Fon of Nso to Launch Landmark Book on the Anglophone Crisis, Reconciliation and Peace in Cameroon
His Royal Highness Fon Sehm Mbinglo I, the Fon of Nso and the Paramount Ruler of Bui Division, is set to officially launch his highly anticipated maiden publication, The Fon of Nso and the Anglophone Crisis: A Testimony for Reconciliation and Peace, in Yaoundé on June 25, 2026. The event, scheduled to take place at the Hôtel de Ville, marks a significant milestone not only for the Nso people but also for ongoing efforts to promote peace, dialogue, reconciliation, and national cohesion in Cameroon.
The launch follows the book’s first public announcement in November 2025 during the Nso Family Union Convention in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, where members of the Nso diaspora were among the first to learn about the project. Since then, anticipation has continued to grow both within Cameroon and among Nso communities abroad, many of whom view the publication as an important contribution to documenting one of the most challenging periods in the country’s recent history.
A Royal Testimony on a National Crisis
Spanning 170 pages, The Fon of Nso and the Anglophone Crisis: A Testimony for Reconciliation and Peace offers a personal and historical account of the Anglophone Crisis through the eyes of one of the country’s most respected traditional leaders. The publication contains a foreword, preface, acknowledgements, seven thematic sections, and several subchapters, complemented by photographs documenting key moments during the crisis and significant events from the Fon’s reign.
The book provides readers with reflections on the conflict, its impact on communities, and the role of dialogue in resolving disputes. It also captures important aspects of Nso history, culture, and governance, preserving valuable knowledge for future generations while contributing to broader discussions on peacebuilding and national unity.
For many observers, the memoir represents the first major written intervention by the monarch on the Anglophone Crisis, offering unique insights shaped by personal experiences, including his own abduction during the conflict several years ago.
Promoting Dialogue and Healing
According to a press release issued by the palace on June 5, the Yaoundé launch will serve as the inaugural presentation of the publication before a series of subsequent launches and discussions in other towns across Cameroon and within the diaspora.
The Fon has indicated that these gatherings will go beyond conventional book presentations. Inspired by the Nso tradition of Tooy Fon, the fireside conversation, the events are intended to foster dialogue, consultation, reflection, and collective learning. They will provide opportunities for citizens, community leaders, and stakeholders to engage in meaningful discussions about justice, reconciliation, peaceful coexistence, and the future of the nation.
The book emphasizes values such as understanding, fairness, forgiveness, and mutual respect, encouraging readers to reflect on pathways toward healing and sustainable peace. It seeks not only to preserve history but also to inspire constructive conversations about overcoming divisions and rebuilding trust among communities affected by the ongoing conflict in the Northwest and Southwest Regions of Cameroon.
A New Mandate: Reconciliation and Peace
During recent discussions surrounding the launch, members of the organizing committee underscored the broader message of the publication: reconciliation and peace. Commentators and community leaders have encouraged prospective readers to approach the book not as an exercise in assigning blame, but as an opportunity to embrace forgiveness and healing. As noted by Nsaibirni Warren Lee during conversations about the publication: “When you finally get the book, read from cover to cover. Do not look inside for who to blame. If anything, look for who to forgive.”
This message aligns closely with ongoing efforts by traditional authorities, civil society actors, and community leaders to foster dialogue and promote non-violent solutions to the challenges facing the North West and South West Regions.
Music for Peace and Reconciliation
In a symbolic extension of the book’s message, the Organizing Committee has issued a call for artists, musicians, songwriters, and cultural promoters to produce a special peace song to accompany the launch.
The proposed song is expected to focus on themes of peace, forgiveness, reconciliation, unity, and collective development. Organizers believe that music can play a powerful role in healing communities, strengthening social bonds, and inspiring positive change.
The committee has encouraged collaboration among artists to ensure that the message reaches all sons and daughters of Nso, as well as broader national and international audiences. By harnessing the influence of culture and music, organizers hope to amplify calls for understanding, coexistence, and community renewal.
A Historic Moment for Peacebuilding
The launch of The Fon of Nso and the Anglophone Crisis: A Testimony for Reconciliation and Peace comes at a time when discussions about reconciliation, justice, and social cohesion remain central to Cameroon’s future. As a respected traditional ruler known for advocating dialogue, non-violence, and community development, Fon Sehm Mbinglo I’s contribution adds an important voice to ongoing national conversations about peace and conflict resolution.
Beyond its historical significance, the publication serves as a reminder of the role traditional leadership can play in promoting unity, preserving collective memory, and encouraging inclusive dialogue during periods of crisis.
As the Nso community, policymakers, civil society organizations, and citizens gather in Yaoundé for this landmark event, the launch is expected to stand as both a celebration of cultural heritage and a renewed call for reconciliation, understanding, and lasting peace in Cameroon.
Event Details
Book: The Fon of Nso and the Anglophone Crisis: A Testimony for Reconciliation and Peace
Author: His Royal Highness Fon Sehm Mbinglo I
Date: June 25, 2026
Venue: Hôtel de Ville, Yaoundé, Cameroon
The event is open to members of the public, traditional authorities, civil society actors, the media, and stakeholders committed to advancing peace and reconciliation in Cameroon
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.
