By Ikome Christie-Noella Eposi in Buea
The Independence Square in Buea came alive in a breath-taking spectacle of colour, rhythm and unity as the 2nd Edition of the South West Cultural Festival wrapped up successfully on Saturday, February 28, 2026, drawing close to 10,000 participants from across the region and beyond.
Organized by the South West Chiefs’ Conference (SWECC) under the distinguished patronage of the President of the Republic, Paul Biya, the two-day cultural jamboree stood as a resounding statement of peace, identity and economic ambition. The festival was presided over by the Minister of Arts and Culture, Pierre Ismaël Bidoung Kpwatt, who represented the Prime Minister, Head of Government.
A festival of identity, hope
From traditional dance parades and folklore storytelling to exhibitions of local cuisine and investment conferences, the festival showcased the rich cultural mosaic of the six divisions of the South West Region; Fako, Meme, Ndian, Manyu, Lebialem and Kupe-Muanenguba.
In his keynote address on Day One, Minister Bidoung Kpwatt described the event as a celebration of fraternity, harmonious living and unity. “No development is possible without fundamental cultural rules,” he declared, emphasizing government’s commitment to promoting artistic creation and preserving cultural heritage as pillars of national development. He noted that culture remains central to Cameroon’s vision of becoming an emerging and united nation.
The President of SWECC, HRM Chief Dr. Ahmadou John Mokube, delivered an emotional appeal for cultural revival. He warned of the steady erosion of traditional values, lamenting that many young people can no longer speak their native dialects or recount ancestral stories. “Culture is the identity of a people. If we lose it, we lose ourselves,” he stressed, urging parents to revive storytelling traditions and instil respect, humility and family values in children.
Chief Mokube equally underscored the importance of peace, praising ongoing efforts to stabilize the region and calling for improved protection and rehabilitation of traditional rulers. He reaffirmed the chiefs’ unwavering support for President Paul Biya, whom he hailed as the “number one supporter of culture.”
Buea: The city of legendary hospitality
Welcoming participants, the Mayor of Buea, Barrister David Mafani Namange, described the South West as a “Cameroonian miniature”, a cosmopolitan hub embodying the nation’s diversity. He highlighted the alignment of the festival with the National Development Strategy 2020–2030, linking cultural preservation with tourism and economic growth.
Nestled at the foot of the majestic Mount Fako, Buea once again proved itself worthy of its title as the “City of Legendary Hospitality,” hosting guests from across the region, the diaspora and government circles.
The presence of the President of the South West Regional House of Chiefs, HRH Chief Kombe Richard Ndike, marked a symbolic milestone following the inauguration of the South West Regional Assembly in December 2025, a product of national dialogue aimed at deepening decentralization and inclusion.
Women and youth at heart of transformation
Beyond dance and celebration, the festival placed strong emphasis on entrepreneurship and empowerment, particularly for women and youth.
At the Conference on Investment Opportunities and Promotion held at Mountain Hotel Buea, stakeholders underscored the need for financial discipline, harmonized laws and stronger empowerment strategies to unlock the region’s economic potential. Tourism was identified as a key growth sector capable of boosting employment and quality of life.
Tarhyang Enowbikah Tabe, moderator of the conference, recommended prioritizing tourism development, women’s and youth empowerment, peaceful economic actions and stronger support for traditional institutions.
Women’s associations played a prominent role. Honorine Eyong, President of EYUMEMA (Voice of a Mother), Buea branch, highlighted efforts to empower Manyu women through capacity-building and small business training. The socio-cultural group, linked to EYUMEMA USA Inc., now counts nearly 1,000 members globally and is focused on promoting entrepreneurship while preserving culture. “We need to empower ourselves and empower our communities, especially the Manyu girl child,” she stated.
Ekandim Dr. Agbor Magdalene echoed the call for a return to traditional values, urging young people to embrace humility, decent dressing and respect for cultural norms. “Tradition impacts accountability and honesty, values that are missing today,” she observed.
A resounding success
Chief Ebong Pende, Public Relations Officer of SWECC, expressed satisfaction with the massive turnout and enthusiastic participation. “Groups came from all corners of our six divisions. We showcased love, peace and unity and that objective was largely attained,” he said.
The closing ceremony was officiated by Acha Gilbert Nkwenti, Secretary General at the South West Governor’s Office, who described the festival as a “vibrant and enduring” affirmation that the region’s heritage remains alive. “As the sun sets on this edition, let us remember that cultural heritage is not just about the past; it is the foundation of our future,” he declared, urging attendees to remain ambassadors of peace in their communities.
Sponsors ranging from government figures such as Chief Dr. Dion Ngute to corporate partners including Gigal Tower, DASH Holdings, SONARA, Limbe Port Authority and Camtel were acknowledged for their contributions. The health team led by Dr. Eko Eko Filbert and the hospitable population of Buea also received special commendation.
Looking ahead
As drums faded and cultural troupes took their final bows, one message resonated strongly: the South West is reclaiming its narrative proudly rooted in tradition while confidently embracing entrepreneurship and unity.
The festival not only celebrated heritage but also symbolized renewed hope in an improved security climate and collective determination to consolidate peace.
With calls already mounting for an even grander third edition, the 2nd South West Cultural Festival has firmly positioned itself as more than an annual celebration. It is now a powerful platform for cultural renaissance, social cohesion and economic awakening in the South West Region.