Circle of Friends (COF) marked its 15th anniversary on April 25, 2026, during its 4th Convention held in Bafoussam. The gathering brought together members from across Cameroon and the diaspora in a lively atmosphere filled with reflection, celebration, laughter, and renewed commitment to the values that have kept the association together over the years.
In his opening remarks, the outgone General Coordinator of COF, Shey Banseka Meye Blaise, reflected on the journey of an association that began modestly in Kumbo and has now grown into a network of eight branches with 263 members.
“It
is with a heart full of gratitude and great honor that I warmly welcome you all
to this significant and historic gathering,” he said, describing the convention
not simply as a formal meeting, but as a reunion built on shared memories and
enduring friendship.
Members
travelled from Kumbo, Bamenda, Ndop, Yaoundé, Douala, Nkambe and other towns to
attend the convention, while several members of the diaspora joined virtually,
making the anniversary celebration a truly borderless family event.
With
humor, the outgoing coordinator highlighted the imbalance in those figures.
“Out of 105 events, we have had only 28 weddings and 77 condolence supports,”
he said jokingly, drawing laughter from members as he encouraged more
celebrations of marriage within the group.
Beyond
the reunion and festivities, the convention also focused on the future of the
association. Members adopted amendments to the COF constitution aimed at
adapting the organization to changing realities and strengthening its
governance structure.
Another
major highlight was the election of a new Executive Committee. The new
leadership team includes Ntani Paulianus Tangka of the Douala Branch as General
Coordinator, Fritz Fonki as General Secretary, Tume Theophile as General
Finance Secretary, Kwala Valentine as General Treasurer, Raoul Bersha as Public
Relations Officer, and Ndzerem Collins as General Chief Wipe.
In his acceptance remarks, Ntani Paulianus Tangka promised to build on the achievements of previous leadership teams while preserving the unity of the association.
“What has been built over the years is strong. Our responsibility
now is to preserve it and move forward together,” he said.
The
outgoing leadership equally pledged its readiness to support the new Executive
Committee to ensure continuity and smooth collaboration. The convention also
featured lighter moments, including a friendly football match with BihNso
Veterans and the recognition of outstanding members for their dedication and
contribution to COF. Bamenda Branch was also announced as host of the next
convention, a decision warmly welcomed by participants.
By Hilltopvoices Team with reports
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