Around Bamenda, it is not uncommon to find groups of men and women seated in wheelchairs or supported by walking aids, skillfully stitching every thread of the famous Atoghu fabric with extraordinary care and creativity. Among them are many with mobility limitations and other functional disabilities, crafting exquisite gowns, shirts, danchikis, and elegant party outfits. For these artisans, the Atoghu is not merely a fabric; it is a canvas of hope and expression.
In the world of Atoghu production, patience, stability, and calmness are critical virtues; qualities often naturally embraced by persons with disabilities, especially those with restricted mobility. Their involvement in the making of Atoghu and its derivatives has long been an integral, though often underappreciated, part of Bamenda’s rich cultural economy.
Against this backdrop, the Atoghu Fashion Festival 2025 turned inclusive, held from Friday 25 to Sunday 27 April in Bamenda, offered a platform for amplifying the talents and voices of women and girls with disabilities. Their outstanding participation this year has become a major achievement in the festival’s growing narrative of inclusion and empowerment.
Participation by persons with disabilities surged impressively this year, with around twenty women and girls from the Community Creative Centre for Women and Girls with Disabilities (CCCWGD) actively involved. Their contribution was not only visible but deeply impactful, as they proudly showcased some of the finest handcrafted Atoghu designs, and mesmerised audiences during a rare runway fashion display.
Reflecting on the experience, CCCWGD shared on their Facebook page:
"This year's festival was more than just a display of fashion, it was a vibrant celebration of diversity, talent, and empowerment. Our members brought their unique voices, styles, and creative expressions to the runway and workshops, proudly showcasing their handcrafted Atoghu designs and cultural pieces. Together, we are stitching a future where inclusion is always in style." They wrote
Their participation extended beyond the runway. Nogning Armelle, leader of CCCWGD and a celebrated fashion designer and disability rights advocate delivered a compelling presentation on Inclusive Marketing and Branding for Atoghu Fashion during the festival’s technical day. Reflecting on her experience, she wrote:
"What an incredible experience... I had the honour of presenting at the Inclusive Atoghu Fashion Festival, diving into the topic: 'Inclusive Marketing and Branding for Atoghu Fashion.' It was a powerful and insightful session packed with rich discussions and inspiring presentations from industry and academic leaders."
Her voice joined those of other key presenters such as Mr Amstrong Fombi, Dr Alasambom Nyinchuo of the University of Bamenda, Dr Okwen of eBASE Africa, and Miss Abato Deborah from the Ministry of Arts and Culture, all weaving a powerful story of innovation and inclusivity in fashion.
The leadership of the North West Fashion Designers Association (NOFADA), under President Vumomsi Ngwefonta’a, has consistently expressed gratitude to the Cameroon Baptist Convention Health Services (CBCHS), particularly through its Socio Economic Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (SEEPD) programme, for its pivotal role in supporting the participation of women and girls with disabilities. This year, the SEEPD programme further bolstered efforts by donating a marking machine to the Community Creative Centre, complementing previous support which included velvet materials and sewing threads.
Describing the partnership as "essential," Vumomsi Ngwefonta’a highlighted its importance in valorising some of the most talented yet often overlooked actors in the Atoghu industry.
The Inclusive Atoghu Fashion Festival 2025 was thus not merely a celebration of cultural heritage but a statement of hope and the limitless potential of persons with disabilities. In every stitch sewn, every design displayed, and every confident stride taken down the runway, these remarkable women and girls affirmed that true creativity knows no barriers and that in the imposing story of Atoghu, their hands and hearts will forever hold an honoured place.
By Bakah Derick
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