Amongst the notable persons who contributed to paving the way for a progressive Bamenda III Municipality is Balungeli Ebune Confiance, the first Divisional Officer (DO) of Bamenda III Subdivision. His tenure from 2008 to 2010 left a an indelible mark on the municipality, as his leadership helped establish the foundation for order and development in this growing community.
In 2008, following the 2007 municipal and legislative elections that ushered in Prince Pius Ngwa Amandou as the pioneer mayor of Bamenda III Council, the President of the Republic appointed Balungeli Ebune Confiance as the first Divisional Officer of the newly created Bamenda III Subdivision. This appointment was significant, as it marked the beginning of formal state administration within the subdivision.
Born on 1 September 1969 in Toko, Ndian Division, Balungeli's arrival in Bamenda III coincided with a critical moment in the development period that demanded strong leadership, collaboration, and a commitment to overcoming challenges.
Upon his arrival, Balungeli wasted no time in aligning his objectives with those of the local administration under Mayor Amandou. Together, they spearheaded efforts to combat the rising insecurity in Bamenda III, which was a growing concern at the time. Balungeli utilized all available state resources to support the council's initiatives, ensuring that law and order were maintained across the municipality. His leadership was marked by his strong dedication to ensuring that Bamenda III became a more secure and orderly environment for residents.
This synergy between Balungeli, the local council and the traditional institutions of Nkwen and Ndzah created and promoted an atmosphere of cooperation that allowed for swift responses to security threats. Under his guidance, administrative processes were streamlined, and his efforts to build a functioning relationship between the state and the local population were felt by both residents and fellow administrators. His clear sense of duty earned him the respect of the people of Bamenda III.
Though Balungeli Ebune Confiance served as DO of Bamenda III for only two years, his impact was profound and long-lasting. His administrative engagements left an impression not only on the local population but also on higher levels of government. His effective leadership caught the attention of the state and regional administrators, which led to his appointment as the Secretary General of the Governor's Office in the North-West Region in 2010. In his two-year tenure in this role, he continued to exemplify diligence and efficiency in his service to the region.
Following his tenure in the North-West Region, Balungeli's career trajectory continued upward. He was appointed Senior Divisional Officer (SDO) of Mayo Louti in the North, where he served for five years, further solidifying his reputation as a dedicated public servant. Later, he was appointed SDO of the Menoua Division, demonstrating the government's trust in his ability to manage diverse and complex administrative challenges.
Today, as Balungeli serves as Director of the Prime Minister's Cabinet, but his legacy in Bamenda III remains intact. His early contributions as the pioneer Divisional Officer are remembered fondly by those who worked alongside him and by the population that benefited from his efforts.
As part of the Bamenda III Municipality Month 2024, his legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of good governance, effective collaboration, and the dedication to public service. Balungeli's tenure, though brief, set the tone for future administrators, and his work continues to inspire the leadership in Bamenda III today.
By Bakah Derick
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