The Pioneer Catalyst International Cameroon Workshop
Introduction
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), also known as the Global Goals, were introduced by the United Nations in September 2015 as a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure that all people enjoy peace and prosperity by 2030.
Building on the success and lessons learned from the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), the SDGs comprise 17 interlinked goals designed to address global challenges comprehensively. These goals cover a broad range of interconnected issues such as poverty, inequality, climate change, environmental degradation, peace and justice, and access to education and healthcare.
Each goal is accompanied by specific targets and indicators to measure progress, providing a framework for countries, businesses, and civil society to work together towards a more sustainable future. The SDGs emphasize the importance of collaboration among governments, businesses, civil society, and citizens worldwide to achieve sustainable development for all.
Enhancing the strategies related to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) involves broadening and deepening the efforts aimed at achieving these global targets by 2030.
GOOFIRM is an independent Youth-Led Health and Development Non-Profit Organisation founded in 2020 with its mission to support community health through Research, Awareness and Policy Advocacy, while prioritizing vulnerable girls, pregnant women, infant and children, sustainable development, equal rights and opportunities for all through a community-based approach with respect to the charter, the code of conduct, the institutional policies including the policy of prevention of corruption and fraud, protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse(PSEA) while promoting community access to sexual and reproductive health and rights(SRHR) to family planning, safe birth, freedom from gender based violence (GBV) sensitisation on sexually transmissible infections malaria, HIV/AIDS and Tuberculosis.
Catalyst 2030 is a 51C3 non-profit global organization created in 2019 with the aim of putting all social entrepreneurs and organizations together to become one, enabling networking and connections. It has over 5000 members of individuals and associations and has impacted over 1 billion people. Presently, it has more than 100 collaborations going on in the domain of youth and education and impact of domestic violence on youths. It is affiliated to the United Nations (UN) and ECOSOC. Joining Catalyst 2030 is free, what is needed is the individual and the drive. Members are the center of Catalyst 2030. General assemblies are held every month online as well as a weekly Friday Conversation Café which takes place at 12pm. Catalyst 2030 has Regional and African chapters as well as Catalyst Global. There are 20 local African chapters with just 9 in Francophone Africa.
The Pioneer Catalyst International Cameroon Workshop, In Francophone Africa, Cameroon has local chapter members in Limbe, Douala, Nkongsamba and Bamenda who work together in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Africa forward a program that looks about catalyst 2030, help fund and facilitates collaborations between catalyst 2030 members. It is also a groundbreaking initiative.
Why should you be a member of Catalyst 2030?
- This is because they follow the 17 SDGs of the United Nations.
- Lack of resources.
- Lack of funding.
- Minimal collaboration.
- Lack of voices in making decisions.
Some of the engagement opportunities of Catalyst 2030 include:
- Learning and capacity building.
- System changes learning.
- Elder capacity building.
- Emotional connections and wellbeing.
Some potential action points for chapters
- Mental health and youth empowerment.
- Advocacy and collaboration with the government.
- Funding for action activities.
- Participation in regional and global campaigns.
Usual structure of chapters
- Co-chairs who represent members globally.
- Subgroups
- Secretaries
How to become a Catalyst 2030 member?
- Fill the form on the website, catalyst2030.net and wait for a response.
- Adhere to catalyst 2030 principles.
- Time is required.
- Membership is free and identity checks are done.
This workshop was hosted by green and better world a non-profit making organisation accredited with many international organizations. Mme. Ingrid, a Cameroonian by nationality who is the regional coordinator of Catalyst 2030 for Francophone Africa did a brief introduction about herself and her accomplishments. The different civil society organizations, associations, as well as individuals did self-introductions, gave a brief summary of the various organizations they represent and what made them smile.
Women coalitions play a crucial role in civil society for several reasons:
- 1. Amplifying Women’s Voices: They provide a platform for women to collectively voice their concerns, advocate for their rights, and address issues that specifically affect women in society. By coming together, women can amplify their voices and influence decision-making processes.
- 2. Advancing Gender Equality: Women coalitions often focus on promoting gender equality and challenging discriminatory practices. They work towards creating a more equitable society where women have equal opportunities in all aspects of life, including education, employment, healthcare, and political participation.
- 3. Supporting Legislative Change: These coalitions can lobby for legislative reforms that protect women’s rights and promote gender-sensitive policies. They engage with lawmakers and policymakers to advocate for laws that address issues such as gender-based violence, reproductive rights, and economic empowerment.
- 4. Providing Support Networks: Women coalitions serve as support networks for women, offering solidarity, encouragement, and resources. They create safe spaces where women can share experiences, seek advice, and access services related to health, legal assistance, and education.
- 5. Community Building and Empowerment: By mobilizing women from diverse backgrounds, these coalitions foster a sense of community and collective empowerment. They organize workshops, training programs, and awareness campaigns to build women’s leadership skills and confidence.
- 6. Monitoring and Accountability: Women coalitions play a critical role in monitoring the implementation of policies and programs related to gender equality. They hold governments and institutions accountable for their commitments to women’s rights and ensure that resources are allocated effectively.
- 7. Addressing Intersectional Issues: Recognizing that women’s experiences are shaped by intersecting identities such as race, class, ethnicity, and sexual orientation, these coalitions work towards addressing intersectional issues and ensuring inclusivity within their advocacy efforts.
In conclusion, women coalitions are essential in civil society as they contribute to shaping more inclusive, equitable, and just societies where women’s rights are respected, protected, and promoted. They are catalysts for social change, working towards a world where gender equality is a reality.
