ASCUDA Mobilises Over FCFA 16 Million to Construct Multipurpose Community Hall

By Njodzeka Kernyuy

The Ashong Social Cultural and Development Association (ASCUDA) has mobilised over 16 million FCFA, with 70 percent in pledges, for the construction of a Multipurpose Community Hall.

The fundraising event, which was held over the weekend in Yaounde, aims to foster development in Ashong, a village in Cameroon’s North West Region.

It took place during ASCUDA’s annual general meeting (AGM), which brought together sons and daughters of Ashong village to celebrate culture and raise funds for village development project.

According to the ASCUDA President General, Mbah John Timben, the community hall, estimated to cost 120 million FCFA, will serve as a vital space for official functions, youth empowerment programmes, and other community-driven activities.

“This project is expected to have a significant impact on the village, providing a platform for community engagement, skills development, and social activities,” Mr Mbah said.

The project is being backed by several major donors. One of them is Fongoh & Partners Real Estate, which donated one million francs CFA.

Others include Tikum Vincent, Quality Director of Telcar Cocoa, who contributed a significant sum and emphasised the importance of giving back to the community.

“Many people are accustomed to receiving in life; very few try giving. There is more blessing that goes with giving back to life than receiving,” said Tikum Vincent.

Present at the event was the Fon of Ashong, HRM Mbafor Christopher III, who expressed his appreciation for ASCUDA’s efforts and the generosity of the contributors.

Taking the people down memory lane—from when the event was held in Buea two years ago and in Tiko one year ago—the Fon said much has been accomplished.

“From Buea, we raised a huge amount of money; we went to Tiko, and we raised a considerable sum. We have done so much. We are currently distributing electricity in the village, among many other projects, before we came up with the idea of the Hall,” said Fon Mbafor.

 “We are very lucky to have a very dynamic and hard-working executive that has put in and sacrificed everything for the well-being of the population.” he added 

The Fon also highlighted the benefits of the Community Hall, saying, “We intend to establish spaces there, perhaps with small facilities like tailoring workshops and machines, so that young people can acquire vocational skills that will help them. Apart from that, it will provide a convenient venue for all activities.”

ASCUDA President General, Mbah John Timben, emphasised the importance of the project, while the President of the host branch in Yaounde, Ndum John Teboh, noted that Ashong was chosen for the construction of the Multipurpose Hall to preserve and promote culture, despite the ongoing socio-political and economic challenges in the region.

The event showcased the unity and patriotism of the Ashong people, demonstrating their resolve to foster development in their village.

The Association has successfully completed previous projects, including the palace and a water project, and is committed to continuing its work to improve the lives of the people of Ashong.

The construction of the Multipurpose Community Hall is expected to commence soon, with the support of the government and the people of Ashong.

Ashong, a village in Batibo Subdivision, Momo Division, is the largest village in the division and is home to approximately 9,000 people. The village has been actively working towards development, with ASCUDA playing a key role in driving progress.