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

HRM Fontem Asabaton, The Fon of Fontem, has called for renewed commitment to development projects in the Lebang Fondom while honoring the important role of women during the official visit of the Minister Delegate to the Minister of Economy, Planning and Regional Development in charge of Planning, Paul Tasong Njukang, to the Menji Municipality.

The minister’s visit, which took place on Sunday, March 8, 2026, coincided with the global celebration of International Women’s Day, giving the event special significance as women from across the Lebang Fondom participated prominently in welcoming the visiting delegation.

The visit formed part of what residents described as the “People’s Tour,” bringing together traditional authorities, government officials, political leaders, and community members who gathered in Menji to receive the minister and highlight key development priorities for the Lebang Fondom and the wider Fontem Sub-division.

Fon of Fontem Pays Tribute to Women

In his address to the minister and accompanying government officials, HRM highlighted the significance of the visit taking place on International Women’s Day, praising the women of Lebang for their central role in family life, community development, and social stability.

“Woman eh, woman eh,” the Fon remarked during his speech, describing women as a special attribute and blessing of the Lebang Fondom.

HRM Fon Fontem

He expressed joy that the minister’s visit coincided with the celebration of women, noting that the enthusiastic cheers from the population reflected the pride and appreciation the community has for the women of Lebang.

Recognition of Community Leadership

The Fon of Fontem also acknowledged the earlier address delivered by the President General of the Lebang Cultural and Development Association (LECUDO), Barrister Nkea Emmanuel, noting that the strong response from the population showed broad support for the message presented on behalf of the Lebang community.

According to the traditional ruler, the sons and daughters of Lebang had asked him to warmly receive the minister and convey the community’s hopes and expectations regarding development initiatives.

Traditional Artifacts Presented to Dignitaries

During the ceremony, HRM presented symbolic traditional artifacts to several distinguished guests as a gesture of honor and cultural recognition.

Minister Paul Tasong Njukang received a traditional artifact from the Fon as a mark of appreciation for his visit and for his continued efforts toward promoting development in the region. The presentation symbolized the community’s trust in the minister and their expectation that he will continue to advocate for development projects that benefit the people of Lebang and the wider Fontem Sub-division.

His Royal Majesty Fon Lekunze of Bamumbu was also honored with a traditional artifact in recognition of the strong ties between neighboring traditional institutions and the spirit of unity among the fondoms of the region. The gesture reflected the importance of cooperation and mutual respect among traditional authorities in promoting peace and development.

In addition, the Senior Divisional Officer (SDO) for Lebialem Division, Mr. Ambang Fabian Kah, who accompanied the minister during the visit, was also honored with symbolic cultural artifacts by the Fon of Fontem. The presentation was made as a gesture of appreciation for his administrative leadership and service to the people of Lebialem Division. The act reflected the hospitality of the Lebang community while also highlighting the importance of continued collaboration between traditional authorities and government administration in promoting peace, stability, and development within the division.

Infrastructure Concerns Raised

During his address, the Fon of Fontem also raised concerns about infrastructure challenges affecting the community, particularly the condition of certain bridges and road sections.

He specifically highlighted a bridge located near the Mary Health of Africa facility, explaining that the structure poses a potential safety risk for motorists.

According to him, if drivers are not careful when crossing the bridge, vehicles may slip into the water due to the structure’s condition.

The Fon therefore appealed to the minister to consider urgent interventions to improve infrastructure within the area.

Call for Completion of Development Projects

Another key concern raised by the traditional ruler was the issue of abandoned development projects.

He urged government authorities to ensure that contractors responsible for development projects complete their work and do not abandon projects before completion.

“We do not want abandoned projects in Lebang anymore,” the Fon said. “What we want are completed projects.”

He further encouraged the minister to ensure that proper monitoring mechanisms are put in place so that projects awarded for the development of Lebang are effectively implemented.

Symbolic Seat of Responsibility Presented

During the ceremony, the Fon also presented a traditional seat to Minister Paul Tasong as a symbolic gesture. According to the traditional ruler, the seat represents a place of responsibility and honor, symbolizing the expectation that the minister should sit comfortably and reflect on the needs of Lebang and the wider division when making decisions concerning development projects.

The gesture also reflected the community’s confidence that the minister would continue to advocate for the interests of the Lebang Fondom at the national level.

Commitment to Peace and Development

Concluding his remarks, The Fon of Fontem, reaffirmed the commitment of the Lebang people to support government initiatives aimed at promoting development, peace, and stability in the region.

He expressed confidence that the visit would strengthen collaboration between government authorities and the Lebang community while paving the way for new development opportunities.

For residents of the Lebang Fondom, the occasion marked both the celebration of International Women’s Day and a renewed call for unity, progress, and sustainable development across the community.