From October 2025 to September 2026, AAPV worked to improve paediatric palliative care in Kousseri Health District, in Cameroon’s Far-North Region. With funding from the African Palliative Care Association, the project combined essential care, family counselling and professional training. Community leaders and health workers helped connect children facing serious illnesses with support.
Children and teenagers living with serious illnesses such as HIV and cancer need care that addresses both physical symptoms and emotional well-being. In Kousseri Health District, Logone and Chari Division, AAPV worked with local health services and communities to improve access to that care.
The project identified and provided essential palliative care to 60 children, addressing symptoms such as pain, fatigue and nausea. Essential medicines were procured and pre-positioned in local health facilities to support timely access to treatment.
Support also extended to families. 27 families received targeted psychosocial counselling, intended to reduce anxiety, depression and social stigma. This formed part of an approach that combined clinical care with attention to the emotional challenges surrounding serious illness.
Training strengthened local capacity across Kousseri District Hospital, Hospital Annexe and surrounding health centres. 37 medical professionals were trained, exceeding the initial target of 30. A further 20 social workers received training in specialised psychosocial interventions to mobilise and support all 12 health areas.
Community involvement supported identification and referral. AAPV worked with community leaders and health workers through focus group discussions to reach children affected by isolation or stigma. Eight community sensitisation meetings with local leaders helped strengthen referral pathways and community support.
Implemented with funding from the African Palliative Care Association (APCA) under grant APCA/SG/2025TCT/296, the project brought together local health partners, community leaders, health workers and social workers. AAPV thanks these collaborators and its funder and continues to advocate for access to compassionate care for vulnerable children in Cameroon.