North West Regional Assembly reflects on 2023 achievements, challenges
The North West Regional Assembly’s 2023 Reflection: A Year of Progress Amidst Challenges
The North West Regional Assembly, a pivotal governance institution in Cameroon, convened for its 14th ordinary session to reflect on the year 2023—a year marked by significant achievements and formidable challenges. The session, themed “2023 Performance and Accounts Session,” provided a platform for members to engage in critical evaluation and strategic planning for the region’s future.
The Assembly’s president, Prof. Fru Angwafo, underscored the importance of transparency, accountability, and efficiency in governance. This emphasis on integrity comes in the wake of a report by the Office of the Public Independent Conciliator, which highlighted instances of misconduct within councils. Prof. Angwafo’s message was clear: those entrusted with the welfare of constituents must uphold the highest standards of stewardship.
Throughout 2023, the Assembly reported progress across various sectors. Infrastructure projects, such as road maintenance and rehabilitation, were completed, enhancing connectivity and market access. In education, efforts were made to improve facilities and resources, contributing to the region’s development. Healthcare saw expansions in essential services, leading to better health outcomes and a higher standard of living for citizens.
However, the Assembly did not shy away from acknowledging the challenges faced over the year. Security issues and socio-economic impacts were significant concerns, compounded by the effects of climate change, including floods, storms, and environmental degradation. These challenges underscore the need for continued focus on sustainable development and climate resilience.
Looking forward, the Assembly is committed to inclusivity, equity, and sustainable development. Initiatives for capacity building, gender-based budgeting, and addressing the needs of vulnerable populations are among the top priorities. With detailed presentations of accounts and project updates, the Assembly demonstrated its dedication to transparency and prudent financial management.
As the region moves into the future, the North West Regional Assembly remains dedicated to building a brighter future for its constituents, emphasizing the need for unity and collective effort to overcome obstacles and achieve shared goals.
The session was held under the theme “2023 Performance and Accounts Session,” providing a platform for reflection, evaluation, and strategic planning for the region’s future.
While addressing members of the assembly, Prof. Fru Angwafo, President of the North-West Regional Assembly, emphasized the importance of transparency, accountability, and efficiency in governance. This comes after the 2023 report of the Office of the Public Independent Conciliator highlighted councils involved in wrongdoing. “As representatives entrusted with the welfare of our constituents, it is incumbent upon us to uphold the highest standards of integrity and stewardship.”
The Assembly highlighted achievements across various sectors, including infrastructure, education, healthcare, and cultural preservation. Road maintenance and rehabilitation projects were completed, enhancing connectivity and market access for citizens. In healthcare, the Regional Assembly expanded access to essential services, resulting in improved health outcomes and contributing to a higher standard of living.
According to Article 62 of the Cameroonian Constitution, the North West Regional Assembly is a local governance institution that the President of Cameroon established. Members include chiefs, politicians, and business elites.
This special status was granted to the English-speaking North West and South West Regions following the Major National Dialogue (MND) in 2019, aimed at addressing the Anglophone Crisis. However, there remains curiosity regarding the accomplishments of institutions such as the Regional Assemblies, established for both regions, amid the ongoing conflict.
Members of the assembly admitted that there were several challenges in 2023. They cited security issues and socio-economic impacts, which were acknowledged. Climate change also remains a pressing concern, with floods, storms, high temperatures, and environmental degradation affecting the region.
Prof. Fru Angwafo stressed the importance of accountability and prudent financial management. The Assembly’s detailed presentation of accounts, including project updates and financial stewardship, demonstrated their commitment to transparency.
As discussions and strategic planning for the future unfold, the focus remains on inclusivity, equity, and sustainable development. Capacity-building initiatives, gender-based budgeting, and addressing the needs of vulnerable populations are key priorities moving forward.
Regional Assembly members dedicate their time and efforts towards building a brighter future for the North West Region as the session progresses.
