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

The Minister Delegate to the Minister of Economy, Planning and Regional Development in charge of Planning, Paul Tasong Njukang, has called on the people of Lebang Fondom to remain united and committed to rebuilding their communities, during his official visit to Menji on Sunday, March 8, 2026.

The visit, widely described by residents as the “People’s Tour,” brought together traditional authorities, administrative officials, political leaders, and hundreds of community members who gathered to welcome the minister and engage with him on issues affecting development and peace in the area.

During his address to the population, Minister Tasong highlighted the importance of unity, peace, and population growth as essential factors for the sustainable development of the region.

Commitment to Development and Representation

Addressing the gathering, the minister assured the people of Lebang that he understood their concerns and development needs and would ensure that these concerns are properly communicated to decision-makers at the national level.

I know how to report and I know how to make that report fit enough for anyone reading it to clearly understand the needs of our people,” he stated, emphasizing his commitment to advocating for the development priorities of the division.

Minister Paul Tasong

He also acknowledged the support of the area’s members of parliament, noting that their experience and presence in national institutions play an important role in advancing the interests of the region.

According to him, collaboration between local leaders, elected officials, and government representatives is essential in securing the resources needed for development projects.

Call for Unity Among the People

A major theme of the minister’s message was the importance of unity among the people.

He stressed that the progress and future of the division depend largely on the ability of its people to work together.

“If our division will never be left behind, we cannot afford not to work in close ranks,” he said, urging residents to maintain solidarity and cooperation in the pursuit of development.

Minister Tasong noted that unity remains a key ingredient for consolidating peace and restoring normal life in communities affected by the ongoing crisis in the North West and South West regions.

Appeal to Youths in the Bush

In a particularly emotional part of his speech, the minister addressed young men who have taken up arms and are currently hiding in the bush.

Speaking as a father and elder from the region, he urged them to reconsider their choices and return to peaceful life within the community.

“As your father, as your uncle, as your big brother, you still have the opportunity,” he said, emphasizing that peace and reconciliation remain possible if they choose to abandon violence.

He warned that continuing down the path of conflict could lead to dangerous consequences, while stressing that the future of the region depends on peace and cooperation among its people.

Concern Over Population Decline

Minister Tasong also raised concerns about what he described as a “looming population crisis” affecting the division.

He explained that population challenges can occur when an area becomes either overpopulated or underpopulated. In the case of the division, he noted that the concern is not overpopulation but rather a declining or insufficient population, which can make it difficult to justify certain development investments.

According to the minister, population size plays a significant role in government planning and resource allocation.

“It may sound technical, but when the population is too small, development projects are sometimes difficult to justify,” he explained.

He encouraged residents to remain in their communities and work toward rebuilding the region so that development initiatives can be effectively implemented.

Education Challenges Highlighted

Another major issue raised by the minister during his visit was the shortage of teachers in schools across the area.

He acknowledged that in many of the communities he visited within the division, residents repeatedly raised concerns about the lack of teachers in classrooms.

The minister assured the population that these concerns would be taken seriously and that efforts would be made to address the challenges affecting the education sector.

Traditional Authorities and Community Leaders Present

The event was attended by several dignitaries, including traditional authorities such as the Fon of Fontem, administrative officials, local council leaders, and members of parliament.

Minister Tasong also acknowledged the contributions of community leaders, including the leadership of the Lebang Cultural and Development Association (LECUDO), whose efforts he said help mobilize communities and promote development initiatives.

Visit Coincides with International Women’s Day

The visit to Menji coincided with the global celebration of International Women’s Day, adding symbolic importance to the event as women from various groups in the community participated actively in welcoming the minister.

Women’s associations, youths, and community members joined the gathering, highlighting the important role women play in community development and social cohesion.

Renewed Hope for Development

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

For many residents of the Lebang Fondom, the visit represented an opportunity to raise key issues affecting their communities while also reaffirming their commitment to peace and development.

As the gathering concluded, community members expressed hope that the discussions held during the visit would translate into concrete actions aimed at improving infrastructure, education, and socio-economic opportunities across the region.