His Excellency Chief Dr Joseph Dion Ngute, Prime Minister and Head of Government, is scheduled to make his third official journey to Bamenda this first week of July 2025. The visit coincides with 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).
Amid persistent insecurity and armed conflict in the Anglophone regions, this visit is widely seen as an act of political bravery and commitment. Since taking office in 2019, Prime Minister Dion Ngute’s engagements in Bamenda have been frequent compared to other top-level state authorities, symbolising his government's determination to repair fractured trust and revive the region.
The Prime Minister’s last visit to Bamenda, in October 2021, was a watershed moment. Speaking in Bamenda, he made firm pledges to rebuild the region’s infrastructure and restore confidence among the populace. One key result has been the near completion of the Bamenda-Babadjo road, a vital link that is easing transportation and expected to boost economic activity in the city.
Reports emerging from reliable sources indicate that this upcoming visit could see Prime Minister Dion Ngute laying the foundation stone for a new series of intra-urban roads within Bamenda. The plan reportedly includes secured government funding and provisions for compensation to property owners affected by the construction.
This would mark an escalation in reconstruction efforts, shifting from promises to tangible action. Intra-urban roads are critical for a sprawling city like Bamenda, improving mobility and stimulating economic activities by linking markets, residential areas, and service centres.
These developments could also enhance security logistics and reassure residents that reconstruction and normalisation efforts are progressing despite ongoing conflict.
Visiting Bamenda under current circumstances involves considerable risks due to the volatile security situation. The Prime Minister’s willingness to travel to the heart of the Anglophone crisis sends a powerful message of engagement and determination to the people.
While infrastructure alone cannot resolve deep political divisions, visible signs of progress play an indispensable role in restoring hope and encouraging dialogue.
As government officials, local leaders, civil society, religious authorities, development partners, and the media gather at the 7th PPRD-NW/SW Steering Committee session, all eyes will be on the Prime Minister’s announcements and directives.
Should the foundation stone be laid and intra-urban road projects commence swiftly, Bamenda stands poised to witness a ground-breaking period of rebuilding. For now, Prime Minister Dion Ngute’s third visit embodies a crucial intersection of political will, courageous leadership, and the pressing needs of a city yearning for renewal.