Mbengwi Council Counts its Blessings, Names them One by One

Mbengwi Council Counts its Blessings, Names them One by One

The mayor of the Mbengwi Council, Ndangsa Kennedy Akam on behalf of the councillors, the executive and workers has been counting the blessings of the Mbengwi council and naming them one by one since effectively assuming office in April 2020. This was during a session held in the council hall on Wednesday March 31st 2021 for the adoption of the 2020 management and administrative account of the council. 

Recounting the success story so far recorded,  Ndangsa Kennedy in his welcome speech cited projects already realised under his mandate such as the rehabilitation of the municipal grandstand, electrification of Tuanyang, Njimetu, Barakwe, Wumnebit and Chenam villages, construction of a park centre and an agric post, construction of a slaughter house in Njaah, organisation of two group marriage ceremonies where more than 80 couples were empowered with marriage certificates just to name these few.  

Councillors in Session

However, as he noted, it's not been a bed of roses as challenges like the persistence of the ongoing armed conflict, the outbreak and prevalence of COVID-19, rural urban migration amongst others posed serious setbacks for the council to smoothly realise its plans. These limited social and commercial activities that could generate local revenue for the council coupled with warnings and threats of life on council authorities and workers alike. 

Prior to the commencement of the session, the Brigade Commander of the Mbengwi Gendarmerie Post, Tchengang Theophile stepped into the hall and went round checking under tables and chairs especially those on stage reserved for the highest authorities of the division and subdivision to ensure their safety. 

It was at 11:33am that the Momo Senior Divisional Officer, Fouda Etaba Bernoit Nicaise accompanied by his État Major stepped into the hall for the commencement of the session that was coordinated by Ndokonyi Musa, the Secretary General of the Mbengwi Council. From the roll call, 19 out of the 25 expected councillors were present thus establishing more than the quorum that's legally binding for the session to proceed.

Newly Tarred Road, Checkpoint to S.D.O's Office 

Edge Construction Company Executing a Road Contract in Mbengwi

Minutes of the previous session will then be read after which they were amended and adopted thus giving room for a question and answer session during which the councillors sort to know from the mayor the distance he's covered so far in executing the task that was assigned to him after the last session in terms of projects realisation. The council S.G from time to time stepped in during the exchange to respond to some of the technical questions that require his technical expertise while the mayor too responded to those within his reach.

The Mbengwi Council management and administrative account session was a forum for various committees to present their reports. The natural resources committee for example thanked the mayor for encouraging farmers to form Common Initiative Groups but pleaded he reaches out to them so as to improve on their produce. They also proposed that the council should step in to regulate the exploitation of calabar chalk (in Bessi Fomukong), organise an agro pastoral show, train poultry and animal farmers. 

The embellishment committee on its part also thanked the mayor for improving on street lighting of the municipality, the commencement of renovation of monuments in Mbengwi, the construction of a roundabout around GBPS Mbengwi and the creation of some greeneries. The committee members went furthermore in their report to acknowledge the constant removal of garbage around the Mbon park and market by the council that bought a mini truck named COVID-19 Mobile Dustbin purposely for the exercise of carrying away dirt on daily basis. 

Pioneer Roundabout in the Municipality, Constructed around GBPS Mbengwi

As proposals, they called on the council to grade and extend the mortuary entrance, architecturally design major road junctions like Checkpoint, Pa Kwati, Mile 19 and Njembeng and install solar street lights there, fence the council building and the toilet behind the grandstand, plant beautiful flowers around the council for beauty and snapshots during weddings, plant a big welcome/goodbye sign board at Ngyen-Mbo where Mbengwi shares boundary with Mezam, same as at the border between Mbengwi and Njikwa, Mbengwi and Ngie, Mbengwi and Batibo (at Mile 71).

These suggestions and those from other committees were noted down for subsequent implementation based on the scale of preference and available financial means. A couple of councillors quizzed the mayor on why work is going at snail pace on the stretch of road Checkpoint to Pa Kwati junction to Africa Petroleum. It was during deliberations on this subject that it was revealed that the North West regional delegate of Housing and Urban Development is the contractor. The problem as explained by the mayor stemmed from the fact that the credit card for the contract awarded since 2019 had been returned to the central treasury in Yaounde due to delays in commencing the work. 

As such the contractor is reluctant to use his personal money in executing the contract considering that it's not certain whether or not the said credit card will be retrieved. However at moment, work is timidly progressing on the said road that should've been completed by now if not of these administrative bottle necks. It's a road that's expected to look like that of Fish Pond Hill or Food Market in Bamenda as pavement bricks shall be mounted on it.

Mobile Garbage Van, An Initiative by the Council to Keep the Municipality Clean

Another road project that came under scrutiny was the stretch from Checkpoint to the S.D.O's Office that's been tarred already. While some inhabitants have been castigating Edge Construction Company for poor work done, to the mayor, it's superb. He  announced plans to also tar the stretch from Njembeng Church junction through Muswe to Mile 19, the holding of an agro pastoral show, the construction of an ultra modern sports complex in Mbengwi and the transformation of the sideways of the stretch of road from the Mbengwi District Hospital to the council building into the commercial avenue of the municipality. 

Here, he said land shall be dished out to interested persons  at give away prices to erect market stalls there but before this, as advised by the S.D.O, the council will have to first of all consult the concerned technicians involved in the land sector, that is the ministry of land tenure.  

At the end of the deliberations, the Mbengwi Council Administrative account for the 2020 financial year stood at 684.744.646frs in revenue and 566.126.889frs in expenditure with a realisation rate of 82%. This success story according to the mayor was thanks to momo administration, forces of law and order, the minister of supreme state audit, councillors, workers and the technical staff of some partner ministries.

Ndangsa Kennedy Akam, Mayor, Mbengwi Council

In his closing remarks, the municipal boss presented some motions to the councillors for adoption amongst which was that the mortuary attendants be placed on a monthly risk allowance of 20.000Frs, that committee chairpersons and secretaries be placed on an extra allowance of 10.000 and 5.000Frs respectively, that the mayor be empowered to provide land to the Muslim community to erect a mosque in Mile 18 and for MECUDA Texas to build a modern orphanage, that councillor Tembe Daniel be dismissed according to the law for absenting from three consecutive council sessions etc.

He also pleaded with the SDO to use his powers to request for the reestablishment of the BIR camp in Nyen that had been closed down thus resulting to the return of Non State Armed Fighters known as Amba Boys who are reported to have resumed their I'll practices. According to the mayor, the population wants the BIRs to come back. The Mbengwi Council it should be noted is the first in the entire Momo Division to have held its administrative and management accounts session within the legally stipulated time frame.  

Another Meta Fon in Captivity - Where is the Fon of Wumnemburg?

Another Meta Fon in Captivity - Where is the Fon of Wumnemburg?

For your attention, sorry for the late update. Before you start reading, note that the fon regained his freedom same day this report was published. He's been seen in public going about his normal life. 

H.R.H Mbacham Enock has been in captivity for over 4 days now. He was picked up by persons locals refer to as Amba Boys last week. Prior to his abduction according to what we learnt, the fon had previously been seriously tortured by the boys. Days later, they came and took him away to an undisclosed location. Some local sources say they saw him being driven on a bike towards Bafut. 

In finding out what could have caused his abduction, many locals suspect some financial squabbles at the centre of his abduction. A contract to grade the road from Zang Tembeng to Fringyeng had been awarded. The fon is said to have had a major role to play in the execution of the contract. 

H.R.H Mbacham Enock, Abducted Fon of Wumnemburg Village, Meta Clan, Mbengwi

On Friday February 5th 2021, we met the fon on the field in Zang Tembeng supervising the work as the bulldozer was opening up the road. Executing such a mega project in such a remote area void of the military, many foresaw it wasn't going to be a smooth ride. Contrracts are hardly executed in areas infested with the boys without pre-financial negotiations as they often demand their own share of the contract budget before okaying the work. 

Later on, disruptions started. As our local sources confided in us, the boys started coming in different groups and the last set that came seemed to have been the most dreaded. These were the ones that tortured the fon and carried away the battery of the bulldozer. One informant told us they even set fire on the bulldozer but it was quickly put off by some helpless locals who pleaded with them not to go to this extent of burning such a mega machine worth hundreds of millions that was hired to execute the job by the contractor whom we learnt but yet to confirm that is an indigene of Oshie. 

Bulldozer the Fighters Almost Set Ablaze. It's Battery Was Carried Away. Work on the Zang Tembeng-Fringyeng Road has Stopped

Before this, the bulldozer had worked right to Tonmutor and all was certain it'll reach Fringyeng. But with these disruptions, insecurity and allegations we can't confirm that money has changed hands severally and workers have come under life threatening incidences, one thing is obvious, unless otherwise, the contract will be abandoned. 

Where a road passes they say development follows. What now becomes the fate of the enclaved people of Toueumbeng, Ngameungeuh and Fringyeng? Certainly more suffering. They are helpless in the face of these squabbles. 

Unfortunately the Wumnemburg Fon's abduction is seemingly a non event. Many don't even know it, those that know don't talk about it. There's been no official statement, press release or condemnation message demanding for his immediate release from neither any individual nor constituted group. 

This is How Villagers Suffer on the Bumpy Toueumbeng Road that was Being Graded But Has Unfortunately Been Abandoned Due to Security Threats

We note that this isn't the first time the fon is experiencing such since the Anglophone Crisis started. We learnt this should be about the 7th time he is facing the wrath of the boys. In December 2019, the spate of kidnapping Meta fons commenced  or probably heightened as the fon of Wumnemburg and his colleague of Mbemi were picked up and dragged to a detention camp where they were tortured for days before being later released. 

After this macabre act, the fon of Mbemi, H.R.H Mbabit absconded the throne and has since then been seeking refuge somewhere out of the village though he continues monitoring affairs back home and giving instructions to his subjects. That of Wumnemburg decided to stay put probably reason why from time to time he's been facing such humiliation. But is he the only fon left on the ground? Certainly no though at least 25 out of the 32 Fons that make up the Meta clan are not in their palaces. While some left the kitchen because of inability to continue bearing the heat, others are out because of work and simply come home from time to time for a brief stay.

It should be recalled in August 2020, the Meta Clan Head, H.R.H Teghenicha of Zang Tabi and the Fon of Ku Village  in the Bome valley of the Meta clan were also kidnapped by Non State Armed Fighters. Though the former was sooner released, the latter spent over a month in captivity and ever since his release thereafter, he's not been spotted anywhere in Mbengwi again. 

This is How the Zang-Tembeng Road was Already Looking Like Before the Disruption

During this period, the perpetrators faced condemnation. The Meta Fon's Union (MEFU) made public a release in which they said, "We the Fons of Meta, observe with regrets the recent spade of abduction and torture of two of ours. In the recent past the Fons of Kai, Njimetu, Bessi Fomukong, Ngwokwong,  Mbemi and Wumneburg had been taken, tortured and humiliated... To have touched a Fon is disrespectful. To have laid torture on a Fon is even abominable. We deplore these acts with the greatest indignation and call on the children keeping the Fon, who indeed are evidently of Meta stock, to unconditionally and without delay, release the Fon. We call on these persons to equally table an apology to the Meta people for having carried out such an abominable act. We call for calm from all the people of Meta and for them to stay strong in the light of these happening as we seek a redress to them."

Since then till date, we don't know if the perpetrators did actually table an apology letter to the fons for touching their colleagues. What we know is that barely over six months after, the Fon of Wumnemburg is again nowhere to be found. 

Despite the relatively calm atmosphere in Mbengwi, issues of insecurity have continued to occur underneath. The construction of some classrooms in G.S Wumsom has been stopped by the fighters who went and pushed down the already mounted walls, forcing it to be abandoned. Benches that were supposed to be supplied to the school have been dumped at the Momo Divisional Delegation of Basic Education. Certainly weevils will start eating them up. On Tuesday January 19 2021, precisely in the morning, an Improvised Explosive Device (I.E.D) was detonated in Mile 17 Mbengwi targeting a military truck but missed it. No casualties were recorded but for some arrests that were made and later released.

Government School Wumsom, One of the Oldest in the Subdivision Where Classrooms Can't be Constructed, Benches Can't be Supplied Because of Insecurity

On Sunday March 7 2021, another I.E.D was detonated at the Mbon park around 8:30pm. Reports say people were catching fun in the bars when the explosion sound was heard. Information gathered later say some guys came to a lady whose only name we got as Ngum selling roasted fish, bought some, then gave her a bag to hold while they go get other items from a nearby store and will then pass and collect it back when returning. She took the bag and kept it not far from her then continued her business. As the guys were leaving, they detonated the "bomb". Luckily, the lady sustained just minor injuries. She's continued her business and life has continued to go on in Mbengwi normally. 

On Sunday March 14, a guy whose only name we got as Nya-Nya (probably a nickname) was shot on the neck in Guneku. Reports say he was shot by separatist fighters. We don't yet have apt information as to why but at press time, he had been rushed to Bamenda from where he is receiving intensive medical attention. Before this, a couple of weeks back, we also learnt one guy from Zang Tabi by name Isaac was shot and killed in Kobenyang in what many term a set up. He's suspected to have been killed by the military according to our informants who unfortunately can't prove their claim.

Isaac, the Bike Rider/CYF Member from Zang Tabi that was Killed in Kobenyang, last week end of February. 

Mbon Motor Park, Mile 18 Mbengwi, the Economic Hub of the Subdivision on a Ghost Town Day

During the last gun battles that shutdown Bamenda, precisely on Wednesday March 10 2021, one civilian, a guy was killed. We've learnt he was a native of Njindom village. He was transported home and buried. These happenings and many more may be taken for the ordinary especially when one isn't on the ground. But in reality, life goes on lively on what some fondly refer to as Ground Zero and issues of insecurity are exceptional happenings which really do not longer frighten people. The common expression nowadays is "Anyhow way e dey" meaning whatever the case, life goes on.

When the Medig and Tondig zones of the Meta clan became red zones (Amba fief), the government established a BIR camp in Nyen to counter their activities. Several of the fighters were killed during during this period. A cordial civilo-miltary relationship was established. Locals felt comfortable with the presence of the BIRs. During the 2020 end of year festivities, we got reports of these men in uniform drinking and dancing in local popular joints with civilians. 

Abducted Fon of Wumnemburg (R), Once Abducted Fon of Mbemi (M) & Fon of Njindom (L) During a Road Supervision Project on Monday November 25 2019. These Tondig fons were already envisaging the Imminent Formation of a Joint Development Association like BADA that Covers the Whole of Bome

However the camp was closed during CHAN 2021 as the elements were redeployed to the South West region to beef up security. Immediately they left, the fighters that had gone into hiding resurfaced. Not long, atrocities are already being recorded. Many persons who refused to be named have on several occasions told us they want the BIRs to come back. 

While these insecurity challenges are being recorded, there seems to have been a silver lining in the dark cloud as one dreaded fighter that was known as Fielding or Tupac is said to have laid down his arms and submitted himself for disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration. No official statement has been made yet on his dropping of arms. Multiple sources in Njembeng quarter, Ku village that witnessed the scene authoritatively told us he's answered the call to leave the bushes and surrendered himself. He used to be feared in Njembeng, Bome and the entire subdivision as several failed attempts to gun him down had been reported in the past  from mouth to ear

"Sasasa'ah? Ngor-ngor-ngong!" - Couples Scramble for Free Marriage Certificates at the Mbengwi Council

"Sasasa'ah? Ngor-ngor-ngong!" - Couples Scramble for Free Marriage Certificates at the Mbengwi Council 

They were 45 in number according to a source at the council, drawn from within and without the municipality. They came in pairs, accompanied by witnesses, relatives and friends to legalise their union. Some had been living together for donkey years as couples without any official document, reason why both old and young couples took advantage of the free obtainment of marriage certificates to register for the legalisation of their union. 

Friday March 5th 2021 was an exceptional day in the life of the Mbengwi Council as the town (council) hall, beautifully decorated with national colours (green, red, yellow) was filled to maximum capacity. There wasn't any space left to swing a cat. The couples too were dressed in old and newly sewn dresses ("compley-compley/ashuabi"), costume that clearly depicted the state of the union. 

Family Photo After the Issuance of Marriage Certificates to the Couples

Addressing the excited couples before commencing the signing exercise, the mayor of the Mbengwi Council Ndangsa Kennedy Akam told them that the partner that made this dream come true, Inades Formation, has subsidised the total cost of the solemnisation. As such, he called on them to thereafter encourage their peers as ambassadors to follow suit because it's very important considering that there are still many others out there who are still living in illegality. 

Ndangsa also schooled the men and women, boys and girls on the process of obtaining birth certificates, clarifying that it's totally free within three months after the baby is delivered. Then he added  that however, Inades Formation also plans to subsidise the obtainment of birth and death certificates for those who have financial difficulties considering the poverty situation in Cameroon. 

Decor of the Hall with National Colours 

As the people's representative, the mayor confirmed he's aware of the fear some persons have in the suburbs as concerns coming to Mbengwi central town to obtain such legal certificates. He requested such persons to always call him or the Divisional Officer in case they fall in the hands of the military on their way to the council to come engage the process of obtaining such official documents. "The D.O here seated and myself are ready to intervene in the cases of people wanting to live life like complete Cameroonian citizens" were the mayor's words. Unfortunately, he didn't give any contact number. 

Lastly the mayor insisted that the couples must know that the document they shall obtain is not a whip to use on their spouse. Prior to these his last words, he schooled them on the importance of a marriage certificate and divorce. On the former, he said "Keep the document jealously. You're the first legal successor of your spouse in case of death only through a marriage certificate"

Ndangsa Kennedy Akam, Mayor, Mbengwi Council Officiating the Signing Exercise 

Then talking about the latter, divorce, he said "During my mandate, we pray to God that after this solemnisation, there should never be a couple seeking for divorce." Prior to this wish, he had counselled them on challenges in marriage and how to overcome such. "There's no home without problems" he insisted. "In case of any, come to the council to seek advice though the best option is for both of you to resolve it in your room" he ended.

After the mayor's address was a word from Madam Fonocho Regina, seating in for the Momo Divisional Delegate of Women Empowerment and the Family. She began by first congratulating the couples for the decision to solemnise their marriage. Then talking about her office, she said there, women are taught skills like how to make soap, vinegar, animal feed etc to empower them.

Denis & Deserine, Couple

George & Fallon, Couple

Mr. Claude Sango is the Project Manager of Inades Formation. He too just like the precious speakers was given the floor to say a word. He explained that the goal of the project they're executing is to increase the number of persons with civil statues documents (birth, death, marriage certificates). In appreciating the cordial collaboration the organisation enjoyed with the Mbengwi to execute the project, he said "We've approached many councils for this initiative but haven't had a breakthrough like was the case with the Mbengwi Council that accepted to remove the major cost of obtaining marriage certificates." He thanked the couples too for taking the courage and initiative to answer the solemnisation call.

Sakwe Jarvis Essapa, the Divisional Officer of Mbengwi while ending the speech making part of the program said he likes when people come together to recognise and identify themselves to be legally married. He described marriage as "The only school were certificates are awarded without any training session." To him, "The man is the head of the family but the wife is the boss of the house." As such, to avoid clashes, it's always good for each others opinion to be sorted before taking any decision. Talking from experience, he said"I've been in the business for 10 years and understand the advantages in it."

Muslim Couple

Harrow Yaya Abubakar

While preparing their minds especially those of the young couples, the administrative officer, speaking like a counselor said "The things that come with problems in marriage mostly stem from in-laws, family and finances." For this reason, he advised that credit should always be given to the other partner for every donation in the in-law's family. That is, if the man has something to give to his parents, it should be done through his wife. Let the wife take the credit and same applies if it's the woman also wanting to reach out to her family, such should be channeled through the husband. As such both will command more respect from their in-laws. 

Amongst all the couples, just one signed polygamy, joint property. Many were surprised to see a Muslim couple also show up for the signing. Both Harrow Yaya Abubakar and Amadou Ramatou Jallow went in for monogamy, joint property. Speaking to Mbengwi Online at the end of the legalisation process, Yaya Abubakar expressed joy.  Hear him, "I decided as such because I don't want disturbances in my life. In case of anything, the certificate will back us up." Asked if another woman comes now won't he accept? He said no, because Ramatou is okay for him, the way he wants. Lastly, he beckoned on his wife to take care of herself and not do anything outside without his knowledge. 

Couples, Witnesses, Relatives & Friends

The mass legalisation of marriages is a project to increase civil statues registration in the North West Region of Cameroon organised by Inades Formation Bamenda in collaboration with the Mbengwi Council, financed by Active Citizenship Strengthening Program (PROCIVIS). Normally, each couple spends roughly the sum of forty thousand francs to obtain a marriage certificate from the Mbengwi Council but through this project, obtainment was completely free of charge as Inades Formation bore the cost.  All certainly went well during the signing but we later learnt some of the couples that had been practicing "Kam We Stay" rushed for the certificates without first of all doing traditional marriage rites, allegations we can't independently confirm.

Mouth Watery Prizes Awarded to Laureates at Close of Mbengwi Talents Show

Mouth Watery Prizes Awarded to Laureates at Close of Mbengwi Talents Show 

Prizes

Several youths and aged persons in Mbengwi have been rewarded for possessing exceptional talents in singing, dancing, acting, sports, arts and craft. This was on Sunday February 21st 2021 at the close of a Talents Show competition that culminated to a Prize Award Ceremony organised by Mustardseed Group of Companies in partnership with the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Back Mbon (Toboh) quaters, Mbengwi. 

For at least two months, the show was initiated and the competition ensued, on weekly basis drawing up to a prize award ceremony during which those who emerged with exceptional talents were recognized with prizes ranging from farming tools like hoes and cutlasses, wrappers, t-shirts, scholarships, a hair dryer, an android phone, an internet modem, a satellite receiver, a set of wireless microphone,  a treadmill, kitchen utensils like pots, blenders, breakable plates, trophies just to name these few.

Some of the Prizes & Trophies

Saloon Woman Awarded a Brand New Hair Dryer

Abongwa Bertrand is the Chief Executive Officer of Mustardseed Group of Companies. Speaking to Mbengwi Online at the close of the event, he traced the origin of the initiative to his personal life experience. He said "The origin of it is that there are a lot of talented people not being given the right opportunities to showcase their talents and I was one of them. I struggled a lot knocking doors here and there and no one gave me confidence or a platform to do something until one or two persons finally gave me an opportunity, I started performing and things changed in my life."

It was this problem that inspired him to look for a solution via the Talents Show competition. Bertrand believes what was lacking was just a stage . Hear him, "I believe that if we create a platform on which other people can showcase their talent, it'll help them establish themselves to be great and as a result be able to help others."

Abongwa Bertrand, C.E.O, Mustardseed Group of Companies

Evaluating the various performances, the Mustardseed boss testified he was amazed with what he saw and in comparing with others, he said "You know, there are great comedians, great singers, great architects that make a lot of money that can not even do more than these people here in Mbengwi. So I believe that if they have a platform to showcase their talent, they can be great and imagine if ten people are great, like very great in the land, that will change a lot."

Being in its first edition, the Talents Show Prize Award Ceremony was solely organised by Mustardseed Group of Companies with support from the Redeemed Christian Church of God. The total amount of money spent in the realisation of the project was proceeds from the company and the C.E O's personal earnings.

Talking about his vision for the competition, Abongwa Bertrand told Mbengwi Online "The original vision is that this little thing that started as a mustard seed in Mbengwi is going to grow beyond Mbengwi and it's going to be the biggest talents show in this country" In addition, he indicated readiness to partner with other persons and institutions that will want to support the realisation of the second edition so that the vision comes to past because in his words, "One hand cannot tie a bundle"

As last words to the laureates and potential talent exhibitors, he said "I know we live in a crisis situation and it's very difficult raising money especially if you're trying to raise genuine money. So I'll call on them to pray for God to provide more so that we can organise another edition hopefully bigger because away from the prizes, it's a time of enjoyment, laughter, fellowship, it's really awesome."

Some groups that were outstanding in their performances during the show were Ground Breaking Praise (singing), Dynamic Dramatists (acting), The Fantastic Kids (dancing) and The Great Thinkers (debate). As a reward, the singers were promised that the company shall take full responsibility for the recording and releasing of a 10 tracks album for them and all the proceeds generated from sales shall be reaped by the group members while those of the drama group on their part were promised that a YouTube channel shall be established for them to gain more international exposure. 

Shu Sandrine Sirri emerged as overall best laureate. As such she was awarded the last prize, a brand new android phone. Expressing her joy to Mbengwi Online at the end of the ceremony, she said "In fact, I'm short of words. I want to thank Mustardseed for believing in this talent that's in me. I thank God for the inspiration because it's not really by my power. What ever script I write, He always inspired me. For this trophy, all the grace goes to Him and to Him alone" 

As to how her prize, a brand new Tecno android phone will be of benefit to her talent, she said "This prize will help showcase me to the world because through a YouTube channel, people shall get to know the things hidden in the Dynamic Dramatists." She added that the group is out to bring messages that change lives, destinies and put people on the right track.

As a message to other skillful youths out there still to expose their talents, the young dynamic Sandrine encouraged them not to let such gifts embedded into them by God to waste. "Whenever an opportunity arises, come out and showcase. I believe the same thing that God has done for me, he will equally do it for you" she ended. 

Very outstanding during the show was a little primary school boy by name Alpha. He exhibited two prototype storeyed buildings, a copter and a car, all made out of the inner fibrous part of raffia membrane. With the aid of a battery, his car moved and the helicopter's wings spun during exhibition to the amazement of the audience. The storeyed building had stair cases, balconies, pillars, a master's bedroom with a family bed inside, a parlour with a set of chairs inside and other interesting household equipment like fridge, flat screen TV etc. 

Interestingly, initially he wasn't earmarked to be an exhibitor yet he forced his way through, pleading on the organisers to give him a chance to showcase his talents. At the end of the day he was a awarded a one year scholarship to study in any school of his choice during the next academic year. About five other laureates also received same scholarship.  

The initiative by Mustardseed Group of Companies to organise a Talents Show comes barely a year after the company also organised a worker's award ceremony last year during which some outstanding workers of the company were awarded flat screen TVs, laptop, spades, loincloths etc. This was precisely in May 2020. Mustardseed Group of Companies with headquarters in Mbengwi deals in real estate, constructions, installations and a lot more.

#defyhatenow Did it in Douala for 5 Days

 #defyhatenow Did it in Douala for 5 Days

It was a week's stay in Cameroon's economic capital, Douala for the holding of varied workshops at varied venues with varied participants drawn from varied walks of life and regions of the country. It was one of the biggest commitments the hate speech mitigation organisation ever had.  

Ngala Desmond, Country Director of #defyhatenow for West and Central Africa spoke to the press at the close of the various workshops. He recapitulated  the activities carried out to Mbengwi Online. On Monday 15 and Tuesday 16 February a Design Sprint on Peace Builders Maker Spaces workshop was held, an initiative to bring people together to think and contribute ideas for a community led development program so as to have a real impact in transforming communities away from violence toward positive peace as these spaces offer educational opportunities, trainings, resources, events and community engagement in local activities. 

Kendi Gikunda from Kenya Presenting the Social Media Field Guide

Baiye Ebai Frida, a participant at the said workshop said "It was a defining moment for administrative authorities, hub managers, community based organizations, peace advocates and journalists to brainstorm on ideas and sharpen skills in promoting community voices towards peace building initiatives in ending the ongoing armed conflict in the two English speaking regions of Cameroon."

Away from that, as Desmond narrated, on Wednesday 17 February, the organisation held a stakeholders meeting with pastors, members of the civil society, journalists and human rights activists with the main goal of having their own views on what #defyhatenow is doing, especially as within the next eight months, the organisation should be ending its mandate as programmed with its various funders.

On Thursday and Friday, he continued, " Media for Peace and Africa Fact Checking Fellowship both took place simultaneously at different venues. 

Ngala Desmond, Country Director, #defyhatenow West & Central Africa

Hear him, "At the end of these two days, I'm certain of one thing, that the media can efficiently and effectively contribute to peace in Cameroon. As far as AFF is concerned, we've not only been looking at fact checking information but also how best information can be corrected on Wikipedia, an online open source of data contaminated  with fake news and misinformation which many take for gospel truth"

Then he added that from Douala, #defyhatenow shall in the days ahead be moving to Bamenda for an engagement with the civil society as well as community based organizations and later to Maroua for an engagement with IDPs to mitigate their sufferings from a #defyhatenow standpoint. 

In terms of evaluating the performance of the various media persons that have so far  been trained by the organisation within the past months, Desmond affirmed their expectations have been met because there's  been a change in the way they (media persons) now report the news especially in their choices of words as many now go more for the facts and don't stand on one position again.

Participants

However, he regretted that since old habits die har, there are still a few that have remained very reticent to change. "We are still seeing people we taught them one thing today and the very next day they're doing the opposite. This gives us the impression that there's much work still to be done. We still need to engage journalists in different capacities as the days go by. Until the right thing is done, we're not going to relent our efforts" This declaration he made before later giving his expectations from the trained journalists thus, "If there's anything more still to be expected from those who just ended this last training, it'll be that they don't go back and sleep thinking they were given the gospel truth during the various workshop lessons"

Lastly, he challenged them to challenge the organisation. "We are challenging them to move out of their comfort zones and go look for better information out there. Let peace reign in Cameroon at least from a journalistic perspective" he ended. 

During the various trainings, the Social Media Hate Speech Mitigation Field Guide was presented to participants by Kendi Gikunda of Kenyan nationality, a Training Manager at #defyhatenow. It is a pack containing Facilitators Notes, Discussion Cards, Posters, Snakes and Ladder Peace Game, USB Key, Sticky Notes and the Field Guide which itself is the main book. 

Eugene Nforngwa, Trainer

Speaking at the close of the various workshops, Eugene Nforngwa of the African Knowledge and Policy Centre, the main facilitator said "The goal has been to have a crop of journalists  in Cameroon who know that their work has an impact in society especially on conflicts. As we come to the end, we're confident that we now have a good number of journalists that can continue to contaminate their colleagues so that we have a large body of journalists who are conscious of the impact of their work in society." 

He went on to salute the professionalism og the participants. "When I hear the kinds of contributions, ideas that came from the journalists, the kinds of questions they asked, I am very confident that we have not wasted any time and now what we are watching is to see is how their reports will change" he ended.

Why Public Figures Must Take Responsibility for their Words and Actions

Why Public Figures Must Take Responsibility for their Words and Actions

"Public figures by virtue of their social statues enjoy a lot of power and influence. As such, they can't avoid taking responsibility for things they say and do. It's a price they have to pay." This was one of the lessons dished out to some members of the fourth estate by Eugene Nforngwa, main facilitator at a two day Media for Peace Mentorship workshop organised by #defyhatenow that held at Bano Hotel, Akwa, Douala from the 18-19 February 2021. 

On Wednesday January 6th 2021, an attack on the Momo S.D.O's convoy on its way back from official duties in the subdivisions of Njikwa and Andek leading to the death of some soldiers and a civilian, the Divisional Delegate of Communication made headline news in the local, national and international press. The Guardian Post Daily Newspaper Edition No. 2044 of Friday January 8 2021 carried as banner headline UN Peace Official Calls on Bakwerians to Quit NW, after the killing of the delegate.

Participants at #defyhatenow Organised #Media4Peace Workshop

He made this clarification after participants were tasked to debate on whether or not statements and actions of influential public figures can be separated from them as individuals and their offices. Considering the need to use practical examples for better understanding, the debate stemmed from some past stories  reported by the national press that sparked varied views on whether or not they should have been reported (the way they were reported).

We won't mention their names but rather share what they said. A reporter from The Median Newspaper sorted for clarification on whether the concerned made the statement as a UN peace official or as a Bakweri son? "We should at least separate people's social media outings from their office" he added. In response, a reporter from the said newspaper that carried the story defended that "If John, the pastor commits adultery on a week day, the news out there shall be pastor has committed adultery and not John has committed adultery"

Eugene Nforngwa, Facilitator

A read through the article presented the said official as Prof. Samuel Kale Ewusi of Peace Studies and International Relations, doubling as the Director of the Africa Regional Programme of the United Nations: University for Peace (UPEACE). By then when it was still fresh, journalists that have undergone trainings by #defyhatenow debated on the headline in some social media chat groups created by the organisation.

Lastly, The Guardian Post reporter came back to conclude that "The fundamental role of the media is to hold perpetrators of hate to account. Ignoring it wouldn't help the situation. It is obvious that after this public outburst,  Prof  Ewusi will hence choose his words wisely. At least that's the smallest thing expected from a man of his standing"

He pressed on with his justification that "Your private life should not be in sharp contrast with the goals of your employer." A claim corroborated by a radio station manager in Bamenda who cued in to say "A certain position of responsibility warrants that your actions and words are well chosen."

Coming back to the workshop, participants were clarified that bringing someone's personal credentials into a story is often to improve understanding. However, it should be avoided if it's irrelevant and or stigmatises the concerned. He also clarified that "Each time someone speaks to you as a journalist, they're granting an interview" this after after having schooled the attentive participants on how much error journalists can commit in their reports and how much harm such reports can cause.  

Projection of Sample Material 

To buttress this, he made it clear that each time a public figure speaks, he or she is doing so in official capacity. In terms of their actions, he affirmed that there's no private life in wrong doings. This accounts for why at times the media reports certain stories others think are people's private life. Such persons must thus always watch their actions and chew their words.

Again, both participants and facilitators also exchanged views on whether or not people have the right to say whatever they want to say. Here, the common agreement was that 'Yes'. However, it's not everything one says that the journalist should disseminate because the ethics of the profession, personal biases, laws, editorial policies, morality and  common sense demand that the journalist sieves information before spreading. 

Participants in Session

This explains why at times, what's news for "A" is a non event for "B".  For example, prior to October 1st 2017 after the September 22nd grand peaceful street protests across the entire two English speaking regions of Cameroon, South West governor, Bernard Okalia Bilai came under criticism for referring to anglophones as "Dogs". According to some online sources, in an interview aired by state media CRTV, the governor in addressing parents and anglophone elites living in other towns said “…Everyone should go to their family, village and catch their dogs. If dogs continue to take to the streets to bite, that is to destroy, they will meet with security forces,”

Using this as an example during the #defyhatenow organised Media for Peace Mentorship Workshop, it was explained that to an extent both interviewee and interviewer failed to be responsible. The governor could withdraw his statement there and then before the journalists went to press or even after for interviewees have the right to withdraw their statements. Since it wasn't a live interview, the journalists too had the yam and knife in deciding which part of the entire interview will be aired and which won't. 

Group Work

If they had considered their role in society of not being channels via which hate speech is propagated, of not adding fuel to flames in their reports, such a portion of the interview would've been  discarded.  But again, as earlier on mentioned,  because of biases, convictions, editorial policies etc, no principle is absolute in the media. 

Truly there's freedom of speech but note be taken that the quality of speech too matters. Nforngwa Eugene categorically made it clear that "In no circumstance is freedom of expression absolute, not even in the most democratic countries." With these lessons gained, the trained reporters are now supposed to publish exemplary reports that will depict the knowledge imparted into them by #defyhatenow

Amateur Robbery at Mbon Market, Budding Thieves Abandon Booty and Flee at Sight of Military

Amateur Robbery at Mbon Market, Budding Thieves Abandon Booty and Flee at Sight of Military

A foiled robbery incidence occurred at the Mbon main market, Mbengwi in the early hours of Sunday morning, February 21st 2021. Sensing danger, the two night watchmen at the market alerted some traders on phone then went into  hiding, switching off their own phones. 

The military was tipped and the brigade commander, Tchengang Theophile, popularly known in Mbengwi as Eto'o immediately took his boys to the market for intervention. Upon sensing their presence, the criminal(s) escaped leaving behind what had been stolen. 

Recovered Stolen Items Sampled for Identification and Collection

The Market Gate Via Which Bandits Often Pass. It Has to be Fortified

At least 5 sheds in the clothing line were broken into but not much carried away. The municipality was in darkness probably reason why the hoodlums took advantage of the darkness to go steal. They forced their way into some shops after having jumped over the gate and undid the staples while the locks remained hung on the hasps (check online about hasp and staple locks). 

When traders got up in the morning and got the news, they quickly rushed to the market to check about the wellbeing of their items. The municipality's mayor, Ndangsa Kennedy Akam also descended to the scene of action to ascertain the situation. The traders have expressed joy as their items were recovered, thanks to quick alert and prompt military intervention. The recovered items made up of shoes, bags, dresses and food items were sampled for identification and collection. 

Mayor Ndangsa Kennedy Akam (with pocketed hands) Exchanging With Traders 

Traders Identifying their Stolen But Recovered Items

Cases of banditry at the Mbon market aren't new. On January 6th 2021, the mayor held a meeting with hundreds of traders in the council hall to understand their plights and other issues related to their welfare. During the said meeting, the president of the Mbengwi Trader's Union, Mr. Anye Collins complained about lack of collaboration among the traders. To him, the executive once tasked the traders in the market to each contribute 200Frs to improve security by helping equip the night watchmen with torchlights, warm clothing and other tools but shockingly, they refused to contribute. 

This explains why during the recent incidence, the two elderly fathers had not even a torch and so for their own safety had to hide. After all life has no duplicate. The mayor told the traders he's taken note of the loopholes and has promised to fortify the three main gates into the market via which the bandits always pass by increasing their heights. He also assured the night watchmen that in the days ahead, sophisticated torchlights, the type used by the military shall be bought and given to them. 

Mbon Market Night Watchman Carrying Recovered Items

Mayor Ndangsa & Mr. Tangoh Humphrey, Momo DDSE Evaluating Damage Caused 

One of the Shed Burgled 

While these measures are to be put in place, the traders must be reminded of the need to be responsible. Many at times the blame is on the night watchmen and the council but when proposals are given for collective initiatives to improve on security in the market, they don't cooperate. They have been schooled severally that one can't be having goods worth hundreds of thousands or millions and can't spare few francs or thousands to secure them.

The traders voted their executive and so must empower it by collaborating for their own good without which such incidences may continue to occur and victims continue to bear losses. The council itself ought to go for night watchmen worth the salt, though a topic for another because the type of persons that guard institutions at night in Cameroon...

Parliamentary Outreach: Momo East Constituents Take their M.P to Task

Parliamentary Outreach: Momo East Constituents Take their M.P to Task

Questions about legitimacy are now things of the past as constituents of Momo East, Mbengwi now expect even more than Oliver Twist from their Member of Parliament, Hon. Injoh Foo Ngang Prodencia, elected during the most turbulent moment of the nation's political history, 2020.

Because the voting exercise was boycotted by most of the electorate though not willingly but due to security challenges, many thought constituents who never voted the parliamentarian will in turn expect nothing from her. Far from that. 

Momo East M.P Explaining to Beneficiaries Reasons for the Shortage

Consignment of Day Old Chicks

A recent activity carried out by the M.P to distribute poultry inputs to farmers in her constituency proved otherwise. It was on Saturday February 6th 2021 that hundreds of farmers gathered at the Mbon Motor Park with great expectations to carry home their own share of the package they had earlier on registered to benefit from. 

Unfortunately, the package was limited. In an earlier report published by Mbengwi Online, the M.P was quoted saying she shall be distributing five thousand (5.000) day old chicks to some selected Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), women, youths, farming groups and the vulnerable in her constituency. However, on the distribution day proper, only one thousand (1.000) chicks were available. As such, she was taken to task by mostly the women and youths that showed up with high ambitions.

Aerial View of Event Ground 

Handing Over 

The beneficiaries that had come from far and near didn't hide expressing their feelings of disappointment directly to their representative in parliament. For the first time they surrounded her demanding for explanations, a move some observers interpreted as clear prove that they recognise her and expect her to deliver the required results.

Hon. Injoh Foo Ngang Prodencia had actually earmarked distributing 5.000 day old chicks but unfortunately, as she explained, there was a disappointment at the level of the hatchery from where the chicks were to be bought. Due to limited supply, she could secure only one thousand. 

Beneficiaries

Arrival of D.O of Mbengwi, Representing S.D.O of Momo

These explanations were given to the highly inquisitive constituents who were assured that the promise made shall be strictly kept, meaning in the days ahead, the 4.000 remaining chicks shall still be distributed by the time the expected quantity is finally obtained from the hatchery. Since the ceremony had been announced for the 6th, there was virtually no way it could be postponed until the promised quantity is available, an explanation that was understood by the disgruntled beneficiaries. 

Speaking earlier on at the handing over ceremony, the Momo Divisional Delegate of Livestock, Fisheries and Animal Husbandry, Mr. Utagah Eric Tacho described Mbengwi as highly favourable for agricultural cultivation and livestock breeding considering that both crops and animals/birds do well in the subdivision.

Mbengwi Council Mayor & Momo Divisional Delegate of Livestock

In addition to the 1.000 vaccinated day old chicks donated, the fortunate beneficiaries also  received feeders, drinkers and feed. Many more await the day the remaining 4.000 shall be shared. Speaking to Mbengwi Online at the end of the exercise, the M.P said "My main concern is to see a strong, healthy and dynamic population socially and economically. Secondly, I'm interested to empower my people, to see them have surplus to sell, earn more and build better lives for themselves, their children, families and the society at large"

She went further to announce the imminent creation of an agricultural input store within her constituency that shall be put at the disposition of farmers to obtain farming tools, animal feed, seeds, fertilizers and chemicals at affordable prices. Away from agriculture, Hon. Injoh Foo Ngang Prodencia also announced that she has secured 15 full time scholarships from the National Employment Fund for youths of her constituency who wish to study Hospitality Management. Registration she disclosed is ongoing at the Mbengwi Council for those interested in grabbing the scholarship opportunity.

Publicity Banner of Event

Drinkers 

Fast spreading but yet to be confirmed rumours talk of the M.P having secured a multimillion grant from the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Civic Education for some youths of her municipality as startup capital to invest in businesses of their choice. All ears are still on the ground anxiously waiting for the materialisation of this big catch. 

Worthy of note is the fact that the Hon. Injoh Prodencia has constantly been braving security challenges to make her presence felt within her constituency, Mbengwi. The day old chicks donation ceremony was one of her first activities that brought her in close contact with the commoners as previously, almost all of her visits to Mbengwi were mostly administrative and official.

D.O of Mbengwi & M.P of Momo East Constituency

Her gesture was highly saluted by the beneficiaries, the mayor of the Mbengwi Council, Ndangsa Kennedy Akam and the Divisional Officer of Mbengwi Central Subdivision, Sakwe Jarvis Esapa seating in for the Momo Divisional Officer, Fouda Nicaise. The administrative officer described agriculture as thr backbone of Cameroon's economy. Hear him, "Agriculture in our nation is actually very important and can't be despised. You could be a government authority, an M.P, an S.D.O, a minister but there's one thing that's rest assured; all of us must eat and we must drink"

Sakwe Jarvis also encouraged other elites of Momo division in general and Mbengwi subdivision in particular to copy the good examples of the M.P and a few others that have repeatedly carried out similar donations back home and that when they do so, it should be publicised through the media so that people get to know.