Humanitarian Response by Faith-Based Organisations (FBOs) in the Anglophone Crisis, Fako Division: Case of the Presbyterian Church in Cameroon

Over the years, armed conflict and other chemical demonstrations of might and power have become the order of the day. This phenomenon, coupled with the onslaught of different disasters, has brought untold pain and misery to humanity, necessitating prompt and effective humanitarian response from humanitarian actors, including faith-based organisations (FBOs). This study on the Anglophone conflict in Cameroon and the role of FBOs in humanitarian response, with special focus on the Presbyterian Church in Cameroon (PCC), has the objective of assessing the role played by the PCC in the provision of humanitarian assistance to victims of the Anglophone crisis in Fako Division of the Southwest Region of Cameroon. The study employed a mixed study research design. Qualitative data were captured through interviews with the Development Secretary of the PCC, while quantitative data were obtained through a semi-structured questionnaire administered in some communities within Fako Division. Findings from the research revealed that the Development Department of the PCC is the main office for Humanitarian actions. However, all the arms (Ministries) of the PCC are also engaged in humanitarian activities. Strategies put in place for relief assistance revealed that more foodstuffs and items for washing materials are the main items distributed. Congregational pastors, in collaboration with their Elders and standby teams, ensured fair, transparent and non-discriminatory distributions of the items. Findings on the general appraisal of the humanitarian intervention by the PCC to IDPs revealed that a majority (67%) of the respondents affirmed that the assistance was excellent, and 21% remarked that it was good. In comparison, 12% viewed it as average. The distributions were timely and gender unbiased. The projects were done cost-effectively; 80% of funds were used to purchase goods, 15% to ensure transportation, while only 5% went as honorarium to those involved in the exercise. The study concludes that with the minimal means available, the PCC has respected at least the minimal theoretical standards set as guidelines for humanitarian assistance.