NW mayors urged to prioritise concerns of population, actively contribute to peace.

He was speaking during the 16th General Assembly of the United Cities and Councils of Cameroon, UCCC. It held at the auditorium of the North West Regional Assembly. 

Governor Adolphe Lele Lafrique underscored the vital role mayors must play in improving the livelihoods of the population in a bid to drive sustainable development efforts in their respective municipalities. 

The governor seized the opportunity to challenge municipal authorities to prioritize the wellbeing of their populations.

He also underscored the need for them to actively engage in the ongoing peace-building process initiated after the Major National Dialogue to seek solutions to ongoing crisis in the region.

“Take ownership of the concerns of your people,” the Governor told the mayors. 

He reminded mayors that they are the "bridge between government initiatives and the people”.

The governor told mayors that by “strengthening communities and improving livelihoods, you help build the peace and sustainable development we are all striving for".

Governor Lele Lafrique also reminded the mayors to judiciously use resources provided by the government, the Special Council Support Fund for Mutual Assistance, FEICOM, and international donors.

He advised them to transform such resources into tangible projects that will benefit their communities. 

Enter NW Regional Assembly President 

Speaking during the ceremony, the President of the North West Regional Assembly, Prof Fru Angwafo III, highlighted the urgent need for mayors to work hand in hand with regional authorities. 

"There is no other option than to work as one," Prof Angwafo III stressed. He was categorical that the recovery and progress of the North West Region depends on unity, teamwork, and shared accountability. 

Mayors tasked to be peace advocates 

Taking the cue, the North West Regional President of the United Cities and Councils of Cameroon, UCCC, Awoh Dang Denis, echoed the sentiment of peace and collaboration. 

He called on mayors to be advocates for peace in both words and deeds, urging them to foster environments where sustainable development can thrive. 

Awoh Dang expressed gratitude for the strong partnerships between mayors, the administration, security forces, and key development stakeholders.

Mayors reaffirm support for Biya 

The mayors took the opportunity to reaffirm their unwavering support for President Paul Biya’s leadership and his efforts to promote sustainable development in the region. 

They pledged to align with government’s vision for the North West and South West Regions, particularly in seeking lasting solutions to the ongoing crisis in the region. 

They collective expressed gratitude to President Biya for FEICOM’s cancellation of over 3 billion FCFA debt of councils in the region. 

The gesture, they disclosed, has cleared 75% of the total debt of North West councils and will greatly contribute to revitalizing the region’s economy. The event featured presentations from key development partners on ongoing projects. 

This story was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3255 of Thursday October 10, 2024