Mount Cameroon ‘Ripe for an Eruption,’ Says the Paramount Chief of Buea, Chief Dr Esuka Lifafa Mbella Endeley
Mount Cameroon Eruption Warning Raises Safety Concerns in Buea
The Paramount Ruler of the Bakweri people, Chief Dr Esuka Lifafa Mbella Endeley V, has warned that Mount Cameroon could be approaching another volcanic eruption, calling on the government to strengthen disaster preparedness and protect communities living around the mountain.
The traditional ruler made the remarks during an appearance on the state broadcaster CRTV’s Governance and Follow-up programme, on the 28 of October 2026 where he discussed the need for improved emergency response mechanisms and greater preparedness for a possible volcanic disaster.
According to the traditional custodian, indigenous knowledge and historical eruption patterns suggest that the mountain may be approaching another period of volcanic activity.
“The mountain has told us it is ready!” he reportedly declared, emphasising the importance of taking precautionary measures to protect lives and property.
Historical Eruptions and Indigenous Knowledge
Mount Cameroon, one of Africa’s most active volcanoes, has experienced several eruptions throughout its history.
Chief Endeley reportedly noted that the mountain had recorded approximately 10 eruptions over the past 200 years, with intervals averaging between 20 and 25 years.
He argued that these historical patterns, together with indigenous knowledge, should inform government efforts to strengthen disaster preparedness.
However, historical eruption intervals alone cannot establish when another eruption will occur. Scientific monitoring remains essential to determining the volcano’s current activity and assessing the likelihood of an eruption.
The ruler’s warning has nevertheless renewed discussions about the need for greater vigilance and preparedness among communities living around Mount Cameroon.
Paramount Ruler Calls for Improved Disaster Preparedness
Chief Endeley called on the government to establish stronger disaster management mechanisms capable of responding effectively to a possible volcanic eruption.
Among the measures he advocated were the installation of a firefighting station and the opening of accessible evacuation routes to facilitate the safe movement of residents in the event of an emergency.
He also stressed the importance of strengthening population safety training and maintaining strategic engagement with administrative authorities to improve preparedness.
Such measures could help reduce the risks faced by communities in Buea and surrounding localities, particularly those living in areas potentially exposed to volcanic hazards.
October 23 Tremor Renews Public Safety Discussions
The traditional ruler’s warning comes amid renewed public discussions about volcanic risks following a brief earth tremor felt in parts of Buea on October 23, 2026.
The tremor, which reportedly lasted less than 30 seconds, has heightened public interest in the safety of communities around Mount Cameroon.
Although the tremor has contributed to concerns about possible volcanic activity, an isolated tremor does not establish that an eruption is imminent.
Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and follow verified information from volcanologists and disaster-management authorities.
Scientific Monitoring and Community Preparedness Remain Essential
Mount Cameroon is not only a significant geological feature but also an important part of Bakweri history, culture and mythology.
The mountain’s volcanic activity presents potential risks to surrounding communities, making effective disaster preparedness essential.
While Chief Endeley’s warning reflects his assessment based on indigenous knowledge and historical patterns, it should not be interpreted as scientific confirmation of an imminent eruption.
Authorities and scientific institutions have a critical role in monitoring volcanic activity, communicating risks and ensuring that communities have access to reliable information.
Strengthening evacuation plans, emergency response systems and public awareness could help minimise the impact of any future volcanic activity.
As discussions about Mount Cameroon’s volcanic risks continue, the priority remains clear: protecting lives through reliable scientific monitoring, effective disaster preparedness and community vigilance. We will continue to monitor the development around this environmental issue of concern to the international community.
Berinyuy Cajetan,
Berinyuy Cajetan is the founder and publisher of Human Rights and Legal Research Centre (HRLRC) since 2017. He has intensive experience in strategic communications for Civil Society Organizations, campaign and advocacy, and social issues. He has an intensive experiencing in human rights monitoring, documentation and reporting.
