By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo
The Paramount Fon of Nso, His Royal Majesty Sehm Mbinglo I, has urged Nso women to remain resilient, live peacefully wherever they find themselves and keep faith in the community’s future, declaring that a “new dawn” has arrived.
The Fon made the appeal on 10 October in Bafoussam, West Region, during the maiden Nso All Women Conference. Speaking through an interpreter, he encouraged women to continue promoting peace and to pass the message on to their children, wherever they may be.
Organised by the Women’s Forum of the Nso Cultural and Development Association (NSODA), the conference was held under the theme: “New Dawn: ‘Ke’ Ye Fiyii’, Women Leading Change: Unity, Development, Impact.”
The gathering brought together government officials, traditional rulers and community leaders to discuss ways of strengthening unity and advancing peace. It was co-chaired by Yaa Dr Asheri Kilo, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Basic Education, and Augustine Awa Fonka, Governor of the West Region. The Fon of Oku was among the traditional dignitaries present.
“His Royal Majesty says that he is with you, he will walk with you wherever you go, and he asks you to live peacefully wherever you are,” the interpreter told the women on the Fon’s behalf.
He further conveyed the traditional ruler’s message that peace must begin within families and communities, with parents encouraging their children to embrace peaceful coexistence.
“What he asks of us all is that we live peacefully and tell our children, wherever they may be, that peace is worthwhile,” the interpreter said.
The Fon also expressed confidence that the Nso people would eventually return home, whether for a temporary visit or permanently.
“Finally, he says he knows we will all return home. Whether it is a temporary visit or a permanent return, it will happen, so wait for the call,” the interpreter added.
Reflecting on the women’s participation, Sehm Mbinglo said he was moved to tears as he watched them march past during the conference. Their display of unity, he suggested, raised questions about when the men of the community would come forward in a similar show of solidarity.
“He will try to unite the men to follow this example,” the interpreter said, adding: “Women never get tired.”
The Fon also expressed appreciation for the gathering, saying the Nso throne and other traditional leaders were pleased to see the women come together in such numbers.
“The throne, His Royal Highness, and his brothers are happy that we gathered here today. They thank you for this wonderful performance and ask you to never give up,” the interpreter conveyed.
The conference featured speeches, a march past, traditional dance performances and exhibitions. Throughout the event, speakers and participants called for peace, unity and renewed commitment to the future of the Nso community.