By Hope Nda
The Bafut Cooperative Credit Union (BAFCCUL), one of Cameroon’s oldest credit unions, has expanded its operations to Limbe, in the Southwest region, opening a new branch to serve the coastal city’s population with member-focused financial services.
Founded in 1964 and anchored in community partnership, BAFCCUL now boasts over 13 branches across the country. The Limbe branch was launched on Friday, March 6, by the Divisional Officer of Limbe I, represented by the Adjoint d’Administration Kome Thierry Mbine, in the presence of BAFCCUL Board President Tanifor Wilfred, the General Manager Louis Neba Atahsi and board members.
The new branch is another milestone in the institution’s six-decade journey of promoting financial inclusion and grassroots empowerment.
Speaking at the launch ceremony, Board President Tanifor Wilfred outlined BAFCCUL’s unique approach to banking.
“We have to serve our customers very well. We shall be partners in their businesses and not funders: come to you, work with you, see what is wrong with your business,” he said.
You come to us, you need money, we partner with you in the business, make sure that you progress as we also grow. That is the first thing we will do that other credit unions are not doing,” he added.
He asserted that BAFCCUL will also train its customers on financial literacy and investment strategies.
Louis Neba Atahsi, BAFCCUL General Manager, emphasised the institution’s commitment to inclusive and accessible financial services.
“As a cooperative institution, we are not here merely as a financial service provider. We are here as partners in progress with the people of Limbe,” he said.
“Through this branch, we will offer a wide range of services, including savings accounts, affordable loans for small businesses and personal development, financial advisory services, and support opportunities for members to participate in the cooperative system that prioritises their welfare. Our goal is to make financial services accessible, reliable, and beneficial to everyone in this community,” he said.
BAFCCUL Board President Tanifor Wilfred
Why Limbe Now?
Explaining why it took over 60 years for BAFCCUL to establish a branch in Limbe, the General Manager noted that market readiness played a key role.
“We have been in the Southwest in other areas, and they have been crying that we should come to Limbe. We know that it’s not only to go to a place to open the union, but the market situation also determines if you can successfully run that business there. Right now, we are confident because many of our members have been moving up to Buea for their transactions, but when you see the population here today, it’s really timely,” he explained.
Bih Rose, General Manager of Rainbow Cameroon, an umbrella structure promoting good practices in Category 1 microfinance institutions, commended BAFCCUL for its enduring legacy. She advised the institution to continue building on this legacy to cement its roots in Limbe.
“For 60 years, they have proven their worth. So, coming to Limbe is just an addition to their feathers. They are here to serve the grassroots, which they have been doing in other regions with over 13 branches spread across the national territory. We are sure that their services will be needed in Limbe and they’re going to provide affordable, reliable services to the population of Limbe,” she said.
The branch was officially launched by the Divisional Officer of Limbe I, represented by Kome Thierry Mbine, Adjoint d’Administration, who lauded BAFCCUL for its potential to help residents better manage their finances.
“We open our hands and welcome BAFCCUL into Limbe I Subdivision, and we hope that they would collaborate with the local authorities and the people of Limbe I Subdivision… I would say it is a huge development because it is so beautiful to the eyes. It adds to the beauty of the city. So I think that since it has lasted over 60 years, I hope that it brings a change to how the people of Limbe manage their finances,” Mr Mbine said.
BAFCCUL General Manager Louis Neba Atahsi
Officials reaffirmed that BAFCCUL has stood firm on principles of integrity, resilience, and service. In Limbe, they are promising inclusive financial services for all, with a focus on youth and women through financial literacy programmes and support for small businesses and entrepreneurs.
“We are unique because we centre on transparency, member empowerment, innovation with integrity, and community resilience. We listen, not just to react, but to understand what our members truly need,” the Board President said.
The launch ceremony drew a notable crowd, including BAFCCUL Board members, Bafut natives, and cultural dance groups. Several new members were registered on the spot.
With its slogan, “Where Dreams Get Wings,” BAFCCUL hopes to become the go-to financial partner for Limbe residents.
From left: BAFCCUL GM, DO’s representative, Board President and Rainbow Cameroon GM
BAFCCUL Board members, GM with DO’s representative and Rainbow Cameroon GM during Limbe branch launch
