Manyu Cultural Festival: Heritage and Unity as Birmingham Hosts First-of-Its-Kind Jamboree in the UK ⁰

In March 2021, the Manyu community in Europe, together with friends of Manyu, came together with an ambitious vision: to create a forum where members could connect, support one another, and foster both personal and professional growth. The goal was to build a thriving, vibrant Manyu community in Europe. The initiative also aimed to provide a platform for Manyu children to interact and thrive while complementing and collaborating with existing Manyu associations across Europe. The name of this new association is Manyu Solidarity Group.

During the weekend of 29-31 August 2025, the streets of Birmingham came alive with rhythm, flavour, and tradition as the city hosted a three-day cultural festival unlike anything the Manyu community in the UK had ever seen. The festival was powered by Manyu Solidarity Group. From Friday’s welcoming meet-and-greet to Saturday’s vibrant showcase of traditional performances and Sunday’s barbecue finale, the event drew hundreds of attendees, some reconnecting with their roots, others discovering them for the first time. For a first-time event, the turnout was extraordinary: over 380 guests on the opening night, more than 550 on Saturday, and a lively crowd of over 340 for Sunday’s barbecue. This was more than a cultural celebration; it was a bridge across generations and a show of unity within the Manyu community Europe.

The Friday evening merriments set the tone for the festival and were emceed by Yvette Bissong and Dr. Nelson Agbor. Guests were welcomed with warm smiles, a delicious tanchut soup, and complimentary drinks. “I haven’t tasted tanchut soup like this in my over 50 years on earth,” said Lady Claire Obioma from London. The atmosphere was one of joy and reconnection, further lifted by the presence of esteemed Manyu traditionalists, including Sessekou Gaspari of Norway, Chief Eyong Paolo of MECA Germany and Sessekou Wilson Eyong of Ireland. The crowning moment of the night was the entrance of His Royal Highness Chief Prof. Negbo Abangma, who effortlessly blended history with his present. It was a truly glorious sight. As Mgbe UK performed their Manyu cultural formalities, the evening faded with love and anticipation for the next day.

If Friday was for tasting, Saturday was for witnessing. Under the leadership of Nfor Mgbe Dr. Agbortoko, the day featured live Monikim dances, Bekundi processions, and a show-stopping Obasinjom invocation. The energy was electric as attendees didn’t just watch, they participated. For some, it was their first experience of live Manyu cultural performances; for others, it was a long-awaited reconnection with their custom. “I am so proud of what the organising team and many volunteers achieved this weekend,” said Prince Julian Ebai, Chairman of Manyu Solidarity Group. Free food was available throughout the event, with snacks and drinks offered at below-market prices. A highlight for the children was some surprised pizzas from Domino’s. In the end, strangers became friends, and the sight of Nyene Mawn, Eyumema, MOHWA, and Manyu Simple Sisters celebrating together with laughter and joy was simply heart-warming. Manyu in Europe was truly alive.

By Sunday, the festival had already secured its place as a landmark event. The closing day featured a barbecue made possible by the thoughtfulness and hard work of Ms. Aggie Epaw, Mr. Valery Bissong, Mr Jerry Eko and Ms. Jacqui Bissong. The air was filled with the aroma of sizzling meats, fish, and burgers, accompanied once again by free drinks. Children played in the park, and many remarked that the weekend had shown them their culture and community is alive and thriving. Phone numbers were exchanged, future plans were made, and discussions of making the Manyu Cultural Festival an annual tradition were put in place.

What set the weekend apart was its authenticity and spirit. It was the first time this cultural tapestry had been woven so vibrantly and publicly in the UK. “We started with a dream and a few determined people,” said Chief Fidelis Takor of the organising committee. Prince Ebai added a note of reflection: “We must start looking after the vulnerable in our community and use every opportunity to celebrate ourselves. We can’t wait until someone dies to shower them with praises. Manyu Solidarity Group will continue to invest its energy in pastoral care to ensure our members feel loved and supported.”

The weekend marked the launch of Eyoungoh Manyu, a remarkable compilation of academic works by distinguished Manyu minds and scholars. Contributors came from as far as the United States, Cameroon, and Norway. The book is highly recommended for its educative, informative, and persuasive nature. Eyoungoh Manyu stands as both a documentary and an archive of our proud culture, traditions, and customs—reminding all Manyus that they are custodians of a unique heritage that must be preserved.

Thanks to the trust, energy, and commitment of its members, Manyu Solidarity group has grown to over 445 members, making it the largest gathering of Manyu people and their friends in Europe. Over the past two years, its members and leaders have regularly reached out to those in need of companionship by visiting, shopping, and even cooking for them. It is now standard practice for the leadership of Manyu Solidarity to call unwell members, send get-well-soon cards, and quietly help individuals with their CVs, enabling many to regain paid employment. Prince Julian Ebai closed the barbecue with these words: “Over the coming days, after a rigorous accounting process for transparency and visibility, the proceeds realized will be sent to Mamfe General Hospital to address a specific need. Your attendance and support this weekend is a clear declaration that we are all committed—working hand in hand—for an even better spectacle in 2026. See you all next year, by God’s grace.”

Chief Oru, President of MECA Birmingham also reminded attendees: “For just £35, many have enjoyed a memorable event, made possible by the sacrifices of the organizing committee and the generous contributions of groups and individuals who believe in Manyu. We must continue to move from strength to strength, as one indivisible Manyu, while respecting the diversity and autonomy of our unique communities in the UK and across Europe.”

MOHWA Global, Nyene Mawn Europe, Manyu Simple Sisters, EYUMEMA, and the Cameroon High Commission, Mr and Mrs Charles Mambo, were among the many generous donors who helped make the Manyu Cultural festival a success. As the grills cooled on Sunday evening and the last notes of music faded into the warm August night, one thing was clear: this was not the end, but the beginning of something greater. “This is history,” said Ms. Yvette Bissong of Kent. “And great actions always demand a sequel. 2026 here we come.”

By Sessekou Isong Asu

London Bureau Chief

Cameroon Concord News Group