In August 2025, the African Initiatives for Relief and Development (AIRD) was tasked by UNHCR and WFP with transporting urgently needed non-food items and first aid humanitarian equipment to vulnerable communities in the Far North and South-West regions of Cameroon. These regions, hosting thousands of refugees and internally displaced persons, face insecurity, poor road infrastructure, and limited access to basic services.

The route from Maroua to Kousseri via Bongor was the only viable option due to insecurity and deteriorated roads on Cameroon’s national highway. However, at the Bongor border post (Chad), customs authorities demanded multiple documents and informal fees of up to 300,000 FCFA (600USD), despite humanitarian principles and official authorizations from both Cameroonian and Chadian officials. This brought the convoy to a standstill, delaying the delivery of critical supplies while refugees in Logone-et-Chari remained without assistance for weeks.

AIRD officials contacted administrative leaders in the Far North and Chad to issue official authorization supporting cross-border movements, and approvals were secured to grant access in the South-West areas. We contracted alternative transport operators to recover misplaced cargo and complete deliveries in insecure regions and engaged UNHCR, WFP, and local authorities to get clearance, proper documentation, and convoy security.

We are proud of our field teams who ensure that humanitarian aid reaches the targeted refugees and host communities regardless of the hindrances faced.