NW PIC engages CSOs to strengthen skills in rights-based advocacy.

In his opening statement, Research Officer No.1, Ndi Nelson, speaking on behalf of the PIC, Tamfu Simon Fai, underscored the central role CSOs play in shaping inclusive development. 

He emphasised that CSOs are often the closest actors to vulnerable populations, yet many still struggle to translate their passion for community service into structured, evidence-based advocacy. 

“Civil society organisations are the trusted voices of our communities. They stand closest to vulnerable populations, often serving as first responders to pressing needs, yet many of them face challenges,” Ndi said.

The workshop, he noted, was designed to bridge these gaps and strengthen collaboration between the PIC and civil society.

Throughout the day, participants engaged in a series of interactive sessions covering key aspects of rights-based advocacy. The first module introduced advocacy principles, tools, and strategies relevant for community-focused organisations. 

This was followed by a presentation on the legal and institutional frameworks governing rights-based advocacy within decentralised local authorities, delivered by Agbor Nkeng Etengeneng, the North West Regional Branch Head of the Cameroon Human Rights Commission.

Participants also took part in role-play exercises, simulating engagement with duty-bearers and handling of citizen complaints, as well as group work focused on designing advocacy strategies aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals. 

Further sessions explored the mandate of the PIC and its mechanisms for complaints handling and dispute resolution, with key areas for CSOs seeking to hold public authorities accountable.

By the end of the workshop, 50 CSO representatives had developed draft action plans, collaborative frameworks, and monitoring tools to guide their future advocacy efforts. The PIC expressed hope that the strengthened partnership with civil society will foster a culture of transparency, accountability, and administrative justice in the region.

The event ended with plenary reflections, recommendations, and closing statements from participants, who commended the PIC for its commitment to strengthening citizen engagement and local governance.

According to Anguna Mariana from the Community Creative Centre for Women and Girls with Disabilities, she has been facing a lot of challenges in terms of collaboration and accessing council services in her community.

Anguna noted that she has improved her skills on how to effectively engage council authorities in her community for accountability and development.

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3631 of Thursday November 20, 2025