BUEA, Cameroon – The President of the South West Chiefs’ Conference (SWECC), Chief Dr. John Ahmadou Mukube, has urged communities in the region to actively safeguard and pass on their cultural heritage, warning that the loss of tradition threatens the identity of future generations.
He delivered the message during the second edition of the South West Cultural Festival held from February 27 to 28. The event assembled traditional rulers, cultural associations, state officials and large crowds in a vibrant display of heritage and unity.
According to the SWECC President, culture defines a people and gives them a sense of belonging. He encouraged parents, elites and community leaders to deliberately educate young people about their ancestry, customs and values. He expressed concern that certain artistic expressions, including traditional sculpture found in communities such as Bokwango, are gradually fading.
Over two days, participants from the region’s six divisions presented their uniqueness through dance, cuisine, crafts and a colourful street carnival. Various socio-cultural groups mounted exhibition stands showcasing traditional regalia, beads, carved staffs, hats and attire, alongside handcrafted jewellery made from local materials. Indigenous spices, smoked fish and diverse local dishes were also displayed.
The festival equally highlighted innovation, with exhibitors presenting locally processed products such as plantain flour, cereals and biscuits, underscoring efforts to link culture with entrepreneurship.
Spectators were entertained by several traditional performances, including a sacred male cult dance reserved for initiated men. The programme featured guided visits for invited guests on the first day and concluded with a lively carnival procession representing communities across the region.
Representing the Prime Minister at the opening ceremony, the Minister of Arts and Culture reaffirmed government support for cultural initiatives. He noted that sustainable development and social harmony are closely tied to the preservation of cultural identity.
Attendees described the festival as timely and inspiring. Some participants stressed the need to reconnect younger generations with family histories and traditional values, arguing that moral decline in society can be addressed through cultural education.
Women leaders also welcomed the platform, saying it offered opportunities to promote heritage while empowering communities economically.
Young people present at the event expressed enthusiasm at discovering the diversity of cultures within the South West Region, particularly the blend of tradition and business showcased at the exhibition grounds.
Organisers estimated that several thousand people attended the 2026 edition, which was held under the theme of promoting cultural identity, peace and entrepreneurial awareness.
As the celebration unfolded at the foot of Mount Cameroon, the overarching message remained consistent: protecting and promoting cultural heritage is vital for unity, moral grounding and sustainable progress in the South West Region.
