110th Anniversary of King Manga Bell and Ngoso Din’s Execution: A Reflection on Colonial Resistance and Commemoration
Remembering the Heroes Who Stood Against Colonial Oppression and the Ongoing Efforts to Honor Their Legacy
August 16th, 2024
On the 10th of August marked the 110th anniversary of the tragic deaths of King Rudolf Manga Bell and Ngoso Din, two influential leaders in Cameroon who bravely resisted German colonial rule. Their defiance against the German administration’s plans for expropriation and resettlement made them symbols of political resistance in the early 20th century.
Despite their efforts to protect their people and lands, both King Manga Bell and Ngoso Din were unjustly charged with high treason. In a swift and brutal act, the German colonial authorities executed them, attempting to silence their opposition and maintain control over the region.
Their legacy, however, has endured. In November 2022, German Minister of State Katja Keul visited their graves in Douala, Cameroon. In a gesture of reconciliation, she formally rehabilitated them politically, acknowledging the injustice of their execution. Minister Keul also emphasized the German government's commitment to working closely with the descendants of Manga Bell and Ngoso Din to honor their memories and ensure that their resistance is not forgotten.
The commemoration serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring impact of colonialism and the importance of recognizing and rectifying historical wrongs.
