The appeal is directed at the inhabitants of the regional capital of the North-West and all actors and other stakeholders who can promote the rise of waters or their flow through responsible or rather risky behaviors.
Be vigilant! Exposed to floods and other negative effects related to heavy rains that fall on the North-West region, the populations are invited to play their role in preventing such disasters. The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Célestine Ketcha Courtes, points out irresponsible behaviors of the populations that worsen the risks of flooding.
Read more Cameroon/ CAN Fe 2026: the cup precedes the presidential couple Paul and Chantal Biya in Yaoundé
The government member invites, for better prevention of these effects of climate change, the populations, actors, and stakeholders to respect life-saving actions. Six measures are thus to be regularly practiced: respecting urban planning and construction rules such as land use plans, setback margins, drainage corridors, road easements.
It is also necessary to avoid building in flood zones, wetlands, drainage channels, riverbanks. Obtain the required authorizations before undertaking any construction or development project.
In addition, maintain gutters, culverts, drainage channels, and waterways free of household waste, construction debris. The prohibition of throwing garbage in streets, gutters, waterways, and drainage systems. Residents and other actors can also report to the competent authorities any dangerous situation, any blocked drainage system, any landslide, or other flood-related risk.
Read more Cameroon: Sonatrel deploys seven transformers to boost the national grid
Calling on the people of Bamenda to be vigilant and cautious, the minister does not exempt the government. The situation confronts both the populations and government members responsible for intervention in the field with their responsibilities. The latter have the mission to set up public sanitation and drainage infrastructures that promote the flow of rainwater. Authorities are also upstream in issuing construction permits. They ensure compliance with land use plans as well as the prohibition of building in risk zones. If disorder continues to prevail, it is partly due to negligence and favoritism.
While the government reaffirms its commitment to strengthening urban resilience, improving drainage infrastructures, and promoting sustainable and harmonious urban development, the issue of prevention remains. In the urgency, strong measures are expected to save populations from the worst during this rainy season. Provisions can be progressively taken to address the issue in the long term.
Read more Cameroon: Gérard Emmanuel Ondo Ndong dies after 20 years in prison