A Glimpse of the UN’s Work on the Ground
Story of Gladys Ngwepekeum Nkeh, a UN Police Officer from Cameroon
“Gladys Ngwepekeum Nkeh is a UN Police officer from Cameroon. She was deployed in MINUSCA 8 months ago as a gender officer. On a daily basis, Gladys works in collocation with National police at the police station of Bangiu’s 1st district.
After monitoring their work, ensuring that basic human rights are provided to arrested persons and that they respect international professional standard, she patrols with them.
But Gladys is also gathering information about the situation within the communities of central Bagui, talking to local leaders, traditional chiefs, etc. – constantly promoting gender rights. This is when she learned about the situation of Ashley Bongo Passi. A 13 year old girl who became pregnant after she was raped. Gladys took care of her and is now providing sensitization classes on sexual education to prevent gender based violence at Ashley’s school, Ecole de 136 Villas.
Ashley is now saved and ready to resume school – her baby was named Gladys, a tribute to the UN police officer who supported her.
-UN Photo
