Celebrating the Life of Ma Mukar Alice GWEI (MAG)

Photo News from Yaounde Sports Complex

Thousands Storm Yaounde Sports Complex to Celebrate the Life of Ma Mukar Alice GWEI (MAG)

Thousands have gathered at the Yaounde Sports Complex to celebrate the life of Ma Mukar Alice GWEI (MAG), mother of H.E Shey Jones Yembe. 

Ma Mukar Alice GWEI (MAG) was born in 1940 in Mbaka – BINKA. She was the first child of the traditional ruler of Mbaka - BINKA, FAI Nyakwansah. were she a boy, she would have succeeded her father.

She married her husband Pa Shey Joseph GWEI in 1959, her husband who had just completed primary school in 1955 barely four (4) years after. They were both so young that her father did not approve of the marriage and would only accept the dowry after the birth of their first son. Her father would then name this first son Yembe which means that her husband’s family will see that son but will not have the son because he will belong to her own family. She followed her husband to Nkambe 11 km away from Binka where they both established petty trading with income that the husband had earned as a Population Census Officer and a loan from his own father. She evolved from there to be very enterprising and at some point, she and the husband were the wealthiest in the community before being overthrown by other businesspeople. This she did simultaneously with farm work and being a dedicated housewife and mother.

She had 3 children: Jones Yembe, Aaron Nfor and Rose Muntah. Her husband died in 2007 

and followed by the death of her daughter Rose Muntah in May 2018 and her son Aaron Nfor who died in April 2022. She has 11 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren. It should be noted that apart from her biological off springs like stated above, she was a mother to several children whom she raised and brought up. She was a baptized Baptist Church Christian and a member of the BINJU Baptist Church Nkambe for several years and would later transfer to Nkambe Baptist Church as this was closer to her home. She was a member of the Cameroon Baptist Convention Women’s Union. It should be noted that she offered several thanksgivings for her life especially towards the end in the Nkambe Baptist Church, and always mentioned how important it was to do a thanksgiving while you are alive for your life than for others offering a thanksgiving in your memory when you are gone. And she was so fond of her Pastors and would courageously be telling how she wanted to be buried by the church when she died. She put a lot of emphasis about having friends and the importance of family. It is true that some of herfriends had preceded her, but she has also left a lot of friends and family to mourn her and who will absolutely miss her and her generosity in deeds and words. For record purposes, she belonged to several women’s groups, Njangis (some of which have been taking place in her home for more than 60 years), church groups and earlier in domestic science groups where she interacted with people from different cultural backgrounds and thereby improved tremendously on her cooking skills to become one of the best cooks in town. This can be testified by the several of her friends,the children and their friends, the grand children and their friends who have tasted her food. Anyway, there was food on her table every day and there was no day that someone else did not eat her food. She was very polite, soft spoken and respectful but also very brave, very courageous, very bold and firm, all ingredients that made her to be very honest, full of integrity and ready to face the truth all the time without fear nor favour. It was known that, if she saw a snake in her farm or else, she would follow it and would sometimes hold it by the tail before killing it. Some neighbours would sometimes call her to help them kill a snake when they were afraid, her husband would call her too though! She was also very funny and could throw the best jokes even in difficult circumstances. It was lovable being around her, What a Woman!

Mama was diagnosed with breast cancer at the Yaoundé Reference hospital in 2005 (17 years ago) where they followed with an operation immediately. The cancer will come back several times and since thenthere has been several other operations. In 2016, an American Doctor specialized in Cancer gave her just 6 months to live but by her faith, she would live for another 6 years. On Sunday, the 4th of September 2022, she was feeling very weak and tired and was taken to the Nkambe District Hospital at6pm. The Doctor diagnosed that she was anaemic and immediately asked for blood to be donated and a few minutes thereafter, there were more than enough people to donate blood and after analysis of the blood donated, two donors’ blood group matched that of mama and was safe or void of any diseases.

She immediately received blood transfusion that evening and the next morning Monday 5th September 2022, she was doing extremely well and asked that they make her a video in which she was sending greetings to her only surviving son and reassuring him that everything was okay. Later that evening as they will be giving her the second dose of blood, she became very restless. On Tuesday 6th September 2022, when the nurses were struggling to put her on oxygen after seeing deteriorating situation, she softly and gently asked them not to bother and asked them if she has not tried and need to go and rest. She died that Tuesday 6th September 2022 at 6:30am.

Farewell Ma until we meet again, to part no more.

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

Ta Shey Frank Football for Peace Doles out 7 Trophies in One Week

 The 3rd edition of Ta Shey Frank Football for Peace has been played this year in three different localities in Nkambe Central, notably Konchep, Mbot and Nkambe with 32 football teams participating. The community peace building which is an initiative of Franklin Ndzi Nformi, commonly known as Shey Frank has reached out to thousands in villages of Donga Mantung Division using football to preach peacebuilding. 

It is often said that sustainable development doesn't only needs political governance, but needs to find spaces and platforms that bring people together under a common goal. The love people have shown in supporting Ta Shey Frank Football for Peace activities make it a social phenomenon. The Fon of Konchep described his efforts in lighting communities as action that deserves followers, especially as it Engages the youth. He said  values such as fairness and respect can only be inculcated society if they are many of the likes of Ta Shey  Frank  to build a culture of peace. The Fon of Konchep made this great remark a fortnight ago during the football finals which took place under the patronage of the Divisional Officer for Nkambe Central, Ngida Lawrence Che. 

Young Stars, Red Devils Win in Konchep

In Konchep, 14 teams participated in the tournament. 6 in the female category which was baptisted Mafor Yaah Achidi Judith Cup and 8 teams in the male category. In the female category Young Stars trashed King Football Club, 2 goals to 1, to take home the trophy. Pascaline Yaah, the captain of Young Star, said she thought female football was only in the city but was overwhelmed that it has reached their village. She expressed gratitude to the councilor for Konchep, Ntumfon Franklin Ndzi Nformi for encouraging women and building peace. In the male category Red Devils crushed Abdou FC, 1 goal to zero to grasp this year's cup. 

Two Trophies, Lamps Light Mbot 

In Mbot,  Ntumfon Franklin Ndzi Nformi optimized the football finals by donating lamps to the eldest persons in the community. Before handing the lamps to the selected beneficiaries, he said the lighting lamps should bring forth peace for the betterment of society and everyone. In the football pitch and after 90 minutes of play, the Banana Lioness held down Rocky FC, 3 goals to zero to win the first edition of the female cup. In the male category, Young Stars outsmarted Rock FC, 2 goals to zero to take home the trophy. Before leaving Mbot for Nkambe, Ntumfon Franklin Ndzi Nformi called on the population of Mbot to send their kids to school. He prescribed the notion of peace to everyone. 

Le Bamileke FC, Millennium FC, Young Stars.Win U20, U17 and U12 

Last Friday, the euphoria that started in Konchep rounded up in Nkambe with three trophies on the line. A total of 19 teams registered and participated in the three months tournament. In the U-12 category, Young Stars of Ngwayuh defeated BOCOM FC, 3 goals to 1 after post penalty kicks. Momentum started when the encounter between Millennium FC and UNESCO FC. At the final blast of the whistle, Millennium FC matched over UNESCO FC, by trashing them 3 goals to zero. In the U-20 category, Millennium Youth FC suffered humiliating defeat from Le Bamileke FC during penalty shootout. In two days, three football finals were played and three trophies  doled out with cash prizes. 

Message of Peace

For 3 years now, devoted his time in sponsoring the football for peace tournaments in Nkambe. Last year, the football for peace extended from being only played in Nkambe town to Konchep village and this year, Mbot village joined the bandwagon. The spillover impact of the programme is much more than tremendous in communities. What a better way to build peace, and what a wonderful idea of molding a generation void of violence. Regardless of age, gender or ethnicity, football is enjoyed by all; its reach is unrivaled. 

Speaking in Nkambe to journalists after the last trophy was handed, Ntumfon Franklin Ndzi Nformi heartily extended a message of appreciation and thanks to H. E Shey Jones Yembe, Mafor Achidi Judith, Hon. Gerard Ngala and Musa Shey Nfor for their timely support to build the football nursery in Donga Mantung Division. He said that, although, sport promotes universal values that transcend language and culture, "We can use it as a tool to improve the welfare of youths by teaching them the basics of life, such as the importance of peace, education, obidience, teamwork, leadership, humility, tenacity, and determination".  He added that a child who knows the importance of peace will never go astray. He continued that communities can use football to shine a light on social issues and reshape society. 

Musa Shey Nfor Gets Outstanding Success with Mayor's Inclusive Sports for Health Programme

The Nkambe Mayor's Inclusive Sports for Health (MISH) has ended on a positive note with thousands reached during the two long programme. There was fanfare and trumpet blasts at the Nkambe municipal stadium on Saturday September 3, where an estimated 15,000 people gathered to usher in MISH splendid activities. From 9 am, sounds of drumbeats, vuvuzelas and the gongs could be heard echoing on the hills of GBHS Nkambe, down to the valleys of Tabenken, Njap and Bongom before sending back the echoes into the rocky hills of Nwangri, Wat and Chup. Eventhough the event was happening during the heart of the harvest season, the crowd at the Nkambe municipal stadium proved to it that many people had to forgo going to farm to commune with mayor Musa Shey Nfor. 
Those who were previledged to attend the final day of MISH went back home more convinced than when they were going that Musa Shey Nfor, mayor of Nkambe himself is a savvy sassy inclusive innovator. The idea of onboarding horse race, cycling race for people living with disabilities as well as the male and female football tournament was saluted by all and sundry. Sports is unifying factor and has proven beyond reasonable doubts to rekindle hopes. 



Valorising local partnership
One aspect that made the Nkambe Mayor's Inclusive Sports For Health an outstanding success was his ability to valorize local partners in development. In order to boost the health of the population, the programme in collaboration with the Nkambe health district and the CBC health service jointly organize free eye screening and check ups. Hundreds were given medical treatment at absolutely no franc. To Pa Nyanshi, who benefited from the outdoor free medical services, the initiative was so laudable. Besides, the Nkambe council equally used the opportunity to demonstrate it's knack in local fund raising. Cameroon Telecommunication, CAMTEL was also present to grease the programme. Co-sponsoring was visible with H.E Shey Jones Yembe, Hon. Gerard Ngala and Talla Nji Godlove  and more 100 cheerful givers lining up to support the initiative. More so, the mayor also used the tournament to call on each and everyone to send their kids to school. Mayor Musa Shey Nfor also distributed school items to children to make sure that there is 100% school resumption in his council areas



Football Final
The football tournament was the peak of the event with over 30 teams participating. The teams came from Nkambe zone, Njap zone, Tabenken zone and Bih zone. Notwithstanding the fact that there was a football team from Ako sub Division.
On Saturday, Mansoh United that washed-washed Baraki FC in the semi finals clashed with Blue Stars FC that eliminated Formation Sango in the semi finals. This was a clash of the Titans as both teams have walked majestically to the finals eliminating some of the toughest. But since in a football tournament, there is always a loser and a winner, Blue Stars FC defeated Mansoh FC, 2 goals to zero to win the first edition of MISH
(photo credit: Gwei Amos)

Alhilal Wins Minister Fuh Calistus' 5 million Trophy

The football clash between Alhilal of Misaje and Brothers Football Club of Nkanchi was one of the biggest crowd puller of the year. The euphoria and drumbeats from supporters of both teams could be heard echoing into the valleys of Dumbu, Chunghe, and the hills of Bebe and Kibo. After 90 minutes of play, Alhilal of Misaje Hausa quarter trashed Brothers FC of Nkanchi, 2 goals to 1, to take home the trophy. 

The sports tournament that has been running in Misaje SubDivision which was single handedly sponsored by Minister Prof Fuh Calistus to the tune of 5 million FCFA, finally came to a close on Sunday September 4,2022, with ALhilal of Misaje lifting the trophy with a cash prize of 700.000frs in full view of a mammoth cheering crowd. The vision bearer of the just ended tournament who is the sponsor is to ensure that Misaje builds a third Division Team. 

 With 42 selected players from across the length and breath of Misaje Sub Division, the momentum to create a third Division Team has picked up steam. 

The Divisional officer of Misaje, Frutoma Martin who officiated at the finals said Misaje is a place to be thanks to the peace the people enjoy which to him is a pull factor to the many good things happenings in the Subdivision. He lauded the sponsor of the tournament Minister Prof Fuh Calistus for the love he has for his people and working relentlessly to develop the subdivision both in infrastructure and human resource. 

Promoting sports is new gold mine in the country and encouraging a people to harvest from this goldmine which in other words is likened to the national cake is laudable. The first Deputy Mayor of Misaje Gregory Kiloh Ngeh reiterated the need to have every youth on board and that the council shall ensure that the endeavors of the Minister is materialized on the ground. 

On his part the organizing committee chairman Austin Tamfuh said though amateurs in sports business they were able to lay the ground works towards creating a third Division Team in the subdivision.

Colbert Factor: Get your knees off our children's education

The Colbert Factor:

 Get your knees off our children's education

When Muteff community in Fundong Subdivision of Boyo Division of the North West Region opted for school boycott in the 70s as part of the strategy to achieve autonomy from mainland Abuh, they knew it was after all just going to be only an ad hoc move, not a permanent one. That's why one year after, they were quick to take their knees off the necks of the hundreds of children who had forcefully been withdrawn from the main school in Abuh and allowed to continue schooling in Muteff, even as the struggle intensified. And that's definitely the reason why it is the children that went to school in Muteff at that time that are providing informed leadership and development initiatives to that emblematic community today. That, to the Muteff spirit, is the meaning of independence.

Although the immediate cause of the brutal decision by Muteff parents to withdraw their children from CBC school Abuh was Abuh authorities' refusal to allow for a junior primary school in Muteff (where children could mature before crossing over to complete at Abuh main school since the river running through the two communities used to sweep away little children going to school each time it overflowed its banks); the remote cause of the conflict had been the reluctance by mainland Abuh to okay the construction of a bridge over that river linking Muteff to Abuh. Interestingly, (and instead of using that natural dividing feature to be the symbol of division between the two communities), the very first sign of Muteff community's determination and resolve to be independent of Abuh traditional leadership was to construct the bridge over the river Ngwah that rather facilitated movement between the two warring communities. That, to the Muteff spirit, was the meaning of independence.

Judging at that very early stage that independence for independence sake was meaningless (without assurance of continuity in quality human resources as children were already out of school for a whole year), Muteff community leaders resolved education could not wait. All parents and community influencers were charged to make sure not only those who were withdrawn from school in Abuh but this time around, everyone of school-going age in Muteff go back to school.

 It was a simple but efficient household-to- household, rooftop-to-rooftop, and finally neighborhood-to-neighborhood strategy of fishing out children to occupy the classrooms. That's how it came about that every child born in the 60s and 70s in Muteff village had at least, a First School Leaving Certificate, FSLC. That, to the Muteff spirit, was the meaning of independence. They were quick to discern even at that early stage that the education of their children was the most powerful tool towards achieving independence.

And come to think of the fact that the Muteff parents I am writing about today, were stack illiterates. Yet, rather than using me and other children in the village as the collateral damage for their struggle, (however genuine their grievances were), they gave us all the protection and encourageant we needed to go to school. They knew the conditions were not the best. Yet, something within them told them the education of their children couldn't wait. Fast-forward to 2016 and counting...in the North West and South West regions of Cameroon or former native West Cameroon. Your guess is as good as mine.

Suffice to state that just like the white police officer who knelt on George Flyod's neck bringing untold shame to the United States of America on May 25, 2020, the leadership of the struggle for autonomy for the two English-speaking regions of Cameroon has been kneeling on the necks of children of school-going age on GZ for far-too-long. 

No one doubts the fact that the struggle for self-determination is a right enshrined in regional and international charters and instruments. Yet, no one too should doubt the fact that such a right must not be fostered by violating the rights of children to go to school, however we perceive the school system to be (as it has been tested and proven that even the dullest sermon can still take one to Heaven. So too with education).

No one doubts the fact that a better future could be built through autonomy or self determination. Yet, no one should doubt the fact that education is the best tool in building a better world. We can only rise up against violence and oppression through education. It is quite embarrassing to note that even Palestine with its internecine history of warfare has one of the highest primary school attendance rates. 

As the 2022/2023 school year resumes in the days ahead, the one big question each and everyone of us should ask is : How long can we wait to see schools resume even in the most remote communities of the North West and South West regions ? Have we waited for too long ? Did we assume that being apologetically patient is a virtue ? 

Was it not Nelson Mandela who said 'Education is the most powerful tool you can use to change the world' ? Did the activists not use the fact that they were educated to identify the fact that we were marginalized and being exploited ? Must we now not all join in reversing the situation by being unapologetically impatient and investing in the education of our most-valued assets- our children ? How much longer can children in remote communities of the two English-speaking regions of the country wait to be given the opportunity to enjoy a safe learning environment, develop to their full potential and learn the skills needed for their future ? 

Schools have been persistently attacked, girls and boys severely abused, dying and losing their homes and loved ones, and an estimated 1.2 m of primary-age children out of school in the restive regions. If we have to make our children more creative and better critical thinkers, we have to give them the opportunity to be educated. And that opportunity is now.

Activists both at home and abroad could do well NOW by leveraging their strength and control over communities in making sure no child is left behind as schools resume this year. They could redirect their rooftop by rooftop, household by household and neighborhood by neighborhood strategy in making sure no child of school going age stays away from school. As well as ensure their safety and those of teachers. That would be real show of strength as they would have succeeded where Yaounde authorities failed. That would reverse the current mass exodus of our future valued assets in future struggles to francophone regions, with all the attendant consequences.

As the autonomy whiles in coming, we should at least encourage all our children to attend their individual independences by going to school. In that way would not be behaving like the famous Yindo Tangeh in Muteff, who, knowing that there were two 'crydies' in two different quarters in Muteff, thought he could play smart and benefit from the sharing of goat meat from the 'chong' traditional fraternities in the two distant ceremonies. Rather than patiently wait and collect his share in the first ceremony, he rushed down to the second ceremony. By the time he was arriving there, the fraternity had just finished sharing the booty. He turned and rushed back to the first compound only to realize that immediately he left, the goat meat sharing started. He only had his eyes to feed on the traces of blood from the slaughtering of the many goods in the two ceremonies. Recall goat meat was and had remained a delicacy in village communities. Imagine how Yindo Tangeh could curse himself and everyone else in that community that day. 

And even as @TheColbertFactor we weep for education that used to be the biggest industry and income-earner in Bamenda prio to 2016 (in much the same way Jeremiah (confer chapter 16 : 14-17) the weeping prophet, wept for Jérusalem and Israel-that were great centres of attraction but soon became a pile of ruin, like Bamenda today) ; we invite you to ponder over the words of Malala Yousafzai, Oprah Winfrey, Mario Montesari and Barack Obama, below : 

Malala Yousafzai : 'One book, one pen, one child and one teacher can change the world'

Oprah Winfrey : 'Education is the key to unlocking the world, a passport to freedom'

Maria Montesori : 'The greatest gift we can give our children are the roots of responsibility and the wings of independence'

Barack Obama : 'In a global economy, where the most valuable skill you can sell is knowledge, education is no longer just a pathway to opportunity, it is a prerequisite'.

Now ! Think for a moment before you go about your daily activities : If the author of this article you just enjoyed was denied the opportunity of going to school just because Muteff felt marginalized by Abuh, who would have pieced together this stuff for you ? 

You can support The Colbert Factor reach out to children in Muteff and other communities in Fundong Subdivision with Malala's plea for one book, one pen, one child and one teacher strategy. Just consider doing it now, and the world would only be a better place. Remember any other thing can be taken away from you, not your education. 

Just consider supporting this worthwhile investment today by sending your widow's mite to MTN number: 677852476

And you would have fulfilled God's will that 'whatsoever you do to the least of my brothers, thou you do unto me,

Back2School: Hon. Naomi Donates to Students, Pupils and Communities

Hon. Mbongyor Naomi Ngando, the Member of Parliament for Donga Mantung II  constituency (Ndu) has donated school items and farm and tools to students, pupils and farmers in Mbotih area( Ndu East). There was euphoria at Ntumbaw on Thursday August 18, 2022 when the delegation led by Hon. Naomi storm the ceremonial ground at GHS when the MP and her delegation arrived with parliamentary goodies. 

500 school bags, 440 hoes, 7 cartoons of books, 5 cartoons of soap, cartons of pens, pencils, calculators and math sets are items that have been handed by the Member of Parliament for Ndu Honourable Mbongnyor Naomi Ngando to pupils/students and farmers of Ndu East. Present among other dignitaries to witnessing the transparent handing over exercise was HRH Fon Mohammed Nfor, His Royal Highness the Fon of Ntumbaw village. 

Beneficiaries of Hon. Mbongyor Naomi Ngando's Parliamentary goodies came from Ntumbaw, Sehn, Mangu, Nseh Makop, Njirong, Ngulu, Ngvu, Ngarbuh, Sop villages as well as from the Fulani community. Over a thousand turned out for this event. Addressing beneficiaries, dignitaries and the population during the ceremony, Hon. Naomi called on each and every household to make sure that they send their children to school as school resumes next month. She used the opportunity to preach peace, mutual coexistence and national unity. 

Before leaving Ntumbaw, Hon. Naomi promised to take the back to school advocacy to the entire sub Division to make sure that in September, no child stays back home. "Education is the key to the world" she reminded the population. Hussien Isa, one of the beneficiaries of school didactic materials expressed gratitude to the MP for the timely support. " God should bless her and continue to guide her in her efforts to foster development", he concluded. Mami Dorothy Nuh said she was so elated for the farm tools. 

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

The Colbert Factor: Letter to Emmanuel Macron, French President

Your Excellency; welcome to Cameroon, 'land of promise' and 'land of glory'; after winning your second and last mandate as President of France, Cameroon's (former) colonial master. I know you come as a master who wants to see first hand how his (former) estate is farring. No gainsaying the fact.

Your decision to visit Cameroon this Monday July 25, 2022, may seem innocent to many, but by God's design, it's providential. July 25, in the church's year, is feast day of St. James, one of the two sons of Zebedee and first matrye of the 12 apostles. James is famous in the Bible because his mother, wife of Zebedee, who had great influence on Jesus went kneeling infront of Jesus, requesting that he commands that his two sons, James and John, take the first position in Heaven: one on his left and one on his right. Although Jesus disappointed her by saying that her sons may only have the privilege of sharing in his suffering, the decision on who goes to Heaven is that of his father, not his. 

The announcement of your visit to Cameroon today creates the same anxiety and expectation Zebedee's wife and children had as Jesus was approaching the end of his mission on earth. Just as they thought Jesus could reserve the two privileged positions for them in Heaven many a Cameroonian in general and citizens of native West Cameroon in particular, look up to your visit and meeting with Cameroon's long serving President, as a moment of clarity. Just like Jesus used the opportunity of Zebedee's wife's intersection to clarify the limit of his powers, you may also use this visit to clarity your concerns about the plight of Cameroonians, to which France has contributed directly or indirectly.

You are visiting Cameroon, when citizens of the native West Cameroon are yearning for greater autonomy or outright autonomy from mainland francophone Cameroon because of the French colonial legacy of assimilation. President Biya himself confessed to have found difficulty absorbing the Anglophone minority when he last visited France; but for their tenacity. Today, Anglophones and those who have opted to call themselves 'Ambazonians', are monitoring every move of yours in Cameroon today, and looking up to knowing whether you have understood anything about their language since 2016.

Like James, the first apostle to be martyred, thousands of native West Cameroonians have been martyred for their fate in the former British colonial heritage for their English language and common law system. You are visiting when the remaining few surviving English speaking Cameroonians are 'afflicted in everyway, but not perplexed; persecuted but not forsaken; struck down but not destroyed', (confer 2 Corinthians 4:7-15). And still hoping you may do something (even though a majority do not believe in your sincerity). 

Like Jesus, you may be telling them you don't have the powers to divide Cameroon into two (that is, grant tge wish of Ambazonians), but you can bring pressure to bare on our leadership to grant native West Cameroonians (living in the North West and South West Regions), greater autonomy. France's concern about the welfare of minorities pushed them to fight for greater autonomy for Quebec in Canada. 

Today those living in the French speaking region of Canada proudly refer to themselves as nationals of Quebec in a united Canada. That is why Canadian Prime Minister could easily declare that Quebecois are Quebec nationals in a united Canada. That is why they enjoy greater advantages than ordinary Canadians. That is why they attend schools in France on home tuition. That is why they go to 'Le Jeux de la franchophonie' with a Quebecois-only football team, not Canadian national team as Cameroon does for Commonwealth games, year-in, year-out.That is why it suffices for any Canadian to declare that he/she is Quebecois and becomes one, just as Cameroon nationality code indicates who can become a native West Cameroonian.

His Excellency, can you impress it on Cameroon leadership that a better way of ensuring Cameroon remain one and indivisible would be to replicate the Canadian example of a special status to the Cameroon situation?

Would you be kind enough to reason President Paul Biya to the effect that if he continues delaying on granting greater autonomy, many an English speaking Cameroonian could change their minds, given that the Universal Declaration of human rights is categorical on the fact that no one be forced to belong to a country s/he no longer shares its modus operandis and modus vivandis? 

Given that with technological advancement and free movement today, nationality has been reduced to one's ability to contribute to the social, cultural, political and economic growth a country, not just the fact that one born there and that the constitution states so (and many a native West Cameroonian are not fulfilling such criteria toward Yaounde today), can His Excellency from France agree with His Excellency at Etoudi, that henceforth, native West Cameroonians should proudly refer to themselves as Ambazonian nationals living in a united Cameroon?

Even if the point were not to go back to 1961, can English speaking Cameroonians be offered the same privileges Quebecois have in Canada today? Can they be allowed to organize their Anglo-saxon school and common law systems their own way? Could they be allowed to take part Commonwealth games with Ambaxonian-only team as Québec does for la francophonie games ? Affaire a suivre...

In the meantime, welcome Mr.Emmanuel Macron, French Président. Kindly make hey while the sun shines.

*Colbert Gwain is digital rights advocate, author, radio host and content creator @TheColbertFactor

WAIT! BEFORE YOU GO ON about your daily chores, ask yourself: How likely is it that the content you just consumed would have been created by a different news outlet if The Colbert Factor hadn't done it?

Just think of what the media landscape in Cameroon today would look like without The Colbert Factor thinking out of the box. Who would accompany you in challenging the boundaries of conventional thinking? Who would help you relive John Naisbitt's paradym's shift to the effect that: 'The new source of power is not money in the hands of a few, but information in the hands of many'?

There's no gainsaying the fact that the kind of content we create not only helps in putting the right information in the hands of many, but is also necessary for democracy. It emboldens us to uphold our freedoms and inalienable rights.

In these challenging times, a truth-seeking and informative local news organization like The Colbert Factor is essential. But, it's not easy, cheap or profitable. The Colbert Factor is a solution-oriented, independent non-profit content creation medium. It serves as the 'first draft' for newspapers, radio and TV stations, online news outlets and blogs. We don't have ads and we are independent of corporate and government interests. 

You can help us continue creating more investigative, balanced, fair, reliable, credible and educative content, by donating your widow's mighty mite through MTN momo number: 677852476

...And you would be contributing to a free press.

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

The Colbert Factor: Cry, the beloved SDF

The Colbert Factor

Cry, the beloved SDF

Certainly, Ni John Fru Ndi sold the book: "Cry, the beloved country", by Alan Paton when he ran his Ebibi bookshop at the Bamenda Central Business District in the 70s and 80s. The book that captures the extremes of human emotions and chronicles the themes of social, economic, cultural and political alienation as well as identity in the South African society, today, more than ever before, speaks to Fru Ndi and the leading opposition SDF party he abandoned the book industry and birthed. 

Formed in 1990 to right the wrongs of social, economic, cultural and political alienation of Anglophones by the majority francophone body polity after the 1961 reunification arrangement, SDF since encounted teething challenges unsitting the entrenched autocratic Yaounde regime fronted by President Paul Biya. One of the regime's vocal supporters at the time, late Francis Nkwain had challenged Fru Ndi's claims to Cameroon's Presidency on grounds he was a 'common' bookseller. Intriguingly, and immediately after he was dropped from Biya's government, H.E Francis Nkwain authored a book that was described by the Chronicle newspaper at the time, as 'just a common book'.

And so, a chain of 'common' things ranging from the SDF Chairman's mesmerizing dance gone viral on social media, with the wife of Cameroon's Labour and Social Security Minister, Gregoire Owona, who doubles as assistant Secretary General to the ruling Cameroon People's Democratic Movement, CPDM, through unpaid rents at the Bamenda Party Offices, to the now famously famous missive to the party's Chairman by a group of 27 bigwigs yearning for greater transparency and accountability in the management of party affairs; seriously threaten the very existence of the SDF. 

Many are those who thought leading opposition SDF party Chairman, Ni John Fru Ndi, would be sitting quietly at home burning up the midnight candle and reeling over the acquisitions levied against him by some party bigwigs. To their dismay, the enigmatic character had decided it was a non-event and went partying with his political adversaries.

Although many others have been quick to compare the recent Fru Ndi dancing spree at the 'enemy's home to that of former Vice President of the then Federal Republic of Cameroon, H.E John Ngu Foncha, in 1972 in Foumban, where he was seen dancing off with a young, beautiful and irresistible Foumban girl, while the 1961 federal constitutional arrangement was being torpedoed; Fru Ndi's partying only went a long way to enable former native West Cameroonians re-live the pre- independence epoc. Then, politicians of different divides would board the same car to campaign venues, mount the same soapbox, rain abuses at each other and after that, drink in the same bar as if they had no political and ideological differences.

Unknowingly, Ni John Fru Ndi, longest challenger to incumbent President Paul Biya, made a powerful political statement at the Gregoire Owona event. Adorning himself in grassfield traditional regalia and beautifully doing it out with Gregoire Owona's wife to the rhythm of rumba music (rumba has just been recognized by UNESCO as protected cultural heritage that promotes cultural diversity in the age of globalization), Fru Ndi made good the political statement that Cameroon could only pretend again to be one and indivisible if gentlemen's agreements' are respected. 

Although Fru Ndi has since the unfortunate outing of the 'Mbouda 27' worked to give the impression it was a non-event, the memo arrived like a hand grenade thrown into the SDF house to blow out the boundaries of unilaterallness.

The group seemingly accuses their party Chairman of running the SDF (in the same way Biya does with Cameroon), like a village provision store. Those who grew up in Muteff village would quickly grasp the imagery. A certain store owner, Bobe Jacks Nsani, (apparently the only comprehensive store owner in Muteff village), would actually see a villager approaching his shop, yet he carefully locks it up and goes to his farm, requesting you come back by evening if you still have need for what you wanted to buy. He could lock up the store for one-two weeks and travel out of the village. On return, he offers no excuses or justification for the prolonged absence. He would rather expect the helpless villagers of Muteff to be thankful he came back in the first place. He would determine prices of articles depending on who was infront of him. If at the moment a customer was approaching his counter, he had a change of temperament, the customer was likely not to be served any article from that store. No questions asked. The 27 party bigwigs who recently met in Mbouda think the SDF is down that my village store road. 

For over 30 long years, SDF National Chairman, Ni John Fru Ndi, had been the leading voice for change in Cameroon. He is today being seriously challenged by the group of 27, to be the change he wanted to see. Just like Stephen Kumalo in "Cry, the beloved country", whose journey from the remote South African village of Ndotsheni to Johannesburg makes him to be deeply aware of how his people have lost the tribal structure that once held them together (as his sister, Gertrude, who has become prostitute and liquor dealer in Johannesburg disappears after arrangements have been made for her return to the village), Ni John Fru Ndi is now beginning to realize how the SDF have lost the social structure that once held them together. And, he would be leaving an unfinished manuscript if he leaves a divided SDF house. 

Although the wrangling within the SDF is set in the present, (misunderstanding over party's participation in last May 20 National Day activities), the undeniable past informs each faction. Like in John Osborne's play, "Look Back in Anger", the past highlights each faction's dreams and desires for the SDF, yet hides any readily available notions of what the future might hold for them. The current conflict is rooted in alienation and identity in the post-2018 SDF.

Just like in the 50s where the phrase 'angry young men' was coined to refer to a group of young British writers who were railing against the Establishment, the group of 27 who met in Mbouda to sign the memo against SDF chairman, are certainly the 'angry old men'. Perhaps the key to understanding the stalemate is not in the 'angry' or 'man' part, but rather in the 'old'. The group of 27 are apparently looking back in anger at the SDF of yesteryears where each time NEC was to meet, all eyes and ears were turned towards Ntarikon-Bamenda and where Yaounde regime elements would nose around, all day, to know what again was off SDF sleaves. Today, they are certainly being haunted by a too-docile and too-complacent-to- their-liking SDF. They are haunted by a sense of time slipping by unused (to borrow a Larkinesque turn of phrase), as the 27 see themselves drifting ever more quickly and inexorably towards old age. 

They think Fru Ndi, (who had in the past, insisted it was the militants and not him to decide who would be his successor), is leaning dangerously towards his Vice, Hon Osih Joshua, a Yar'Adua-like figure (in reference to a one time weakling Nigerian President). Perhaps, they need to be reminded that Fru Ndi, while expressing his intentions to step down from active politics at next year's elective convention, already expressed the wish to see the younger generation take over. And the young generation does not come in short-supply, both from within and without the country.

Like Fru Ndi, Jacks Nsani, the Muteff store owner, was a strong and robust personality who was always on his feet trying to grow his business. When he got bogged down by age and ill-health, he started encountering challenges of succession in his image. Unfortunately, he cast his net on a 'Yar'Adua-like figure. And before he died, the village provision store was already in fast decline. Hopefully, it shouldn't be the case with the SDF.

Certainly not our wish. Fru Ndi still has the wherewithal to quickly fix things. He has overcome more daring challenges in the past. He may lack the likes of the Joseph Mbah Ndam (imposing and level-headed personalities) besides him, but he has groomed enough minds in 30 years to assist him weather the storm by bringing back the 27 'rebellious' members into the fold. If he can today see eyeball to eyeball with the Owonas who stole his Presidential election victory in 1992, what would be difficult in reconciling with disgruntled militants?

Cameroon is already into so many conflicts needing SDF attention than this one brewing from within. SDF's quick reconciliation from within may act as a booster to greater Cameroon reconciliation to end the bloody Anglophone conflict.

As the National Chairman begins the journey of understanding how the people he painstakingly groomed in the past tortuous years, are posing a serious challenge to his last days in office, the SDF that he courageously birthed, still offers hope for a better future.

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

Donga Mantung Family Agro-pastoral Farms Beneficiaries Share Best Practices

Representatives of 42 leaders of farmers organizations in Donga Mantung that have benefitted technical, material and financial support from the Programme for the Consolidation and Sustainability of Family Agro-Pastoral Farms(PCP-ACEFA) have validated the 2020 group analysis publication. The document was validated on June 8, 2022 in the presence of the Divisional Delegate of Livestock, Fisheries and Animal Industries, and the Divisional Delegate of Agriculture and Rural Development for Donga Mantung respectively. One of the most thrilling exercises of the day was the presentation of best practices. During the workshop that took place at CEDID Conference hall in Nkambe, participants were given the opportunity to share their field experiences and results achieved in order to permit their peers to capitalize on best practices. 

In order to valorise the results so far achieved in the various speculations, emphases were laid on the aspect of the technical itinerary, which resulted to good results, or which necessitate improvement. In this regard, the main focus was on the margins of crop and livestock activities as well as the results of the production system. From the presentations, indicators were rife at that in 2020, ACEFA generated a geometric increase in crop production as well as other two livestock activities (goats and mixed cattle rearing). Analysing the experience shared by the farmers, Tarla Valentine, Coordinator of ACEFA in Donga Mantung Division said that the exercise is very important given that it showcases the agricultural potentials in the Division and shall go a long way to bring various stakeholders closer to the farm families so as to develop fruitful partnership. He added that the exercise will empower farmers and more so, it will develop more adaptable policies that can impact family agriculture positively through strategic sub sectors, given the presence of the references produced. It is worth mentioning that PCP-ACEFA is funded under the debt relieve contract (C2D Funds). The programme started in 2008, with Donga Mantung coming onboard in 2015 and has been in her third phase since 2019. The programme funds projects between FCFA 500.000 and FCFA 6.000.000 to the tune of about 70-85%. Projects which can easily benefit from ACEFA funding include among others, production equipment, tree crop nurseries, production infrastructure, storage facilities, conservation, processing, marketing etc. 

 Analysis of References 

The Family Agro-pastoral Farm Programme was launched in Donga Mantung Division in 2015 with main objectives geared towards improving on the income of the family agro-pastoral enterprises by consolidating and improving agropastoral counselling devices. The programme equally seeks to modernize the production apparatus through the financing of investment projects of producers organizations as well as institutionalize the agro-pastoral counselling system through the creation of an agropastoral agency. 

In 2020,out of 42 Family Agro-pastoral Farms, the publication highlighted that 11 farmers (approximately 24%) were involved in goat rearing, with per head range from 02-25 goats making an average of 09 goats per head. In cattle rearing, 15 family agropastoral farms out of 42 were involved in cattle rearing and the per herd range from 3-91 cattle with an average of 77 cows per herd. In crop production, 41 farmers had 66 plots with farm sizes ranging from 0.1 to 1.5ha, giving an average of 0.5ha. 

Geometric Increase Recorded

Farmers during the presentations testified that they recorded in increase in production and revenue. The grazers reported that they recorded in average income of FCAF 1.2 million as compared to the FCFA 300.000 they used to have. On the other hand, goat breeders recorded an average income of FCFA 375.000 thanks to the programme. As for the crop farmers, there was a geometric increase in the production of maize associated with other crops like beans, potatoes, cocoyams, sweet potatoes, yam, groundnut etc.

Isa Sale from  Binka said from the training he received from ACEFA, he is able to know how much he spends in a year and how much benefits he makes. At first my family used to depend only on maize cultivation and njama njama, but now we have integrated market gardening in our farm. And we have recorded an increase in our family income. 

Another fascinating story was that of a young Fulani herdsman who said he was advised by one of his uncles to go into gardening. He said when he started, his friends saw it strange but after 12 years in gardening, he says he is a proud rich farmer. Another farmer told the story how she from her farm, she is able to pay school fees for her kids, pay hospital bills and meet up all the house needs. My farm is my office and it is thanks to ACEFA that I am making huge income from the crops i grow. My annual income ranges between FCFA 200.000 to FCFA 300.000 per season. 

 However, the socio-political crisis and the humanitarian support from FAO which were distributed in the Division by SHUMAS affected the prices of maize and other food items as rice was given out to families for free. Besides, the report equally revealed some constraints faced by the beneficiary farmers organizations. These problems include no proper control of animals, high mortality rates, poor health measures and the rampant farmer/grazer conflict. It was agreed that in order to mitigate, farmers have to first of all adhere to technical advice, acquire quality seed material or breeds, embark on the development of improved pastures and to seeks the support from the competent services of MINADER and MINEPIA. 

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

GLFx Nkambe 2022 Activities Launching on World Biodiversity Da

 

At 2pm on May 22, 2022, members started arriving the conference hall of Millennium Star Hotel in Nkambe. At 3pm, Haruna

 Mohamadou announced the arrival of the chairman of the event in the person of the Divisional Delegate of Forestry and Wildlife for Donga Mantung Division. The event started with prayers. Madame Gwei Kindness took the floor to prayer for God Almighty to be the main guide of the event. After the prayers, Fai Cassian Ndi, coordinator of Youth Development Organization-Yodo/ GLF welcome all the members and partner organisations. He used the opportunity to expressed gratitude to the entire GLF community, GLF team, CIFOR and the Robert Bosch Foundation for the timely support which he said will enable them to engage communities to act on landscapes. He added that GLFx and Yodo Cameroon will also work in close collaboration with other organizations through active engagement and sharing of ideas to ignite communities to actively participate in restoration activities, conservation practices so much so that everyone could secure sustainable livelihood. He emphasized that this year, GLFx Nkambe chapter will work with schools, traditional leaders, fish farmers, local water management committees and the Nkambe council. On the local partnership, he cited Camitex, Pan African Parliamentarians Network on Climate Change, Pan African Climate Justice Alliance, Sustainable Run for Development, Foundation for a Green Future and the Cameroon Telecommunication-Camtel. He also announced the names of chapter members who were to receive certificates of participation for the two days Youth Leaders Summit( world peace game) organized by Boston Green Fest Future Leaders Summit and Foundation for A Green Future as well as participants of the 2022, World Water Day Youth Summit. The certificates were handed over by the Divisional Delegate of Forestry and Wildlife, and the Farm master of Technical School of Agriculture Nkambe, Mr. Tamfu. After that exercise, Madame Gwei Kindness, knowledge coordinator of the chapter presented the Community Action Plan for 2022 highlighting the major axes, expected results and the indicators. These activities ranges from planting trees, distribution of trees to fish farmers, support to local water management committees, award of prizes to students trees growing competition (winners) and the holding of open dialogues. Speaking during the official launching of the Divisional Delegate of Forestry and Wildlife for Donga Mantung, Periementah K.N appreciated efforts by GLFx Nkambe to scale up restoration activities at community level. He reiterated that GLF programme is unique because it addresses very pertinent issues that seek to mitigate the loss of forests and land degradation among the several challenges people are facing nowadays. According to Periementah K.N addressing problems that undermines land productivity, food security, water scarcity or restoring biodiversity is a lofty initiative which ties with government agenda. Harping on the importance of Biodiversity Day, the Divisional Delegate was categorical that planting and nurturing trees to grow go hand in hand with promoting biodiversity. “Trees help bring nutrients back to into the depleted soil, help protect water sources and provide shade for crops” and that trees also help to protect species that are in danger by preserving their habitat. He however promised that the Divisional delegation of forestry will support and work in close collaboration with the chapter to ensure success. After that, members were handed Camtel sims to enable some of them to get access to the internet at very moderate rates. It is worth mentioning that GLFx Nkambe Chapter benefitted from Blue package flitte which will improve communication in the chapter. Members will benefitted three free numbers and low cost data under the special offer.be.Closing the event launch, HRH Fon Stanley Chifu called on the population of Nkambe plateau to join GLF to protect water sources and the small patches of forests. He said that in recent years, water has become a scarce commodity. To him, water scarcity has reached crisis level. He equally used the occasion to call on the Ministry of Forestry and Fauna, through the Divisional delegate to support communities to restore degraded landscapes. “Climate change is already here and GLFx is the surest partner”, HRH Fon Stanley Chifu concluded. The event ended at 5:30 pm with group photos 

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

The Surprisingly Positive Flip Side Of Nalova Lyonga's Student Pregnancy Pass

The Colbert Factor:

The Surprisingly Positive Flip Side Of Nalova Lyonga's Student Pregnancy Pass

Secondary Education Minister, Professor Nalova Lyonga's radical new move to correct the scripts of decades of Government's authoritarianism in systematically dismissing pregnant students from colleges in Cameroon may at first sight seem controversial.

Yet, a deeper reading reveals a tsaunami of equally systematic injustices to generations of female students who have been deprived of their education, and by extension, life-long opportunities, simply because they got pregnant.

Despite years of lobbying and advocacy by local women's rights' campaigners who were largely inspired by regional and international instruments duly ratified by Cameroon, it took the courage and dogged determination of Professor Nalova Lyonga, to reverse the retrogressive Government decision.

Cognizant of the fact that the Minister's decision was informed by UN human rights instruments that urge state parties to 'recognize the vulnerability of adolescent girls', school authorities and the education community must only be encouraged to implement Nalova Lyonga's decision, to the letter.

For, once the girls are allowed to drop out of school because of pregnancy, they are easily lured into 'early and forced marriages, which reduce their opportunity to complete school, develop employable skills, and contribute to community development'* 

To better understand the import of the recent ministerial decision, one only needs to go through available research on the subject. Going by a reproductive health report published on January 5, 2022 by some seasoned Cameroonian researchers, including Joelle Sobgwi Tambekou, Marthe Tsague Agnoux, and Flavien Ndonko, under Open Access, 77% of pregnant school dropouts in Cameroon, never return to complete their education. A situation Secondary Education Minister, Professor Nalova Lyonga is fighting tooth and nail to reverse.

More dangerously, the research results point to the fact that almost one in five (19.3%) of teenage mothers interviewed confessed to have had induced abortion, at least once. And this is where Professor Pauline Nalova's preemptive foresightedness comes alive. Her logic: If a student and by extension, some parents, know for sure the child's education would not be tampered with, they would not take the risky option of abortion-a thing many parents and sometimes authors of such pregnancies, have forced the victims to do,-a thing the victims themselves have voluntarily done. 

What results in immediate risks of death for some, and long-term consequences of infections and barrenness, for others.

The Open Access researchers reveal that Cameroon's national registry for single mothers, Reseau Nationale des Tantines (RENATA), or National Network of Aunties, (an auntie being a single mother trained in reproductive health and adolescent rights), has over 20,000 members, belonging to 305 associations nationwide, with 42.3% of them having dropped out of school due to unplanned pregancy. The study also names pregnancy as the second cause of school dropout in girls with 16.9% dropout rates, after financial problems. It was probably for this reason therefore, that the Minister sort to reverse the alarming situation, and in a more productive manner.

With some studies already conclusive on the fact that the long-term consequences of early child birth on a teenage mother's social status and child development could be lessened by continuing education, and that educational continuity may reduce the risk of subsequent pregnancies, one could only applaud H.E, Professor Nalova Lyonga's decision to reverse the outdated 1980 circular prescribing dismissal as only sanction to a pregnant student.

Professor Nalova Lyonga's proactive decision not only helps to bring back Cameroon to the table of Commitment Makers at the UN Women's Generation Equality Coalition, but also aligns with the thinking that since student pregnancy is just a temporary disability, and that since a woman does not get dismissed from her job simply because she got pregnant, the female student should be allowed to continue her education. 

Professor Nalova Lyonga's recent directives come to correct and complete Nathaniel Hawthorne's story of sin and punishment, of the strengths of women and the weakness of men, in the famous American novel, 'The Scarlet Letter'. Although the Scarlet Letter 'A' that Hester Prynne, the main character in the fictional story, is forced to wear, is a punishment for adultery in Puritan New England, Professor Nalova Lyonga, who was long time lecturer of 'The Scarlet Letter' in the University of Yaounde and beyond, completely redefines it in today's Cameroon to mean, 'able' or 'angel', and no longer a badge of shame.

Just like Rev. Dimmesdale, the clergy man in The Scarlet Letter convinces the Governor to allow Hester tokeep her daughter, Pearl, with her as a constant reminder of her 'fall and transgression'.

This could be evaluated to, Cameroon' Secondary Education Minister convincing school authorities, both public and private, to allow pregnant students to stay in school, as a constant reminder of their 'fall and transgression'.

If 'The Scarlet Letter' continues to be taught in schools today because it is a direct path to students engagement with the past and the future, Professor Nalova Lyonga completes that relevance in her directives by tasking school authorities to systematically include sexual and reproductive health education into all lessons.

Professor Nalova Lyonga's latest edict is therefore, a wake-up-call that we cannot continue to live in a repressive and authoritarian society, as it is analogue for the girl child in particular and humankind in general. 

It demonstrates in triumphant detail that change is possible in Cameroon once we have the right people with the right mind frames.

*Colbert Gwain is digital rights activist, author, radio host, Commitment Maker at UN Generation Equality Coalition, and content creator @TheColbertFactor

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Just think of what the media landscape in Cameroon today would look like without The Colbert Factor thinking out of the box. Who would accompany you in challenging the boundaries of conventional thinking? Who would help you relive John Naisbitt's paradym's shift to the effect that: 'The new source of power is not money in the hands of a few, but information in the hands of many'?

There's no gainsaying the fact that the kind of content we create not only helps in putting the right information in the hands of many, but is also necessary for democracy. It emboldens us to uphold our freedoms and inalienable rights.

In these perilous times, a truth-seeking and informative local news organization like The Colbert Factor is essential. But, it's not easy, cheap or profitable. The Colbert Factor is a solution-oriented, independent non-profit content creation medium. It serves as the 'first draft' for newspapers, radio and TV stations, online news outlets and blogs. We don't have ads and we are independent of corporate and government interests. 

You can help us continue creating more investigative, balanced, fair, reliable, credible and educative content, by donating your widow's mighty mite through MTN momo number: 677852476

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When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

The Numfor Solange Foundation Empowers Communities in Limbe on Waste Segregation

Two localities in Limbe II Council in the South West Region of .Cameroon have benefitted material support from The Numfor Solange Foundation to engage in waste segregation at community level. Speaking during sensitization and handing over of waste bins to the beneficiary communities, the Mayor of Limbe II Council expressed gratitude to Dr. Numfor Solange for the timely support. Chief Ndive Woka Daniel Ngale equally used the opportunity to thank The Numfor Solange Foundation, Tohoko University and The Numfor Solange Foundation for extending a hand of fellowship to his fast growing municipality. Harping on the importance of the project to his municipality, Chief Ndive Woka said plastic pollution is one of the major problems in his municipality. 

The Divisional Delegate of Nature Protection and Sustainable Development, Madame Ekwangeh Mercy applauded the donor for encouraging waste collection, reuse and recycling. She added that the waste segregation and sensitization project will go a long way to impact the lives of the poorest of the poor. However, before handing over the support to the beneficiary communities of Batoke and Mokundange, volunteers carried out sensitization campaigns moving from household to household where they lectured on household waste separation and how families could generate compost manure from homes. 

Talking to the press after the handing over ceremony, Dr. Numfor Solange, CEO of The Numfor Solange Foundation said plastic pollution is everywhere due to the poor management of waste at local levels. She emphasized that the segregation and sensitization project is the begining of a large recycling project that will in the nearest future cover the entire Fako Division. According to Dr. Numfor Solange, the project will impact lives given that it will generate more compost manure and stimulate farmers to go into regenerative agriculture. The representatives of communities of Batoke and Mokundange communities promised the support will be used for the purpose intended. Due to the hike in the prices of fertilizer, beneficiary communities expressed much thanks for the support. It is worth mentioning that The Numfor Solange Foundation also received support from Hon. Agho Oliver Bamenju, a Master Degree student at Tohuko University, the same institution that funded the project. 

WICUDA Goes Blue with CAMTEL

The Wimbum Cultural and Development Association has gone Blue. The Wimbum Cultural and Development Association's head quarters was today dressed in Camtel colours. The thousands of Wimbum people in Yaounde are expected to switch to Blue Camtel network. Prospects are high at that all WICUDA branches nationwide will join the bandwagon to switch to Blue Camtel so as to enjoy cheap and latest digital technologies. 

Following the contract signed between CAMTEL and MTN, where there is MTN network, there is equally CAMTEL network. Sources at CAMTEL have hinted that in the few months, Camtel network will covering the entire Donga Mantung Division. An authoritative voice also adviced that it will be of great advantage to get Camtel sims to access the fastest G4 network. 

Ndu Council, WICUDA, Ndu MP Donate to Displaced Population of Mbongong

There was euphoria at the Ndu council esplanade on April 16, 2022 where the Ndu Council and its partners; Wimbum Cultural and Development Association(WICUDA) and the Honorable member of Parliament for Ndu, Hon. Naomi Ngando donated to the displaced population of Mbongong affected by the recent crises of March 29th that led to death of four persons and destruction of properties.

Beneficiaries included Wimbum and Mbororo people. The crises sparked off when three mbororo men were executed in cold blood by separatists operating in the area. In retaliation, the Mbororo community went on rampage and burnt houses in Mbongong which resulted to one person losing his life. However calm has return to the area with a call for peaceful coexistence to reign among the two communities as it has been in the years past. "Nobody is a stranger in mbongong and we shall continue to live together as one people" reiterated Mayor Abdou Kanfon Borno during the distribution exercise. The item shared ranges from food to mattresses, blankets, dresses etc 

*The Mbongong Community Received Relief Package From Ndu Council, Ndu MP and WICUDA*

Sources say a consignment of basic needs and food items got to Mbongong today Saturday 16th April 2022.

The Ndu Council donated -100 bags of 25kg rice 

-30 cartons of groundnut oil

-10 bags of maize

-5 bags of beans

10 cartons of sugar and

-50 two-place matrasses.

The Ndu MP Hon Ngando Naomi Mbonyor and WICUDA donated 20 bags of 50kgs rice, 4 belts of used clothes and blankets, 3 bags of maize and 2 bags of beans.

The above items were distributed to the Wimbum population of Mbongong, the Fulani of Mbongong, Njipyang, Ntayi and Sirtang.

Speaking on behalf of the Ndu Council Mayor, Ibrahim Jiberu Ndzi used the tongue/teeth relationship to emphasize the need for peaceful coexistence despite man's imperfections and his tendency to sin. 

Imam Ahmadu Babaiya, speaking for the Mbongong Community thanked the donors immensely and prayed that Allah bless them abundantly for this wonderful act of generosity. The Joro of Mbongong, Abdullai Ndzi equally extended the deepest regards of the affected Community to these friends in time of need. 

 Imam Ahmadu Babaiya, expressed the helplessness of the population of Mbongong in the face of growing insecurity in the area and called on the living forces of Ndu to help reconcile the Wimbum and the Fulani communities of Mbongong as there were still visible signs of tension. In times like this, he continued, it's needless crying over spilled milk and concentrate efforts towards averting future reoccurrence.

The Fulani community of Mbongong received their own consignment at the cattle market. The Fulani of Njipyang, Ntayi and Sirtang were present and collected their own consignment as well.

Speaking for the Fulani community, Alhadji Yukuda Nana expressed deep feelings and added that the gesture was timely judging from their precarious condition. He said they know only Mbongong village and no other place in this wide world. Living in peace with their Wimbum brothers, he said, is not only necessary but an imperative. They are very conscious of the need for peaceful coexistence and shall exploit any given opportunity to work towards that. 

The body language of both communities indicated regret for the senseless lost of lives and significant material damages.

On their way back, the distribution caravan passed through Mbipgo Fon's Palace to Fai Ngantu and Fai Ngotong sub palaces of Fuh and Njipmbo respectively. At every stop, the palace or sub palace package was delivered and the essence of the mission explained. The Fon, Fai Ngantu and the representative of Fai Ngotong all expressed happiness for the goodwill gesture and in turns recounted their ordeal with the influx of people from Mbongong on that faithful day and the days that ensued. 

The mission was a huge success and feedback from both communities signalled hope. The ground is very fertile to sow the seed of reconciliation. The authorities of Ndu must seize the opportunity, for "a stitch in time, it is said, saves nine."

Ndu Council shall continue with the relief package to Gidado and Mbandfvung communities on Sunday 17th April 2022.

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

Hon. Agho Oliver Takes Parliamentary Goodies to Elderly

 77 years old Mama Lum Monica of Njibujang- Bafut is the first beneficiary of Hon. Agho Oliver Bamenju's parliamentary largess to the elderly. What else could an elderly person needs in life more than a comfortable sleep in a clean environment. This is exactly what Hon. Agho Oliver, the MP for the Bafut/Tubah constituency is doing for the elderly. 

Working in collaboration with Juliana Sirri's community-based foundation, Vision for Hope, the program seeks to reach out to the poorest of the poor in the Bafut/Tubah constituency. This is however, the first of it's kind from a Member of Parliament. Prospects are high at that this action by the MP for Bafut/Tubah constituency will ignite Parliament to look into the living condition of elderly in Cameroon. A school of thought holds that Hon. Agho Oliver could be the right person to advocate Cameroon Parliament to look into the challenges of the elderly, to bring together those of interest on issues of the elderly, as well as creating awareness for Parliament to adopt laws that provides minimum benefits to the elderly to live decent lives. Why not a Parliamentary Network of Ageing and Old People in the Cameroon Parliament?

This action by Hon. Agho Oliver puts to spotlight that there is need to provide minimum standards of living conditions for elderly persons like, Mama Lum Monica. It should be recalled that the parliamentary largess to Mama Monica was made up of a new bed, bedsheets and blanket. 

Overwhelmed by the magnanimity of the MP, the old widow thank God Almighty for making her smile again after years of living in deplorable conditions and abandonment. She saw in Hon. Agho Oliver and Vision for Hope Foundation, the husband to widows and the underprivileged and prayed God to continue to replenish and protect their sources. For the Bible teaches us that God loves the cheerful giver. 

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)