Bandoum village crippled by devastating floods
A devastating flash flood struck Bandoum village in the Menoua Division of Cameroon’s West region on September 30, 2024, causing widespread destruction to properties. Houses, a primary school, a hospital, and bridges were severely damaged, leaving the local population reeling from the impact.
“This is the 3rd time we’re witnessing floods in Bandoum. The previous times it was light. This time around the entire village was inundated with unbearable destructions.” A local said.
The destruction of bridges and roads blocked access to the village, forcing residents to rely on canoes for transportation. Stranded villagers pleaded for urgent assistance from state authorities, as their means of survival were severely limited.
Many residents were forced to flee their homes, including those whose houses were destroyed and injured victims. Even domestic animals, such as dogs, were captured struggling to survive in the floodwaters. The local shrine, a significant landmark for the Bandoum people, was also ruined by the natural disaster, an event deemed “strange” and unprecedented in the village’s history.
According to local reports, this is the third time Bandoum has been affected by floods, but the scale of destruction caused by the recent event is unprecedented. The village was inundated with water, and residents were forced to navigate the flooded areas using canoes. The destruction of infrastructure has severely limited movement in and out of the village, making it difficult for residents to access essential goods and services.
The floodwaters have also caused significant damage to the local shrine, which holds cultural and religious significance for the Bandoum people. The destruction of the shrine is seen as a particularly distressing event, as it has never occurred before in the village’s history.
