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In May 2025, a significant chapter unfolded for the Lifafa Research Foundation as we had the privilege of receiving a high-level technical visit from the Regional Delegation of Public Health for the South West Region of Cameroon. This visit was far more than a regulatory formality it was a moment of reflection, alignment, and renewed partnership between government health authorities and a civil society organization committed to improving public health outcomes in Cameroon. At the heart of this engagement was a shared goal: to strengthen health systems, ensure accountability, and ultimately improve the lives of the communities we serve.
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A Visit That Speaks Volumes
Four senior representatives from the delegation visited our headquarters in Buea, under the directive of the Regional Delegate of Public Health. The atmosphere was one of mutual respect and open dialogue as our teams sat down to assess our operations, share updates, and explore new ways to work together.
This wasn’t simply a “check-the-box” inspection. It was a collaborative exercise rooted in mutual understanding. The team from the Delegation came with clarity of purpose, ensuring our operations align with the legal and regulatory framework governing civil society organizations working in the health sector. Their presence reaffirmed our shared commitment to operating transparently and responsibly, especially when the stakes people’s health and wellbeing are so high.
Why This Visit Matters
This visit is part of an official process required for Lifafa to continue its strategic partnership with the Ministry of Public Health. Our mission has always been guided by evidence, compassion, and national priorities. The visit was also a strong signal from the government that they recognize and value the contributions of organizations like ours. Civil society can play a powerful role in strengthening health systems from awareness campaigns and research to service delivery and policy support. The visit confirmed that Lifafa is on the right path, and that our work is not only appreciated but needed.
A Culture of Learning and Listening
Beyond the technical reviews and policy discussions, this visit reminded us of the importance of active listening and humility. The delegation took time to understand our projects and their challenges. In turn, we listened carefully to their feedback and recommendations. The exchange was genuine, constructive, and forward-looking. We discussed program effectiveness, resource accountability, community trust, and areas for improvement. This kind of honest dialogue builds institutional trust and sets the stage for deeper collaboration.
Rooted in National Strategy
A key focus of our conversations was how our work fits into the broader picture of Cameroon’s National Health Sector Strategy (NHSS) 2016–2027. This strategy serves as the nation’s road map to achieving health for all through equitable access, improved service delivery, and stronger systems. At Lifafa, we’ve designed our programs whether it’s in disease prevention, maternal health, or community health education with this strategy in mind. The delegation’s visit allowed us to re-validate that alignment and see where our work can contribute more meaningfully to the Ministry’s vision.
Stories Behind the Numbers
While we shared reports and data, we also spoke about the human side of our work. We told stories of women who accessed lifesaving cancer screenings through our outreach. We highlighted how local volunteers have become champions of health education in their neighborhoods. And we celebrated young researchers who began as interns at Lifafa and are now leading their own projects across the region. These are the stories that breathe life into our numbers. They are a reminder that impact is not just measured by charts or graphs, but by the faces, families, and futures we touch.
The Path Ahead
As we look ahead, this visit marks more than a checkpoint it marks a renewed commitment. We are more focused than ever on building a health system that is inclusive, data-driven, and community-led. Our partnership with the Regional Delegation of Public Health is essential to this vision. We will continue to ensure our programs remain compliant, transparent, and impactful. But we will also keep innovating, adapting, and growing because the health challenges we face require nothing less.
A Word of Thanks
We are sincerely grateful to the Regional Delegation of Public Health for the South West Region representing the Ministry of Public Health for taking the time to visit, engage, and encourage us. Their presence was not only a reminder of oversight it was a reminder of shared purpose. It confirmed that we are not working in isolation. We are part of a national and global movement to ensure that health is a right enjoyed by everyone, everywhere.
Join Us in This Journey
The work ahead is great, but so is our determination. At Lifafa Research Foundation, we remain committed to partnerships that lead to real change. We invite public institutions, donors, researchers, and volunteers to join us in creating lasting impact one community at a time. Together, we can ensure that health systems in Cameroon are not only strengthened but transformed.
