17 years ago, the Bamenda III Municipality was brought into existence by Presidential Decree No. 2007/117 of April 24, 2007. This marked the beginning of a journey towards development and local empowerment for the new administrative unit. Over the years, this municipality has grown into a dynamic and culturally diverse community, balancing its rich history with modern progress.
Upon its creation, Bamenda III was placed under the leadership of Prince Pius Ngwa Amandou, who served as the first mayor elected on the ticket of the Social Democratic Front (SDF) from 2007 until 2010. He laid the groundwork for the council's administrative framework and developmental priorities. He quickly gave the municipality an attractive image with several initiatives including the keep Bamenda III clean, the city builders card which allowed the citizens to contribute to the construction of the municipality by giving up some pleasures including but not limited to bottles of beer. Prince Amadou Pius died in April 2010 and received a befitting farewell from the population of the municipality.
Following his tenure, Mayor Fongu Cletus Tanwe took over and has since been at the forefront of the council’s growth, steering it through various stages of transformation. The council has operated from a temporary site since its inception, while the construction of its permanent headquarters is a symbol of its ongoing development.
The history of Bamenda III is deeply intertwined with the narratives of its two main clans: Nkwen and Ndzah. The Nkwen people, part of the Tikari group, migrated from Northern Nigeria through various regions before finally settling at their current location. By the time the municipality was created, Nkwen was ruled by Fon Ngufor III who maintained an admired apolitical posture receiving acceptance from all.
The Ndzah people, believed to have separated from the Baforchu (Mbu) group in the 18th century, also migrated across several territories before establishing themselves in Bamenda III.
These migrations, driven by the search for fertile land, security, and chieftaincy disputes, have built a strong bond between the Nkwen and Ndzah communities, as well as their neighbours in Bafut, Mankon, Mendankwe, and Bambili.
Today, Bamenda III is a respected municipality with a cosmopolitan population of over 105,000 people, according to projections by CAMGIS in the Minimum Urban Local Development Scheme (SMAUL) in February 2008. This diverse community includes the indigenous Nkwen and Ndzah people, as well as migrants from across Cameroon and neighbouring countries like Nigeria. The municipality is also home to a large number of Fulani, Bamilike, Noni, Nso, Wimbum, and other ethnic groups, creating an inclusive social fabric.
The council's commitment to development is evident in the numerous projects that have been initiated under Mayor Fongu's leadership. Great strides have been made in infrastructure, with the tarring of key roads, the construction of markets, and the extension of essential services such as water and electricity. Public health has also been a priority, with the council playing a critical role in the upgrading of the Nkwen District Hospital (PMI) and more. He has established several partnership with local and international organizations and institutions making Bamenda III a regular feature on news outlets
As the Bamenda III Municipality observes seventeen years of existence, we reflect on a journey marked by steady progress, cultural unity, and a forward-looking vision.
Hilltopvoices Bamenda III Municipality Month 2024 provides a platform to showcase these achievements and celebrate the rich history that has shaped this municipality into what it is today. Through a blend of tradition and modernity, Bamenda III continues to stand as a example to the power of community, resilience, and shared progress.
By Bakah Derick
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