By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo
Amid the ongoing turmoil that continues to devastate the Anglophone Regions, Moonlight International Bakery (MIB) stands as a steadfast beacon of hope, unwavering in its commitment to providing shelter and support for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) residing in Yaounde.
Despite some IDPs finding work elsewhere and others moving on from the bakery in search of new adventures, Moonlight International Bakery has already assisted over 40 IDPs.
In addition to offering shelter, the bakery plays a crucial role in providing counseling and creating a comfortable environment for IDPs to find solace amidst the challenges they have faced.
Lambert Kehven, the manager and an IDP at MIB, shared his thoughts, stating, “It is truly heartbreaking to hear the stories recounted by those who have fled the crisis-stricken regions. As an IDP myself, I have a sorrowful tale to tell due to the hardships we have endured, but I have not given up. We have to move on.”
Kehven highlighted the efforts made by the bakery’s proprietor to ensure that individuals arriving at the bakery have the essentials needed to survive. To him, guidance is provided on personal development, with a particular emphasis on steering clear of drug consumption.
According to Nestor Mbuh, the bakery serves as a humble establishment that strives to assist people, especially IDPs, to the best of its abilities. Understanding the trials and problems faced by these individuals, Nestor emphasized that the bakery’s primary goal is to offer what little aid it can.
“We welcome individuals with diverse backgrounds and personalities. While some come and go, others choose to stay. Our mission is to provide whatever assistance we can so that they have a foundation to rebuild their lives,” he explained.
Some of the IDPs who shared their stories expressed gratitude for the support they receive at the bakery. They conveyed their determination to make a fresh start and expressed their happiness at the assistance provided.
Hundreds of thousands of people have fled their homes from the Anglophone regions to other places as IDPs, while thousands have been killed. Many children continue to stay out of school despite the fact that things have calmed down from the way they were.
Brutal killings and kidnappings continue to be a daily occurrence, yet the population persists in hoping for a brighter future.