The cultural event, which normally culminates with the election of Miss Communities, runs from November 19 to December 31.
Sodiko community, one of the multi-ethnic villages in the country, is organizing the third edition of its annual “Community Days”, JDC. This grand cultural manifestation conceived to “celebrate unity in diversity” has since its creation mobilized all communities whose sons and daughters are resident in Sodiko to exchange with traditional rulers.
Initiated and placed under the auspices of the traditional ruler of Sodiko, HRH Essombey Ndambwe Ness Ruben, the event is attended by at least 32 traditional heads, including Lamidos, Fon and Chiefs from all over Cameroon whose sons and daughters live in Sodiko. HRH Essombey Ndambwe explaining the significance of the theme, "Celebrating unity in diversity", during a news conference in Akwa-Douala said: “What qualify us as a community is our ethnic diversity and the harmonious blend of our community. We are proud and have the show. The event will allow the communities to show their support for the initiative, enjoy, and celebrate the joy of living together.” Highest settlers in Sodiko come from West, North West, South West and Adamaoua.
This occasion will be opportunity for the public to rub shoulders with traditional rulers. All village heads are expected to present their specialties in such areas as cooking, clothing style, and dance groups. HRH Essombey Ndambwe of Sodiko, Essomba Fulbert of Ngoumou and Moussinga of Bojongo paneled the news conference. Between November 24 and 26, traditional heads will concert with the Sodiko public in a series of activities that will showcase cultural diversity and unity. Musicians of Bikutsi, Makossa, Pinguiss, R&B, and traditional rhythm, about 23 of them, will constantly brand the festivity with thrilling afternoons and nights. Activities started with public cleaning of Sodiko. Others like training workshops, sports activities, open door days at the Sodiko medical centre with free consultations, roundtable of traditional heads, musical concerts every Saturday and community trade fair are scheduled to follow.
Major innovations this year include choir competition, arts exhibition, exchanges with pupils on the necessity of preserving the culture and customs, lesson on the inauguration of traditional heads and human rights, their lives in palaces and historical sites, as well as a visit to the Douala Urban Council. An important novelty is organization of a cultural dish evening and cultural fiesta by all communities present coupled with the election of “2011 Miss Community”, a fashion parade showcasing traditional regalia from all the 10 regions of the country.
