06/07/2026
"I Learnt a Lot."
Those four words stayed with us long after the television cameras stopped rolling.
As we wrapped up Friday's discussion on child protection during the long vacation, messages began pouring in. Parents. Teachers. Caregivers. Community members.
Some said they had never considered the long vacation as a period when children are at greater risk.
Others admitted something even more profound.
"I didn't know sending my child to spend the holidays with relatives could expose them to abuse."
"I taught leaving children to hawk is part of building their skills or that leaving them with neighbours could increase their vulnerability."
"I thought changes in a child's behaviour were just part of growing up."
Each message told a story, not of indifference, but of awareness that had been missing.
And that left us with mixed emotions.
We were encouraged because the conversation reached homes and started discussions that matter. But we were equally reminded that in a context where cases of child abuse, exploitation, neglect, and violence continue to emerge, we cannot assume that parents and caregivers already know how to protect children.
That is why we will keep showing up.
In schools.
On television.
In churches.
In communities.
In markets.
Wherever parents, caregivers, and community members can be reached.
Because child protection is not a one-time campaign. It is a continuous conversation, especially during the long vacation when children face increased risks and every informed decision can make a difference.
At Visionary Care Foundation-Cameroon, we believe that every informed parent is another layer of protection for a child. Every conversation can prevent harm. Every community has a role to play.
Until every parent knows.
Until every caregiver acts.
Until every community protects.
Until every child is safe.
