Akum Village

From Bagangu Origins to Modern Highland Community

Location & Geography

📍 Elevation: 1,626-1,788m | Distance: ~19km from Bamenda

Akum (also spelled Baghangu) is located in Cameroon's North-West Region, within Mezam or Menchum Division depending on administrative boundaries. The village comprises around 12-14 quarters, surrounded by neighboring villages like Alatening, Mbei, Njong, Nsongwa, Mendankwe, Awing, and Mankon.

Highland Character: Akum's elevated position gives it a unique highland character with cooler temperatures and distinct vegetation patterns compared to lower-lying areas.

History & Origins

The Akum people trace their origins to the Bagangu, believed to have migrated from Widikum in response to inter-tribal warfare in the late 18th century. Oral traditions reflect this migration symbolism and the journey that brought them to their current highland home.

Colonial Impact

Under colonial influence, settlement patterns became fixed as a result of demarcated boundaries and new social structures that replaced traditional nomadic or semi-nomadic practices.

Governance & Traditional Authority

Traditional rulership in Akum is through the Fon system. The village recently experienced a significant transition in leadership with the passing of a long-reigning monarch.

Royal Transition

Former Reign: Fon George Ngwashi Ndikum II ("Small London") reigned for an remarkable 66 years until his passing in 2024.

Current Leadership: Succeeded in 2025 by Fon Eugène Chi Ngwashi I, marking a new era for the community.

Akum is led by a council including the Fon, elders, and quarter heads across its 12-14 quarters, ensuring representation from all areas of the village in decision-making processes.