Senator Mundi's story of hope in new book inspiring hope.

Senator Mundi signing out copies during launching in Y’de

Philanthropist and elite of the North West Region, Senator Elizabeth Regina Mundi, has, through her new book, detailing her extraordinary life trajectory and harrowing experience in the hands of separatist fighters, inspired hope in those going through challenging moments in life.

Published by Quality Prints Publisher, the 164-page book, titled: ‘Powered by Hope-Eighty, Captive, Rescued’, was officially launched in Yaounde on Sunday, June 1, 2025. 



The author, in the compelling publication, divided into four chapters, drives readers through her life; from childhood to prominence, expounding on the profound power of prayer and positive mindset.       

Reviewed at the launching by Bamenda-based journalist, Maikem Emmanuela, Senator Mundi skillfully weaves together her life story through the themes of faith, resilience, and the indomitable spirit of humanity.   

The grassroots politician, through the book, as a victim of the armed conflict in the North West and South West Regions, reflects on the transformative power of prayer during her darkest hours in the hands of her captors and the kindness of Good Samaritans.

 

Motivation for publication 

Speaking to reporters at the launching, Senator Mundi said she was motivated to write the book in order to shed light on the untold stories behind her kidnap and liberation as well as the ordeal of others in the hands of separatist fighters. 

“Most people do not know what happens to those who are in captivity. So, I had to tell the story of what it was like being in the bush. For instance, when one says the boys in the bushes, it leaves the impression that they are living in the bush. They are not living in the bush,” Senator Mundi stated. 

The book, she said, is also a means to express gratitude to all and sundry for their individual contributions that led to her regaining freedom. 

“…to thank all those who were praying for me and to thank the military guys because it was not easy for them…,” she said. 

Cross-section of personalities at launching 

Book proceeds to be channeled to curbing maternal mortality 

The author also used the book launch to flag off a campaign to battle maternal mortality, which, she said, is still very common in the country. Senator Mundi said proceeds from sales will be channeled to the cause of saving lives. 

“By buying this book, you are joining a cause to save lives. The government cannot do it all alone. We must come onboard to sensitise the women and everyone around us to tackle these issues women face during child delivery," Senator Mundi said. 

The author said she is also working on “building up women’s confidence”, especially on tackling factors that cause maternal mortality and women’s health. 

While urging parents not to abandon their girl children, once they are pregnant, Senator Mundi called on women to make efforts in taking care of their health and not only rely on men once pregnant. 

 

Massive attendance, testimonies galore 

The heavily attended book launch saw the presence of several members of government, elite of the North West Region, Director Generals of State corporations and other high-profile personalities. 

Several persons who attended the ceremony gave testimonies on the life of the author. 

Prof Emeritus Chomben recalled how the author overcame the huddles of the 1990s, with the reintroduction of multiparty politics, how she was forced into widowhood, and how she singlehandedly raised her kids.

"From childhood, she had the characteristics of what it takes to be a politician. She knew how to share in the grief and pain of others. She has love and faith in the Lord. She never believes that she has an enemy," Prof Emeritus Chomben said.

Prominent North West elite, Minister Felix Mbayu, who coordinated the pre-launch which generated over 20 million FCFA, said "every challenge leaves a greater opportunity". 

On his part, the Director General of Customs, Edwin Fongod, said surviving multiple challenges, including kidnaping at 80, is an indication that Senator Mundi is someone who “has humanity at heart”.

Cross-section of NW elite speaking during launching 

Enter book reviewer 

Bamenda-based journalist, Maikem Emmanuela, in her review, described the book as a “powerful tool for promoting national unity and finding lasting solutions to the ongoing socio-political crisis and the alarming rates of maternal mortality”.

Maikem said by addressing these critical issues, the book aims to “alleviate the suffering of those affected” as it “illustrates how collective prayer and unity can pave the way for meaningful change”. 

She said the book “offers a moral perspective, shedding light on the hidden realities of kidnapping-an issue that many Cameroonians remain unaware of”. 

Maikem said the author’s “insightful exploration not only informs but also inspires action, making it a vital contribution to the discourse on Cameroon’s future”. 

 

About the book 

The book details the chilling circumstances of Senator Mundi’s captivity, providing readers with a rare, behind-the-scene looks at her captors and the psychological turmoil she endured.

The narrative opens with the shocking news of her abduction, alongside her driver, Mamouda, on April 30, 2022, igniting a wave of global prayer sessions, led by her eldest daughter and the remarkable display of courage of ten soldiers who confronted over 50 armed separatist fighters in a treacherous and unfamiliar terrain, to rescue the Senator on May 30, 2022.

The book also delves into details of what became of her driver, Mamouda, and also invites readers to reflect on the broader implications of human rights violations in conflict zones.

The book also paints a vivid portrait of Senator Mundi’s childhood in the 1940s, her passion for advocacy against maternal mortality and its devastating effects on society. 

The author also delves into the roots of the socio-political grievances that have plagued the North West and South West Regions and takes readers to her ordeal in the hands of gun-wielding Amba fighters through rough landscapes of hills and trees.

Senator Mundi also paints a picture of her mental state with a death sentence delivered by the Ambazonia Governing Council and how she found solace only in the pages of the Bible bestowed upon her by the Amba ‘General’, “Big Number.” 

Through the book, she invites readers to connect with their own inner fire and unwavering faith in God. 

 

 

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3463 of Tuesday June 03, 2025

 

about author About author : Doh Bertrand Nua

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