The Invisible Burden on African Girls

An urgent call: 1 in 4 girls aged 15–19 experiences partner violence; nearly 37 million African adolescents live with a mental disorder.

Mental Health Prevalence in Africa

27.3% of adolescents (aged up to 19) experience mental health distress.

Mental Disorders Breakdown (Africa Region)

Specific Disorders in Sub-Saharan Youths

Education Crisis in Cameroon (2024)

NRC

Partner Violence Among Adolescent Girls (Global, incl. Africa)

Connecting Heart and Data

These aren’t just numbers—they represent lives burdened by unspoken trauma, limited access to education, and the invisible weight of abuse and displacement. Young girls in Cameroon and across Africa face mental health challenges at rates that are staggering and alarming.

    Anonymous survivor

    I wish someone had told me it wasn’t normal, that it wasn’t my fault. Maybe I would have grown differently.

      Anonymous survivor

      I was obedient, too quiet. No one saw that my tears were silent cries for help.

        Anonymous survivor

        Healing began the day I realized it wasn’t my fault, and that I could speak about it without shame.

          Anonymous survivor

          I discovered that my light shines brighter than I was led to believe.

            Anonymous survivor

            Sharing my story helped me see that I’m not broken, I’m becoming whole.

              Anonymous survivor

              There’s more strength in me than I ever thought. In my full potential, I can shine very bright.

                Anonymous survivor

                When the memory no longer hurts but teaches, that’s when healing truly begins.

                This is Why Nuvia Stands

                Our programs exist to reverse this crisis. From trauma-informed workshops to community rebuilding and educational access, we give girls the safe space to heal and thrive.