South West’s groundbreaking fabric, “Eyasu”, to be launched today

Last-minute preparations are underway in Buea, headquarters of the South West Region, to launch a groundbreaking cultural fabric, Eyasu, an emblem for the Region.

The fabric’s promoters, including chiefs, say Eyasu embodies peace and unity at a time when the South West is reeling from an armed conflict that threatens the unity of the nation.

The official unveiling of the cultural fabric is taking place this afternoon at Buea Reunification Square.

This marks the culmination of an eight-year-long project that seeks to not only provide a unique emblem for the region but also foster unity and cultural identity among South Westerners.

Derived from the Oroko clan’s language of the South West, Eyasu means ‘Ours.’

According to Grace Ewang, the visionary behind the Eyasu concept, this fabric represents more than just a piece of clothing; it serves as a unifying force, offering South Westerners a distinctive cultural identity.

“Beyond the fabric is a whole sector that we want to develop,” said Mrs. Ewang during an interview.

Mr. Ewang, the former South West Delegate of Arts and Culture, added, “The fabric helps us to preserve, valorize, and promote our culture. But beyond that, we have a whole sector—the craft people, the artists—who needed a base for what I just called the creative industry.”

Eyasu, a cotton fabric dominated by brown, green, and red colors, is adorned with carefully chosen cultural symbols representing the South West.

Mrs. Ewang emphasized that the selection of symbols and colors was meticulous, undertaken by individuals deeply rooted in the cultures of South Westerners.

The project was managed by the South West Chiefs Conference (SWECC), under the leadership of Chief Obenofunde Moses.

Chief Obenofunde highlighted that Eyasu, widely embraced in the South West, is not exclusive; it is for everyone identifying with the South West.

“We are not leaving out other Cameroonians. We think that those who have lived with us and have elected to make the South West their home are South Westerners, and this call for unity includes all of them,” Chief Obenofunde said in an interview.

Chief Ekoka Molindo, the Secretary General of SWECC, underlined the values embodied by Eyasu, including peace, unity, and hospitality.

“The South West Region has been looking for this opportunity to come together,” said Chief Molindo.

“If you look around, different regions have different fabrics and whatever, but the South West has not come out with that. And given what we are going through right now, which is something that circumstances have forced upon us, this is like a rallying cry.

Eyasu, with its launch, is poised to join the ranks of other iconic Cameroonian fabrics that have garnered national and international recognition.

Examples include the Toghu of the North West Region, the Ndop of the West Region, and Lebialem.

As Eyasu unfolds its vibrant colors and cultural significance, it is anticipated to contribute significantly to Cameroon’s rich cultural tapestry, enriching the diverse heritage of the nation.

The launch signifies not only the introduction of a fabric but also a celebration of unity, identity, and the enduring cultural legacy of the South West Region.

Mimi Mefo Info