Bridging Generations: Cultural Engagement at Bamendankwen Palace

In a vibrant effort to connect youth with their roots, Direct Actions for Rights Equity and Development (DARED) organized a cultural heritage engagement activity. This initiative, held in partnership with the Regional Delegation of Arts and Culture and the Bamendankwen Traditional Council, brought together students from the Faculty of Cultural Heritage and International Relations of the University of Bamenda to foster a deeper connection with local heritage.

The day commenced with an inspiring welcome address from the Regional Delegate for Arts and Culture, who emphasized the critical role students must play in preserving Cameroon’s rich cultural identity. The Queen Mother of Bamendankwen warmly received the participants, expressing her gratitude for the visit and underscoring the palace's historical significance.

Participants were then treated to an immersive guided tour of the Bamendankwen Palace, led by the Queen Mother and the Palace Secretary. Students explored the architectural layout, cultural symbols, and administrative structures of the fondom, gaining invaluable practical insight that beautifully complemented their academic studies. The tour continued at the Bamendankwen Museum, where historical artifacts brought the community's evolution to life.

A key component of the program was hands-on engagement. Students actively participated in a cleaning exercise at the museum, joining palace custodians in the vital work of maintenance and preservation. Following this, DARED’s Director, Tamfu Kilem Bongwa, delivered a powerful talk on volunteerism as a cornerstone of heritage protection, encouraging students to become proactive custodians in their own communities.

The event culminated in a shared meal and a dynamic question-and-answer session with the Fon of Bamendankwen and the Head of the Traditional Council. This open dialogue provided a unique opportunity for students to engage directly with traditional leaders, deepening their understanding of the challenges and opportunities in cultural preservation.