Laure Nganlay
23 May 2011
It was a mammoth crowd that converged at the Buea Bongo’s Square on Friday May 20, to join in nationwide celebrations of the 39th edition of the National Day.
As early as 7:00 am, children of school going age colourfully dressed either in school uniforms or occasional attire, streamed into the ceremonial ground. Same went for petty traders, who had earlier erected temporary structures to sell their goods. Shortly after, administrative, municipal, traditional, religious and diplomatic authorities made their way into the grand stand, in response to the clarion call, to give the day the grandeur it deserves. Their presence was crowned with that of the Governor of the South West Region, Koumpa Issa, whose arrival at Bongo’s Square marked the start of activities for 2011 National Day.
A procession led by the military ensued, during which they displayed their various equipment. After several days of rehearsals, they finally proved their mastery and understanding of this years’ theme: “Cameroon Army: Crucible of National Unity, Bedrock of Stable and Democratic Institutions, and the Guarantor of Social, Economic Development.” Their passage was marked by a salute from the Governor and his military collaborators and a standing ovation from the crowd. Immediately after, 84 primary, 29 secondary, and 14 professional training schools, along side 13 higher institutions of learning and 4 associations marched past the grand stand, under the watchful supervision of the Governor, Koumpa Issa. Celebrants were led from the marching grounds to where ELECAM officials were stationed, so as to get them registered for elections.
In an interview at the end day, Koumpa Issa lauded all who took part in the various activities, from preparation till finish. He characterised the day as a “complete success”, given that “Cameroonians came out as one man to celebrate this important day,” he said. Prior to the almost two-hour march past, close to 30 different medals had been awarded to workers. Among the recipients was the Secretary General at the Governor’s Office, Quetong Handerson Kongeh.
The various groups dispersed from the ceremonial ground following light rainfall, after which festivities continued in various premises. The day ended with a rugby match at the National Advanced School of Public Works, a gala evening and the display of fireworks at the Governor’s residence.
AllAfrica – All the Time
Taken from:
Hitch free Celebrations in Buea