Combating rape, sexual violence: Safe Haven Foundation intensifies efforts through school sensitisation.

It was organised in partnership with Lead Child Africa and Wanda’s Legacy with funding support from Rescue Women Cameroon, REWOCAM, and Global Pearls.

The support enabled Safe Haven Foundation to launch Phase II of the project titled: “Empowering Communities to Combat Rape and Support Survivors: A Holistic Approach”.

Inspired by the SURVAR 2024 programme of Rescue Women Cameroon, the second phase, Safe Haven Foundation said, focuses on promoting awareness, empowering survivors, and strengthening community resilience.

The foundation added that the project integrates preventive education, survivor support, and community mobilisation to challenge harmful norms that silence victims and enable abuse.

The campaign kicked off in November with sensitisation sessions in primary and secondary schools across Yaounde.

Learners received age-appropriate messages on consent, body safety rules, exploitation, and what to do when faced with abuse.

On Wednesday, November 26, sessions were held at Benediction Bilingual Primary School at Tam-Tam, Yaounde, and at Manna Group College in Biyem-Assi.

Children and adolescents were educated on personal safety, recognising unsafe behaviours, and speaking up when they feel threatened.

Activities continued on Thursday, November 27, at Akouma Bilingual High School, ABHS in Simbock. Using visibility materials and interactive demonstrations, facilitators explained the consequences of rape, the emotional and psychological impact on survivors, and the legal and health avenues available for reporting and support.

Reacting to the campaign, some of the students and officials of visited schools, shared meaningful feedback on the lessons they received.

Akuma Catherine, a Form One student, said she now understands the importance of consent. She noted that if anyone attempts to abuse her, she will shout and call for help. She also said she will encourage her siblings and friends to stay alert and safe.

Onana Henry, a Form Four student, stated that rape harms individuals and destroys communities. Onana said he learned about GBV, school-based violence, and the importance of speaking up and confiding in trusted adults.

Sek Calibright, also in Form Four, emphasised the importance of reporting cases of abuse to parents and responsible adults. He expressed his commitment to saying no to sexual violence.

The Discipline Master of ABHS Secondary School applauded the initiative, highlighting that it aligns with their existing “healthy lifestyle and living together” project and further strengthens their mission to protect learners.

According to the Safe Haven Foundation, the initiative forms part of a broader strategy to build a strong network of community rape advocates, support survivors on their healing journey, and dismantle the stigma that silences victims.

By taking the message directly to classrooms and communities, the Safe Haven Foundation and its partners are working to promote awareness, accountability, and collective protection.   

About Safe Haven Foundation

Safe Haven Foundation, it should be said, is a youth-led organisation committed to mental well-being and digital inclusion for youths, GBV survivors and underserved populations. 

Through therapy, psychosocial support, advocacy, and digital-skills empowerment, the organisation creates safe spaces where healing and personal growth go hand in hand, ensuring that vulnerable individuals regain dignity, resilience and the confidence to thrive.

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3646 of Friday December 05, 2025