Groundbreaking partnership targets water scarcity in Cameroon’s conflict zone

Cameroon Water Utilities (Camwater) and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) have formalized a critical partnership to tackle water access challenges in the Minawao refugee camp, located in the Far North region of Cameroon. The agreement, signed in Yaoundé on June 30, 2026, represents a major step toward sustainable water infrastructure development that will benefit both displaced populations and local host communities.

Uniting expertise for vulnerable populations

The partnership brings together Camwater’s technical expertise in water infrastructure with UNHCR’s humanitarian mandate. Dr. Blaise Moussa, Camwater’s Director General, and Ms. Yvette Muhimpundu, UNHCR Representative in Cameroon, jointly signed the agreement. This collaboration falls under the broader Alternative Solutions for Minawao Camp initiative, supported by the European Union, German Cooperation (GIZ), and UNHCR.

Infrastructure development at the core

Under the terms of the convention, Camwater will lead the design, construction, and monitoring of water supply systems, while UNHCR will continue its protection and resilience-building programs for refugees in coordination with Cameroonian authorities. The initiative directly addresses the dual challenges of rapid population growth and sustainable water resource management in a region facing severe water stress.

The project aims to significantly improve living conditions for both refugees and host communities, ensuring reliable access to clean water while mitigating environmental pressures. By strengthening water infrastructure, the partners seek to reduce conflicts over scarce resources and enhance community resilience in one of Cameroon’s most vulnerable regions.