Bekanje Chiefdom: Chief Janea Ngale Manfred enthroned

After over 30 years of chieftaincy vacancy, Bekanje village in Bamusso Subdivision, Ndian Division, South West Region, has officially crowned a new traditional ruler. 

HRM Chief Janea Ngale Manfred was coronated on Saturday December 13, 2025, in a rich and strictly customary and traditional ceremony of the Bakolle people and presented to the Divisional Officer of Bamusso, Tcho Zoum Leonard, for administrative recognition. 

The Divisional Officer (D.O), Tcho Zoum Leonard, congratulated the new chief and urged him to lead with patience, inclusion, and wisdom, particularly in a community where the majority of inhabitants are non-natives. 

He also encouraged the chief to pursue his vision for the revival and development ofBekanje, once a village on the verge of extinction. 

Speaking at the event, the President of the Ndian Chiefs Conference, HRM Efamba III, described Chief Ngale Manfred as “a blessing” to Bekanje and the wider Bamusso municipality. 

He commended the unity witnessed during the coronation and pledged his continued support for the new ruler. In his address, Chief Ngale Manfred acknowledged the burden and blessings of leadership. 

He reassured the people of his resolve to address their long-standing challenges and revealed plans to transform Bekanje into a touristic destination, leveraging its pristine white sandy beaches and planned road linkage to Idenau in Fako Division. 

Challenges facing Bekanje village

Despite its rich cultural heritage and natural resources, Bekanje Kingdom faces several chal- lenges, including poverty, lack of infrastructure, and limited access to education and healthcare.

The kingdom also faces environmental challenges, including deforestation, soil soil erosion and climate change.

The coronation ceremony drew a massive crowd, including the Member of Parliament for Bamusso, the Mayor of Bamusso Council, traditional rulers, the Nigerian community, family members, and dignitaries from within and outside the municipality. 

The colourful ceremony concluded with traditional dances and musical displays, with the Nigerian community playing an active role in the celebration.

Brief Biography of HRM Jenea Ngale Manfred

HRM Janea Ngale Manfred worked with the National Oil Refinery (SONARA) for 21 years; thereafter, he was designated Chief of Bekanje Village in August 2020. He is 53 years old, married, and a father of four children.

BY MOKAM BEATRICE

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