Strengthening Security, Safeguarding and Risk Management for Inclusive Humanitarian Action

In July, CBM Cameroon successfully facilitated a three-day Security, Safeguarding and Risk Assessment Training in Bamenda under the Leave No One Behind Phase IV (LNOB4) project. The training brought together staff, volunteers and interns from implementing partners CUAPWD and Platform Inclusive Society to strengthen their capacity to create safer, more inclusive working environments.

Building Knowledge in Safeguarding and Risk Management

Over the course of the training, participants enhanced their understanding of safeguarding principles, security risk management and organizational safety. Sessions focused on key topics including safeguarding responsibilities, Prevention of Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Harassment (PSEAH), risk identification and assessment, security planning, personal safety, and fire prevention and response.

Learning Through Realistic Security Simulations

A key highlight of the training was its practical and hands-on approach. Through realistic security simulations, participants were challenged to respond to potential threats and emergencies while under pressure. These exercises reinforced critical personal safety principles, including avoiding danger where possible, seeking safe shelter, and using self-defense only as a last resort.

The training also featured practical fire safety and emergency response sessions. Participants learned how to identify different types of fire extinguishers, understand their appropriate use, and safely extinguish a controlled fire. Importantly, the exercise was designed to be fully inclusive, enabling participants with visual and hearing impairments to actively engage and demonstrate that emergency preparedness must be accessible to everyone.

Safeguarding as a Shared Responsibility

At CBM, safeguarding and security are everyone’s responsibility. Building safe organizations and ensuring the protection of staff, volunteers, partners and the communities we serve are fundamental to achieving disability-inclusive humanitarian action.

Text by Nancy Efeme Keboa, CBM, Cameroon