PIC Team embarks on Outdoor Sensitization in Councils, Engaging Local Communities
Community Town Hall Sensitization at Bamenda I Council
On 5th July 2024, a team of experts from the Office of the Public Independent Conciliator North-West Region started an Outdoor Sensitization Campaign, visiting Bamenda I Council Up-Station Bamenda, with the aim of educating and involving the public/community stakeholders in local governance issues.
The Mayor of Bamenda 1 Council, Mbigha Felix was pleased with the initiative of the PIC concerned with community’s participation in local development. The Mayor emphasized that such sensitization programs are crucial for fostering a more informed and engaged citizenry.
Mr. Ndi Nelson, Research Officer No.1 of the Office of the Public Independent Conciliator introduced the activity on behalf of the Public Independent Conciliator and also highlighted the goals of the sensitization program that has a purpose of raising awareness about the roles and functions of various public institutions and encouraging public participation in council activities.
Dr. Atia Tilarious, Research Officer No.3 of the Office of the Public Independent Conciliator, provided information on the creation, mission, organization and structure, functioning of the PIC. He made emphasis on the fact that the PIC solves disputes amicably and ensuring fair administrative processes.
Mrs. Nina Ambuban, Research Officer No.5 of the Office of the Public Independent Conciliator focused on the role and duty of citizens in the community. She encouraged the public to actively participate in and support Regional and Council actions. She futher explained how to effectively lodge complaints with the PIC, thereby promoting transparency and accountability.
The Director of General Affairs at the North West Regional Assembly, Mr. Alombah Anderson Akondi enlightened the population of Bamenda I municipality on the missions and objectives of the Regional Assembly. He stated the key role in fostering regional development and enhancing local governance. Its primary missions include promoting socio-economic growth, ensuring effective decentralization, and enhancing the quality of life for residents in the region. By implementing initiatives such as the Peace and Development Initiative (PDI), the Assembly aims to address local needs and challenges through participatory governance and community engagement. Also, the Assembly is committed to infrastructure development, capacity building, and the provision of essential services, all of which are geared towards achieving sustainable development and fostering a harmonious and progressive society in the North West region.
The last presentation was delivered by the Secretary General of Bamenda 1 Council, Fru Blessing Neh on behalf of the Mayor. She elaborated on the missions and roles of councils in the region, stressing the councils’ commitment to improving public services and fostering community development.
Quarter heads and Leaders of Development Associations who were present and listened to experts from the Office of the Public Independent Conciliator North-West Region, made notes and some of them were delighted and expressed satisfaction about the initiative that has to do with engaging citizen’s participation in Local Development. Some did not know how to hold their Mayors to account or how to be part of development projects in their communities.
A Question and Answer session followed, allowing participants to seek clarifications and express their views on the issues discussed. This interactive segment was instrumental in fostering a deeper understanding and connection between the public and their local government representatives.
The program concluded with the awarding of prizes to participants who had distinguished themselves during the event. The Public/Outdoor Sensitization Programme was a success, leaving attendees more informed and motivated to engage with PIC and other local government, thereby fostering a more transparent, accountable, and participatory governance system.