Catholic Women’s Association (CWA) in the Nso Fondom of Cameroon from 1964-2013: An Historical Appraisal

This paper examines the activities of the CWA of the Roman Catholic Mission and its impact on the Nso community in Bui Division in the North West Region of Cameroon. From its inception, the main aim of this association was, and still is, to enable the women to study the Word of God, build their Christian faith and foster the works of evangelization in the Church and in the community. The focus of this study is to show how instrumental the women have been in carrying out activities that have an impact on the church in particular and the community at large. The spiritual growth of its members was enhanced by teaching them the doctrinal and biblical lessons contained in the work plan of the association. Home economics lessons were also taught as well as self-empowerment projects that helped to foster the economic growth of the womenfolk in particular and the community in general. The group also carried out charitable activities by providing both the spiritual, financial, and material assistance to the poor, sick, and underprivileged persons living in the community. Some spectacular activities were carried out during annual conferences and during the dedication of new members into the association. This work was carried out with the use of primary and secondary data. Primary data were obtained by conducting interviews with CWA officials, members, and chaplains. Secondary sources were obtained from books and CWA magazines. Within the period under study, the CWA carried out spiritual and socio-economic activities which affected more especially the lives of women, and the entire community.