Some property was destroyed during the rehabilitation and extension of the Buea water project in preparation for Cameroon's reunification celebrations.
Some villagers of Small Soppo Wolikawo and Bokoko villages, whose property was touched for the construction of the water catchment at Wolikawo, have received compensation from government.
The villagers were handed cheques on Tuesday, 18 December 2013, during a ceremony in Buea chaired by the Senior Divisional Officer, SDO of Fako, Zang III. The rehabilitation and extension of the Buea water project, which falls within the framework of the 50th Reunification anniversary celebrations slated for Buea, witnessed some consequences for the local population.
Reason why the government, through the Cameroon Water Utilities Corporation, provided a financial package for the five expropriated villagers. The total cost of compensation, worth FCFA 9 897 900 for the population of Buea, has been hailed as a positive gesture. The SDO, while reminding the recipients to make good use of the money, pledged to convey their gratitude to President Paul Biya.
Marcus Motove Etonge, on behalf of the recipients, hailed the gesture which, he said gives credibility to government for honouring promises. Elong Etonde Georges, Technical Adviser in Camwater disclosed that the rehabilitation of the water system is now a reality in Buea to the total satisfaction of the population.
