By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo
Women from the Wimbum tribe in the Donga Mantum Division of Cameroon’s Northwest Region gathered in Yaoundé on January 25 for their inaugural national convention under the auspices of the “Wi-Njuh” association. This landmark event focused on fundraising to support the Wimbum girl child and queen mothers within their fondoms.

The convention provided a platform for the Wimbum women to discuss key issues and generate financial support for their important initiative. Manjuh Helen Bawe, National Njuh Coordinator, praised the gathering, crediting the vision to the WICUDA General President, Apostle Dr. Nforgwei Rogers.
“This vision has been present for some time, but we faced challenges. However, God has brought us together, enabling us to hold this first-of-its-kind convention,” she remarked, stressing the potential for meaningful change stemming from the messages shared.

Bawe urged the Wimbum women to unite, support their husbands, and help realize their collective dreams. “Where there is a powerful woman, the family stands in peace. Let us come together, embrace this message, and empower one another,” she stated.
Felicitas Ache, the Public Relations Officer of Njuh National, highlighted the significance of the Njuh dance in Wimbum culture. “At one point, it faded away due to a lack of advocates. Thanks to this initiative, we are committed to reviving and promoting the Njuh dance, a cultural legacy passed down from our ancestors,” she explained. The Njuh dance also serves as a supportive warrior dance for men, further distinguishing the Wimbum women.

Ta Nformi Emmanuel Ngwatu spoke to the media about the power of unity among women. “When women come together, their voices resonate. We are proud of the Wimbum women gathered here today,” he stated. He added that while this gathering is significant for its specific project, which aims to support the girl child and assist queen mothers, it also sets the stage for future events.
Judith Yah Sunday, the Director General of CAMTEL, commended the Wimbum women’s initiative, noting that their focus on empowering the girl child and uplifting women is a commendable effort. “Women are the backbone of any country. We want to encourage them to stand together as they work to improve their lives, their children’s futures, and their communities,” she said.

The convention saw the participation of over 1,000 women from 14 branches of Njuh houses across various regions, marking the fourth edition of the Wimbum women’s gatherings, previously held in Douala, Tiko, and Bafoussam.
Discussions at the event included themes such as “Reinforcing Love and Harmony among Wi-Njuh Women,” “Women and Financial Empowerment,” and “Women Combatting the Effects of Climate Change.”
This inspiring gathering not only highlighted the resilience and unity of the Wimbum women but also set a hopeful tone for the future of their community.