The foundation stone has been laid in Mutengene, South West, for a modern edifice that will become Cameroon’s first-ever children’s hospital. The facility, costing over 21 billion francs CFA, will serve as a regional hub for pediatric care, medical education, and research.
It is a joint initiative of the African Children’s Healthcare Fund (ACHF) and the Cameroon Baptist Convention Health Services (CBCHS).
Once completed in about three years, it will contain over 200 rooms, including private and semi-private wards, and will be equipped with modern medical technology and a playground for young patients.
The South West Governor, represented by his Secretary General, expressed delight at the project and emphasised on its significance for the nation’s health infrastructure. Cameroon currently has no hospital devoted to children, though pediatric units exist in most hospitals.
While ACHF is funding the construction, the Cameroon Baptist Convention is providing land and a hydroelectric plant that will power the facility. CBC Executive President, Rev. Dr. John Teke Ekema, also announced a donation of 25 million francs CFA from the Church’s central administration.
The project received blessings from Bakweri Chiefs, including the Paramount Ruler of Buea, Chief Dr Robert Esuka Endeley, as well as Fons from the North West Region.
Mary Ndinge Lyonga is a marketing assistant at Eagle Wings and Spice Located at Mutengene, Tiko Road.
She was once a Volunteer at the Tiko Council Community Radio for a period of 3 months under the Leadership of Mme Sarah Nkongho as the Station Manager. She is a graduate from the department of Journalism and Mass Communication, Faculty of Social and Management Science, University of Buea.