Dr. Christopher Fomunyoh
By Colbert Gwain @The Muteff Factor (formerly The Colbert Factor)
Amidst the perpetual conflict between Muteff and Abuh villages in the Fundong Municipality of Cameroon’s then Northwest Province during the 1980s, one beacon of unity stood out: the regular cultural and social nights at the Muteff Credit Union hall in Achiu-a-Yoh. These gatherings brought together youths not only from both communities but also from surrounding and distant communities like Fundong, Ngwah, Advuk, Mboh, Achain, and Ajung.
Muteff elders and strategists believed their pursuit of greater autonomy from Abuh did not preclude their youth from socializing with peers from the rival village and neighboring areas—especially since these events were held in Muteff under their watchful eyes. Youths from all around eagerly anticipated the monthly gatherings, drawn by the lively atmosphere and the charm of the dexterous and graceful Muteff girls.
These occasions highlighted that the conflict was primarily between the traditional leadership of the two communities—who clashed over resource management, power, and entitlements—rather than among ordinary citizens. The communities remained interconnected through intermarriage and shared farmland.
It was this same deep-rooted sense of community that brought Cameroonians in the diaspora together in San Antonio, USA, under the auspices of the U.S. World Affairs Council on June 24, 2025, at the Alamo Colleges District. Despite differing political views and the frustrations with Cameroon’s current leadership, which have generated tension among them, attendees put aside their differences to celebrate the country’s rich cultural diversity.
The evening cultural event, organized by the Cameroon Community of San Antonio (CAMCOSA), was a colorful showcase of tradition. Cameroonians from all walks of life gathered to proudly present their cultural heritage, dressed in a dazzling array of traditional attire. For Cameroonian children born and raised in the U.S., it was a joyful moment to connect with their roots. The middle class strutted with pride on a makeshift runway, flaunting diverse Cameroonian styles, while the elderly shared memories and engaged warmly with Americans and other international guests.
Themed “Culture, Health, Education, and Cameroon’s Global Influence,” the event featured an impressive panel lineup: Dr. Ndibang Tah, Dr. Lizette Talla, Dr. Pride Abongwa, Dr. Heinrich Edimo, and Mr. Brian Chongwain, with Emmanuel Galabe moderating. Each panelist shared profound insights on the intersections of culture, health, and education in Cameroon. Curated by Armen Babajanian, Miranda Martinez, and Clarissa G., the event celebrated Cameroon’s vibrant culture, music, and cuisine, while facilitating thought-provoking discussions on education, technology, governance, economy, and healthcare. The blend of celebration and critical discourse reflected the diaspora’s commitment to both heritage and intellectual progress.
In his opening remarks, Donatus Berinyuy, President of the Cameroon Community of San Antonio, expressed gratitude for the partnership with the San Antonio World Affairs Council. He emphasized the community’s readiness to collaborate for the betterment of humanity and delivered a sweeping overview of Cameroon’s history—from pre-independence to the present—highlighting the country’s cultural diversity. Berinyuy explained why Cameroon is often called “Africa in miniature,” noting that its range of ethnicities and traditions mirrors that of the entire continent. He concluded by affirming the unity within San Antonio’s Cameroonian community, captured in their motto “Family Na One” and symbolized by their endearing reference to him as “President”—a sign of mutual care and solidarity.
At the invitation of the World Affairs Council of San Antonio, Dr. Christopher Fomunyoh—a renowned global leader of Cameroonian origin and expert in African governance—captivated the audience with his compelling vision for Cameroon’s global role. With decades of experience at the National Democratic Institute (NDI), working with African statesmen and promoting democracy worldwide, Dr. Fomunyoh brought gravitas to the occasion.
Expressing concern about the deep divisions plaguing Cameroonian communities across the globe, he stated:
“I know what’s happening to our communities in North America, Europe, and even back home. We’ve become so fragmented, polarized, and argumentative, losing our ability to work as one family.”
Nevertheless, he found the energy and unity in San Antonio “extremely uplifting.”
Recalling his remarks at the 2024 World Affairs Council of America conference in Washington, D.C., Dr. Fomunyoh discussed the fragility of international norms in today’s world. He noted that although sovereignty has been a cornerstone of global order since the 19th century, it is now being tested—especially in volatile regions. Strong states set the rules of international conduct, while fragile ones invoke sovereignty as a shield, even when failing to meet the basic needs of their citizens.
He underscored that sovereignty is not just a theoretical issue—it’s real and pressing, from NDI’s offices in Washington to war-torn Ukraine, where he has worked closely with President Zelenskyy and civil society. “Issues of sovereignty ring in my ear,” he said. Sadly, he added, Cameroon is no exception:
“My country, once called ‘Africa in miniature’ for its beauty, resources, and promise, is now an eyesore.”
Dr. Fomunyoh reminisced about a time when Cameroon attracted American banking giants like Chase Manhattan and Bank of Boston, and boasted a national airline and leading cocoa exports. That promise has faded, replaced by insecurity, economic stagnation, and poor governance—challenges flagged by global rating agencies.
“You look at all this, and you almost feel a sense of despair,” he said. “You have a President who is over 92 years old, running for another seven-year term in a country where the median age is 19. It’s depressing.”
Yet, meeting the passionate and culturally proud Cameroonian community in San Antonio reignited his hope:
“You get a fulfilling sense that all is not lost. Our kids are learning the culture we cherish. We can still rebuild, reconcile, and rebrand our beloved country. It’s fulfilling.”
Following Dr. Fomunyoh’s speech, Sarah Echendy, Managing Director of Medical Bridges in San Antonio, described him as “a phenomenal person… with an impressive global portfolio.” On LinkedIn, she wrote, “We are blessed to have him leading, supporting, and strengthening democratic governance globally.” Brandy Russell, Community Builder and Alamo Region President of the American Association of Blacks in Energy, praised him as “a literal expert on democratization in Africa” whose words were “urgent, clear, and incredibly moving.”
As Senior Associate for Africa and Special Advisor to the President of NDI, Dr. Fomunyoh has made transformative contributions to democracy in Africa. As NDI’s Africa Director, he led the African Statesmen Initiative, which convened 17 former heads of state to reflect on transitions and uphold democratic values. He has aided democratic progress in countries such as Côte d’Ivoire, Senegal, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Nigeria, tailoring each program to local needs. His advocacy for constitutional term limits and good governance has brought him into close collaboration with sitting and former African presidents.
The World Affairs Council, which facilitated Dr. Fomunyoh’s participation in this landmark event, is a leading nonprofit that promotes public engagement with global issues. Operating through nearly 100 autonomous councils across 43 U.S. states, it reaches over 200,000 Americans annually. Based in Washington, D.C., the network reported over $10 million in revenue in 2022. The Council organizes public forums, expert panels, and international dialogues that inform national conversations about world affairs.
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