The North West Digital Association (NOWEDA) has unveiled an ambitious roadmap to transform the region’s digital ecosystem, following its first General Assembly held at the auditorium of the North West Regional Assembly in Bamenda.
Marking one year since its creation, the association used the gathering to reflect on its progress, restructure its leadership, and outline a bold three-year development plan aimed at nurturing startups and expanding digital innovation across the region.
From Humble Beginnings to Regional Vision
Speaking after being elected president, Fon Nsoh Michael described the milestone as both reflective and forward-looking. “The association is exactly one year old as we speak,” he said. “We started with just five members and have struggled through to this point. Today, we see the need to restructure and open up for more membership.”
He noted that the General Assembly approved key reforms, including revised organizational structures, a new executive team, and the adoption of a three-year action plan and budget.
NOWEDA’s leadership aims to support at least 100 startups to move beyond early-stage development into viable service delivery within the next three years. Plans are also underway to host an annual digital gathering expected to attract over 1,000 participants and showcase more than 200 startups.
Innovation Hub Records Early Success
A major highlight of the association’s first year has been the establishment of the Northwest Digital Innovation Hub, presented by Hub Manager Sevidzem Sylvana Asheri. According to her report, the association was officially registered in 2025 and successfully launched the hub in August of the same year. The initiative drew over 250 applications, with 47 startups selected for incubation.
Eighty-seven young people participated in a six-month training program, while 28 startups remain actively engaged, receiving practical training in artificial intelligence and business development.
The hub has also facilitated microgrant support and partnerships, positioning itself as an open space for innovation accessible to the wider public.
Financial and Operational Challenges
Despite these achievements, the association faces notable challenges. Poor attendance at the hub, largely attributed to transportation costs, has limited participation. Delays in funding disbursement have also discouraged some startups.
Sevidzem Sylvana Asheri revealed that the hub operated in its first year with a budget of 4.5 million FCFA raised for operations, which has been fully spent. Besides the institutional support that came in from the Regional Assembly, such as payment for 1 year of 24/7 internet space and the provision of functioning space for the hall.
Adding that the hub already has 13.5 million in its account from development partners to kickstart work for the 2026 financial year while envisaging about 200 million FCFA for the triannual plan. Internal challenges were also acknowledged, including limited engagement among founding members and the need for stronger communication strategies.
New Leadership and Renewed Momentum
The General Assembly resulted in a reconstituted executive team. Alongside President Fon Nsoh Michael, the association elected Dr. Sylveria Awah Anye as secretary general, Hilary Tita Tebit as vice president, and the hub manager, Sevidzem Sylvana Asheri, as the financial secretary. The restructuring aims to inject new energy into the organization and improve coordination as it enters its next phase.
Regional Backing and Future Outlook
Closing the session, Prof. Angwafo III, President of the North West Regional Assembly praised the association’s inclusivity and organization, describing it as a promising driver of the region’s digital economy. He urged the group to develop comprehensive bylaws and a long-term development plan while reaffirming institutional support.
“We will continue advocacy for partners locally, nationally, and internationally… to build infrastructural capacity and improve our human development index,” he said.
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