Fresh from an intensive training programme in Zimbabwe, Bakah Derick shares his newfound perspectives with The Hilltop Mail's Nfor Nkfu on migration in Africa and outlines his ambitious plans to foster informed and empathetic communities in Bamenda.
The Hilltop Mail: Welcome back to Cameroon, Mr. Bakah Derick. We understand you recently returned from participating in the AU Migration Governance Training Programme in Zimbabwe. Can you share your overall experience?
Bakah Derick: Thank you. It was an enriching experience. The three-day course on Migration in Africa - myths and reality was comprehensive and enlightening. The modules covered various critical aspects of migration in Africa, including facts and figures, international migration law, reporting migration issues in Africa and the benefits of migration to the continent.
The Hilltop Mail: That sounds fascinating. Could you tell us more about the specific modules and what you found most impactful?
Bakah Derick: Certainly. We delved into several modules such as Migration in Africa: Facts and Figures, International Migration Law, Is Migration Beneficial to Africa, and "Reporting on Migration in Africa it looks like I am forgetting one but that is fine. Each module was eye-opening, but I was particularly struck by the discussions on the benefits of migration and how to effectively report on migration issues.
The Hilltop Mail: The training programme featured a range of experts. Can you share your thoughts on their contributions?
Bakah Derick: The lecturers and experts were exceptional. I am immensely grateful to Anthony Nhamo Mhiripiri, Peter Mudungwe, Ndlovu, Linda, Eric Mazango, and Tapiwa Mucheri. Their insights and expertise from institutions like the International Organisation for Migration, University of Zimbabwe, University of Witwatersrand, African Union Commission, University of Johannesburg, and African Migration and Development Policy Centre were invaluable.
The Hilltop Mail: It's clear that the programme was well-organized. How was your experience with the logistics and organization?
Bakah Derick: The organization was top-notch. I want to salute the expertise of Neslisah Akgunlu, Barbara Weis, and Sara Landstroem from the International Centre for Migration Policy Development. They ensured our travel, stay, and return were seamless, allowing us to focus entirely on the training.
The Hilltop Mail: Did you have the opportunity to network with other participants?
Bakah Derick: Yes, I met wonderful people with whom I've kept in touch, espeacially Robert Kiptoo Yator of the BBC Swahili from Kenya. Aissatou Fatoma from Ivory Coast, Afeezi Hanafi from Nigeria, Odette from Namibia, Eric (Mister Minister) from Burundi, Samira from Egypt and Sally from Zimbabwe remain in my mind. Their perspectives and camaraderie enriched the experience.
The Hilltop Mail: The media professors also played a significant role. Any notable mentions?
Bakah Derick: Absolutely. I mentioned them already. The media professors were amazing. Prof. Anthony Nhamo Mhiripiri of the University of Zimbabwe and Silindile Mlilo from Botswana were particularly great. Their guidance on reporting migration issues was invaluable.
The Hilltop Mail: Finally, any last words of gratitude?
Bakah Derick: I am profoundly grateful to the International Centre for Migration Policy Development for this opportunity. The knowledge and connections gained from this programme will undoubtedly contribute to my work in Cameroon and beyond. Thank you