The esplanade of the Bamenda II Council was the scene of a solemn yet hopeful ceremony on Friday, September 5, 2025, as Ibrahima Moussa Ballo officially took command as the new Divisional Officer (DO) of Bamenda II Subdivision.
Simon Emile Mooh, Mezam SDO.The installation, presided over by Simon Emile Mooh, Senior Divisional Officer (SDO) for Mezam, followed Presidential Decree No. 2025/357 of July 22, 2025, which appointed new divisional officers across Cameroon.
The event carried both grief and renewal, as tributes were paid to the late DO, Manchang Nicholas Nkongho, who passed away on July 29, 2025, after serving Bamenda II with distinction for over five years.
Manchang Nicholas Nkongho, Late Bamenda II DO.His tenure was marked by resilience, including surviving kidnapping by separatist fighters in 2024 and narrowly escaping another armed attack in Limbe weeks before his death.
“Mr. Manchang was a bright and loyal servant of the State who demonstrated courage and dedication in very difficult times,” the SDO declared, before inviting the crowd to observe a minute of silence in his honor.
Profile of the New DO
Born in Batouri in 1983, Mr. Ballo hails from Garoua II Subdivision in the North Region. He is a graduate of the University of Ngaoundere and the University of Yaoundé II, with master’s degrees in Business and Public Law, and later trained at the National School of Administration and Magistracy (ENAM). His career spans roles in the Ministry of Territorial Administration and service as DO in Bangangté and Baham Subdivisions.
Described by the SDO as “undoubtedly qualified,” Ballo is tasked with piloting affairs in Bamenda II, a subdivision at the heart of the city, beset by persistent insecurity but brimming with development potential.
“You are expected to ensure law and order, support ELECAM in the upcoming presidential elections, and revive development in this sensitive subdivision,” the SDO emphasized. He further urged the new DO to be firm against separatist activities and to foster collaboration with local communities, vigilante groups, and traditional rulers.
Peter Chenwi, Mayor of Bamenda II Council.Community Pledges Support
Mayor Peter Chenwi of Bamenda II Council welcomed the new DO warmly, pledging full support from the council, traditional authorities, and the population.
“Bamenda II is a complex municipality with four villages and a strong chieftaincy tradition. To succeed, we must respect our traditional leaders and work together,” the mayor noted, adding, “This municipality is not for the weak, but we are confident God will give you the strength and wisdom to manage it.”
Security forces, councillors, and elites also reassured Mr. Ballo of their collaboration, calling for unity and resilience in the face of ongoing challenges.
Mezam SDO, New DO, Amongst Others. A Call for Unity and Development
In his brief but determined speech, the new DO thanked the Head of State for the appointment and pledged to continue the work of his late predecessor. “I will do my best to ensure security, development, and close collaboration with all the people of Bamenda II,” Ballo affirmed.
Cross Section of Other DOs During Ceremony.The SDO ended his speech by urging the population to support their new administrator: “The success of Bamenda II depends on collective effort. Time has come for all sons and daughters of this subdivision to put aside differences and work for peace and normalcy.”
The ceremony marked not only a change in leadership but also a renewed call for unity, resilience, and development in a subdivision often seen as the heartbeat of Bamenda.
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