There are varied opinions about Africa, including the Central African nation of Cameroon. When visiting Cameroon for the first time, people expect different things.
But what seems to be giving Cameroon and Buea, the South West Regional Headquarters and former Capital of German Kamerun, in particular a new image, is the new historical touristic site, the Reunification Monument.
The monument symbolizes the legacy, beginning on May 20, 1972, since East and West Cameroon united to become the present-day Republic of Cameroon.
Barely months after the celebration in Buea, the monument is a huge touristic attraction, with the influx of tourists, national and international, clamoring to see the symbolic structure. It is estimated that about 150 tourists visit the site each month.
Structurally, the monument comprises concrete, and ten metal cylinders supporting the logo of the Cameroon golden jubilee. The central piece is made up of ten metal cylinders of varying heights– representing the ten regions of Cameroon.
This gives a clearer view of the 50th-anniversary logo. The logo is characteristic of a globe, portraying the map of Cameroon, supported by two hands at its center. Slightly above it–is the code of arms representing the peace and unity that reigns in the country.
There are metal cylinders supporting the logo, which symbolize power, growth, and emergence dynamics, fundamental to the economic, social, and cultural development of Cameroon.
Located at the foot of the giant Mt. Cameroon, the monument adds to other historical touristic sites in the ranks of the German Prime Minister’s Lodge, constructed in 1902. The lodge was formerly the palace of German Governor, Jesko Von Puttkamer.
There is also the German Post Office of 1902, The Bismarck Fountain, The Cameroon Press Photo Archives, The Ancient Native Authority School, and also Mount Cameroon National Park, an eco-touristic attraction.
This monument–which is likely to improve the economy of the Buea community–has become a fertile ground for cameramen and journalists alike.
Some Buea-based photographers are already deriving income from the spot, due to their make-shift photo studios at the location.
During the inauguration of the monument, Cameroon’s president, Paul Biya, said the monument cements the peaceful coexistence among Cameroonians, who through their diversity in culture, are united under a one and indivisible nation.
