LocationsFrom Ruin to Revival: The Resilient Journey of Mr. Mahama Pekuelef
May 7, 2025
UNDP CMR Regional Stabilisation Facility (RSF) - Mahama Pekuelef livelihood beneficiary Mozogo Far North region of Cameroon
In the heart of Mozogo, a town marked by the shadows of conflict and hardship, Mr. Mahama Pekuelef 32 years old stands as a beacon of hope and resilience. Once the proud proprietor of a bustling store, his life took a tumultuous turn due to the unrelenting Boko Haram crisis, leaving him stripped of his former livelihood. “There was a time when I felt the weight of the world on my shoulders,” Mahama reflects, remembering the days when he was reduced to selling goods from a small table on the roadside, barely scraping by.
The struggle seemed endless until two years ago when the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) initiated a transformative project to revive livelihood in Mozogo. Mahama’s fortunes began to shift when he was awarded a shop equipped with solar lights built by UNDP RSF. This shop symbolized a new lease on life—a secure haven for his goods, shielding them from the harsh elements that previously resulted in devastating losses to his stock.
UNDP CMR Regional Stabilisation Facility (RSF) - shops built at the mozogo market -Far North region of Cameroon
UNDP CMR Regional Stabilisation Facility (RSF) – market- sheds with boxes built at the Mozogo -Far North region of Cameroon
With the establishment of the new shops, Mahama experienced a remarkable turnaround. “I never thought something like this could make such a big difference,” he expresses with a mix of disbelief and gratitude. The solar light even enables my fridge to function well. His income surged as the revival of cross-border trade breathed new life into the local economy. “My profits have doubled from 200,000 CFA (US$332) to about 1,700,000 CFA (US$2,826),” he smiles proud of the progress he has made. The convenience of having a secure storage space for his merchandise eliminated the burden of daily transport and allowed him to focus on expanding his stock.
As a devoted husband to three wives and a father of eight children aged between four and ten, Mahama’s transformation is not just about business success: it’s about stability and hope for the future. “Now, I can provide for my family,” he says, his heart swelling with pride. The thriving market of Mozogo, neighbouring Nigeria strengthened by vital infrastructure improvements (schools, Health centre, police and gendarmerie offices with living quarters) became a vibrant symbol of economic recovery a testament to the tenacity and spirit of the community
UNDP CMR Regional Stabilisation Facility (RSF) - Mahama Pekuelef livelihood beneficiary Mozogo Far North region of Cameroon
Mahama’s recent stability has resulted in more than just enhanced financial security. He has regained the opportunity to ensure his children receive an education, a dream he once thought unattainable during his struggle. “I want my children to have opportunities I never had,” he states emphatically, envisioning brighter futures for them as doctors, teachers, and leaders.
Mahama’s transformation brings out not only his personal success but also the collective resilience of the Mozogo community. His success inspires many around him, showing the potential that exists when individuals are equipped with the right resources and support.
With continuous support, UNDP will empower even more vulnerable people like Mahamat, equipping them with the infrastructure and knowledge they need and providing adequate schools for the children in the various communities to ensure a brighter future for tomorrow.
UNDP CMR Regional Stabilisation Facility (RSF) - Commissariat / Police Special , built and equipped - taking into consideration gender and inclusion by UNDP RSF- Mozogo Far North region of Cameroon
UNDP CMR Regional Stabilisation Facility (RSF) – Gendarmerie, built and equipped, considering gender and inclusion by UNDP RSF- Mozogo Far North region of Cameroon
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