(ACCESS BANK) – In keeping with its commitment to community well-being and inclusive health awareness, Access Bank Cameroon observed October as Health Month, focusing on women’s health through awareness, education, and preventive care around breast cancer and mental wellness.
Organized in collaboration with the Access Women Network (AWN) and the W Initiative, the series of activities underscored the Bank’s ongoing dedication to fostering a healthier and more compassionate society.
Walk for life, walk for hope
To kick off the month, Access Bank Cameroon partnered with the Ministry of Women’s Empowerment and the Family (MINPROFF) to host a symbolic Pink October Walk, bringing together employees, clients, partners, and community members in solidarity with women affected by breast cancer.
The event was more than a walk, it was a powerful display of unity and hope, where every step taken symbolized courage, compassion and collective strength.
Access Bank’s Managing Director, Ellis Nzo Asu, reaffirmed the Bank’s dedication to community well-being:
“At Access Bank, we recognize that the health of our communities is essential to their prosperity. Our commitment goes beyond banking, it’s about empowering individuals, especially women, to take charge of their well-being and inspire collective action for a healthier nation.”
One participant, a breast cancer survivor, shared her story of resilience a moment that moved many to tears:
“When I first heard the word ‘cancer,’ I thought my story had ended. But early detection gave me a second chance in life. Today, I stand not as a victim, but as a survivor – proof that awareness and timely action save lives.”
Free screening and cancer education
Building on this momentum, Access Bank further translated its advocacy into action. In partnership with the Cameroon Oncology Center (COC), Access Bank organized free breast and cervical cancer screenings, alongside educational sessions that drew over 200 women from across the community.
The atmosphere was filled with both learning and relief as participants gained vital knowledge about prevention and early detection.
Dr. Mossé, Medical Director at COC, highlighted the importance of proactive health management:
“Breast cancer does not discriminate against. The earlier it is detected, the better the chances of survival. Education and regular screening remain our best defense.”
From pink to blue: extending compassion to men’s health
As October drew to a close, Access Bank Cameroon’s care didn’t stop there, the Bank extended its Pink Donation Drive through November, turning “pink” into “blue” to support prostate cancer awareness.
This thoughtful transition from Pink October to Blue November symbolizes an inclusive approach acknowledging that both women and men deserve access to health education and preventive care.
Generous individuals and partners are encouraged to contribute by visiting any Access Bank branch nationwide, where donation points are available.
World mental health day: addressing the invisible struggle
Midway through Health Month, Access Bank also turned its attention to another critical yet often overlooked issue of mental health.
To mark World Mental Health Day on October 10, Access Bank Cameroon collaborated with Daniel Muna Memorial Clinic for an awareness campaign focused on workplace mental wellness.
In an exclusive interview, Dr. Tamanjong Eric, Occupational Health Physician, emphasized the importance of seeking timely support:
“Mental health challenges can affect anyone. It’s important to seek professional help when it’s needed.”
Through this initiative, Access Bank encouraged open dialogue and self-awareness, reaffirming its commitment to the mental well-being of its employees and the broader community.
From breast cancer prevention to mental health advocacy, Access Health Month blended education, empowerment, and empathy, reinforcing Access Bank Cameroon’s belief that sustainable growth begins with healthy communities.
About Access Bank Cameroon PLC
Access Bank Cameroon Plc is a full-service commercial bank focused on wholesale, retail, digital, and proximity banking. Licensed on February 3rd, 2022, and officially launched on May 23rd, 2022, from its flagship office in Akwa, Douala, the Bank is proud to contribute to the economic narrative of Cameroon a strategic hub for business in Central Africa.
As part of the Access Bank Group, the Bank is driven by a bold vision: to be the world’s most respected African bank Africa’s gateway to the world. Through tailored financial solutions, Access Bank Cameroon empowers businesses to reach greater financial goals, facilitates international payments, trade financing, and offers loans to corporate clients via its global network and presence in key trade corridors.
With a strong focus on SMEs, women-led businesses, and youth innovation, the Bank supports capacity building in creativity, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship. Its financial inclusion strategy offers customized support for individuals and enterprises of all sizes, including access to finance, mentoring, business development programs, market support, and trade promotion.
Access Bank Cameroon currently serves over 18 007 corporate, retail, and business customers and operates five branches across Douala and Yaoundé:
- Akwa
- Bonamoussadi
- Bonaberi
- Marché Central
- Intendance
Access Bank Cameroon Plc is a proud subsidiary of Access Bank Group, a leading full-service commercial bank operating across 3 continents, 24 countries, and serving over 52 million customers. The Group has subsidiaries in Sub-Saharan Africa and the United Kingdom, with a branch in Dubai (UAE), France, representative offices in China, Lebanon, India and Hongkong.
