As we celebrate the Bamenda III Municipality Month 2024, it is only fitting to honour one of the foundational figures whose vision and leadership helped to shape the very essence of this community; HRH Fon S.Z. Ngufor III of Nkwen.
HRH Fon S.Z Ngufor III of Nkwen (Photo credits Muma Azehfor III)
His reign from 1954 until his passing in 2013 was not only a period of growth and transformation for the Nkwen people but also a key chapter in the development of the Bamenda III Municipality. His remarkable legacy is vividly captured in the 2022 book Nkwenbere by Muma Azehfor III, which details the life of this visionary leader.
Born in 1931, Fon Ngufor III became Fon at the age of 22, following the death of his father, Fon Azehfor II. His early life was shaped by his business acumen, particularly his work as a transporter for the CDC, where he facilitated the movement of goods from the Bamenda grasslands to the coastal regions. This experience honed his leadership skills and deepened his commitment to development, qualities that would later define his reign as Fon.
Fon Ngufor III’s entrance into public service began in 1963, when he was elected as a Municipal Councilor for the Bafut-Ndop Area Council. His political career continued in the late 1970s, serving as a councilor for the Bamenda Urban Council, where he rose to the position of 3rd Vice Chairman. His leadership in these roles reflected his deep dedication to progress, laying the groundwork for the eventual creation of the Bamenda III Municipality.
When the Bamenda III Council was established in 2007, Fon Ngufor III was the reigning Fon of Nkwen, actively shaping the direction of this new municipal entity. His commitment to development, inclusivity, and the well-being of his people was evident in the foundational principles he helped establish for the municipality. His vision ensured that Bamenda III would be a community rooted in sustainable growth and prosperity.
Despite his engagement with local politics way back, Fon Ngufor III maintained a reputation for being apolitical, holding strong moral convictions that guided his leadership. During the 2007 parliamentary elections, he was vocal in condemning the “politics of deceit,” cautioning politicians against making empty promises. His insistence on honesty and integrity served as a moral compass for his community, setting a standard for leadership that prioritized truth and accountability.
Beyond his political and traditional roles, Fon Ngufor III was also a man of deep faith. As a committed member of the Christian Family Movement (CFM), his Christian values shaped his approach to leadership, balancing tradition with modernity and always seeking the betterment of his people through humility, compassion, and service.
The 2022 book Nkwenbere by Muma Azehfor III offers an in-depth look into Fon Ngufor III’s life, highlighting his vital role as a founding figure of the Bamenda III Municipality. His contributions have had a lasting impact on the community, shaping its identity and fostering a spirit of unity and development that continues to thrive today.
As we celebrate Bamenda III Municipality Month 2024, we reflect on the profound legacy of HRH Fon S.Z. Ngufor III; a leader whose vision, integrity, and commitment to his people laid the foundation for the growth and prosperity of the Bamenda III Municipality. His memory continues to inspire, guiding the community towards a future that honors his values and builds upon the groundwork he established.
Long Live the King
By Bakah Derick
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