FORCED DISPLACEMENT AND THE LIVELIHOOD OF WOMEN IDPs IN KUMBA

ABSTRACT

Over the years, forced displacement has been a global problem of unprecedented scale, driven by conflict, violence, persecution and human rights violations. Women and girls have been particularly affected and their ability to engage in livelihood activities has been disrupted which is undoubtedly one of the most significant consequences of forced displacement. This is particularly true for the current ongoing Anglophone Crisis plaguing women IDPs. Current trend of literature does not only focus on women IDPs means of living in terms of income but also in terms of their needs and strategies to overcome the great challenges they face to help themselves and families. It is against this backdrop that this study mainly gives an in-depth look at the journey of women IDPs tackling the challenges and opportunities that emerge throughout their displacement. This study therefore investigates the livelihood needs perceived by women IDPs as well as how socio-demographic characteristics of women IDPs affect their access to livelihood needs and ability to meet their livelihood needs.  Inspired by the Sustainable Livelihood and the People Oriented Planning (POP) Frameworks, this study targeted women internally displaced persons in Kumba, using qualitative and quantitative methods with a sample of 100 respondents as well as 3 key informant respondents from selected humanitarian organizations based in Kumba, data was collected using questionnaires and interview guide. The findings reveal that despite the efforts made by organizations working with internally displaced women, most of the services are inadequate and further work is still needed to ensure that women IDPs get targeted support, notably protection and sustainable livelihoods. It is expected that this study will serve as a reference document for humanitarian organizations working in the field of livelihoods and empowerment to consider designing projects that will address the strategic livelihood needs of women IDPs.

FURTHER READINGS: GENDER STUDIES PROJECT TOPICS WITH MATERIALS