As bad roads and insecurity continue to claim lives, transport workers receive a timely call to safety, responsibility and hope.
Commercial motorcycle riders in Bamenda operate at the sharp edge of risk. Poor road conditions, ongoing urban crossing construction and persistent insecurity have turned daily transport into a dangerous trade. Accidents are frequent and protective gear is often ignored, leaving riders and passengers exposed.
Against this backdrop, a strong moral and practical intervention came on December 31, 2025, during a Holy Mass celebrated in Bamenda. The Archbishop of Bamenda, His Grace Andrew Nkea, used the occasion to speak directly to transport workers, particularly motorcycle riders, urging them not to take God’s love for granted in their lives and work.
In his homily, the Archbishop challenged riders to prove their critics wrong by carrying out their job with dignity and responsibility. He reminded them that safety is not only a personal concern but a duty to families, passengers and the wider community. Prayers were offered for transport workers to grow from strength to strength as they step into 2026, despite the harsh conditions under which they operate.
Beyond words, the event delivered a concrete response to the safety problem. A local construction company donated helmets to more than 500 motorcycle riders, directly addressing one of the most critical gaps in rider safety. The Chief Shepherd blessed the bikes and the helmets, calling on riders to make proper and consistent use of the protective gear.
The impact of the initiative goes beyond the distribution of helmets. It sends a clear signal that safety must be taken seriously, especially at a time when Bamenda’s roads are under strain from construction works and security challenges. If the helmets are used as intended, they could significantly reduce head injuries and fatalities, while restoring a sense of professionalism and dignity to a sector often viewed only through the lens of accidents and disorder.
In a city searching for stability and safer movement, the combined message of faith, responsibility and practical support offers a reminder that saving lives sometimes begins with simple actions, taken seriously.
By Bakah Derick for Hilltopvoices Online
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