At midterm evaluation session: Wum Mayor presents sparkling balance sheet, unveils robust dev’t plan.

The projects were publicly counted at the council’s midterm evaluation session held Wednesday October 16 at the Wum Council Hall.

The session chaired by the Mayor of the Wum Council was attended by the Senior Divisional Officer, SDO, Abdoullahi Aliou, traditional and religious authorities of the area.

The midterm evaluation session provided an opportunity for stakeholders to assess the progress made in various initiatives of the council as well as to plan for future endeavors. 

The Wum Council midterm evaluation session highlighted significant strides in the municipality's development.

Mayor Dighambong’s address during the session emphasised transparency, accountability, and community engagement, inspiring confidence in the council's vision.

The session focused on the evaluation of the effectiveness of the council's strategies as well as efforts on fostering an environment of collaboration among council members, community leaders, and residents. 

With representatives from various sectors coming together, the session aimed to underline the importance of participatory governance.

During the session, the mayor highlighted the council's key performance metrics. 

Among the achievements cited, the mayor mentioned the successful implementation of education and health initiatives, improvements in local infrastructure, and advancements in income generating projects. 

The said accomplishments, he said not only underscore the council's dedication, but also serves as a testament to the progress made in various sectors.

Projects realised, more in pipeline

Amongst the projects realised in course of the year, Mayor Dighambong cited the rehabilitation of a block of three classrooms at GS Zonghefu village in Wum executed at 100% as well as the construction of a block of two classrooms with a regular office at GS Zonghokwo in Zonghokwo village in Wum executed at 50%.

Mayor Dighambong who is also serving as the 1^st Vice President of the United Councils and Cities of Cameroon, UCCC mentioned the construction of a block of two classrooms at GS Tsakendze in Kesu village in Wum executed at 65% as well as the supply of 140 benches, four tables and four chairs to GS Zonghokwo, GS Tsakendze executed at 100%.

Other projects include the construction of 32 market sheds in the Wum main market, the installation of 30 solar street lights in Bu, Atue & Menteng, the rehabilitation of Ukpwa integrated health center in Ghiedze village, completion of a fence at the Wum Urban integrated health center in Kesu village, eehabilitation of the Wum Council Museum and the construction of a bridge over river Kebwen linking Magha palace and Magha Overside in Wum.

There is also the construction of a box culvert at PK 0+800 from GTHS junction along the Naikom-Ketcha road in Wum, the construction of a box Culvert Linking Wajung and Buetsi in Wum, support to three Common Initiative Groups, CIGs in Zonghefu, Waazoh and Kesu Villages and the purchase of Training and office equipment for Agric post Kesu.

The Wum Council under Mayor Dighambong’s watch also constructed a bore hole powered by solar at Yuotoh in Waindo village as well as created a fishpond, powered by solar energy for Wum Council.

There is also the construction of a gutter at the entrance into the Wum park and the organisation of Wum Council Unity Tournament, ongoing.

Challenges, need for improvement

While celebrating successes, the Wum council also candidly addressed the challenges faced over the first six months of the year. 

Issues such as budget constraints, delays in project execution, and community engagement limitations were discussed.

The open dialogue emphasised the council's commitment to transparency and a willingness to tackle obstacles head-on.

One of the session's most significant aspects was the inclusion of community feedback. Residents were encouraged to share their perspectives on ongoing projects and initiatives. 

The interaction not only enriched the discussions but also reinforced the idea that local governance is a shared responsibility. 

The council vowed to provide regular updates on the progress of initiatives and to maintain open lines of communication with constituents. 

This story was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3263 of Friday October 18, 2024