Bamenda Central Prison Hosts Peace Tournament Sponsored by Honorable Agho Oliver Bamenju

 

In a Vital step towards fostering rehabilitation and peace, inmates at the Bamenda Central Prison participated in the inaugural Bamenda Prison Peace Tournament, sponsored by Honorable Agho Oliver Bamenju, the Member of Parliament for Bafut/Tubah. The event, attended by the inmates (which Bamenda Central Prison has over 1200) and several dignitaries, including the mayors of Tubah, Bafut and Bamenda 1, unfolded in a spirit of camaraderie and hope.

The tournament featured competitions in Futsal and Handball, with sponsorship amounting to 500,000 CFA francs

 alongside donations of food and basic necessities. During the event, Fon Ezikiel, representing the inmates, made a heartfelt request for television sets, emphasizing that " he who is not informed is deformed." 

Honorable Agho Oliver responded promptly by donating five television sets to the prison, enhancing inmates' access to information and entertainment.

In his speech, Honorable Bamenju drew inspiration from scripture, citing Hebrews 13:1-3 and Matthew 25:31-46. He stressed the importance of being mindful of those in prison and highlighted the transformative potential of engaging with inmates. " The prison is a center for transformation " he said, noting that inmates can communicate with their communities outside and play a crucial role in spreading messages of peace.

" We know that here in prison, individuals are being guided toward living a better life. They also communicate with their brothers and sisters, including those who are still in the bushes. From prison, , they understand the situation better than those who are continually being deceived outside. We believe that if we approach them here in prison, their message to those still in hiding or under deception will be clearer." 

The Parliamentarian expressed gratitude to the prison Superintendent, Asaah-Ngu Mbah Walter, for facilitating the visit and providing a platform for outreach.

Superintendent Walter acknowledged the positive impact of the event, stating that the newly acquired televisions would allow inmates to access news and entertainment, which is vital for their mental well-being. He added that sports and physical activities will greatly contribute to the inmates' health and rehabilitation, preparing them for a successful reintegration into the society.

Inmates shared their joy about the Event

Njei Bertrand, a participant, described how football in prison fosters peace and joy. " Playing helps us evacuate stress ," he noted, highlighting the importance of sports in coping with prison life.

 Another inmate Fon Ezikiel expressed profound gratitude for the day's events, stating, " We feel like we are already released from prison.We are really grateful for the food and the TV sets."

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Honorable Agho Oliver affirmed that this would not be his last visit. He promised to return for the tournament finals and to advocate for their needs in the appropriate channels.  . " We will continue to represent our people," he affirmed, reinforcing his commitment to supporting those in need.

The Bamenda Prison Peace Tournament has not only provided a platform for athletic competition but  also fostered a sense of community and hope among the inmates, reinforcing the idea that support and compassion can lead to transformation.

 By Bamenjo Petronilla