The Essoh-Attah community in the Fontem Sub-Division of Lebialem Division, South West Region of Cameroon, accorded a warm and colourful reception to the Minister Delegate to the Minister of Economy, Planning and Regional Development in charge of Planning, Paul Tasong Njukang, during his official visit popularly referred to as the “People’s Tour.”

The visit took place at the Fon’s Palace in Essoh-Attah, where hundreds of residents gathered to welcome the senior government official in a ceremony marked by cultural displays, traditional rites, and community solidarity. The event brought together traditional authorities, administrative officials, political leaders, and members of the general public from across the Fondom.

The reception was held in the distinguished presence of His Royal Majesty Fon Foreke Asongtia, Fon of Essoh-Attah Fondom, His Majesty Fon Lekunze, Fon of Bamumbu Fondom, and His Royal Majesty Fon Fontem, alongside several chiefs, notables, and community leaders. Also present at the occasion were Honourable Bernard Foju, Member of Parliament for Lebialem, as well as senior administrative authorities including the Head of the Permanent Divisional Delegation for Lebialem Division.

Cultural Performances Highlight Rich Heritage

The ceremony featured a series of traditional performances aimed at showcasing the cultural heritage of the Essoh-Attah people. Various dance groups, drummers, and cultural performers entertained the large gathering, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere throughout the event.

Among the highlights was the Aluachaba dance, a highly respected cultural performance traditionally reserved for members of the royal family. The dance symbolizes the prestige and historical identity of the Fondom and reflects the deep-rooted traditions of the Essoh-Attah people. Other cultural groups, including the Nkang dance troupe, also performed, adding colour and rhythm to the occasion.

These performances served as an important expression of cultural pride and community unity.

Presentation of Traditional Gifts

During the ceremony, the people of Essoh-Attah presented a number of traditional gifts to Minister Paul Tasong as a sign of appreciation and respect for his visit. The gifts, which included symbolic artifacts from the Fondom, represented the rich cultural identity of the community and the strong bonds of unity among its people.

The presentation of gifts also reflected the community’s gratitude to the government for its continued attention to development efforts within the Lebialem Division.

Call for Unity and Community Development

In his address to the population, Minister Paul Tasong commended the people of Essoh-Attah for their hospitality and their efforts to preserve their cultural values and traditions. He emphasized the importance of unity, peace, and collective responsibility in the development of local communities.

The Minister encouraged residents particularly those who had relocated during periods of insecurity in the Anglophone regions—to return to their villages and actively participate in rebuilding their communities.

He noted that the sustainable development of Lebialem Division depends largely on the commitment and cooperation of its sons and daughters.

The Minister further stressed that peace and stability remain essential foundations for meaningful development, urging the population to continue promoting harmony and cooperation within the Fondom.

Strong Community Participation

The event witnessed significant participation from elders, women’s groups, youth organizations, and representatives from various villages within the Essoh-Attah Fondom. Their presence underscored the importance the community attaches to the visit of the Minister and demonstrated the unity that exists among the people.

The visit forms part of broader government outreach initiatives aimed at strengthening engagement with local communities, encouraging grassroots participation in development, and fostering social cohesion across the South West Region.

The colourful reception and enthusiastic turnout highlighted both the cultural vitality of the Essoh-Attah Fondom and the community’s commitment to working collaboratively toward sustainable development and lasting peace.