Inhabitants of Small Soppo Wovila in the Buea Subdivision have taken a step towards ensuring equitable access to their water resources by creating a committee that could resolve a longstanding crisis over the management of the community’s water catchment.
This measure, taken after the intervention of the Divisional Officer (DO) for Buea, Abba Abdurahman, follows recent tensions regarding the control and management of a newly constructed water catchment facility in the area.
During a visit to the community, the DO emphasized that the water catchment is intended for community use and should not be monopolised by any specific group.
This clarification was necessary due to ongoing disputes that have disrupted the water supply to the community and its neighbouring areas.
“For some time now, the population of Small Soppo Wovila, along with other neighbouring areas, has not benefited from the flow of water due to conflicts over the management of the water catchment facility,” Mr. Abdouraman stated.
The DO’s visit aimed to resolve these issues and ensure fair access to water for all community members.
Eugene Nkah, Quarter Head of Wovila Strangers, traced the root of the dispute.
“The tussle was revolving around the fact that some members of our community were not respecting the traditional authorities of the village,” he said.
“The DO’s intervention today has put a stamp and seal on the fact that no association or union is above the traditional rulers.”
Some residents view the resolution as a positive step towards community harmony and shared resources.
Élise Bete, a local resident, expressed satisfaction with the DO’s visit.
“What the DO came to do here is okay by us. It’s just a little misunderstanding, and now we have understood ourselves,” she remarked.
Upon arrival, the DO consulted with the population and discussed the importance of cooperative management.
“Water is a common good, and it goes beyond the village community to benefit many others,” Mr. Abdouraman noted.
“Disorder in the community where the water is being tapped poses a problem for everyone. That is why we have decided today that a water management committee, inclusive of all stakeholders, should be established.”
It was resolved that representatives from various groups within the neighborhood will be selected to form the water catchment management committee.
This inclusive approach aims to ensure effective control and sustainable management of the water catchment.
