Fondoms and organigram

The hierarchical order of traditional authority is the same. Authority is held by
individuals (like the Chief, the Sub Chief, etc) at certain levels of the hierarchy, and by sacred
societies (like the Nwarong) at other levels. The level of each authority is well differentiated
except at the top where there is some nuance between the authority of the chief of the village and
the Nwarong, which is the strongest sacred society in the culture of the Wimbum. In most cases,
however, it is generally agreed that the Nwarong is higher in authority than the chief.

Types of Traditional institutions

a) The village Council of Elders

This is the highest of all institutions found in the villages. The village elders are of two
categories the Wifahs and the Btarlas. The Wifahs are made up of village sub-chiefs. They
judge cases that have evidence. The Btarlas are made up of sacred societies and chiefs.
They judge cases that lack evidence. Other duties include:
The holding of consultative meetings to examine events and issues affecting the village

  • Assisting the administration
  • Settling major problems involving land cases, marriages, communal labour defaulters, etc.
  • Protecting the village against any intruders
  • Educating the population on various projects

b) Quarter and Extended Family heads

This group is answerable to the village Councils where there is need. This is an extended family
grouping led by a family head. Their functions include:

  • Settling minor disputes in the quarters or among members of their family,
  • Helping the village Council to collect funds for projects,
  • Creating income generating projects to benefit members of the family,
  • Assuring cohesiveness in the family and
  • Educating the family on family values and discipline.