SWISSHAND donor visit to Cameroon

In the development sector, where challenges are real and the workload can be demanding, some days are better than others at igniting the passion that is essential to keep spirits up and projects moving.

In recent days, we were honoured to receive our long term donor partner, SWISSHAND, to Cameroon for a three-day workshop in Limbe between the 24-27th of November. It is this partnership that supports our successful PROMIC program, focused on promoting micro-enterprise in women-led groups.

The workshop brought together PROMIC Program Coordinators and Project Directors from BERUDA, CDVTA, and ISUDEV, alongside colleagues from SWISSHAND Uganda and Switzerland. It served as an important moment to reconnect, learn together, and strengthen the collaborative work that drives economic empowerment in our communities.

The workshop deepened understanding of SWISSHAND’s entrepreneurship training model and equipped partners with improved skills in project implementation, monitoring, and inclusive programming. Through interactive sessions, shared success stories, breakout discussions, and joint action planning, partners explored practical ways to enhance microenterprise training for youth, women, internally displaced persons, and other vulnerable groups.

One of the most meaningful aspects of the visit was the opportunity for face-to-face engagement. These in-person conversations not only clarify strategies and strengthen alignment—they also reinforce the relationships that make this work possible.

The SWISSHAND team commended BERUDA for its strong implementation record and timely reporting, positioning us first in Cameroon and second across Africa. This recognition affirms the dedication of our staff and the resilience of the communities we serve.

As we move forward, the shared recommendations from the workshop—ranging from ongoing capacity strengthening to enhanced follow-up systems and deeper cross-partner collaboration—provide a clear roadmap for scaling impact together.

BERUDA extends heartfelt appreciation to SWISSHAND for their visit, their continued partnership, and their commitment to fostering economic independence and community resilience in Cameroon.