The outstanding rhythms of music, the array of traditional attire, and the scents of local delicacies enveloped the atmosphere during the second edition of the Michi Ebeng Cultural Festival held at the Guneku Fon's palace on Saturday, March 23, 2024.
This lively two-day affair, which commenced with a marathon supported by Guneku elites from the USA, drew in over 500 participants and marked a significant milestone in honoring the diverse cultural legacy of the Grassfields people on a global scale.
Emerging as the largest cultural gathering in recent memory within the entire Momo Division of the North West Region of Cameroon, the Michi Ebeng Festival serves as a unifying platform for Meta natives and visitors alike, offering an immersive exploration into the varied customs, languages, traditions, and arts of Grassfields Cultural Heritage.
Despite its humble beginnings, the festival quickly gained momentum, with attendees and onlookers braving inclement weather to engage in the festivities. From captivating arts and crafts displays to spirited traditional performances, the event showcased the vibrant mosaic of Grassfields culture in all its splendor.
A standout feature of the festival was the presence of esteemed Fons from the Meta community, including dignitaries such as Fominyen of Nyen, Fombo of Njindom, and Forembeng of Gundom, who added an air of majesty to the proceedings.
In a thrilling twist, the Guneku Development and Cultural Association (GUDECA) North America Branch backed a cross-country race, underscoring the global outreach of the Michi Ebeng Festival. Athletes competed across various categories, with victors slated to receive cash rewards and trophies during the festival.
The highly anticipated Kwem dance competition saw 13 Kwem dance troupes showcasing their talents, representing diverse villages and regions. The Kwem dancers from Guneku emerged victorious, claiming the top prize, with Buea and Tuochup securing second and third place, respectively.
As the echoes of revelry subside, the triumph of the Michi Ebeng Cultural Festival stands as a testament to the enduring unity and pride in Grassfields culture. With each successive edition, the festival reinforces its role as a beacon of cultural heritage, fostering solidarity and admiration for the rich traditions that define the Grassfields community.
Photo credits: Communications team Michi Ebeng
This lively two-day affair, which commenced with a marathon supported by Guneku elites from the USA, drew in over 500 participants and marked a significant milestone in honoring the diverse cultural legacy of the Grassfields people on a global scale.
Emerging as the largest cultural gathering in recent memory within the entire Momo Division of the North West Region of Cameroon, the Michi Ebeng Festival serves as a unifying platform for Meta natives and visitors alike, offering an immersive exploration into the varied customs, languages, traditions, and arts of Grassfields Cultural Heritage.
Despite its humble beginnings, the festival quickly gained momentum, with attendees and onlookers braving inclement weather to engage in the festivities. From captivating arts and crafts displays to spirited traditional performances, the event showcased the vibrant mosaic of Grassfields culture in all its splendor.
A standout feature of the festival was the presence of esteemed Fons from the Meta community, including dignitaries such as Fominyen of Nyen, Fombo of Njindom, and Forembeng of Gundom, who added an air of majesty to the proceedings.
In a thrilling twist, the Guneku Development and Cultural Association (GUDECA) North America Branch backed a cross-country race, underscoring the global outreach of the Michi Ebeng Festival. Athletes competed across various categories, with victors slated to receive cash rewards and trophies during the festival.
The highly anticipated Kwem dance competition saw 13 Kwem dance troupes showcasing their talents, representing diverse villages and regions. The Kwem dancers from Guneku emerged victorious, claiming the top prize, with Buea and Tuochup securing second and third place, respectively.
As the echoes of revelry subside, the triumph of the Michi Ebeng Cultural Festival stands as a testament to the enduring unity and pride in Grassfields culture. With each successive edition, the festival reinforces its role as a beacon of cultural heritage, fostering solidarity and admiration for the rich traditions that define the Grassfields community.
By Bakah Derick
Email: debakah2004@yahoo.com
Tel: 6 94 71 85 77