2nd May 2024 : Supporting Localization Initiatives in NWSW Regions: A Call to Action for CBOs, INGOs, and Donors

Dear Esteemed Partners,

The conversation on Localization is of critical importance and supporting the localization initiatives in the North-West and South-West (NWSW) regions of Cameroon is important as well as the need to build capacities.

The unique challenges faced by these regions demand a concerted effort towards facilitating sustainable development, promoting locally led initiatives, and building resilient communities.

In alignment with this, I wish to highlight the pivotal role of global partnerships and the imperative need for capacity building of Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) in the NWSW regions. Global partnerships for sustainable development are indispensable in addressing the pressing needs of the NWSW regions. By involving donors from both the Global North and the Global South, these partnerships have the potential to make a significant impact. Direct funding to local partners, exemplified by USAID's commitment to allocate a substantial portion of program funds directly to local partners by the end of FY 2025, underscores the tangible steps being taken to place local communities at the forefront of programming by 2030. This commitment to direct funding to local partners is a testament to the recognition of the value of local ownership, contextual relevance, and the promotion of accountability in building sustainable communities. Furthermore, the implementation of a comprehensive Capacity Assessment Tool and the utilization of Tracking Metrics for NGOs working in the NWSW regions on localization are pivotal steps in ensuring the effectiveness and progress of localization efforts. The six key areas encompassed by the Capacity Assessment Tool, including Organizational Structure and Governance, Financial Management, Program and Service Delivery, Partnerships and Localization, Human Resources and Capacity Building, and Community Engagement and Impact, serve as critical touchpoints for evaluating and enhancing the capacities of local actors.

?The tracking metrics, including the Localization Index, Partnership Effectiveness Score, Community Impact Indicators, Capacity Building Progress, and Financial Localization Ratio, provide a structured framework for monitoring and evaluating the localization process. Moreover, the role of consultancies cannot be overstated in supporting the development of a baseline analysis and capacity building for CBOs. The recommendations proposed for Baseline Analysis Development, Capacity Building Support, and Incorporation of Findings are integral in preparing CBOs for successful transitioning in emergency, stabilization, and reconstruction phases. By leveraging external expertise through targeted consultancies, organizations can bolster the localization agenda and contribute to the resilience and sustainability of local organizations, ultimately enhancing the effectiveness and impact of humanitarian and development interventions in the NWSW region. As we collectively navigate the challenges and opportunities in the NWSW regions, I urge you to consider the significance of supporting localization initiatives and the capacity building of CBOs. Your engagement and commitment in this endeavor will not only contribute to sustainable and resilient communities but also foster inclusive and impactful development initiatives that are aligned with the aspirations and needs of the local populations. Thank you for your attention and continued support in advancing the localization agenda in the NWSW regions of Cameroon.

Capacity Building of CBOs in NWSW Regions of Cameroon: Global Partnerships for Sustainable Development Global partnerships for sustainable development play a crucial role in facilitating localization in the North-West and South-West (NWSW) regions of Cameroon. These partnerships, involving donors from both the Global North and the Global South, can help address the unique challenges faced by these regions and promote locally led development initiatives. Here's how these partnerships can make a significant impact:

Direct Funding to Local Partners

USAID has committed to providing a significant portion of its program funds directly to local partners by the end of FY 2025, with the goal of placing local communities in the lead for half of its programming by 2030. Global partnerships for sustainable development are essential for facilitating localization in Cameroon's NWSW regions. By providing direct funding to local partners, encouraging local ownership, addressing contextual relevance, promoting accountability, building local capacity, and coordinating donor efforts, these partnerships can help create sustainable and resilient communities. As global partners continue to work together, the emphasis on localization will ensure that development initiatives are more effective, inclusive, and aligned with the needs and aspirations of the local populations.

Capacity Assessment Tool and Tracking Metrics for NGOs Working in NWSW Regions on Localization

Capacity Assessment Tool

The Capacity Assessment Tool for NGOs and CBOs working in the NWSW regions should encompass the following key areas:

1. Organizational Structure and Governance
2. Financial Management
3. Program and Service Delivery
4. Partnerships and Localization
5. Human Resources and Capacity Building
6. Community Engagement and Impact

Tracking Metrics

To track the effectiveness of the capacity assessment and the progress of NGOs and CBOs in the localization process, the following metrics can be utilized:

1. Localization Index
2. Partnership Effectiveness Score
3. Community Impact Indicators
4. Capacity Building Progress
5. Financial Localization Ratio

Recommendations for Consultancies

Consultancies can play a crucial role in supporting the development of a baseline analysis and capacity building for CBOs to prepare for successful transitioning in emergency, stabilization, and reconstruction phases. The following recommendations are proposed:

1. Baseline Analysis Development
2. Capacity Building Support
3. Incorporation of Findings

By engaging in targeted consultancies, organizations can leverage external expertise to support the localization agenda, strengthen the capacities of local actors, and facilitate a smooth transition from emergency response to stabilization and reconstruction phases. This approach will contribute to building the resilience and sustainability of local organizations, ultimately enhancing the effectiveness and impact of humanitarian and development interventions in the NWSW region.

Localization in Humanitarian Response: The Imperative for Sustainability, Community Participation, and Ownership in Cameroon's NWSW Regions

The North-West and South-West (NWSW) regions of Cameroon have been embroiled in a humanitarian crisis, exacerbated by ongoing conflict and violence. The situation has necessitated a robust humanitarian response, which increasingly recognizes the importance of localization. Localization refers to the process of designing and implementing humanitarian assistance in a way that is led by local actors and communities, ensuring that aid is responsive to the specific needs and priorities of those it aims to serve. However, the effectiveness of localization in these regions is contingent upon three critical pillars: sustainability, community participation, and community ownership.

Sustainability: The Foundation of Effective Localization

Sustainability is a cornerstone of the localization process, ensuring that humanitarian interventions are not only immediate in their relief but also contribute to long-term recovery and resilience. The Humanitarian-Development-Peace Nexus Approach in the NWSW regions of Cameroon emphasizes the integration of humanitarian, development, and peacebuilding efforts to deliver more effective and enduring assistance to affected communities.However, the humanitarian response in the Anglophone regions has been significantly underfunded, which has limited the ability of actors to support recovery efforts and foster sustainable outcomes.

Community Participation: Engaging Local Voices

Community participation is essential for localization, as it ensures that the people affected by crises have a say in the aid they receive. This approach fosters local ownership and leadership of the aid response, promoting the agency and empowerment of affected communities.

?In the NWSW regions, the increase in functional schools from 46% to 59% between 2022 and 2023 is a testament to the positive impact of community involvement. However, with at least 41% of schools still non-functional and continued attacks on education and health services, there is a clear need for more inclusive and participatory approaches.

Community Ownership: Ensuring Local Leadership

Community ownership is the final pillar, emphasizing the role of local actors in leading the design and delivery of humanitarian response efforts. This approach is critical for building sustainable communities in countries facing crises.In Cameroon, the localization of aid in child protection matters, for example, has been pursued through strategic approaches that involve local NGOs and governmental bodies. Despite the challenges, such as limited funding and capacity for local actors to get fully involved, there have been notable achievements in the humanitarian response plans since 2018.

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The Role of International Partnerships and Funding

International partners, such as USAID, are increasingly moving toward models of locally led development and humanitarian response through localization.

?By FY2025, USAID aims to provide at least a quarter of its program funds directly to local partners, with the goal of placing local communities in the lead for half of its programming by 2030.This shift is expected to enhance the equity, effectiveness, and sustainability of development and humanitarian assistance.

Overcoming Challenges to Localization

Despite the recognized importance of localization, there are numerous challenges that must be addressed. These include the limited availability of local funding sources, the need for capacity-building among local NGOs, and the complexity of coordinating activities among various actors.

?Political and legal barriers, as well as security risks, further complicate the localization process in crisis-affected countries like Cameroon.

Recommendations for Advancing Localization

To advance localization in the NWSW regions, several recommendations have been put forward. These include strengthening the local funding ecosystem, investing in capacity-building initiatives for local NGOs, advocating for an enabling environment that supports localization, and encouraging donor coordination and harmonization.

Additionally, grassroots perspectives call for an immediate ceasefire, demilitarization, and inclusive dialogue to address the root causes of the conflict and ensure sustainable peacebuilding. However 2019 saw this approach in the regions but what makes the conflict to persist is what CSOs have called lack of inclusive dialogue in the process.

?The success of humanitarian response in Cameroon's NWSW regions hinges on the principles of sustainability, community participation, and community ownership.

?By embracing these pillars, humanitarian actors can ensure that their efforts are not only effective in the short term but also contribute to the long-term resilience and self-reliance of affected communities. As the international community continues to support Cameroon, it is imperative that localization remains at the forefront of humanitarian and development strategies.

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Enhancing Localization and Securing Quality Funding for NGOs in Cameroon's NWSW Regions

Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) operating in the North-West and South-West (NWSW) regions of Cameroon face a complex landscape marked by humanitarian crises and funding challenges. To make localization a reality and secure quality funding, NGOs must adopt strategic approaches that ensure sustainability, community participation, and ownership. Here are actionable strategies for NGOs to consider:

Building Local Capacity and Diversifying Funding Sources

NGOs should focus on empowering local communities by building their capacity, which can lead to more sustainable and effective interventions. Diversifying funding sources is crucial to mitigate the risk of donor fatigue. NGOs can explore various funding avenues, including private donors, foundations, corporate sponsors, and social enterprise ventures. Earned income models, such as offering paid services or products, can also provide a steady revenue stream.

Innovative Funding Mechanisms

Microfinance and microcredit schemes can serve dual purposes: providing much-needed credit to those without access to traditional banking and generating interest income for the NGO. Crowdfunding is another innovative tool that can tap into a broader donor base across different geographies.Additionally, charity auctions and membership models can be effective ways to raise funds and build a community of supporters.

Partnerships and Transparency

Forming partnerships with corporates can offer new income opportunities and enhance the NGO's reach.Emphasizing accountability and transparency is vital, as donors are more likely to support organizations with a strong track record in these areas.NGOs must also be adaptable to changing circumstances, such as shifts in donor priorities or the political and economic environment.

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Leveraging Technology and Advocacy

Technology can help NGOs reach individuals in hard-to-reach areas, providing essential services like healthcare, education, and psychological support. Advocacy is also a key role for NGOs, as they can champion the rights of those affected by crises and raise awareness of the challenges faced by local populations.

Strategic Approach to Child Protection

Localization in child protection can be achieved through strategic approaches that involve local NGOs and governmental bodies.

. This includes establishing local task forces, specialized training programs, community engagement initiatives, and monitoring and evaluation systems.By following a structured timeline, NGOs can effectively implement localization in child protection, enhancing the reach and accountability of humanitarian action.

Collaboration and Coordination

Strengthening coordination among NGOs, government agencies, and international organizations is essential for a comprehensive response to child protection issues

Investing in capacity-building programs can enhance NGO staff members' knowledge and skills on child protection practices and standards.Community engagement and ownership should be promoted by involving local communities in decision-making processes

Overcoming Challenges

NGOs in the NWSW regions must navigate security challenges, infrastructure and resource constraints, displacement and instability, and limited government support. Despite these challenges, adhering to international child protection practices and standards can enhance the quality and effectiveness of their work and attract more funding and support from donors.

Partnering with International Agencies

USAID is an example of an international agency that partners with NGOs to deliver assistance and strengthen local capacity.

By working with such agencies, NGOs can build effective and long-term partnerships and reduce the need for foreign aid over time.

The Role of African Funders and the Global Context

African funders and non-African philanthropists have a role to play in supporting local and national actors, who remain severely underfunded.

The conversation on localization must include African voices leading the dialogue in donor capitals.

Localization efforts are part of a broader movement toward anti-racism and decolonization, emphasizing the need for inclusive and equitable humanitarian action.

To make localization a reality in Cameroon's NWSW regions, NGOs must adopt multifaceted strategies that address funding shortages, build local capacity, and ensure community participation and ownership. By leveraging partnerships, technology, and innovative funding mechanisms, NGOs can secure quality funding and enhance their humanitarian response, ultimately leading to more resilient and self-sufficient communities.

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Global partnerships for sustainable development are essential for facilitating localization in Cameroon's NWSW regions. By providing direct funding to local partners, encouraging local ownership, addressing contextual relevance, promoting accountability, building local capacity, and coordinating donor efforts, these partnerships can help create sustainable and resilient communities. As global partners continue to work together, the emphasis on localization will ensure that development initiatives are more effective, inclusive, and aligned with the needs and aspirations of the local populations.

By Berinyuy Bongwong Justin