US Ambassador champions collaboration, aid during Bamenda visit

The United States Ambassador to Cameroon, Christopher J. Lamora, wrapped up his inaugural visit to the North West Regional capital, Bamenda, this week by underscoring the need for greater collaboration between his country and local stakeholders.

The visit that spanned from January 23-24 marked a significant homecoming for Ambassador Lamora, who last served in Cameroon 32 years ago as a young diplomat.

The Ambassador emphasized the importance of engaging with a diverse spectrum of individuals, ranging from government officials to faith leaders, civil society representatives, media professionals, and key US government health and humanitarian partners.

He expressed the vital role of these interactions in shaping and enhancing cooperation to support the people of Bamenda, the North West Region, and Cameroon towards a more peaceful and prosperous future.

During his stay, Ambassador Lamora held discussions with prominent figures including Governor Adolphe Lele L’Afrique; City Mayor Paul Tambeng Achobong; Regional Delegate for National Security Elung Njume Wilson Nijkang; and President of the Regional Assembly Fru Angwafor III.

These meetings focused on gaining insights into the security, economic, and humanitarian landscape of the region.

The Ambassador also engaged with journalists, faith leaders, and civil society representatives, commending their contributions to good governance, human rights, and economic growth.

Expressing appreciation for their key role, he acknowledged the significance of their efforts in the region.

Reiterating the longstanding commitment of the US Government to health and humanitarian sectors, Ambassador Lamora met with United Nations agencies and NGO partners at the UN joint compound.

His separate visit to the International Medical Corps (IMC), supported by an annual grant of over FCFA 1.5 billion from USAID, showcased the significant impact on strengthening primary health care in crisis-affected remote communities, benefiting approximately 57,000 people.

Highlighting the enduring dedication to combating HIV/AIDS, Ambassador Lamora visited the Nkwen Baptist Health Center, backed by the US President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

His firsthand observation emphasized the role of US partnership in advancing diagnosis, care, and treatment of HIV, along with community education on prevention.

A pivotal moment during the visit was the Ambassador’s meeting with the multi-NGO team involved in the Consolidating Systems and Services for the Management of Orphans and Vulnerable children (CoSMO) project.

Funded through USAID and implemented by the National Episcopal Conference of Cameroon, this project, with a budget of FCFA 20 billion over five years, aims to improve the well-being of children and families affected by HIV/AIDS.

In 2023 alone, the project reached nearly 7,000 orphans and vulnerable children in the North West Region.

In addition to these engagements, Ambassador Lamora expressed the desire for continuous dialogue to end the over seven years of armed conflict, underscoring the need for sustained efforts towards lasting peace in the region.

His visit showcased a holistic commitment to addressing various facets of the North West Region’s challenges and promoting a brighter future for its people.

Mimi Mefo Info