By Engah Peter Parkers
A momentous occasion unfolded at the Fokoue grandstand last August 5, 2025, as Oben Charlotte Bate was officially installed as the first-ever female Divisional Officer of Fokoue Subdivision, located in the Menoua Division of Cameroon’s West Region.
During the installation ceremony, the Senior Divisional Officer (SDO) of Menoua Division, Itoe Peter Mbongo underscored the significance of diligence in her duties especially with upcoming elections and urged the new DO to navigate sensitive chieftaincy matters with care, and abolish the consumption of drugs among youth in particular and the general inhabitants of Fokoue.
Before her appointment, Oben Charlotte was the 2nd assistant SDO of Fako division in the South West region. She takes over from Dr. Ndofi Ngangeh Isidore Bunji, who has been transferred to Limbe III subdivision in the same capacity. Dr Ndofi Ngangeh was D.O of Fokoue for six years. He handed over to a woman and took over from another woman in Limbe III subdivision, where he has been transferred.
Oben Charlotte Bate’s recent appointment by Presidential Decree No.2025/357 of July 22, 2025 is part of a broader initiative by the Cameroonian government aimed at strengthening local governance and enhancing public service delivery across various regions, as well as highlights ongoing commitment to enhance gender representation in governance.
A huge delegation from Limbe that accompanied the new DO to her new setting was made up of the Paramount Chief of Limbe, HRM Chief Elufa John Manga Williams, Mrs Viang Mekala, the Secretary General of Limbe City Council – Kinge Thompson Molonge, the 3rd assistant SDO of Fako, a host of staff from the SDO office as well as divisional delegates of Fako.
Fokoue Subdivision, celebrated for its breathtaking natural beauty and agricultural prosperity, is poised to benefit from Oben Bate’s administrative leadership. As she steps into her new role, she will oversee the implementation of vital government policies and programmes aimed at elevating the living standards of the community. With her over 18years experience, D.O Bate’s leadership approach will emphasize collaboration with local communities, traditional leaders, and key stakeholders.