As Prime Minister Chief Dr Joseph Dion Ngute prepares to return to Bamenda this early July 2025, for the 7th Session of the Steering Committee of the Presidential Plan for the Reconstruction and Development of the North West and South West Regions (PPRD-NW/SW), it is worth reflecting on the concrete changes that have taken place in the region since his last visit in October 2021.
At that time, the North West was grappling with deep insecurity and widespread disruption of basic services. Today, although challenges remain, a number of projects have been completed or advanced under the PPRD framework, bringing much-needed relief and hope to many.
Away from the Bamenda-Babadjo road which is nearing completion, one of the most visible areas of progress is education. Several schools have been constructed or rehabilitated and reopened. These include the Catholic Primary and Nursery School in Ngomgham, SATEC Alakuma Mankon, and the Cameroon Baptist Convention (CBC) School Complex in Nkwen.
Additional government schools across the region in Babungo, BU, Mbaccha, Agulli, and Bangwe as well as the Islamic Nursery and Primary School in Old Town Bamenda, have similarly benefitted from reconstruction efforts. These projects have restored access to education for thousands of children who had been out of school for extended periods.
Water supply and sanitation have also seen improvement. Solar-powered water points have been installed in rural communities such as Ndu and Kakar, providing safe and reliable access to clean water. These developments are vital in reducing waterborne diseases and improving daily living conditions for residents.
Healthcare services have been strengthened with the provision of medical equipment to the Primary Health Centre in Mankon. Multifunctional centres for women and youth have been established in Jakiri and Santa, offering social support, vocational training, and spaces for community engagement.
In the economic sphere, reconstruction of Weh Market has revitalised one of the region’s key commercial hubs. Additionally, 40 market stores have been built in Baligansin, enabling traders to restart their businesses in a more secure environment.
These market projects have helped to stimulate local trade and restore livelihoods for many who lost income during periods of instability.
While the North West continues to face security challenges and the road to full recovery remains long, the progress achieved since Prime Minister Dion Ngute’s last visit demonstrates a commitment to rebuilding the region’s social and economic fabric.
As the Prime Minister returns to Bamenda, the ongoing projects stand as indicators to what has been accomplished and the potential for further positive change under the PPRD-NW/SW framework.
By Hilltopvoices Newsroom
Email: hilltopvoicesnewspaper@gmail.com
Tel: 6 94 71 85 77