Something New in Old Town

Description

Set in the sprawling community of Old Town, the cradle of the modern city of Bamenda (Cameroon), Something New in Old Town explores a unique approach to grassroots development and communal empowerment. This intimate documentary, filmed over three years in the homes, streets and work places of Old Town, takes us into the world of dozens of committed young men and women who strive to change their community as “searchers” of solutions to the manifold problems that beset young people and the urban environment in many African cities. Through their charitable acts, hygiene campaigns and commitment to grassroots development, they build and impart hope in a community that bears the scars of a chequered history.

Based on individual interviews and footage of associational life, the film follows these young men and women as they go about their daily activities or pursue collective objectives such as donating prizes to pupils at the local public school, embarking on a cultural tour of the Bafut Palace, speaking out against social ills and working for women’s empowerment.

Ethnographic filmmaker, Jude Fokwang carried out fieldwork in this community for a period of 16 months and built tremendous rapport with the young men and women featured in the film. With limited narration, he permits the characters to tell their stories and insights in both words and action. The film conveys an important lesson gained from these initiatives, namely that it only takes a handful of committed citizens to spur and direct meaningful social change, particularly in contexts of limited or no state assistance. These young citizens embody what may be aptly described in development language as the “searchers” within.

Praise for Something New in Old Town

“This is an excellent example of the impact of community mobilization on actions that yield fruits in feasible development initiatives in a society grappling with a longstanding economic slowdown. It speaks to how everyday people on the African continent may restore confidence in their ability to better their lot.”

Victor Gomia, PhD, Delaware State University.