Society

At farewell ceremony: Outgoing EU Ambassador praises Bangoulap cultural heritage.

Ambassador Châtaigner with Bangoulap traditional ruler during event

The Outgoing European Union Ambassador to Cameroon, His Excellency Jean-Marc Châtaigner, has praised the cultural heritage of the Bangoulap chiefdom in Bangante Subdivision, Nde Division of the West Region.

This was during two-day visit to Bangoulap, which ended Sunday, August 16. The visit enabled the EU diplomat to bid farewell to the traditional ruler of Bangoulap, His Majesty Jean-Marie Yonkeu, and the people of Bangoulap before his final departure from Cameroon as he has come to the end of his diplomatic mission in the country.

The farewell visit builds on the ties forged between the Ambassador and the chiefdom during his term of office.

In particular, the Ambassador took part in the 18-km Bangoulap Tour, an opportunity which enabled him to discover the local cultural heritage and engaged with local population.

He also contributed to discussions on heritage promotion, digital technology, culture and local development. Châtaigner was subsequently elevated to the rank of Menkam of the Bangoulap Chiefdom, symbolically cementing the ties forged with the community.

In his farewell address, the Ambassador said his return to Bangoulap to say goodbye is not ‘farewell’ as bonds have been forged and friendships formed.

He then saluted the valiant people of Bangoulap whom he described as his “brothers and sisters of Bangoulap”, for their hospitality, attachment to their traditions and their daily commitment to keeping their region thriving.

“Bangoulap holds a special place amongst the memories I shall take away from Cameroon. How could I forget my first visit on the occasion of the Bangoulap Tour?” he said.

He further mentioned that: “We also discovered the landscapes, the places of remembrance, the traditions and the skills of this region. This walk showed me something very simple: here, heritage is lived and breathed”.

The diplomat assured the traditional ruler and community of Bangoulap that his successor will continue to build on the bridges and bonds established during his tenure.

The Ambassador’s 48-hour mission was marked a farewell audience with His Majesty Jean-Marie Yonkeu of Bangoulap chiefdom, a dinner and meetings with members of the community and traditional authorities.

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3883 of Wednesday August 19, 2026