In a significant move to restore unity, foster cultural pride, and promote grassroots development, the Bebene Akweto Cultural and Development Association (BAKWECDA) officially launched its national revamping process on Sunday, July 6, 2025, in Cameroon’s economic capital, Douala.
The event, which brought together sons and daughters of Bebene Akweto from across the city, marked the first step in a nationwide effort to restructure the association’s sub-branches under the instruction of the Fon of Bebene Akweto, His Royal Majesty Fon Muna Kia.
With the association’s motto — “Development, Truth, Unity, Culture Our Interest” — guiding the discussions, members of the steering committee and other stakeholders met to breathe new life into BAKWECDA, starting with the Douala branch.
National President Sets the Tone
Chinji Dagobel Taka, National President of BAKWECDA, opened the meeting by outlining the vision behind the revamp.
“Today, we are here to revamp the union of the sons and daughters of Bebene Akweto. Our goal is to strengthen the Akweto Fondom and ensure unity across the Akweto villages, especially Akweto 1, which is our focus at this stage,” he said.
He further acknowledged that while the community has faced challenges in recent years, the current initiative is a chance to reconnect and rekindle the communal spirit.
“We haven’t been coming together as a community, but now we are working hard to reconnect the sons and daughters of Akweto. This is our first official meeting to begin forming new branches.”
The National President also confirmed that after Douala, the next branch revamp meeting will take place in Buea on July 20, as part of a five-location tour.
Leadership Transition and Strategic Plans
President Taka used the platform to announce that BAKWECDA will soon hold elections once the restructuring is complete.
“I’ve been serving as president for a long time. It’s time for younger leadership to step in and carry this vision forward,” he said.
Voices from the Field
Mr. Thomas Deki, President of the Akweto Sons and Daughters Association in Douala, emphasized the purpose of the meeting.
“We’re here to reorganize ourselves, get to know each other better, and work as one. Unity is strength. Only together can we push Akweto forward.”
Dr. Tamo Joseph, an ophthalmologist and Elite of Bebene Akweto, added:
“We’re rebuilding with the intention of forming a new executive team. The old leadership has served well, and now we want to expand nationally, creating vibrant branches throughout Cameroon.”
He also provided geographical context for the public:
“Akweto is located in the Northwest Region, Donga-Mantung Division, Misaje Subdivision. It shares a border with Nigeria.”
Fon’s Instructions in Motion
Mr. Keenyoh Kevin Ndongo, Chairperson of the Commission for the day, made it clear that the revamp is in direct response to instructions from the Fon of Akweto.
“His Royal Highness gave us a two-month mandate to revive and rebuild our sub-branches. Douala is the first stop, and we’re off to a great start.”
Ndongo encouraged all Bebene Akweto sons and daughters, especially those still hesitant, to take ownership of the initiative:
“You need to belong. Don’t isolate yourself. Join your brothers and sisters. Let’s build our village and uplift it to the level of other great communities.”
A Call for Unity and Forward Movement
The message that echoed throughout the gathering was clear: unity, cultural preservation, and development must be collective efforts. The leadership emphasized that now is the time for every Akweto son and daughter to rise, participate, and contribute toward the betterment of the Fondom.
The BAKWECDA revamp campaign is expected to continue through several regions in Cameroon, culminating in nationwide elections and the rebirth of one of the country’s most vibrant cultural associations.
