The Pygmy Concerted Action Research Network (PCARN) was founded in 1996 under the leadership of Inades-Formation Cameroon, in response to the stigmatization of indigenous peoples in particular and to support the various groups of indigenous forest peoples (PAF), especially the Baka, Bakola, Bagyeli, Bedzang in the defense of their rights.
This network, whose main missions are to support the self-development of these peoples and their integration into the national citizenship, has undergone several changes. It has evolved from a platform for exchanging activities and discussions on the problems encountered in supporting these populations to a space for consultation and harmonization of approaches and support for PAF lobbying and advocacy actions. The executive coordination of the network is ensured by Inades-Formation Cameroon. The different members of this network collaborate by geographical concentration of PAFs. We have:
- Yokadouma Pole in the East, whose focal point is CEFAID
- Lomié Pole in the East, with the ASTRADHE organization as the focal point,
- Ocean Pole in the South, BACUDA is the focal point
- Djoum-Sangmélima pole in the South, whose focal point is provided by the CED
- Ngambe-Tikar pole, with CAFER as focal point.
Its actions:
- Strengthening the professionalism of the members
- Harmonization of approach methodologies with MAPAPPY (Method for the Participatory Approach of Pygmy Populations)
- The publication of appropriate thematic documents and educational tools,
- Concerted actions aimed at the full exercise of citizenship and respect for the rights of indigenous Pygmy peoples,
- Concerted actions aimed at preserving the living space of the Pygmies and their involvement in sustainable forest management activities,
- The establishment of South-South and South-North partnerships with NGOs, universities and resource persons for a better impact of lobbying and advocacy actions.
RACOPY currently has about 30 members in Cameroon. This network is made up of development organizations, indigenous associations and international organizations. These members meet 3 times a year in General Assembly. The last assembly was held on July 13 and 14, 2022 in Abong-Mbang under the organization of FAIRMED. The 72nd General Assembly is scheduled to take place in Kribi on October 27 and 28 under the leadership of BACUDA.
Marguerite MOMHA, Communication Inades Formation Cameroon.
