Driven by empathy and a shared commitment to community, the Doctor Biaka Memorial Foundation (DBMF), under the leadership of her president, Dr. Francisca Hongla Biaka, brought Easter cheer to the widows, physically challenged, and elderly women of Tole. The heartwarming outreach took place on Saturday, April 19, at the residence of the quarter head of Mbo Quarter, where both young and old women gathered in anticipation to receive the team from the Foundation.
The environment was charged with excitement as residents welcomed DBMF with open arms. Laughter, songs, and the joyous chatter of women filled the air as they assembled under the open sky to mark a moment of love, sharing, and solidarity.
The event was brief but impactful. In his opening remarks, the quarter head of Mbo Quarter gave a warm welcome to Dr. Biaka and her team, expressing the community’s deep appreciation for the Foundation’s outreach. “We be very happy to receive the people from Biaka here today,” he said. “wuna presence here be very important for we, especially we mami and we woman them wey them di ever feel say they don forget them. Today, I sure say they dey very happy.”
Mr. Otto Singe, Secretary General of the Doctor Biaka Memorial Foundation, spoke on behalf of the entire Biaka Group which comprises of the Biaka Hospital, Biaka University Institute of Buea, and the Foundation itself. He highlighted the group’s commitment to serving humanity not only through education and healthcare but also by showing up for people in their times of need.
“This Foundation was created to carry on the legacy of the late Dr. Lawrence Biaka, whose passion was always about reaching the underserved,” Mr. Singe explained. “We are here today to show love and support, because that’s what Easter is truly about.”
Taking the floor, Dr. Francisca Hongla Biaka beamed with joy as she addressed the women of Tole. “I am so happy to be here,” she said. “Easter is a season of love and sharing, and our gifts today are a small way of showing that we care. You are not alone.”
Dr. Francisca Biaka went on to make two major announcements that left the crowd visibly moved. First, she revealed that the Biaka Foundation will be creating opportunities for A-Level holders in the community who wish to further their education but lack financial support. “We know there are many bright young minds here,” she said. “We want to help them take the next step.”
Secondly, she announced that Biaka Hospital would soon be launching a free health consultation campaign specifically for the people of Tole. “Many of you suffer in silence because you cannot afford to see a doctor,” she said. “We are bringing healthcare to your doorstep for free of charge.”
Following her speech, Dr. Biaka personally handed over Easter gifts to the women and physically challenged. The packages, filled with essential food items and basic household supplies, were received with smiles, tears of gratitude, and heartfelt blessings from the elderly. One of the widows, Mama Theresa, said with joy in her eyes, “Today I feel like someone remembered me. God bless Dr. Biaka and her team.”
The event may have lasted just a few hours, but its impact will continue to linger in the hearts of the people of Tole for a long time. Through this Easter outreach, the Doctor Biaka Memorial Foundation not only brought material gifts but also Ignited hope, love, and a strong message that no one is forgotten.
It is certain the crowd slowly dispersed with bags in hand and joy in their hearts, the spirit of Easter had clearly found a new home in Tole, thanks to Dr. Biaka and her unwavering commitment to service.