Bamjo, a visually impaired farmer from a Subdivision in Bui Division of the North West Region of Cameroon, has known more hardship than many in his community. Living with a disability in a region gripped by over seven years of armed conflict has forced him to face challenges most would find insurmountable. Yet, Bamjo’s story is one of inspiration and proof to the strength and determination of persons with disabilities who, despite adversity, continue to find ways to survive and support their families.
On Friday, August 16, 2024, Bamjo embarked on a grueling journey to Bamenda, the regional capital of the North West Region. His trip, already difficult due to bad roads, was further exacerbated by the events of the ongoing conflict that has ravaged much of the region. Nevertheless, Bamjo pressed on, determined to seize an opportunity that would help sustain his family; a chance to receive assistance from the North West Livestock Development Fund (CDENO).
In Bamenda, more than 560 vulnerable farmers, including over 180 persons with disabilities (as we are told by the donors) like Bamjo, gathered to receive a government donation of 17,340 chicks and essential poultry farming materials. Among the state officials present was North West Governor Adolf Lele Lafrique Tchoffo Deben, who was clear on the significance of the event.
"A hungry man is an angry man, and so the government's donation to the vulnerable is a way of ensuring happiness and fighting food crises." He said stressing that giving food is not just a means of survival but a vital step toward building peace in a conflict-ridden region.
Despite the huge crowd and challenges of movement as a visually impaired person, Bamjo remained determined. CDENO staff welcomed him warmly and treated him with the respect and care he deserved.
"They have been very nice to me since I came. I was treated very well," Bamjo shared with this reporter, his voice reflecting both gratitude and relief. Seated beside his basket of 50 chicks, he patiently waited for his bag of feed, which was soon delivered by a CDENO worker pushing a trolley. With his items secured, Bamjo was ready to embark on the long journey back to Bui Division.
After speaking during the administrative launch of the event, Mbah Shupong Micheal, Director of CDENO, engaged with the Hilltopvoices Newspaper . He explained the intentionality behind selecting vulnerable persons, particularly those with disabilities and the elderly, to benefit from the assistance.
"As you can see these groups are the most vulnerable in the heart of the conflict," Micheal noted adding that "we were very intentional in ensuring that they are supported because that is the main objective of the project." He further remarked that their resilience is inspiring, and their survival is crucial to rebuilding the region.
Bamjo’s resilience was evident in his ability to adapt to his circumstances. Though the journey back to Jakiri would be challenging, he was confident in his ability to manage the chicks.
"I will give them stress relief medication as soon as I arrive because they will surely be tired," he explained, demonstrating his expertise in poultry management.
For Bamjo, these chicks represent more than just livestock; they are a lifeline for his family.
"This assistance will help take care of my family," he said, expressing deep appreciation to the government and CDENO for the support. Bamjo, like many others, hopes that future aid will continue to reach persons with disabilities without political interference, as was the case this time.
The distribution of the chicks was part of the broader Emergency Project to Combat Food Crisis in Cameroon (PULCCA), which aims to boost food production and improve livelihoods in the North West Region. According to Mbah Shupong Micheal who outlined the scope of the initiative during the event, this is just the first phase of assistance. Over 3,000 vulnerable livestock farmers are expected to benefit from the project, which includes support for broiler, layer, pig, and fish production, among others.
Governor Adolf Lele Lafrique Tchoffo Deben has used the event to reiterate government's commitment to supporting vulnerable communities. According to the administrator, this assistance is not just about feeding people today; it is about ensuring long-term peace and stability by addressing the root causes of hunger.
As Bamjo prepared to head back to Jakiri, his heart was full of gratitude and determination. Despite the ongoing conflict, his disability, and the hardships he endures daily, Bamjo represents the thousands of persons with disabilities across the North West Region, who with very little help from their community and government, continue to fight for their survival and the well-being of their families.
By Bakah Derick
Email: hilltopvoicesnewspaper@gmail.com
Tel: 6 94 71 85 77
Editors note: we used only one of the names of our case study for safety reasons