The Bakossi Festival of Arts and Culture, BAFAC, celebrated in Tombel, Kupe Muanenguba Division, under the distinguished patronage of H.E Elung Paul Che, Minister, Deputy Secretary General at the Presidency of the Republic, has ended in extravaganza.
It was three days of spectacular display bringing together all Bakossi sons and daughters of Kupe Muanenguba and the Moungo divisions (home and abroad) to showcase their rich cultural heritage through captivating dance performances, delicious traditional meals, art exhibition, engaging stage music, storytelling, fashion, traditional rites, and artistic expression.
The groundbreaking ceremony which took place from August 27 to 30, 2025 in Tombel under the theme; “Celebrating the Heritage, Wisdom, and Creativity of the Bakossi People”, showcased the rich traditions and customs of the Bakossis.
Speaking at the opening ceremony on August 28, Minister Elung, on behalf of Bakossi people, congratulated the promoters and organizers of the event for the cultural gathering and reawakening of the Bakossi spirit.
He said the gathering in Tombel is not just a festival, but a family reunion to heal old wounds, build bridges between generations, and strengthen the bonds between Bakossi communities across Kupe Muanenguba and Moungo divisions.
“From the traditional rich pharmacopoeia of Nninong, to the basket weavings and wood carvings of Western Bakossi, to the musical genius of Bangem; from the oral historians of Baseng to the poetic chants of Muamenam, the Bakossis are not mere keepers of culture, we are creators”. Elung added.
Plea for Unity
He further revealed that the greatest threat to a people is not the erosion of tradition, but more, the erosion of unity.
According to Minister Elung, tradition may fade and be revived but once unity is broken, a people begin to disappear.
He said the fragmentation of their clan, the rise of self-interest and individualism over community, and the weakening of inter clan bonds threaten the very foundation of their identity.
“I offer a humbly plea; let us unite. My brothers and sisters, I am begging for genuine peace and unity amongst us. Let us rekindle the spirit of fraternity and restore mutual respect. Let us place community before self-interest”. He added.
Enters MINAC
On behalf of the Minister of Arts and Culture, MINAC, the South West Regional Delegate, Doris Itoe Bie epse Agunla said celebrating the abundant cultural diversity of the Bakossi people shapes their identity.
She said BAFAC is in line with the prescription of the Head of State, whose main objective is to promote the rich cultural heritage of Cameroon.
In his remarks at the closing ceremony, the Chairman of BAFAC organizing committee, Ekah Benjamin Ajebe appreciated all those who sacrificed for the success of the festival, especially the committee heads.
However, he regretted that there was no municipal authority in Tombel to welcome guests at the event.
Ekah said those who defiled the Tombel gathering were indiscipline in their actions. “Let’s shun jealousy and cease every opportunity to do good with love and gratitude.” The Chairman added.
The Director of Scandic Vibes Entertainment and Vision Bearer of BAFAC, Metuge Evelyn Epole thanked Minister Elung for embracing the project without asking her background, qualification, bank account, or political linings.
Metuge pleaded for unity amongst Kupe Muanenguba elite for much-needed development to be achieved.
Other highlights of the festival include paper presentation, traditional dance, musical performance, libation, award and recognition, animation, artistic display, amongst others.
Gentle Val on Stage
N
