Menji, February 2, 2026 — The Menji Cooperative Credit Union Limited (MECCUL) on Sunday held its 32nd General Assembly Meeting (GAM) in Menji, marking a historic return to its home base after nearly a decade of inactivity in the area due to the ongoing armed conflict in Lebialem Division.

The meeting brought together members, board officials, management, and key stakeholders to review the institution’s performance for the 2025 financial year, assess achievements, and outline strategic priorities for the future of the grassroots financial institution.

Strong Financial Performance and Growth.

Presenting the annual reports, MECCUL leadership announced a total income of 225.4 million FCFA, up from 195 million FCFA recorded in 2024, reflecting steady financial growth and improved operational performance.

One of the most notable achievements highlighted was the significant expansion of the credit union’s balance sheet, which grew by 730 million FCFA, rising from 2.7 billion FCFA to 3.3 billion FCFA within the 2025 financial year. This growth underscores the institution’s resilience and sound financial management despite years of operational challenges.

In addition, MECCUL recorded a membership increase of 393 new members in 2025, a development described by leadership as “commendable” and indicative of growing public confidence in the credit union.

Renewed Commitment to Financial Inclusion.

Speakers at the assembly reaffirmed MECCUL’s commitment to empowering individuals and small businesses through affordable loans, savings mobilization, and tailored financial services, particularly for farmers, traders, and small-scale entrepreneurs in Menji and surrounding communities.

Unlike previous years where most activities were concentrated in Dschang and neighboring towns, MECCUL intensified outreach efforts in Lebialem in 2025. Special engagement sessions were held with farming communities in Lewoh and Lebang, aimed at promoting financial literacy and cooperative banking among rural populations.

Members Praise Fair and Humane Lending Practices

During open-floor discussions, long-serving members praised MECCUL for its member-friendly credit policies. A board member with over 20 years of membership noted that the credit union is known for its non-aggressive loan recovery practices, emphasizing trust, responsibility, and mutual respect between members and management.

“MECCUL does not harass its members over loans. Borrowers willingly meet their obligations, and in my more than two decades as a member, I have never witnessed abusive recovery practices,” the member stated.

Historic Return to Menji and Reopening Announcement.

The 32nd General Assembly was also significant as it marked the first general meeting held in Menji in nearly nine years, following the outbreak of conflict in Lebialem Division. Addressing members, MECCUL leadership officially announced the credit union’s full return to its base.

Management disclosed that within the next two months, MECCUL will fully reopen its Menji office for daily operations, restoring direct access to financial services for the local population after years of disruption.

The announcement was met with applause and chants of unity from members, symbolizing renewed hope and confidence in the institution’s future.

Call for Membership and Community Support.

The leadership used the occasion to call on sons and daughters of Lebialem, well-wishers, families, and the general public to become members of MECCUL, emphasizing the role of cooperative finance in education, agriculture, and community development.

Shaping the Future

As a cornerstone event in MECCUL’s calendar, the 32nd General Assembly reinforced the cooperative principles of member participation, shared responsibility, and democratic governance. Discussions and resolutions from the meeting are expected to guide the credit union’s priorities in 2026, with a strong focus on service expansion, financial inclusion, innovative products, and community outreach.