In Yaoundé, the capital of Cameroon, homelessness often intersects with severe mental health issues, leaving many individuals rejected by their families. In response, Le Village de L’amour, translated as the Village of Love, has emerged as a unique refuge providing therapy and hope to those in need.
Eloisa Pentecotisa, a 28-year-old woman struggling with severe mental health problems, was discovered begging on the streets of Yaoundé. After months of living rough, she was identified by a health team and encouraged to join Le Village de L’amour. Her story reflects the challenges faced by many mentally ill individuals who are abandoned and left vulnerable on the streets.
Founded in May 2021, this refuge, situated in the grounds of Jamot hospital, is a collaborative effort between the public health ministry and Yaoundé city council. Dr Justine Laure Menguene, a psychiatrist at Jamot hospital and the head of the village, emphasizes that it is the first and only free care center in Cameroon dedicated to homeless patients with mental health issues.
The dedicated team, comprised of over 100 volunteers, including nurses, psychologists, hygienists, and doctors, actively searches the city’s streets for homeless individuals requiring assistance. Security provided by the council ensures a safe environment for outreach efforts. These individuals, often ostracized by their families due to mental health stigmas, are either treated at home if their families can be located or brought to the village for care.
While some patients willingly accept assistance, others may require a more assertive approach. Dr. Menguene notes, “They are sick; some are naked and eating garbage; most are schizophrenic; it’s a psychosis and they cannot understand what is happening.”
The Village of Love’s philosophy centers around love as the primary form of medicine. Audrey Pokam, a psychologist at the village, emphasizes this approach: “Love is our first medicine here. When patients arrive, we treat them with love. We show them that they are important. Many have been rejected by their families.”
The majority of the 100-plus patients at the village suffer from schizophrenia, often compounded by additional health issues acquired during their time on the streets. Once medically stable, patients receive therapy and life skills training.
Eloisa Pentecotisa’s journey reflects the complexity of such cases. Her diagnosis of schizophrenia came after months of treatment and therapy. Reflecting on her life, she shares, “I wanted to die because no one loved me.” Le Village de L’amour provides not only treatment but also a compassionate environment for individuals who have been neglected and abandoned.
