussam, Yaoundé, and Douala. 

These Internally Displaced Persons, IDPs, have been forced to adapt to new ways of life far from their hometowns, often taking on unconventional jobs to survive.

In Douala, Cameroon’s bustling economic hub, some Internally Displaced Persons, IDPs, have turned to the cow skin trade, locally known as ‘canda’, as a means of livelihood. 

This business, though modest, has become a vital source of income for many who have lost everything due to the ongoing conflict.

Resilience and adaptability

Mama Marie, an IDP from Bamenda, exemplifies the resilience and adaptability of these individuals. Having relocated to Douala four years ago, she has found stability in the cow skin business. Despite the difficulties she has faced, Mama Marie remains optimistic and sees her work as a crucial lifeline for her family.

“The work is good because I don't lack food on my table. The minimum I want, this job provides that for me,” she said. 

Her sentiment is one of perseverance and determination. 

“So, I am calling on everyone not to be lazy around and find something to do, and why not also venture into this same business or similar ones,” she encouraged, reflecting the broader spirit of self-reliance among the IDPs.

On his part, Mokom Benn, who fled Bamenda with his family 16 months ago, provides another perspective on the IDP experience. Initially taking on various menial jobs to make ends meet, he was introduced to the cow skin business, which he has been engaged in for the past year. 

Mokom, a father of five, also accommodates additional family members, making a total of 14 people under one roof.

“My family and I were first based in Bamenda. The instability pushed us out,” Mokom recounted. 

His journey to Douala has been fraught with challenges, but he has found some measure of stability through his new trade. 

“With this, I am able to cater for my family and truly speaking, it helps,” he added, underscoring the role of the cow skin business in providing for his extended family.