The Representative of the Public Independent Conciliator, Chief Fonju Bernard delivering her opening statement
Community stakeholders of Akwaya Municipality converged at the Mamfe Town Hall on Thursday. 30th July 2026 for a Town Hall Meeting focused on improving governance, transparency and collaboration between the council and the people.
View of traditional rulers and other participants following deliberations during the townhall meeting
The meeting brought together a wide cross-section of community stakeholders of the municipality was held on the theme: Office of the Public Independent Conciliator “Reinforcing Council-Citizen Relations, Fostering Collaborative Local Governance and Inclusive Development in Akwaya”. In attendance were, the representative of the Public Independent Conciliator, Mr. Fonju Bernard, the representative of the Senior Divisional Officer for Manyu Division, the Divisional Officer for Akwaya subdivision, the Lord Mayor of Akwaya Municipality, collaborators of the Public Independent Conciliator, traditional rulers, religious authorities, Municipal Councillors, council workers and representatives of women’s groups, men’s groups, market vendors, bike riders syndicate, business operators and youth groups.
Back view of a cross-section of participants present during the Townhall meeting
The program opened with a word of welcome delivered by the Lord Mayor for Akwaya Municipality, who urged participants to see the gathering as a platform for dialogue and partnership. This was followed by a word from the Divisional Officer for Akwaya Municipality on behalf of the Senior Divisional Officer for Manyu Division, who reiterated governments commitment to supporting local councils in delivering basic services to the population.
The keynote address was presented by Mr. Fonju Bernard, Representative of Mme the PIC. He emphasized on the role of the Public Independent Conciliator’s office in promoting good governance, protecting citizens rights and ensuring accountability in public service.
Dr. Tambe Cyrille Bua, one of the resource person doing one of the presentations
Two technical presentations formed a core part of the meeting. The first presentation on the mandate and mission of the Public Independent Conciliator was delivered by Mme. Tabe Adel Achare spouse Eyong. She outlined the mandate of the institution to receive complaints, mediate disputes and promote a culture of transparency in local administration.
The second presentation on “The Obligations of the Council towards service users and the rights and obligations of citizens towards the council” was made by Dr. TAMBE Cyrile BUA. He stressed that effective service delivery depends on both the council fulfilling its duties and citizens respecting their civic responsibilities.
A traditional ruler speaking during the question and answer session
An Interactive exchange session followed the presentations. Participants were free to voice their worries, ask questions and seek clarifications. Concerns raised focused on issues such as road infrastructure, access to potable water, health services, civil status services and communication between the Council and communities.
In response, Mr. Fonju Bernard and the Lord Mayor provided answers and recommendation, urging stakeholders to use established procedures for complaints and to engage in community monitoring of projects. Participants pledged to support council initiatives and ensure peace and development in Akwaya Municipality.
Family picture of the Representative of the PIC, Chief Fonju Bernard, the D.O of Akwaya sundivision and the Mayor of Akwaya Council with some participants
In closing, the Representative of the Public Independent Conciliator thanked all participants for their contributions and encouraged the council to collaborate with stakeholders. Participants described the meeting as an important step towards building trust and ensuring that the voice of the people is reflected in decision-making for Akwaya Municipality
