To raise funds for the displaced individuals seeking refuge in his small kingdom, the Fon of Akum, George Ndikum II, a Cameroonian king, is currently visiting the United Kingdom.
Having held the throne for 65 years, the Fon of Akum presides over an area in the North-West region of Cameroon. This region, along with another English-speaking region, has experienced a separatist conflict for the past six years. The conflict emerged from the grievances of those in the Anglophone regions who have long felt marginalized by the predominantly French-speaking majority in the country.
Akum, a picturesque village situated in the highlands, relies heavily on agriculture as its main source of livelihood. However, it is now facing significant challenges due to the influx of people who have been displaced by the war. Amnesty International recently released a report highlighting rampant human rights abuses and other crimes, including executions, torture, and rape, taking place in the conflict.
To assist those who have lost their homes in this ongoing crisis, the Fon of Akum seeks to secure financial support during his visit to the UK.
The Fon of Akum has been feted since his arrival last Wednesday by London’s Cameroonian community.
Events during the monarch’s visit are focussed on raising funds for displaced children to give them access to education and to provide food.
“Every contribution, no matter how small, holds immense power.
Like the drops of rain that come together to form a river, our collective efforts can create a powerful current of change,” said Charles Mambo, UK president of the Akum Welfare Association, during a gala event that brought hundreds of people from around the world for the first Akum General Convention.
“As the Akum people say, ‘A tree is only as strong as its roots.’ Let us strengthen the roots of these children, allowing them to grow tall and strong, capable of weathering any storm that comes their way,” he said.
The Fon’s visit continues in London, where he is attending various events, until this weekend.
