By Ngunyi Sonita Nwohtazie
LEBIALEM, Cameroon – After years of neglect due to the ongoing Anglophone crisis, road construction is finally making visible progress in Lebang, Fontem, Lebialem Division of the South West. The long-abandoned road stretching from Nchobenya’e to Azi and extending to nearby villages like Njeh is being revitalized, thanks to the efforts of the FOCALARE movement and the Lebang Cutural and Development Organization-LECUDO,USA.
The once widely used road network had deteriorated due to overgrown bushes, rain, and sun damage. However, two caterpillars introduced a few months ago made the restoration work evident, as cleared and graded roads emerged.
The project aims to restore connectivity in Lebang, a community heavily affected by the crisis, facilitating the transportation of people and goods. According to road engineer Nkengafac Theophile, the construction is gradually taking shape. He said: “So far, we have cleared about three kilometres of roadside, felled trees, and graded the road,” he explains.
However, challenges persist, especially with the rainy season approaching. The scarcity of workers in certain areas to clear the roads, particularly between Azi and Nchobenya’e , has slowed progress.
“When we started, we struggled to clear the roads because few people remain in the villages to assist,” Theophile notes, highlighting that the population is sparse, with women making up most of those still residing in the area.
Operators of the construction equipment are also facing significant obstacles. Taku Victor, one of the caterpillar operators, said: “Right now, I’ve had to step away from operating the caterpillar to work as a mechanic due to mechanical faults. One of our biggest challenges is the lack of a dedicated mechanic, which has slowed down our progress. The frequent breakdowns of the caterpillars are discouraging. If not for these setbacks, we would have already reached Fortunche.”
A Labor of Love for the Community
Despite the difficulties, the construction team remains committed. Nkengafac Theophile expresses his enthusiasm for contributing to the development of his hometown. He said: “When I was given this role, I was overjoyed. Like everyone else working to revive the Fondom, I see this project as my way of giving back to my community.”
Similarly, Taku Victor sees his work as a personal contribution to the region’s progress. “Being part of this project is meaningful to me. I will do my best to support my community in any way I can,” he said.
Community Support and Future Prospects
Local leaders appreciate the progress made so far. Fon Asabaton the traditional ruler of Fontem, acknowledges the effort of all those involved. “I am pleased with the work being done from Nchobenya’e to the traditional headquarters. I extend my gratitude to everyone making this project a reality. However, I recommend the use of laterite on the roads to help withstand the rains.”
With previous efforts such as school reopening and the installation of solar streetlights, this road construction project marks another step toward revitalizing the Lebialem division. LECUDO-USA has pledged to continue initiating development projects, giving residents hope for a brighter future.
