Residents of Bum in Fonfuka, Boyo Division in the North West Region of Cameroon have long struggled with the absence of a local mortuary. For decades, bereaved families were forced to endure arduous journeys to neighbouring municipalities such as Nkambe to preserve or retrieve the remains of loved ones, often at significant financial and emotional cost.
This hardship is now a thing of the past following the official inauguration of Bum’s first-ever modern mortuary on 19 May 2025 constructed with support from the North West Regional Assembly.
The facility, located at the Bum Medicalised Health Centre established in 1986 complements existing infrastructure including a theatre and laboratory.
Speaking during the ceremony, Mayor Gwe Philip described the facility as a major relief. He noted that the community had faced "constant embarrassment", including instances where families had to return empty coffins from Nkambe due to unpaid bills.
"That history is behind us. Even if families do not have the money immediately, we can work with them through undertakings. No one will be turned away again,” the Mayor assured.
Senator Wanlo John, visibly emotional, acknowledged the long-standing need for the facility.
“As a political leader in Bum, I am truly grateful. My people have suffered without a mortuary. Just last year, I had to transport my late mother's remains from Fonfuka to Nkambe and back. It was an ordeal,” he recounted.
The President of the Bum Development Union (BDU), Mr Konchi, welcomed the initiative and pledged to sensitise the population on appropriate and respectful use of the mortuary. He also reminded the community that the traditional method of corpse preservation had been officially banned by the Subdivisional Officer.
Traditional leaders, including the Fons of Bum and Mbuk, dismissed superstitions suggesting that the presence of a mortuary could increase mortality. They urged the population not to neglect the sick simply because a facility now exists to preserve the dead.
Subdivisional Officer Tumasang Walters described the mortuary as a public good and called on residents to use it responsibly.
“Health is rooted in compassion. When treatment is no longer possible, proper preservation and burial are essential. This facility allows families to plan dignified funerals instead of rushing to bury their dead,” he said.
He also urged the community to maintain the facility’s hygiene and functionality.
According to Kimbi George, a prominent son of the area, the mortuary currently has capacity for six corpses, with plans to expand to over 25 once all refrigeration units are installed. Notably, the facility is powered by advanced solar-generated electricity, ensuring uninterrupted service in an area often affected by power shortages.
The inauguration is a major improvement in Bum’s healthcare development, offering residents a dignified alternative for the preservation of deceased loved ones, and symbolising the tangible benefits of decentralised governance.
By Nji Ignatius in Bum
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