As Nyos prepares to mark 40 years since the 1986 Lake Nyos disaster, the village is already active with visitors arriving at the traditional palace for an overnight vigil ahead of the main commemorative ceremony.
Today, August 20, is dedicated to welcoming visitors, prayer sessions, traditional dances, speeches and fundraising, as the community remembers the nearly1,800 people who lost their lives in the disaster.
The entire village is expected to converge at the palace for the vigil.
According to the programme made public by HRM Fon Kimbi Richard Chuh, The main ceremony takes place on, August 21, beginning with an ecumenical service at Pali-Nyos at 10am.
After the service, mourners will process to the Nyos traditional monument, marked by three graves, where wreaths will be laid and candles lit. The monument will also be blessed before activities continue at the Pali-Nyos Community Hall.
Speeches from the Fon and community notables will form part of the programme, alongside traditional dances, music and performances from visiting groups.
The anniversary will also feature football and handball finals before a gala night brings the Ruby Jubilee celebrations to a close.
Beyond the ceremonies, the gathering is expected to renew attention on the needs of Nyos, including education, healthcare, roads, potable water and the rehabilitation of the traditional palace.
Forty years after the tragedy, Nyos is remembering its dead, celebrating its resilience and looking towards rebuilding its future.
By Hilltopvoices Web Team
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