On Sunday 14 August, Mayor Fongu Cletus Tanwe of Bamenda III Municipality visited the sacred halls of Mfuh, the traditional meeting house of Nso men on Ghana Street, Bamenda. Despite attending a National Executive Committee meeting of his party in Yaoundé the previous day, the mayor prioritised this cultural engagement, underlining his commitment to local communities.
The Nso community is the largest non-native group in Bamenda III and holds significant cultural and social influence. In diverse municipalities, gaps can sometimes emerge between formal local government authorities and traditional institutions. Misunderstandings or neglect can weaken trust, hinder cooperation, and slow the delivery of local development initiatives.
During the visit, Mayor Fongu Cletus made significant financial contributions to a Mfuh project, reportedly extended both in his name and on behalf of his national party chairman, Hon. Joshua Osih, a presidential candidate.
Speaking outside the sacred halls, the mayor drew a parallel between Hon. Joshua and the Biblical Joshua who led the Israelites into the Promised Land, emphasising leadership, continuity, and the fulfilment of collective goals.
Accompanied by Deputy Mayor Koti Joseph and councillors including Azinue Ngufor, Tom Sylvester, Mayor Fongu reassured the Nso community of his determination to make Bamenda III a comfortable, inclusive, and development-oriented municipality. Councillor Ngufor described the visit as “a rare moment” and commended the warm reception, urging the Nso community in his Bayelle constituency to remain supportive, peace-loving, and committed to local development.
The mayor’s engagement strengthens the relationship between municipal authorities and traditional institutions thus promoting greater social cohesion. Residents perceive the visit and financial support as a demonstration of respect for Nso traditions and a commitment to inclusive governance. It also encourages peaceful, cooperative, and development-focused behaviour among community members, signalling that cultural respect and municipal action can go hand in hand. By supporting the Mfuh project, Mayor Fongu sets a precedent for other traditional groups to propose local development initiatives, knowing that municipal authorities are willing to provide backing.
Mayor Fongu’s Sunday visit demonstrates a deliberate effort to reconcile tradition and governance. In a diverse municipality like Bamenda III, such gestures are critical in building trust, fostering inclusion, and driving sustainable local development.
By Hilltopvoices Newsroom
Email: hilltopvoicesnewspaper@gmail.com
Tel: 6 94 71 85 77
