Cameroon’s Minister of Tourism and Leisure, Belo Bouba Maïgari, has reversed his previous decision to designate the Menchum Fall as a tourist site. The scenic waterfall, located in the North West Region’s Menchum Division, has long been a popular stopover for travellers heading to Wum, captivating them with its natural beauty.
The about-face, outlined in a January 9, 2024, release, comes just five months after the Minister’s initial directive on August 21, 2023, aimed at promoting the waterfall as a tourist destination. No official explanation has been provided for this sudden change of heart, leaving the public to speculate on the reasons behind the decision.
The Menchum Fall’s proximity to the Wum Road has naturally drawn tourists and travellers to admire its splendour, often capturing its majesty in photographs. However, the recent development casts a shadow of uncertainty over the future of the waterfall’s potential as a tourist attraction.
While the minister’s motives remain unclear, the revocation has sparked various interpretations. Some speculate that concerns over environmental protection or cultural sensitivities might have played a role. Others suggest potential conflicts with local communities or logistical challenges in developing the site as a tourist destination.
The lack of transparency surrounding the decision has generated mixed reactions. Some residents of the Menchum Division expressed disappointment, as they viewed the potential tourist designation as an opportunity for economic development. Others, however, raise concerns about the potential impact of increased tourism on the area’s fragile ecosystem and cultural heritage.
As the situation stands, the fate of the Menchum Fall as a potential tourist attraction hangs in the balance. The Minister’s unexplained reversal leaves many questions unanswered, and the future of the waterfall’s development remains shrouded in mystery. Only time will tell if the authorities will offer further clarification or reconsider their decision, allowing the Menchum Fall to regain its potential as a tourist gem.
