Menji, Fontem Sub-division -Lebialem Division – Southwest Region, Cameroon | March 8, 2026

Residents of the Lebang Fondom turned out in large numbers on Sunday, March 8, 2026, to welcome the Minister Delegate to the Minister of Economy, Planning and Regional Development in charge of Planning, Paul Tasong Njukang, during his official visit to Menji, headquarters of Fontem Sub-division and Lebialem Division. The visit, popularly referred to as the “People’s Tour,” coincided with the global celebration of International Women’s Day, giving the event an additional symbolic significance as women from across the community participated prominently in the reception.

During the gathering, the President General of the Lebang Cultural and Development Association (LECUDO), Barrister Nkea Emmanuel, delivered a speech on behalf of the Lebang community, expressing appreciation for the minister’s presence and outlining the hopes and expectations of the people regarding development in the area.

Community Welcomes Minister Paul Tasong

The event brought together a wide cross-section of the community, including traditional authorities, administrative officials, political leaders, youths, elders, and women’s groups who gathered at the Menji municipal ground to welcome the visiting minister.

Addressing the crowd, Barrister Nkea Emmanuel acknowledged the significance of the minister’s visit and praised the large turnout of residents who came out to show their support and appreciation.

He noted that the presence of the people young and old, men and women alike demonstrated the unity and determination of the Lebang community to work alongside government authorities in advancing development initiatives in the area.

Appreciation for Development Efforts

Speaking on behalf of the Lebang people, Barrister Nkea Emmanuel expressed gratitude to Minister Paul Tasong for what he described as increased attention to development projects in the area.

According to him, since the minister assumed office, the community has observed a steady rise in budgetary allocations and development initiatives benefiting the Lebang Fondom and the wider Fontem Sub-division.

He emphasized that the gathering in Menji was an opportunity for the community to publicly express its appreciation for the government’s commitment to supporting development within the region.

The people you see here today have come out in their numbers to thank you for the support and development projects that have been made possible for this fondom, for this subdivision, and for the entire Lebialem division,” he stated.

Bar. Nkea Emmanuel

Road Infrastructure Remains a Priority

While commending the minister for ongoing development efforts, Barrister Nkea Emmanuel also highlighted the urgent need for continued improvements to road infrastructure within the subdivision.

He recalled that during a previous visit, Minister Tasong had arrived in the area by helicopter due to road accessibility challenges. However, on this occasion, the minister was able to travel to Menji by road.

According to him, this development represents progress but also underscores the importance of maintaining and expanding road rehabilitation efforts.

He therefore appealed for continued government support in grading roads, constructing bridges, and ensuring regular road maintenance, particularly during the rainy season when many roads in the area become difficult to access.

Improved road networks, he noted, would facilitate movement, enhance trade and economic activities, and make it easier for government officials to reach local communities.

Recognition of Local Leadership

Barrister Nkea Emmanuel also used the occasion to acknowledge the contributions of local political and administrative leaders working toward the development and stability of the area.

He praised Hon. Bernard Foju, Member of Parliament representing the constituency, for his role in supporting development initiatives and promoting unity among the people.

In addition, he commended the leadership of the Senior Divisional Officer (SDO) and other administrative authorities for their commitment to public service and good governance.

According to him, the absence of petitions or complaints against the administration is a reflection of the confidence and trust the population has in the current leadership.

Expectations for Electricity and Water Supply

The LECUDO President General also expressed optimism that key development projects would soon improve living conditions in Menji and surrounding communities.

Among the expectations raised were improvements in electricity supply and access to potable water, which residents say remain essential for socio-economic development in the area.

Barrister Nkea Emmanuel voiced hope that in the coming months, residents would begin to see tangible progress in these areas, thereby improving the quality of life for the population.

Call for Reconstruction and Return of Civil Servants

Another important issue raised during the address was the need for reconstruction of homes and infrastructure affected by the crisis in the North West and South West regions.

Barrister Nkea Emmanuel noted that data collection for damaged homes has already been carried out within the Menji municipality and appealed to the minister to ensure that reconstruction efforts begin in the area.

He also called on civil servants who had abandoned their duty posts due to the crisis to return and resume their services, stressing that the presence of teachers, health workers, and other public servants is essential for the restoration of normal life and development in the community.

International Women’s Day Adds Symbolic Meaning

The event’s coincidence with International Women’s Day added special significance to the gathering, as many women from the Lebang community actively participated in the reception.

Women’s groups and community members joined the celebrations, highlighting the important role women continue to play in community development and social cohesion.

Their presence underscored the inclusive nature of the event and the collective commitment of the community to support initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of all residents.

Community Reaffirms Support for Development

Concluding his address, Barrister Nkea Emmanuel reaffirmed the commitment of the Lebang people to support government initiatives aimed at promoting development in the area.

He described Minister Paul Tasong as a dedicated son of the region and encouraged him to continue advocating for development projects that will benefit the people of Lebang and the wider Fontem Sub-division.

The minister’s visit forms part of broader government efforts to engage with local communities, assess development needs, and strengthen collaboration between state authorities and grassroots populations.

The event ended with interactions between government officials, community leaders, and residents who expressed hope that the visit would mark a new phase of development for Menji and the surrounding communities.