In response to urgent housing needs and a rapidly growing population due to ongoing socio-political instability in the region, the Mamfe Council has unveiled a series of development projects aimed at creating low-cost housing, improving healthcare, and providing vocational training. Funded by the Cameroon-Austria Soft Loan scheme, these projects address critical shortages in affordable housing and essential services, which are increasingly strained by the influx of internally displaced persons (IDPs) and new residents.
The announcement followed a strategic meeting in Douala between Mamfe Council officials and representatives from the Ministry of Economy Planning and Regional Development (MINEPAT), who outlined the funding mechanisms under the Austrian-backed initiative. Kenneth Vikema, a MINEPAT official, explained that the Soft Loan scheme offers local councils financial support ranging between 3 billion FCFA and 6 billion FCFA, enabling them to initiate projects that meet pressing community needs. He was joined by colleagues Nying Pau Kwang and Mahamat Moussa, who provided guidance on managing these resources effectively.
Addressing the Affordable Housing Crisis
A primary focus of Mamfe’s development initiative is the creation of affordable housing. With a steadily rising population driven by ongoing socio-political instability in surrounding areas, demand for housing has reached unprecedented levels, creating a severe shortage. This crisis has hit the most vulnerable members of society particularly hard, as displaced families and lower-income households struggle to find secure, affordable accommodations. Mayor Tabenchong Robertson Ashu emphasized the urgency of the housing project: “The need for affordable housing in Mamfe has never been greater. Many of our displaced citizens are living in inadequate conditions, and even civil servants hesitate to relocate here due to the lack of suitable housing. This project aims to provide affordable, comfortable homes that will encourage families and professionals alike to settle in Mamfe.”
Revitalizing Healthcare Access
In addition to the housing initiative, the Mamfe Council is addressing the community’s healthcare crisis, which has been exacerbated by recent conflicts that left the Mamfe District Hospital in ruins. Residents are currently left with limited options for affordable medical care, forcing many to travel significant distances to seek treatment. Mayor Ashu expressed hope that the Austrian-funded development will bring much-needed healthcare services back to the area. “A well-equipped hospital is essential to the wellbeing of our community. With these funds, we aim to construct a healthcare facility that will provide accessible, affordable medical care for the entire Manyu Division.”
Empowering Youth through Vocational Training
As the population in Mamfe swells, so does the demand for employment opportunities. The council’s development plan includes a vocational training center to equip young people with practical skills. By providing training in fields like carpentry, electrical work, and tailoring, the new center will empower residents to create their own businesses and contribute to the local economy.
“This vocational center is an investment in our future,” said Mayor Ashu. “With the right training, our young people can develop the skills to support themselves and create jobs for others in the community. We want to ensure that Mamfe’s growth is accompanied by opportunities that benefit everyone.”
Building Community Partnerships
To maximize the impact of these initiatives, the Mamfe Council is committed to transparent, inclusive communication with residents. Mayor Ashu announced plans for a series of community engagement sessions, where council members will discuss the projects with residents in the affected areas and address any concerns. The council has also engaged a consultant to oversee project execution and ensure smooth progress from planning to completion. The timing of the announcement, just before the council’s 2025 budget adoption, reflects a strategic approach to aligning local financial planning with these ambitious development goals.
A New Chapter for Mamfe
With the launch of these projects, the Mamfe Council has taken a bold step toward tackling the region’s housing shortages and revitalizing essential services. The involvement of local leaders such as Secretary General Takang Ernestine, Municipal Treasurer Etape Otilia, and Technical Service Chiefs underscores the collective commitment to seeing these projects through.
As Mamfe confronts the dual challenges of socio-political instability and population growth, the council’s initiatives signal a commitment to resilience and forward-thinking development. Mayor Ashu’s call for community support and engagement promises a collaborative effort that can transform the city and set a precedent for sustainable, community-driven progress in the region.