In a move to reaffirm its commitment to climate change mitigation, environmental protection, and conservation, Hilltopvoices Communications Group Ltd has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Cameroon Climate Journalism Network (CCJN) for Climate Demand Action (CDA). The partnership was officially sealed on Saturday April 26, 2025 on the occasion of the 55th World Earth Day, celebrated under the theme “our power, our planet.”
Bakah Derick (L) and Tamukong Roland (R)
The agreement aims to galvanise climate solution actions and promote sustainable climate-resilient initiatives in the North West Region through tree planting, waste management, biodiversity conservation, wetland restoration, renewable energy management, pollution control, and nature protection. Representing Hilltopvoices Communications Group at the signing ceremony was Bakah Derick, Administrator and Lead Strategist, while Tamukong Roland Angong, Executive Director of World Echoes Media Group and National Coordinator of CCJN, signed on behalf of the climate advocacy network.
Speaking to www.hilltopvoices.com, Tamukong Roland Angong emphasised the urgent need to scale up efforts against the climate crisis.
“This Smart Stand-Up Climate Resilient Initiative aims to subsidise tree planting in the North West Region and to enhance effective reporting on community mobilisation in promoting tree planting. This symbolic exercise forms part of a global campaign to involve and commit major stakeholders to adaptation policies and practices that will strengthen the fight against climate change and promote biodiversity conservation,” he said.
He added that the MoU comes at a time when Cameroon, alongside major global actors, is joining hands with the Conference of Parties (COP) to redefine a new roadmap to combat climate change and global warming.
The North West Region continues to grapple with serious environmental challenges, including rampant bushfires that destroy thousands of hectares of vegetation annually, unchecked deforestation to harvest raffia bushes for housing projects, and the alarming destruction of wildlife for food. These activities not only threaten biodiversity but also weaken the region’s natural defences against climate shocks such as flooding, drought, and soil erosion.
For Hilltopvoices Communications Group, the decision to sign the MoU was informed by a deep understanding of these pressing local realities and the need to act decisively.
“We cannot sit back and watch our natural heritage disappear while climate change tightens its grip on our communities. As a communication and media entity that believes in positive change, we are committing ourselves not only to planting trees but also to nurturing minds through consistent and impactful storytelling that drives action. Our commitment goes beyond words, it’s about creating a sustainable future for the generations that will come after us.” Bakah Derick said
Bakah Derick further noted that Hilltopvoices will integrate climate reporting across its platforms, with a special focus on highlighting the consequences of environmental degradation in local communities.
“From the loss of vital raffia bushes that serve as both economic and cultural symbols, to the silent extinction of wildlife that forms part of our ecosystem, our reporting will aim to drive home the urgent need for change,” he said.
He stressed that this partnership aligns perfectly with Hilltopvoices' broader mission to promote inclusive development, responsible citizenship, and sustainable practices.
As part of the MoU, Hilltopvoices Communications Group is expected to actively participate in tree-planting campaigns, raise awareness on sustainable environmental practices, and work with journalists and community actors to tell compelling climate change stories that inspire solutions.
The collaboration between Hilltopvoices and CCJN comes at a critical time when environmental stewardship is no longer optional but a necessity for survival. Through this partnership, both organisations hope to set a new standard for climate advocacy in the North West Region and beyond, proving that when communication and action go hand in hand, lasting change becomes possible.
By Asheri Loveline
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