Meri: A Haven for Wounded Innocence

In the district of Meri, located in the heart of Cameroon's Far North, many children are working to rebuild their lives after being involved with non-state armed groups. Having their childhoods stolen through forced recruitment or exposure to violence, these children are now striving to find their place in society again and simply become children once more.

With support from the European Union through the FPI project on the reintegration and reconciliation of former associates, Meri is transforming into a place of refuge, care, and hope for these young people affected by war. At the Centre for Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration (CNDDR) in Meri, UNICEF, in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the National Committee for Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration, and community organizations such as ALDEPA, LOYOC, and ALVF, is assisting these children on their journey of psychosocial rehabilitation, reintegration into school, and self-discovery. This initiative is part of the project "Support for the Reintegration and Reconciliation of Former Members of Non-State Armed Groups (GANE) to Strengthen Social Cohesion for Peace and Sustainable Development in the Far North of Cameroon," funded by the European Union through the FPI instrument.

However, what does "living in Meri" mean for a former child associate? The answers vary greatly, reflecting the diversity of their journeys. Ali Sali, 15, shares, 

"I want to go back home to Nigeria. I don't feel good here. I feel like I'm imprisoned. I was told it would be better, but I can't be happy." 

Ali still carries the invisible scars of his past, facing challenges such as uprooting, nostalgia, and a lack of reference points. The teams on the ground are working tirelessly to help him overcome these difficulties.

In contrast, Falta Gambo is experiencing a different reality: 

"I don't want to leave with my parents. I'm happy here. I go to school." 

For her, Meri has become a place of balance—a refuge where she can rediscover a routine and a sense of normalcy.

Nevertheless, life after leaving the centre remains challenging. Mal Abakar explains, 

"My parents are struggling to care for us. We no longer receive help from the centre. I can't work because I go to school. It's challenging." 

The transition to independence represents a major challenge. This is why UNICEF, in partnership with local authorities and community organisations, is intensifying its efforts to support every stage of the social and economic reintegration process.

Despite the obstacles, signs of hope are emerging. Relationships between the children and the host community are characterised by solidarity. Yasmine, who has been abandoned by her mother, shares, 

"I smile all the time with my friends at the centre. We have no problems with each other."

 Suzanne Samuel, an orphan, adds, 

"I'm happy with my friends. There are no problems. I feel connected."