Commemorating Sacrifices in Conflict
On 8 November, the High Commissioner participated in a solemn event alongside His Excellency Bernard Okalia Bilai, the Governor of the South-West Region, and Professor Nalova Lyonga, the Minister of Secondary Education. The gathering took place at the Commonwealth war graves located within the Limbe Botanical Gardens Cemetery. The occasion was dedicated to honouring the memory of individuals who have lost their lives in conflicts since the First World War, as well as recognising the contributions of those who have served and continue to serve in the pursuit of peace.
Strengthening Land Management Partnerships
During a four-day visit to the region, the High Commissioner also engaged with Mr Tanyitiku Enohachuo, the Director General of the National School of Local Administration (NASLA). This meeting marked the formal launch of a new partnership between the UK and NASLA, aimed at enhancing the management of non-titled land and addressing land-related conflicts.
The initiative is designed to bolster the knowledge, coordination, and practical abilities of individuals involved in land management. As part of this effort, two regional workshops will be held in Buea and Bafoussam, uniting relevant institutions and stakeholders to foster improved coordination and reinforce effective land governance strategies.
Building Awareness and Coordination
Mr Enohachuo expressed gratitude for the collaboration with the United Kingdom’s Land Facility and the British High Commission in Yaoundé, noting its timely nature in light of the pressing need for enhanced awareness and cooperation among stakeholders in land management. He highlighted that land management in Cameroon encompasses various institutions, including the Ministry of State Property, Surveys and Land Tenure (MINCAF), the Ministry of Territorial Administration (MINAT), and the Ministry of Decentralisation and Local Development (MINDDEVEL). NASLA, as a transversal institution, is well-positioned to facilitate training that brings these entities together along with other stakeholders.
Engaging with Local Communities
The High Commissioner further took the opportunity to meet with administrative authorities, traditional leaders, and representatives from civil society. These discussions aimed to gain local insights and enhance the UK’s engagement with communities throughout the South-West Region.
At the University of Buea, he delivered a lecture focused on demystifying diplomacy, sharing valuable experiences from his diplomatic journey and discussing the significance of diplomacy with students, who represent the next generation of Cameroonian leaders.
Commitment to Bilateral Engagement
British High Commissioner to Cameroon, Matt Woods, remarked on the privilege of spending time in the South-West Region, highlighting the importance of connecting with administrative authorities, traditional leaders, local communities, and students. He noted that the new partnership with NASLA exemplifies a practical approach to strengthen institutions, mitigate conflict, and support the development of peaceful, resilient communities.
This visit underscores the UK’s ongoing commitment to collaborating with partners and communities throughout Cameroon, reinforcing bilateral relations, facilitating practical cooperation, and advancing mutual priorities.