Bessi Fomukong Solar Electrification Project Abandoned

Bessi Fomukong Solar Electrification Project Abandoned

A multi-million solar electrification project in Bessi Fomukong that should've long been realised before now was long abandoned at the tail end of completion. This left the beneficiary population worried as to what becomes of the implanted solar plates and batteries. Since abandonment till date,  no information has filtered in concerning the future of the project. 

Bessi Fomukong is one of the villages that make up the Meta clan in Mbengwi central sub division. Located some 4km from the central town, the village was sometimes in the past earmarked for the construction of some faculties of the University of Bamenda. Some huge quantity of land was demarcated for that but it turned out to be a white elephant project.

Abandoned Solar Plant

In 2016, thanks to Sino-Cameroon relationship,  a contract to electrify the village through solar energy was awarded. Work started and was almost being completed but unfortunately,  workers later left the site  abandoning behind all what had already been implanted.

Mr. Tifuhangob Valentine is a notable in Bessi Fomukong. He worked hard to see the realisation of the solar electrification project of his village but is at moment disappointed with the abandonment. Speaking on behalf of the population,  he said "We the inhabitants of this village were very happy when we saw this project coming because we have been in darkness for a very long time. As it came, we contributed to do everything possible so that the thing should be realised. But at moment we don't know what is happening. We are appealing to the government or whosoever that they should at least look into our problem and finish the project."

Tifuhangop Valentine, Bessi Fomukong Notable

The project was abandoned in 2018 due to insecurity. Since the crisis started,  no gun battle has ever taken place in Bessi Fomukong. Instead,  it turned out to be a safe heaven as each time there were exchanges in Mbengwi central, many persons temporally relocated to Bessi for safety. However restoration forces on several occasions stormed the village,  falling down trees across the lone motorabel road entering the village to block any military penetration. The atmosphere was so tensed. It was during this period that workers at the solar plant had to abandon the project.

Mr. Tifuhangob Valentine  however assured those concerned with the project that Bessi is safe,  that the little skirmishes were short-lived and since then till date,  no incidence has been reported within the village.

With the failure in realising this giant project,  the villagers have continued to depend on kerosene lamps and ancient lighting systems at night. They are also uninformed on why the workers left and if they're still to be back. They don't even know where to go and ask.