Sacred Forests in Focus: Strategic Open Dialogue for Nkambe Plateau’s Heritage Preservation andEcological Future

"When trees speak, the community listens." Guided by this wisdom, stakeholders gathered at the palace hall of His Majesty King Kwefi II of Binka to engage in a strategic dialogue on the future of sacred forests across the Nkambe Plateau. The Open Dialogue, convened by the Youth Development Organization (Yodo) and GLFx Nkambe, forms part of the sustainability strategy of the Smart Sacred Forest Restoration Project—an initiative supported by the Mellon Foundation and the Heritage Management Organization under the HerMapAfrica Grants Program.

In his welcome address, King Kwefi II expressed deep appreciation to participants for their commitment to safeguarding cultural heritage and promoting environmental sustainability. He extended heartfelt thanks to the project’s funders for empowering communities to shape the destiny of their sacred forests. “The rate at which these forests are vanishing is alarming,” he warned. “If we fail to act decisively against encroachment, future generations will hold us accountable.”

Fai Cassian Ndi, Coordinator of Yodo/GLFx Nkambe, emphasized the sacred forest’s vital role in community survival. Though often small in size, these forests serve as sources of food, spiritual refuge, economic resilience for the poor, and natural carbon sinks.

Cham Gilbert, Divisional Delegate of Agriculture for Donga Mantung, further illustrated the sacred forest’s multifaceted value—as biodiversity hotspots, water sources, and spaces of spiritual reawakening deeply intertwined with community identity.

The gathering drew a rich tapestry of voices, including HRM Fon Mbunwe Barnabas of Njap, HRH Fon Nji Amidou of Nkambe, HRH Fon Chifu Stanley Time, queen mothers, sub-chiefs and village priests, the 3rd Deputy Mayor of Nkambe Council, educators, youth and women leaders, and representatives of the Mbororo/Fulani community.

Following the dialogue, stakeholders committed to bold measures to curb destructive activities in and around sacred forests. Proposed actions include:

-  A ban on the burning of Ankara, a major cause of bushfires  

- Restrictions on farming and grazing within sacred zones  

-  Reinforcement of traditional injunctions  

- Tree planting and stewardship of previously donated seedlings from Yodo  

Notably, on August 22, 2025, Yodo mobilized the Binka community to plant 5,700 native trees in the Dfu-dfu Sacred Forest—an act of restoration and reverence that echoes the spirit of the dialogue.

When News Breaks Out, We Break In.

CAMTEL GM Champions Road Safety in Donga Mantung

In a bold move to address rising road safety concerns in Donga Mantung Division, the General Manager of Cameroon Telecommunications (CAMTEL), Mafor Yah Judith Sunday epse Achidi, recently spearheaded a transformative educative talk in Donga Mantung Division, North West Region.

Held on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at the Nkambe Council Multipurpose Hall, the session targeted women and youth, with a special focus on motorbike riders—a group disproportionately affected by road accidents along the Ring Road. The initiative aimed to curb alarming accident rates, promote responsible riding, and facilitate access to Category “A” Driving Licenses.

Organized at the request of Mafor Yah Judith and coordinated by Kuete Edith Ngefor, Divisional Delegate of Transport, the event drew an impressive 90% attendance, bringing together motorbike operators, transport stakeholders, youth leaders, and concerned citizens.

Participants were equipped with vital knowledge on:

- ✅ Wearing protective gear

- ✅ Respecting traffic regulations

- ✅ Avoiding risky behaviors like overloading and speeding

The Ring Road—an essential yet accident-prone artery—was central to discussions, with calls for heightened vigilance and shared responsibility among road users.

A standout moment was the on-the-spot special examination session for Category “A” licenses, enabling riders without formal certification to regularize their status and enhance their skills. Transport officials underscored that proper licensing is a cornerstone of safer roads.

In her address, Mafor Yah Judith reaffirmed CAMTEL’s commitment to community wellbeing beyond telecommunications, hailing the initiative as a lifesaving intervention. She encouraged stronger partnerships between public institutions and grassroots communities.

Kuete Edith Ngefor expressed satisfaction with the turnout and active participation, emphasizing that educating motorbike riders is crucial to reversing the trend of road accidents in the division.

Participants left the hall empowered and hopeful, with many calling for the programme’s expansion across the North West Region.

Following the event, Mafor Yah Judith has received widespread praise for her inclusive, people-centered leadership and unwavering dedication to safeguarding lives.

When News Breaks Out, We Break In.

Ako Sub Division Celebrates Arrival of CAMTEL Network

Residents of Ako Sub Division in Donga Mantung are celebrating a major milestone in connectivity as CAMTEL officially activates its antenna in the area. The long-awaited network installation has sparked widespread jubilation across Ako town, marking a turning point in local communication infrastructure.

For years, the community has grappled with unreliable mobile service, often facing severe challenges in staying connected. The launch of CAMTEL’s network is being hailed as a transformative development, promising more stable and accessible communication for families, businesses, and institutions alike.

Local voices have praised the initiative, describing it as a “game-changer” for the region’s social and economic engagement. As the signal bars rise, so does the hope for a more connected future in Ako.

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Bo MAG Shocks Misaje: 10-Goal Thrashing Leaves Cannon FC Reeling

In a jaw-dropping display of skill and teamwork, Bo MAG Football Club delivered a masterclass on the pitch, dismantling Cannon FC of Misaje with an overwhelming 10–0 victory. Fans at the Nkambe municipal stadium were stunned as the goals kept coming, turning what was expected to be a close match into a lopsided triumph. The result not only marks a historic win for Bo MAG but also sends a bold message to the rest of the teams that they’re here to dominate, and to take the Mafor Yah Judith Epse Achidi trophy. 

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When News Breaks Out, We Break In.