Canadian High Commissioner HE Richard Bale
Government officials, traditional authorities, religious officials, civil society actors, nongovernmental organizations and the entire population of the North West region have been called upon by Canadian High Commissioner, Richard Bale to engage in collective efforts for the development of the region considering the damages as a result of the ongoing sociopolitical unrest in the country.
In a working visit to the region Friday April 22, 2022, with the President of the Regional Assembly Prof. Fru Angwafo and some regional councillors, the Canadian High Commissioner, Richard Bale stated it is important for all to come together and rebuild what has been destroyed.
Canadian High Commissioner with cultural artifacts
“Stakeholders be it government, traditional leaders, religious leaders, civil society, private sector, It is important to have all stakeholders take part in building communities that have been affected by the crisis. With joint efforts we can have good understanding of the situation on ground and ensure that our engagement is better targeted for sustainable development.”
In the course of discussion between members of the Regional Assembly and the High Commission, presented Regional Development Plan, a document for advocacy but also to seek partnerships in trade and economic development as well as the rich nature of the region and recognised the efforts of Canada towards achieving long lasting peace.
“The region is home to Kola coffee, ndawara tea, Oku honey, textile designs and other coveted products in international markets. The agricultural potential and culture of the Region are natural ingredients for sustainable economic development. The projected road infrastructures and the Bamenda dry port offer opportunities for regional and international trade. The Regional Assembly Village complex is a project seeking to assemble the deliberative institution, its administration, the cultural diversity of the seven divisions of the region in one spot for tourists eager to capture the pristine foundations of humanity.”
This is coming at a time when the region has been greatly affected by Anglophone crisis six years and counting. Hundreds of lives have been lost, families separated, properties destroyed and uncertainty now looms in the region. In a nutshell both sides hope to establish a cordial relationship for development.
By
Anye Nde Nsoh
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