By Etienne Mainimo Etienne
A new era has dawned for the Nso Cultural and Development Association (NSODA) with the installation of its newly elected officials in Bamenda, Northwest Region of Cameroon, on July 19, 2025. The ceremony was chaired by His Royal Highness, the Paramount Fon of Nso, Sehm Mbinglo I, alongside other Fons of Nso land, their representatives, and various administrative dignitaries among others.
During the installation, the Paramount Fon, urged the new executive team to prioritize peacebuilding within Nso land and beyond. He called on them to serve the people diligently and work toward making Nso land prosperous.
In his address, NSODA President Sheey Tadze Adamu Mbiydzela expressed gratitude to all attendees, particularly the Fons, for gracing the occasion. He called for unity among the Nso people to foster a peaceful and thriving community. “ If we stand here today, it is because of our love for Nso and our commitment to listening to the guidance of our fathers,” Sheey Tadze Adamu said. “If we stand here today, i believe strongly, it is because we want to see the growth of Nso, and we must move forward with one voice.”
He stressed the importance of peace and collaboration, particularly among the Fons who lead the community. “If we are here today, it is a clear sign that we have embraced peace and love. This unity must extend to our Fons and everyone in Nso,” he added. Reflecting on the past, he urged the community to learn from history, embrace peace, and take the growth of Nso seriously. “We must ask ourselves if we are moving forward or backward,” he said.
Sheey Tadze Adamu highlighted NSODA’s achievements over the past two years, noting its tireless efforts to drive development through partnerships with other organizations. Looking ahead, NSODA plans to establish the Nso Farmers Marketing Cooperative and promote coffee cultivation in the land. Additionally, the Nso Arts and Cultural Heritage initiative has been created to collaborate with all fondoms to preserve and strengthen Nso’s cultural heritage.
Addressing artists, entertainers, sportspeople, and cultural promoters, Sheey Tadze Adamu praised their contributions and encouraged the youth of Nso to support these efforts. He also called on the Nso diaspora to uphold truth and reject hatred and division.
During the ceremony, several individuals were recognized for their significant contributions and dedication to the development of Nso land.
The new NSODA executive, led by Sheey Tadze Adamu, assumes leadership at a pivotal moment, as the return of the Ngonnso statue—the mother and cultural symbol of the Nso people—is set for September 2025. The statue, which has been in Germany for over a century, is seen as a turning point in the journey toward peace and unity in Nso land when it returns.
Nso sons and daughters on their part have promised to rally behind the new leadership, urging unity in the pursuit of a greater Nso land. While indicating that the need for peace, they have called on every Nso man and woman to embrace it. They have also pointed out that collective efforts are essential to sustain peace and drive development.
(Picture Credit: De Lavmfu)
