Anglophone Crisis – Bamenda-Mbengwi Road reopened: A breath of freedom and hope for the inhabitants

The reopening of the Bamenda – Mbengwi road, after more than a year of restrictions imposed by the separatists, marks a turning point for residents of the area. The road, although never physically blocked, was under a strict ban by the separatists who accused users of collaborating with the security forces.

This measure had a disastrous impact on the daily lives of civilians, while the military continued to move around freely. “The separatists were only penalizing the civilians they claim to be defending, allowing the military to use the road unhindered,” a local driver pointed out.

The lifting of the ban was greeted with immense relief, significantly reducing transport costs. “The cost of transport has dropped from 3,000 to 1,000 francs, returning to pre-crisis rates,” said one passenger.

For merchants, reopening means economic hope. “Transporting goods had become a nightmare. This ban paralyzed our business,” said a trader.

The community celebrated this new era of mobility. “This morning, the journey to Bamenda cost 1,000 francs, and before I left Mbengwi, several vehicles were already full,” shared another passenger, testifying to the newfound excitement.

The reopening promises to revitalize the local economy, facilitating trade between Mbengwi, Bamenda and neighboring subdivisions.

However, there remains some confusion as to the motives of the separatists who imposed the ban for 18 months. “It is incomprehensible that they chose to punish us. What did they gain in the end? Fortunately, they eventually came to their senses,” said one resident.

With the gradual return to normal, residents are looking forward to lasting peace that will lead to stability and prosperity.

The Bamenda-Mbengwi road is one of several routes in the North-West that have been affected by sporadic blockades by separatists. Other major routes, such as the Bamenda-Mamfe and Bamenda-Ndop-Kumbo roads, have also experienced closures before reopening.

The reasons for these blockades are varied, ranging from reactions to national events to the deaths of prominent figures among the separatists, often cited as justifications for these interruptions.