– BY NDUMBE BELL GASTON IN DOUALA
Tens of recipients drawn from over ten categories of vulnerable or under privileged workforce as described by the Ministry of Social Affairs, were rewarded with prizes, certificat and envelopes in a humanitarian-based ceremony called the Big Earth Humanitarian Awards (BEHA) organized by Grass 2 Grace Cameroon at the Foyer NjoNjo in Bonapriso on Saturday June 10.
The soul-searching, and luminous event that was full of talents called ambassadors by G2G officials, brought together an impressive attendance including the presence of the representative of the governor, the representative of the Regional Delegate of Social, Affairs, United Nations diplomats, heads of enterprises and sponsors, who came to assist and encourage this group to move forward and improve their lives.
This 7thedition saw recipients for the first time selected from four regions of the nation namely the North West, South West, Centre and of course the Littoral from which the categories included a crippled comedian, called GerbeOffiong nick-named potto, a blind teacher from Ekona called Bah Gallus Bah of the first category and Yembel S, a graphic designer. In the fourth category was Madam Doris who confirmed that she cleaned faeces in toilets to earn a living. In the 5th category was Madam Sandrine who is a blind artist, mother of five children who sang in Spanish. In the six category was Mr. Njiki who suffers from renal insufficiencies and is a poultry farmer. In the seventh category was Roseline a hermaphrodite from Bamenda.Also from Bamenda was Madam BessongSolange who told her story on how she became a taxi driver for six years now. Prizes were handed over to Nicole Mara, and Mr. Njoh not as in the other categories but for having accompanied BEHA since it’s inception. Three others were absent.
In a totally different category, the MTN Cameroon was awarded a certificate endorsed by the United Nation CISRI Ambassador Cameroon. His Excellency Simon Lesley, commander of justice, and the G2G Promoter, in appreciation of their efforts in corporate social responsibilities in communities. Another award was handed over by the promoter to an Inspector of Customs ZoboOlama Octave.
Earlier in their brief opening remarks, Madam Kamga Therese stated that over time there is growing confidence between the beneficiaries and the organization. She reminded others that future editions will take place after every two years. The Promoter and founder of Grace 2 Grace HRH Thomas AyukNfornkang and UN CIRSI Award Holder, told attendants that while their goal is genuine it has not been easy to reach this level. He advised the public to think African and help this ambassadors so that they can continue to build Africa in their own ways. According to the promoter no job should be underrated. He also stated that these group of buyamsellams and a host of others already mentioned in the micro business sector together make-up 75% of the workforce in the nation. Talking emotionally, he said there is need for change in attitudes and there is need to make these people happy. The representative of the regional delegate of social affairs expressed his appreciation for these gestures which he went on, was in accordance with the humanitarian objectives of President Biya to promote the vulnerable or disfavoured. He urged all actors to emulate this example. Detailed video clips showing activities of beneficiaries were shown to attendants before prizes were handed over.
All spokesmen mentioned special thanks to sponsors like Tradex, Gaz du Cameroun, Ozil, Agenda, PAD, Canal II and a host of others