Kumbo, Cameroon

Kumbo is the second largest city in the North West Province of Cameroon. It lies about 2000m above sea level and is approximately 110 km from Bamenda, the capital of the North West Province. Kumbo's population (2005 census) is 80,212 and is split into three distinctive hilly settlements. The city is known for horse racing, traditional medicine, palace, a market and two hospitals, Banso Baptist Hospital and Shisong Hospital- St. Elizabeth's. Kumbo is the capital city of the Nso Kingdom. Kumbo lies within the English-speaking area of Cameroon. French is also spoken as well as other tribal languages. German settlers arrived in 1912 and established their mission in 1913.

Map of Africa showing Kumbo, Cameroon

La Crosse Friends of Cameroon Mission Statement

The La Crosse Friends of Cameroon are committed to provide cultural and professional exchange, human and capital assistance in support of the Cameroonian people of Kumbo, and the surrounding region.

More About Kumbo

Some linking attributes between the cities of Kumbo and La Crosse include:

  • Similar population size
  • English speaking
  • Hilly topography
  • Medical facilities - two hospitals including international medical personnel exchanges; a cardiac center at St. Elizabeth's with potential interchange with our local medical centers.
  • Current, established relationships and exchange with Western Technical College staff in the Dental and Computer Programs as well as established exchanges with the Nursing Program at Viterbo University.
  • Current and ongoing relationships/support with the La Crosse Friends of Cameroon re: encompassing medical technical support project in Shisong (Kumbo and beyond)
  • Ongoing courses taught in Shisong by faculty and staff at Viterbo/St. Rose Convent.
  • Ongoing La Crosse meetings attended by Cameroonian Franciscan religious for the furthering of medical needs support and human resource development etc...
  • Current Cameroonian students attending Viterbo through the FSPA connection.