By Julliet Mesame
The Heritage Higher Institute of Peace and Development Studies (HEHIPEDS), in collaboration with Nico Halle & Co. Law Firm, has marked three years of a fruitful and impactful partnership dedicated to promoting justice, reconciliation, and peace in Cameroon.
The anniversary celebration took place on Friday, April 10, 2026, at the conference hall of Nico Halle & Co. Law Firm in Douala. The event brought together key stakeholders to reflect on the journey so far and the significant strides made through the collaboration.
Speaking at the event, Ntumfor Nico Halle emphasised the enduring strength of the partnership, noting that its longevity is a testament to its success.
“If the partnership were not fruitful, it would have collapsed. This is not an empty celebration. It is ongoing, and we remain committed to its vision,” he stated.
For HEHIPEDS, the collaboration has yielded meaningful results. The institution’s founding President, Prof. Willibroad Dze-Ngwa, expressed satisfaction with the progress made over the past three years.
“We are satisfied with how far we have come. This is only the beginning. We intend to expand and multiply this initiative in the years ahead,” he said.
The anniversary was marked by a high-level peacebuilding workshop under the theme: “Justice, Peacebuilding, and Reconciliation in Cameroon.” The workshop convened civil society actors, policymakers, legal experts, traditional authorities, religious leaders, and media practitioners. Discussions centered on the urgent need for sustainable peace strategies amid Cameroon’s ongoing sociopolitical challenges.
Delivering his keynote address, Sir Dr Ntumfor Barrister Ntumfor Nico Halle stressed the importance of justice as the foundation for lasting peace.
“Justice is not abstract. Many speak about it without understanding its true meaning. One cannot preach justice while engaging in corruption, violence, or impunity. Social justice is essential for the well-being of any society,” he remarked.
He further underscored the importance of moral values and called for a return to ethical and religious foundations as a pathway to building a peaceful nation.
Also speaking at the workshop, Rev. Fr. Humphrey Tata Mbuy highlighted the critical role of traditional rulers in maintaining social order and fostering reconciliation, particularly in rural communities. He noted that while some traditional authorities have lost influence due to evolving social dynamics, there is a need to re-educate communities on cultural values and respect for institutions.
On his part, Colonel Magistrate Didier Sipa Ndongmo advocated for the wider adoption of alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, especially mediation. He explained that mediation offers a more accessible and efficient approach to justice while helping to decongest formal courts and strengthen community harmony.
Participants engaged in rich and constructive discussions, ultimately agreeing on the need to strengthen community-based peacebuilding initiatives, promote inclusive governance, encourage dialogue platforms, and enhance collaboration between state and non-state actors.
The celebration concluded with a symbolic cake-cutting ceremony to commemorate the third anniversary of the partnership. Guests were also treated to a guided visit of the Nico Halle Award Gallery, which showcases over 200 awards earned by Sir, Dr Ntumfor Barrister Ntumfor Nico Halle an enduring symbol of dedication, resilience, and excellence.