Mayor Mbigha of Bamenda I and Andrew Nyenty of EISERVI exploring the new Council library
The Bamenda I Municipality has opened a new chapter in education with the official launch of the Bamenda I Council Library, a modern learning space designed to serve both children and adults.
The ceremony brought together council officials, education stakeholders, traditional authorities, and development partners, all united by one goal: to give children access to books and a safe place to learn, Saturday 28th February 2026.
Mayor Mbigha Felix
Mayor Mbigha Felix described the project as a dream fulfilled. He appreciated Andrew Nyenty, the brain behind the initiative, for his vision and commitment. He also thanked the village authorities for offering the land on which the library now proudly stands.
“This library belongs to the community,” the Mayor said. He called on head teachers across Bamenda I to ensure that pupils make full use of the facility. He encouraged schools to rearrange their timetables so that children can visit the library at least once a week.
The Mayor emphasized that the structure is more than just a building. It currently houses over 3,000 books, including fiction, non-fiction, and some books currently in the curriculum that pupils and teachers can use for assignments and research. He assured the public that more books aligned with the school curriculum will be purchased to further enrich the shelves.
Features of the new library
Parents, he added, can safely leave their children at the library before heading to the farm or other daily activities, knowing they are in a secure and educational environment.
The library is carefully designed with two sections; one for children and another for adults. The children’s section, known as the “Bamenda I Children’s Corner,” is bright and welcoming. It contains not only books but also educational games and puzzles that can keep young minds engaged for hours.
Andrew Nyenty of EISERVI
Speaking at the event, Andrew Nyenty, Executive Director of Education Information Service International (EISERVI), shared the story behind the project. He revealed that the idea was approved one year ago by Book Aid International, an international NGO that works with partners in Africa and the Middle East to distribute thousands of books every year.
“When I discussed with the Mayor about the availability of a public library in Bamenda I, he accepted the challenge and promised to build one. Today, we are standing inside that promise,” Nyenty said proudly.
He noted that access to books remains a serious challenge in many communities. Through partnerships like this, Book Aid International ensures that even disadvantaged communities receive quality reading materials.
Andrew Nyenty also spoke emotionally about his personal connection to the area. “I completed my primary school here at PS Ntaafi,” he said, reminding the audience that investing in children today creates leaders for tomorrow.
He stressed that the books though valuable will mean nothing if the library is not effectively used. The real success of the project depends on children reading, teachers guiding, and the community embracing the culture of learning.
The launch of the Bamenda I Council Library is not just about shelves and books. It is about opportunity. It is about giving children the tools to dream bigger, think deeper, and build a brighter future.
The Library situated opposite the Bamenda I Proximity Stadium in Atougoulah opens its doors every working day from 8am to 6PM and its services are free of charge.
By
Ndi Tsembom Elvis
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