Within the conflict zone of Cameroon, vulnerable boys and men often have limited economic empowerment opportunities. During our intervention Drug abuse prevention campaign in the North West Region, lots of substance addict shared their stories with us. We discovered that most of those who had fled from interior villages into the Urban cities in search of livelihood means for their families.
To some getting to start all over was a challenge as a result of a lack of capital and if they try soliciting funds, they are cut short by gender stereotypes and cultural norms which say a man should remain quick and hustle to survive not beg. All these only add to their emotional depression leading them to substance abuse as a coping Strategy.
It is of great importance to mainstream men’s needs into our interventions.
