Conflict Resolution: CCMN/PCC Practice What they Preach

Conflict Resolution: CCMN/PCC Practice What they Preach

Ties that existed  between the Cameroon Community Media Network (CCMN) and the Presbyterian Church in Cameroon (PCC) have been strengthened  with a firm commitment by both parties to fully engage into the second phase of the Peace Journalism and Conflict Transformation project. 

Network Members Attentively Listening to the PCC National Peace Coordinator

The first phase of the project started in April 2018 and ended in March 2020. For two years CCMN as a beneficiary  executed it via peace journalism and conflict transformation training workshops, audiovisual, print and online productions, all in a bid to deescalate the ongoing armed conflict rocking the two English speaking regions of Cameroon in particular and rebuild peace in the entire nation that's from time to time hit by conflicts here and there.

Rev Nta William Nche, the National Coordinator of the PCC Peace Office has been touring the various chapters of CCMN nationwide to launch the second phase of the project. On Friday July 24th 2020, he was at Church Centre, Bamenda to meet with members of the NW Chapter. 

L-R: Ntui Oben, Kyeng Juliette, Rev. Nta William, Obah Rose

For hours, deliberations centred on doing a situational analysis of the project with focus on strengths and weaknesses. It was observed that through the project, the coming into existence and sustenance of the network, the various capacity building workshops, the positive  contributions of the network in deescalating the ongoing conflict through peace journalism centred productions and the popularity CMMN has gained within and without Cameroon were justifiable reasons for the second phase of the project to be engaged.

However, note was also taken that it's not been all rosy as members still felt dissatisfied with logistical provisions, misinformation, laxity, insecurity, late coming at meetings, non respect of deadlines in productions just to name these few. 

As to the autonomy of both entities, the peace broker cum activist, Rev. Nta William said "PCC has the project, CCMN has the execution platform, so the two must work together" He added that though CCMN is an independent body, the project the PCC used it to implement is still ongoing reason why the church will always step in to regulate when need be. Apart from CCMN, the project has also given birth to another partner, Peace Builder's Union (PBU).

Family Photo

Akah Roseline Obah is the national and regional coordinator of CCMN for the North West. She believes that with CCMN engaging in this second phase, it means something close to perfection was realised in the first phase. She said "The second phase is coming to fine tune our strategies so that we continue to aim towards that one direction of ensuring a peaceful society. I'm believing that with this second phase, members with already advanced knowledge in productions, in writing their reports and in shifting the narratives are just going to factor in the humanitarian aspect and God willing, I know how professional they've been and I believe that they're very ready to deliver the results"

As to how the next phase will unfold, Kyeng Juliette, the NW regional Peace Coordinator said For efficiency and professionalism, she disclosed that the project has made available equipments like a camera and recorders for members to borrow and use when gathering data from the field.

Projection 

It is expected that at the end of the project, according to Rev. Nta William, "They'll be a better outcome and the impact felt within the society so that Cameroonians can start building peace and accept that they can be change without necessarily using violence, that they can be peace when people speak in love and become transformers without using destructive language and that they can be change even in the way journalists report"

He added that this time around, there shall be a shift from peace to hope journalism which goes with building humanity in people like IDPs and PWDs. Thus, humanitarian reporting will be the major focus of this second phase.

Mayor Ndangsa's Five Months in Office, How Far?

Mayor Ndangsa's Five Months in Office, How Far?

On Tuesday February 25th 2020, Ndangsa Kennedy Akam was elected as new mayor of the Mbengwi council.

He challenged the incumbent, Tebe Beatrice and won. 

Ndangsa Kennedy Akam, Mayor, Mbengwi Council

Promises Made

Mbengwi Online recalls during his campaign before the voting exercise, he said "A vote for me is a vote for the return of peace and school resumption in Mbengwi" 

In an exclusive still with Mbengwi Online later on that same day, he said the major roads in Mbengwi are not the best and so primary focus will be on improving the state of farm to market roads. 

As regards education, he reiterated that his primary objective will be to see that dwindling educational establishments regain normalcy within the subdivision. He also preached reconciliation, this by saying "The first thing is that I'll reconcile the councillors so that we work as a team because without unity, they'll be no progress"

Unfortunately, barely two days after, he was kidnapped, kept incommunicado for a month and three days, then released on Monday March 30th. On Wednesday April 8th, he was sworn into office. On this day, cornered by Mbengwi Online, he again talked of empowering community schools.

On Thursday April 9th, barely after being sworn into office, he went down the streets of Mbengwi for a COVID-19 campaign. At the Mbon Motor Park, the problem raised by the population was that of no water to drink not to talk of washing hands and mayor Ndangsa promised them that the council is already putting in place measures to see that the park has water in the nearest days ahead.

Facing the Press

On Wednesday May 6th, the maiden administrative account session of the Mbengwi council was held. Being new in their functions, the mayor promised the councilors that a training workshop will be organised for them in June. Did it hold?

On Saturday June 6th, the mayor held a meeting with traders of the Mbon main market in the council hall at the end of which a new executive of the Mbengwi Traders Union was voted. During the meeting, the mayor promised the traders that the council will reorganise the market so that similar goods and services appear on same line. He promised to relocate the president of the union, Anye Collins from the back of the market where he's isolated to the front where the tailoring line is.

Also, selling at the entry into the market was prohibited, be they hawkers, fruit sellers etc. Payment of rents for council sheds in the Mbon market he said will commence from July ending and a special favour will be given for all accrued rents except for traders who will fail to start paying their rents. Such according to the mayor will be forced to pay all rents for the past years they've been owing the council because not still paying now depicts bad faith.

Taking Oath of Office

On Wednesday July 22nd, Mayor Ndangsa Kennedy was in Mbemi for the reconstruction of broken bridges at the end of which he promised that the next target will be to mobilise the Nyen community to clear the Tad Market that's been abandoned in the wild for the past 3 years so that business resumes full swing in the market. He also promised that other bridges like the one linking Njiningom to Njinebai in Guneku will be looked into while his development plans for the council shall not only be centralised in and around Mbengwi central but also extend right up to interior villages like Zang Tabi.  

How Far

"A vote for me is a vote for the return of peace and school resumption in Mbengwi" On this promise, as for the former, Mbengwi has been relatively peaceful ever since the mayor's coming into office. Life is reported to be speedily regaining steam even in the suburbs. On the latter, Mbengwi Online knows only of only one functional school in the municipality (sub division) at moment. Before the outbreak of COVID-19, about 5 were on but later closed their doors following government measures put in place to contain the spread of the pandemic

Ndangsa Kennedy & Past Mayor, Tebe Beatrice

On improving the state of farm to market roads, nothing has changed though some communities have been mobilising themselves for road maintenance without any assistance from the council but the impact has really been very insignificant. It was not until Thursday June 11 2020 that the first Caterpillar belonging to Edge Construction  entered Mbengwi from Bamenda since the Anglophone Crisis started in  late 2016. The company is currently executing a project to tar the stretch of road Check Point to the residence of the Senior Divisional Officer. It's however not a new project initiated under the mandate of the seating mayor.

On ensuring that dwindling educational establishments regain normalcy especially through empowering community schools, almost all schools in the sub division are still in the wild. Mbengwi has till date remained one of the worst subdivisions seriously affected by effective school boycott. 

On reconciliation, we can't say how much has been done in this light but there are still signs and symptoms all is not rosy within the councillors said to still be in camps though members of one party, the Cameroon People's Democratic Movement (CPDM). Ndangsa took over an office others were eyeing so obviously he should have haters.

The mayor in Mbemi for Bridge Reconstruction

Concerning the provision of water at the Mbon motor park, till date, no trench has ever been dug to bury a pipe nor any standpipe installed anywhere around the park. There are not even any indications the project is in the pipeline.

On the holding of a training workshop for councillors, it has never taken place till date. Nearly half of the councillors don't even live in the municipality. With no such training, they'll have to dabble with their functions for five years. This means a majority may likely be more interested in their seating allowances than development.

On the reorganisation of the Mbon market, very little has been done. A new executive of the Mbengwi Trader's Union is in place which is good but it's yet to meet up with the expectations of the traders. The Mbon market is still disorganised. Many sheds remain locked, owners nowhere to be found while potential business persons lack sheds to operate in.  Little order has been implemented at the gate though some recalcitrant traders still continue to sell there instead of entering into the market as ordered. The trader's union president is yet to be relocated to the dress making line.

Concerning the clearing of Tad market and mending of other broken bridges in the municipality plus realisation of council development plans in the suburbs, Mbengwi Online will continue monitoring and taking note of subsequent promises to be made by the mayor and his realisations. 

The mayor staking his life for the development of his municipality

Mayor at MECUDA organised COVID-19 Campaign 

Apart from all these, Mayor Ndangsa Kennedy has already lost one councillor, Anapa Isaac and one worker, Injoh Irene, both now of late. His most impacting achievement so far is the reconstruction of the Mbemi and Zem bridges with support from several quarters. 

He has been representing the council in state meetings and the population at donation ceremonies that have mostly been taking place at the esplanade of the Momo Senior Divisional Officer's office. Within five months, Mayor Ndangsa has been in the news. It may still be too early to give him a pass or fail mark. By the time he exhausts his first year in office, Mbengwi Online will be back again to publish how far he's gone.

Mbengwi: Combined Efforts Make the Impassable Passable

Mbengwi: Combined Efforts Make the Impassable Passable

The people of Mbengwi have again demonstrated their utmost desire to bid farewell to the backbreaking hardship they've been undesirably subjected to bear for the past four years since the advent and subsequent escalation of the Anglophone Crisis. The community work spirit they embodied has once more been revoked and demonstrated as all hands were recently put on deck for the reconstruction of broken bridges within the subdivision.

Reconstruction Work on Mbemi Bridge

The Mbengwi Council's mayor, Ndangsa Kennedy Akam has been spearheading the exercise. On Monday July 20th, he mobilised strong men and boys from Mbengwi to the Zem bridge in Mile 20 for reconstruction. The team was later joint by some concerned locals of Zem and armed uniform officers that came to guard against any disruption. The mayor wasn't at the site to supervise but to actively partake in the exercise. Hours later, work was completed and both the population and the military men departed amicably. 

Barely a day after, the mayor again left the comfort of his office this time around to the Mbemi bridge for a similar exercise. Impressed with his workaholic spirit, many more locals, bike riders and passersby came out to give a helping hand and just within two hours, the bridge was renovated. Before now, the local population had cleared the road sides and removed the rails that had been fallen into the rivers when the two bridges were destroyed. 

Mayor Ndangsa Kennedy Actively Engaged

The Workaholic Mayor Leading by Example

An inhabitant in Nyen village that harbours Tad Market, the biggest weekly market in the entire sub division, impressed with the work, told Mbengwi Online that "I want to thank the mayor and the team that has repaired the two bridges. I'll be happier if this other bridge in Njinibi is also repaired. We've been suffering a lot by going round through Njindom." He added that several accidents had been occurring on the broken bridges as bikes transporting goods and passengers kept missing track and falling into the river. While the top of the bridges in Zem and Mbemi have been repaired with planks, Joshua wants the top of the bridge in Njinibi to be re-concreted as it long developed two large holes that now pose as a threat to the life of those crossing on it.

Mayor Ndangsa Kennedy disclosed to Mbengwi Online that the initiative to rebuild the bridges was nursed after he attended a meeting in Bamenda weeks back for the take off of the presidential plan for the reconstruction and development of the NW region during which it was revealed that the exercise will kick start only in peaceful areas. However, in his words, "This one is a different initiative, not part of the presidential reconstruction plan. It's to say while waiting for what's been promised us, let's start going ahead with something temporal so that by the time the plan comes, they should be able to mount slaps on the bridges so that they remain permanent."
Death trap on the Njinibi Bridge

He went on to reveal that the Member of Parliament for Momo East Constituency, Hon. Injoh Foo Ngang Prodencia and Minister Mbah Acha of the Supreme State Audit provided the planks that were assembled on the two bridges, the population provided the labour force while the military provided security. All hands were thus put on deck for the effective realisation of the project. 

Talking to Mbengwi Online last Wednesday July 22nd from the 3 Corners Mbemi bridge, Mayor Ndangsa Kennedy said "Mbengwi is peaceful. That's why you see the population that's come out behind me to do this work. From my point of view, sincerely, the people are very happy reason why they've been very collaborative in the maintenance works. They want development, they don't like staying in hardship and they're also praying that the government does something so that schools resume in September because they've spent a lot in the francophone areas. Those who hadn't the means stayed at home with their children, some of whom have been pregnant, others forced to join these boys in the bushes  against their will"

First Car (NW311) to Cross Over the Bridges, 2 Years After

Bike Transporting Goods to Cattle Market

In 2018, gun battles  between government forces and non state armed groups fighting to restore the independence of "Ambazonia" erupted in Mbengwi. The group that launched multiple attacks against the military in the subdivision called itself Momo Marines. They made several failed attempts to destroy the Mbengwi Principal Prison and the Mbengwi Police Station plus attempted kidnaps of some top military and administrative officials.

Such battles often ended with deaths and injuries on both sides including civilians. Mile 20 was a hot spot. The entire Mile 19, Mile 20, Zem, Njinibi, Nyen, Kob, Njindom and Guneku were almost completely deserted in 2018 as people flee to the bushes and Bamenda after tracks and warning messages were circulated, calling on the population to leave for the days ahead will be bloody. The entire sub division was tensed. Trees were fallen across roads in all villages. There was no movement of cars in the whole Mbengwi central town and the suburbs.

Mbemi Bridge Before (Since 2018)

Zem Bridge Before (Since 2018)

The fighters also scattered bridges as a technique to prevent their enemy, the military from penetrating the villages to kill, burn, torture and arrest civilians. The bridges in Zem and Mbemi were scattered and tiny space left only for bikes and pedestrians to pass. And so for two years, this section of the road became a no go area for cars. 

The bridges are on a major highway that leads not only to the Tad market but also two other subdivions; Njikwa and Ngie. Before, vehicles going to or coming from these two sub divisions and from villages like Ngwokwong, Acha-Tugi, Tudig, Nyen, Kai, Zang Tabi, Njah-Etu etc had to must go round through Njindom before reaching Mbengwi central town. Because of the high traffic density, the road quickly became deplorable. From time to time, Mbengwi central town was consistently hit by a water crisis as heavy duty trucks kept trampling on the exposed main water supply pipes on the Njindom road, causing disconnection. 

Farmers Going to their Farms

Some Used to Cross in the River

Most of the young boys in the localities having the two renovated bridges depend on sand extraction from the rivers for income generation. For over two years now, they've not been able to sell their sand because tippers can't access the area. Thus, they've been undergoing untold hardship, unable to fend for their families. The reestablishment of the two broken bridges brings utmost joy to their hearts as they're now able to start selling their sand. 

It should be recalled that after his election in February, Mayor Ndangsa Kennedy was kidnapped by restoration forces and taken to their detention camp somewhere around Mbemi where he was kept incommunicado for a month and three days before being later released. During this period, fake news even went viral on social media that he has been killed. The government later on stationed a BIR (Batallion d'Intervention Rapid) camp in Nyen, a neighboring village to Mbemi and Guneku. These have been strongholds of separatist fighters. 

New Look Zem Bridge

New Look Mbemi Bridge

With the stationing of the BIRs here, reports say all the fighters in the area have disappeared. The population now mingles with these state security elements with ease as some villagers testified they've been very friendly towards them and have since their coming not shot any gun nor cause any havoc. "We feel more secured with the BIRs than Amba Boys" one villager in Guneku told Mbengwi Online. Amba Boys is a local appellation for non state armed groups fighting to restore the independence of Ambazonia, name they've given to the two English speaking regions of Cameroon.

About four months after, the mayor has gone back to the former "red zone" to repair the bridges on which his kidnappers carried him on their bike and passed, reason why he said "This is me in Mbemi, 3 corners, where they once kidnapped me and brought me to. So by this, I'm calling on all Mbengwi elites, all Meta sons and daughters in and out of the clan plus those abroad to please conquer fear and come back let's develop home, send our children to school and see that life returns to normal because there's nothing now again."

Combined Efforts

Lastly, he promised that work isn't going to end only on the Zem and Mbemi bridges but that he's taken note of the bridge in Njinibi, the one linking Njinebai to Njiningom in Guneku and others, disclosing that the council's activities shall not only end within Mbengwi central but penetrate to interior villages like Zang Tabi. "Our next target now is to see that Tad Market is cleared and traders return to their sheds so that economic activities bounce back full swing in the market" he ended.

Birthday: HOFNA Subordinates Hail Boss

Birthday: HOFNA Subordinates Hail Boss 

The relationship between bosses and their subordinates is often stiff in most institutions and this affects output negatively. Where the duo operate in conviviality, the results are often positive. The latter has been the case with staff, collaborators, past trainees and well wishers of Hope For the Needy Association, HOFNA CAMEROON as they recently celebrated the 35th anniversary of Christelle Bay Nfor Executive Director of the institution. 

Team HOFNA Cameroon

The virtual and physical celebration featured several birthday messages online and merriment events organised within and without the country to mark the 35th birthday of one who has been given an avalanche of descriptions. To many, she is a teacher, mentor, fighter for girls and women's rights, sister, mother, friend etc.

The celebrant, Christel,  was born on July 18, 1985 and has impacted the lives of many while working as the Executive Director of HOFNA CAMEROON, as a teacher and as a banker. Currently studying Peace and Conflict Resolution at Masters level in the UK, she has kept her commitment to fighting against Gender Based violence (GBV) with her organisation HOFNA CAMEROON through workshops and other activities.

She has also dedicated time and resources to engage in community sensitisation and prevention of COVID-19 during which hundreds of community leaders and internally displaced women and girls have been trained on rights issues and income generation acticities with accompanied startup material.

One of HOFNA's Realisations

This has given her the opportunity to reach out to thousands of women and girls in the conflict hit North West and South West Regions and other parts of Cameroon. Those she and her organisation have empowered now consider her a mentor they look up to.

These women and girls who have been part of HOFNA CAMEROON trainings shared their thoughts about the emblematic Executive Director of HOFNA CAMEROON with the Communication Service of the organisation.

Reacting to the multiple lovely birthday messages, she wrote "A beautiful surprise from HOFNA's communication led by BD's who got some women and girls I have had the opportunity to work with share their stories of the impact I had on their lives or leadership journey! I will be sharing these stories - they truly got me teary!!"

To what her 35th birthday means to her, She wrote; "As I turn 35 today, I am reminding myself of what a journey it has been. The hills have been many...for the times I could not climb, God Almighty made them level...sometimes, He just takes me off those rocky paths... for the seas hard to cross, He holds my hands... and in the dark of the night, He lights my path! God Almighty has remained faithful, writing straight on crooked lines. He has blessed me beyond measure, making fruitful the works of my hands and widening my territory - a family that supports and stands by me, friends who genuinely care...what more is there to life! This is to: a new day, a new Bay, Renewed Hope, Stronger desire for Service, Deeper enthusiasm, The presence, warmth and guidance of God Almighty.This is to more wins...to more love, to more fun, to good health!Thank you for being here. 35 sure looks great on me!!! I do see that!" 

She has expressed gratitude to everyone who made her day unique. Mbengwi Online selected some of the messages for you

Anticipated Tarring of Mile 19 - Njindom - Sang Road; A White Elephant Project?

Anticipated Tarring of Mile 19 - Njindom - Sang Road; A White Elephant Project?

According to information revealed by a staff from the Momo Divisional Delegation of Public Works, the stretch of road Mile 19 - Njindom - Sang in Mbengwi central subdivision should have been tarred since about two years ago everything being equal. Unfortunately, up till now, the lone progress so far made is that the contract has remained on paper since being signed and awarded way back in  2017. Could it be a white elephant project that will never come to fruition?

Mile 19 Hill

The disclosure of this pending multimillion road project was made during the 2nd quarterly meeting of the Momo Divisional Participatory Follow Up Committee for the evaluation of public investment projects that recently held on Thursday July 16 2020 in the conference hall of the Divisional Delegation of Labour and Social Security.

While chairing the meeting for her first time as president ever since being elected, Hon. Injoh Foo Ngang Prodencia, M.P for Momo East Constituency, Mbengwi called for fair and objective deliberations. "Momo division first, in terms of the development of this nation" she cautioned members. The lone full-fledged mayor present was Ndangsa Kennedy Akam of the Mbengwi council. That of Andek was represented by his first deputy while that of Batibo was represented by the Council Development Officer. Njikwa and Widikum councils were completely absent.

Hon. Injoh Foo Ngang Prodencia, M.P Momo East Constituency, President, Momo Divisional Follow-up Committee

In pursuit of the main discussions and deliberations of the last such meeting that held in April, all mayors were again called upon to execute concrete projects like culverts and bridges as from this 2021 financial year with the annual 27.7 million Francs from the public works ministry rather than opening up new roads that usually fold up not long afterwards.

Committee members also resolved to petition the Ministry of Social Affairs to reconsider the terms of reference of the annual 1.5 million it sends to councils to help the vulnerable population so that it becomes flexible for the councils to determine potential beneficiaries based on their local realities rather than compelling them to use the budget only for the purchase of white canes for the visually impaired every year. 

Sample of local solutions to local problems, villagers rebuilding bridge destroyed by fighters over two years ago

Other concerns that have been preoccupying members during every follow-up meeting with seemingly no progress made have been the deplorable state of the divisional finance building that is at the verge of collapse, the acute shortage of staff at some delegations mostly MINTP, MINEPAT and other services, the effective realisation of all projects below 5 million by councils, the usage of the local population in projects execution, the drawing up of environmental impact assessment plans during project studies and also establishment of a council development plan just to name these few. 

Hammering hard on the aspect of project execution, the meeting chair cautioned members that "With the challenges we have now in our community, there is the need to do concrete realisations that will convince the people that things are really changing" She went on to pinpoint that administration ought to be flexible not static, this in relation to committee members having the powers to be able to change certain dynamics in projects during execution based on local realities. 

Mayors and other expected personalities that have been absenting themselves from these follow-up meetings were called upon to sit up because their absence pulls the division backwards. Such calls have repeatedly been made at the end of such meetings yet little change often recorded as some councils have been noted for always boycotting. They were warned that they knew the reality on the ground before vying for office and so shouldn't use it as an excuse now.

Talking to Mbengwi Online at the close of the meeting, the committee's president, Hon. Injoh Foo Ngang Prodencia said "I'm very impressed with the turn out and the contributions made by participants especially as some contractors who were awarded contracts to tar roads since 2016 have been afraid to do so, reason why we resolved to encourage them to come to the ground because dispositions have been taken for local solutions to be sort for local problems." 

She went on to call on her constituents to cooperate so as to benefit because according to her, during the reconstruction meeting, that recently held in Bamenda, the minister, Paul Tasong made it clear that they'll skip over divisions where there are hostilities and focus on those that are subtle and welcoming. "At the end of the day, the constituents of our division will be the losers should normalcy not return" Foo Ngang pinpointed.

The town of Mbengwi has been in darkness for months now. Often, when electricity is supplied, it comes within the day and lasts just for few minutes during which Mile 18, the commercial centre of the municipality remains unconnected. Faced with this situation, economic operators in particular and the population in general have remained helpless. The issue came under review during the follow up meeting and in response, the M.P said "The problem is currently top on the table of H.E Minister Mbah Acha Rose of the Supreme State Audit who is a developer and bulldozer that takes priority of her people's wellbeing in Momo division especially the headquarters. In no distant time, it'll be looked into as she's given assurances of having gotten in touch with the competent service for a fixed solution"

2020 Projects for Andek Council

1. Construction of a block of 2 classrooms at G.S Angai
2. Supply of 60 benches and Head Teacher's table with two chairs at G.S Angai
3. Construction of Ajei Integrated Health Centre
4. Construction of 10 market hangars at Ajei Market
5. Construction of 10 market hangars at Teze Market
6. Purchase of working equipments (computers, chairs, tables etc) for the Andek municipal council 
7. Rehabilitation of Teze Water Scheme
8. Rehabilitation of Tonangai-Tinechung road
9. Equipment support for vulnerable population

2020 Projects for Batibo Council

1. Construction of a block of 2 classrooms at G.S Kon
2. Supply of 60 benches and 2 teacher's desk to G.S Kon
3. Construction of water phase 1 in Batibo urban
4. Construction of a box around the church, Ambo road
5. Construction of a bridge at Enaah-Enwen
6. Construction of a bridge at Kugwe market
7. Equipping of Kugwe Integrated Health Centre
8. Rehabilitation of Ambo water scheme
9. Rehabilitation of Guzang-Bessi-Ashong road
10. Equipment support for vulnerable population

2020 Projects for Mbengwi Council

1. Construction of a block of 2 classrooms at G.S Wumsom
2. Supply of 60 benches and 2 teacher's desk to G.S Wumsom (already executed)
3. Inclusive Education to GS Kobenyang
4. Rehabilitation and extension of Mbengwi municipal stadium
5. Purchase of chairs and sound system for the council (already executed)
6. Rural electrification of G.R.A - Bessi Fomukong
7. Rural electrification of Tuanyang - Njimetu
8. Fight against insalubrity, pollution and suisance / plastic waste
9. Construction of the centre of the motor park
10. Construction of a slaughter house with overhead rails
11. Rural electrification of Barakwe - Wumnebit - Chenam
12. Supporting of reforestation activities in local and regional authorities
13. Rehabilitation of Toboh-Hausa quarter road with the existing bridge
14. Support to Fonakwi integrated common initiative group
15. Support to Dynamic mixed farming group, Nyen
16. Support to Kai women's farming group
17. Equipment support for vulnerable population

2020 Projects for Njikwa Council

1. Construction of a block of 2 classrooms at G.S Amanka
2. Supply of 60 benches and Head teacher's table with two chairs to G.S Amanka
3. Construction and equipping of a snack bar, a lodging block, solar electrification and installation of internet facility at Oshie touristic centre
4. Construction of Banya integrated health centre
5. Supply of road maintenance tools to the community in Bakwa
6. Construction of 3 metallic culverts along the Kinda - Bako road and rehabilitation/pavement of the bad spot at the Njumukod hill
7. Construction of a bridge at Ibal-Konda
8. Supply of medical equipment to to Banya Integrated Health Centre
9. Construction of Kuttin gravity water supply scheme and rehabilitation and extension of the Soh water scheme
10. Rehabilitation of the road from Njikwa district to Nkun market and building of embankments, pavements and stone gutters at the mashy hill.
11. Rehabilitation of the Banya - Nfih bridge - Bako market stretch of road 
12. Equipment support for vulnerable population

*Widikum Council*

- Construction of a block of 2 classrooms at G.S Abedu

- Supply of 60 benches and Head Teacher's table with 2 chairs to G.S Abedu

- Rehabilitation of Diche 1 Palace

- Phase 2 of the giant water project in Widikum town

- Construction of a borehole in Ebendi

- Rehabilitation of the road Tanka (Njumba)  

- Equipment support for vulnerable population

NB: These aren't all the projects. Some are to be executed at the level of divisional delegations not councils.

Birthday: Young Princess Sacrifices Her Penny for Old People

Birthday: Young Princess Sacrifices Her Penny for Old People

Contrary to the trending fashion of throwing lavish birthday parties in clubs or homes, young princess Vashti of the Mbengwi palace, in her mid 20s has commemorated her "+1" this year 2020 by sacrificing her penny for the elderly.

63 year old visually impaired Pa Nji Munya  was among the beneficiaries. He lives in isolation in a border locality between Bafut and Mbengwi known as Chaa. To procure basic needs like soap, maggi, salt, he has to trek for about 3 hours. To him, the princess offered some of such items like groundnut oil, rice, fish etc. 

Mami Rose Eni Angwah of Wumtiteh Quarter, Mbengwi Village Thanking the Princess For Her Gift

In appreciation, Pa Nji Munya poured some libations for the princess. "If Akureuh (the princess), thought of me, then I'll say the God of Njokom (traditional leader of Mbengwi), the God of Atanga and the God of Bahkyeng (both past traditional leaders) should wash her eyes clean. I   never even knew she knows me. As she's thought of me and sent me things to come meet me right here at my place, this drink in my cup from her, I hereby pour on the ground, wishing her good luck. Let her grow fat in everything especially money. Let her never lack. What ever she desires God will provide."

In Wumtaw quarter, Mbengwi village, there lives an aged man by name Sam Ndawah. Sick for many years now, Pa Ndawah hardly moves out of the confines of his house. With no money for hospital consultation, he relies solely on traditional medication for his health complications. He too received basic food items. Full of joy, he said "Well, I really wish to sincerely thank her for this my gift. I only wish God grants me healing mercies so that I get well and also send her something for her upkeep."

Pa Sam Ndawah, Beneficiary

Visually Impaired Pa Nji Munya of Chaa Admiring His Package 

ami Rose Eni Angwah of Wumtiteh quarter is estimated to be a nonagenarian with a hard in hearing impairment. Upon receiving her own package, while clapping her hands, she sent a message to the princess that "I give a very big thank you to her because I could never imagine such goodies will still come to meet me alive considering that I've been seriously sick and had almost died"

Amongst the elderly persons assisted, the case of Pa Isaiah Techabeuh Asombang of Mile 20 was very precarious. Born in 1954, Pa Asombang popularly known as "Papajo" lives few metres away from the Mbengwi palace in a deserted and bushy stone house all alone. He's at risk of being beaten by a snake or falling down as the footpath to his compound is very slippery with a hole over which he has to jump when going out or coming in. 

Pa Asombang alias Papajo Cooking Rice

In the yesteryears, he had worked as messenger at the Momo Senior Divisional Officer's Office when he was still strong. Today, it's his 25.000Frs monthly pension that's sustaining him. Though with over five children, all of whom had long travelled to urban towns for greener pastures, Papajo has seemingly been abandoned to himself. When Mbengwi Online came across his inhumane living conditions, a distress call for assistance was made on Facebook and few items like kitchen utensils, solar lamp etc were made available for him by a couple of well wishers. 

Before the cry for help, princess Vashti had sent some food stuffs to Pa Asombang who was overwhelmed with joy and couldn't hide his emotions. He said "I thank her so much for remembering me that I'm still alive as God has extended my life. I'm very happy for these things that she's given. I pray she stays strong and God guides her to one day come back home and still meet us."

Items Offered to Pa Asombang By Two Well Wishers: Ngu Derick of Barakwe & Nji Cyprian of Sang After Mbengwi Online's Distress Call

orn on July 27 1995, Njokom Vashti, currently studying on scholarship at Global Labour University in Germany is one of the last daughters of His Royal Highness, Fon Njokom Thaddeus of Mbengwi  who unfortunately travelled to his ancestors some years back. Her elder brother, Njokom Adino Awah succeeded their father and is currently the Fon of Mbengwi.  

Princess Vashti has continued to give a human touch to her birthday. Every year, to celebrate the day she first breath oxygen on planet earth, she usually reaches out to the needy from her meagre pocket allowance. Last year, before travelling abroad for further studies, she visited kids at an orphanage in Buea with a donation too. 

Young Princess Njokom Vashti of the Mbengwi Palace

She told Mbengwi Online she has passion for humanitarian works and each time she has an opportunity to put at least a smile on the face of someone in need, she doesn't let it pass by because it in turn makes her happy. So far, she's had no support in her endeavours but has vowed to always reach out to humanity especially back home every year, even if it's just about offering a glass of water to someone thirsty. 

To her, the quantity she has to offer doesn't matter but hopes her friends, relatives, friends, well wishers and loved ones will see need to either support her subsequent initiatives or also engage into such a practice of carrying out little humanitarian gestures.

In the Past, the Princess Celebrated her Birthday with Orphans

My Trip to Chaa (Encounter with visually impaired man that does farming, fishing, hunting, taps palm wine, harvests palm nuts etc)

My Trip to Chaa

(Encounter with visually impaired man that does farming, fishing, hunting, taps palm wine, harvests palm nuts etc)

Chaa is a border locality between the Meta people in Mbengwi, Momo division and the Bafut people in Mezam, North West Region of Cameroon. Located about some 2km down the famous Saint Joseph's Catholic Comprehensive College, Mbengwi, Chaa is purely a farming area with just a single resident, 57 year old Pa Nji Munya.

Pa Nji Munya's House in Chaa. Where His Parents Lived, Gave Birth to Him. Today He's Built His Own House Not Far From This One But Yet To Transfer Into It

It was on Monday June 29th 2020 that I embarked on a trip to Chaa to discover the area. I was guided by a friend, Tita Macleeve who's been visiting Pa Nji Munya quite often. Before the advent of the ongoing Anglophone Crisis, Pa Nji Munya was a fervent listener to Rainbow Radio, Mbengwi were I work and a regular contributor on a cultural program I used to host, known as Empty Basket (Fiti'i Zobu).

So, I had known Pa Nji Munya for years but not where he lives. I recall he used to leave from Chaa, guided by his son and trek to the studio just to play his guitar and go back. One of his records is still present in Rainbow Radio's studio computer and is being played from time to time.

Crossing The Dangling Bamboo Bridge Over River Mezam To Chaa. River Mezam Is Mixed With River Abbi

My trip to Chaa took me close to two hours of trekking on rocky and slippery footpaths, through while grass, climbing hills, descending valleys almost in isolation. Being a ghost town day, just few persons dare went to their farms. My first point of attraction was the dangling bamboo bridge hanging over River Mezam. If one isn't courageous, he/she won't dare step foot on the bridge. Being adventurous, I didn't only end at crossing the bridge but sat on it taking pictures. 

My guide, Macleeve told me the bridge was built by the people of Mbengwi many years back and it's through it that farmers have been transporting their produce. Having crossed the iconic bamboo bridge, we kept trekking through marshy raffia bushes and finally, empty sachets of whisky littered on the way was first indication that humans live around. 

My Guide, Tita Macleeve Leading Me Through Wild Weed To Chaa

Then we arrived. If I were alone, I would've been suspected but being with my guide, a familiar face in the compound, the two able boys we first saw felt relieved though from their piercing looks at us, I felt like being scanned. Pa Nji Munya was indoors and was quick to identify my voice. In a shocking tone, he called me "Euchwiyeuh" (meaning Teacher), one of the nicknames I bore on radio and I answered. 

Pa Nji Munya lives here with his family in an ancient looking thatched house. They are the only ones here. Their closest neighbours are metres away in Bafut. One peculiarity about him and his family is that all of them speak Bafut and Meta very well. Most of his children bear both Bafut and Meta names. Pa is Meta, his wife is Bafut.

Finally Arrived. Offering Gifts to Pa Nji Munya

I offered Pa some gifts I came along with and he felt them, removed the wine then gave the rest to his daughter to go keep at a secret corner in his room. Then he ordered for cups and we started sipping and chatting. I first wanted to know how he found himself in such an isolated area and in response he said, it's where he was delivered, grew and buried his parents, so he too as successor can't quite the area. "I'll also like to be buried here" he told me. 

Pa Nji Munya has been visually impaired for over 20 years now. As to what caused the blindness, he said it was as a result of wrongful manipulation of a gun. "I've been a hunter. There was a time gun powder exploded and entered my eyes. Bit by bit I started developing sight issues and at the end, the hospital couldn't restore my sight" he narrated.

Pa Nji Munya Offering Us Some Good Music From His Guitar

Talking about the origin of Chaa, Pa Nji Munya told me the land was previously occupied by the Bafuts and the Mankons. In his narration, he said his father was a soldier and upon retirement, he told his dad, one of the chiefs that had ruled Mbengwi that he's foreseeing shortage of land in the village as the population expands. Therefore, he should be permitted to cross over and fight the Bafuts and Mankons from Chaa so as to secure the land for farming and settlement in years to come. 

He was permitted and he had to swim across River Mezam, engaged the Bafut and Mankon inhabitants on the land in a fight, chased them away and constructed there. The administration later came and demarcated the borders between Momo and Mezam by planting boundary pillars. Today, Pa Nji Munya seems to be one of the very few persons that know where theses pillars were planted. Ok

Trying My Luck

He affirmed that the Bafuts have four pillars separating them with the Metas and Mankon has 7 pillars. He knows where these pillars are. In our discussion, he told me he's been recently contacted by the fon of Bafut to go and show him these boundary pillars. Quizzed on his daily life, he said "I clear my farms, prone my palm trees, harvest ripe nuts, tap my raffia palms, hunt, fish etc." All these he identifies by feeling with his hands. 

In addition, he practices African traditional medicine including suit saying. Pa loves playing his guitar. I had time to play some records with him before returning. I took about two hours to get to his house in Chaa. Interestingly, it's shorter to purchase basic items in Mbengwi than Bafut. Imagine one traveling for over 2km just to go and buy maggi, salt, soap etc. 

Pa's Fowls

Pa's Cats

Pa needs these in bulk and any assistance will be highly welcomed. I can be contacted for any intended assistance to Pa Nji Munya.

Mbengwi: Minister Oils Orphans, Inmates Lips

Mbengwi: Minister Oils Orphans, Inmates Lips

Within the context of the ongoing Anglophone crisis killing lives and weakening the socioeconomic strengths of the NW/SW regions of Cameroon coupled with the recent outbreak of the COVID-19 global pandemic, the population has been suffering. Amongst them, the situation of orphans, inmates, persons with special abilities and the underprivileged has been worst. Quite often, humanitarian response programs rarely target such vulnerable persons. 

Palm Oil Donated to Beneficiaries

A glimpse of care and concern has however been shown to inmates of the Mbengwi Principal Prison, PWDs of the Christaldelphian School for the Blind and Physically Handicapped, House of Hope Orphanage, A Better World Children's Home and Global Frontiers Orphanage, all in Mbengwi Central Subdivision. The hand of fellowship was stretched out to the beneficiaries by Cameroon's Minister Delegate at the Presidency in Charge  of Supreme State Audit, Mbah Acha Rose née Fomundam. 

The distribution exercise took place, Thursday July 2nd 2020 at the Momo Senior Divisional Officer's Office. In welcoming attendees at the event ground, Ndangsa Kennedy Akam, Mayor of the Mbengwi Council appreciated the donor wishing God replenishes her source a thousand folds so that she continues to extend her largesse to other beneficiaries. 

Beneficiaries, Items, Donor's Representative, Administration

The donor was represented by Hon. Injoh Foo Ngang Prodencia, Member of Parliament (M.P) for Momo East Constituency. As to why the minister decided to reach out to the targeted beneficiaries, the M.P said "As a daughter of the soil, mother of the division and as a philanthropist, she (the minister) thought that it's but very important for her to take care of her population especially the less privileged."

She went on to say "The minister has observed that COVID-19 has brought untold hardship to the population especially the underprivileged ones that are dependent." The items donated included bags of rice and salt, cartons of maggi and soap, tins of palm oil, face masks and tap buckets. Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Tende Clara from the House of Hope Orphanage said, "We wish to say thank you to Her Excellency Mbah Acha for her kind gesture over us. In fact, we lack words to express  our gratitude to you. We are very happy to celebrate this special day with you and we pray that you will live long to see your children's children, you'll live long to make your generation proud of you. As you have given to us, may God increase your life and bless you in Jesus' name."

Hon. Injoh Foo Ngang Prodencia, M.P, Momo East, Personal Representative of Minister Mbah Acha

Ndangsa Kennedy Akam, Mayor, Mbengwi Council

Mr. Kobi Stanley Tayong is the interim Superintendent of the Mbengwi Principal Prison. As to the measures put in place within the confines of the cells to prevent the inmates from contracting the disease, he said hierarchy had released on bail some inmates who were awaiting trial and that physical distancing is strictly respected within the two blocks in the prison. As a beneficiary, he went on to appreciate the donor, promising her that the items will be judiciously used.

The event was greased by a lamentation song from the kids of A Better World Children's Home in which they decried the ongoing killings, burning of homes and injustice calling on God to have mercy and safe their land. The Samba dance group of Mbengwi and another suspicious one referred to as "CPDM Dance Group" also animated the ceremony.

Kobbi Stanley Tayong, Interim Superintendent, Mbengwi Principal Prison

Kids of A Better World Children's Home Singing a Lamentation Song

Opinion

The decision by the minister to donate amongst other items, palm oil to the beneficiaries is laudable. Momo division is one of the leading divisions that produces palm oil in the North West region. By buying palm oil, the local producers gain and the local population consumes their own products. Distribution of imported vegetable oil isn't a good idea. Donors should go in for palm oil, Ndop rice or any other grown in Cameroon, plantains, Irish potatoes, garri, nkum-nkum, yams, cocoyams and other home grown foodstuffs. By so doing, the economy will boom more 

CPDM Dance Group

Samba Dance Group, Mbengwi