Resilience for a Better Tomorrow
SEMBE, which translates to “strength” in the local Fulfulde language, is a woman-led civil society organization dedicated to fostering resilience and empowerment in Cameroon. Founded by journalist and humanitarian worker Ms. Agha-Nwi Fru, SEMBE operates at the critical intersection of mental health, youth empowerment, gender equality, climate resilience, and community wellbeing. Based in Maroua in the Far North region, the organization is officially recognized under Cameroonian law (N° 061/2020/RDA/K22/SAAJP du 18 juin 2020).
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Despite working in challenging emergency contexts marked by displacement, insecurity, and underfunding, SEMBE has successfully implemented impactful, community-driven initiatives. Through a combination of local knowledge and innovative, rights-based programming, SEMBE has become a key local actor in advancing resilience, protection, and empowerment, creating opportunities for women, youth, and vulnerable groups to rebuild their lives and contribute to a more peaceful future.
OUR PROGRAMS
Sembe has a proven track record of successfully implementing high-impact projects in some of the most challenging communities in Cameroon. Over the years, we have developed strong capabilities in managing large-scale, multi-donor-funded projects, particularly in conflict-affected areas. Our experience spans sectors including mental health, women and youth empowerment, health care, and community development.
Community Mental Health Support to Youth Affected by Conflict (2023-2024) Funding
Funders: Grand Challenges Canada, UK Aid, National Institute of Health Research UK
Amount: 309,000 CAD
Location: Far North Cameroon (9 communities)
This project focused on supporting the mental health needs of youth aged 10-24 years affected by the ongoing Boko Haram insurgency. By addressing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and anxiety, we provided essential psychosocial support to vulnerable populations, improving mental health care access, enhancing wellbeing and reducing trauma in conflict zones.
Sembe Pap: High Energy and Nutrient Custard to Overcome Malnutrition (2024-2025)
Funder: Grand Challenges Canada
Amount: 150,000 CAD
Location: Makary and Biamo, Far North Cameroon
Focused on combating malnutrition, this project developed a high-energy, nutrient-rich custard to improve nutritional intake in communities affected by food insecurity.
This project aligns with our expertise in health and nutrition interventions and highlights our ability to implement scalable solutions.
Sahel Girl Power Cameroon Project (2024-2025)
Funder: (Urgent Action Fund Africa)
Amount: 80,000 USD
Location: 6 communities in the Far North Cameroon
This project focuses on empowering girls by promoting leadership, self-esteem, and gender equality.
With an emphasis on promoting the rights and education of girls, this initiative serves as a testament to our ongoing commitment to gender equality and youth empowerment; especially that of adolescent girls.
The Vital Signs Health Initiative (2024)
Funder: (Self-funded)
Amount: 4,000 USD
Location: 2 communities in the North West region
This self-funded initiative was aimed at providing primary healthcare to communities affected by the socio-political crisis in the North-West region of Cameroon.
By delivering essential health services, we responded to the needs of communities in crisis situations.
A Toolkit to Enhance Youth-Friendly Mental Health Services (2021-2022)
Funders: (Grand Challenges Canada)
Amount: 250,000 CAD
Location: Far North Cameroon (9 communities)
This project focused on developing a toolkit for mental health professionals, enabling them to provide better youth-friendly services to those affected by the Boko Haram conflict.
It highlights our capacity for creating practical, sustainable solutions to improve mental health services in marginalized communities.
Strengthening Youth Leadership in Countering Violent Extremism (2021-2022)
Funders: (Global Centre on Cooperative Security)
Amount: 12,500 Euros
Location: 6 communities in the Far North Cameroon
Focused on empowering youth leaders to resist and counter violent extremism,
this project underscores our commitment to addressing the root causes of conflict and supporting the next generation of leaders.