In a stirring celebration of community, craftsmanship, and resilience, Kola Coffee, the flagship product of the North West Cooperative Association (NWCA) Ltd, has been awarded First Place Best Display at the Labour Fair 2025 for Food Transformation. The prestigious accolade, bestowed by the North West Regional Delegation of Labour and Social Security, adds another decisive achievement in the cooperative’s burgeoning journey toward agro-industrial prominence.
When Hilltopvoices met Waindim Timothy Ntam, General Manager of NWCA Ltd in his office, he held the gleaming trophy aloft his expression both humble and triumphant. In his remarks, he credited the cooperative’s remarkable achievement to the over 35,000 farmers who form the backbone of NWCA:
“This award belongs to every farmer who wakes before dawn to till the soil. I dedicate this honour to them. Thier perseverance is the strength behind every bean in the cups we drink.”
These words echo earlier sentiments from NWCA’s appearance at the North West Economic Forum, where Kola Coffee was also celebrated for its cultural and economic significance. As the Community Development Champion 2025, NWCA was lauded for its enduring contributions to rural development across the region .
Founded in 1950, NWCA has grown into a formidable cooperative force, producing and marketing Arabica coffee grown by tens of thousands throughout the North West Region . Under Timothy Ntam’s leadership, the cooperative has undergone a remarkable revival from near collapse to becoming one of Cameroon’s leading producers of Arabica, with Kola Coffee emerging not only as a beverage but a symbol of community empowerment .
At the Labour Fair stand, Kola Coffee’s display dazzled visitors: aromatic and elegantly packaged. The cooperative’s stand was meticulously curated with a visual and sensory narrative that encapsulated journey from farm to cup.
“This display doesn’t just show coffee; it tells the story of every farmer, every village, and every dream that goes into each harvest.” The GM remarked
Moreover, NWCA’s drive for innovation continues apace. In 2024, the cooperative introduced a dripping format for Kola Coffee, showcasing its technological progress and commitment to product excellence . It’s a refinement that indicates both modern sensibilities and traditional roots.
The recognition at the Labour Fair complements broader achievements. At the Economic Forum, Kola Coffee had already claimed centre stage serving as the official beverage. Distinguished guests, including the Governor of the North West Region and the Minister Delegate to External Relations, praised its rich aroma and quality. Waindim Timothy Ntam took that opportunity to reaffirm NWCA’s mission:
“We are not just exporting beans anymore. We are exporting identity. Every cup sold is a reaffirmation of local pride.”
This latest award further cements NWCA’s reputation as a leader in community-driven agribusiness. It highlights not only the cooperative’s commercial success but also its social footprint which is empowering farmers, creating livelihoods, and amplifying local voices across the coffee value chain.
Key Highlights
| Achievement | Details |
|---|---|
| Award | First Place — Best Display at Labour Fair 2025 for Food Transformation |
| Presented by | North West Regional Delegation of Labour and Social Security |
| Product | Kola Coffee — flagship of NWCA Ltd |
| Leadership | Mr Waindim Timothy Ntam, General Manager |
| Farmers Beneficiaries | Over 35,000 peasant farmers across NW Region |
| Innovations | Launch of dripping format in 2024 |
By Hilltopvoices Newsroom
Email: hilltopvoicesnewspaper@gmail.com
Tel: 6 94 71 85 77