Cameroon Grill and Market Day

A Taste of Cameroon

The idea just kept exploding until we had a real food market, complete with signature soya (or meat on a stick), grilled plantains and corn, ground nuts (peanuts) and fruit. Not to mention the souvenir market and model Baka village.

We stayed in character (adopting the accent and mannerisms of Cameroonians) the whole time and told stories of Cameroon throughout the day. It was so much fun for us.

Some people came with 'real' Cameroonian currency, but had to stop and have their papers checked by the local gensdarme (police) before entering the country.

Once inside they were greeted in true Cameroonian fashion with kisses, long-lasting handshakes, and then . . .

the fruit vendors . . .

Smiling faces! Did we mention the grill?!?
Good food! While we tried to give everyone a better view of our life in Cameroon, the whole idea became a nostalgic experience for us. Everyone had a chance to learn about Cameroon and we enjoyed wetting our appetites for our return in July.

The biggest hit was the souvenir market where Desma served as the master artisan/saleswoman.

"I give you good deal. You are my special customer today!" You can't hear the blaring market music in the background, but it added to the feel as we recreated an artisans market in our backyard. Everyone had the opportunity to walk away with a reminder of their time.

We were amazed at the turnout and realize that it helped people to feel more connected. We had a chance to answer questions and explain life in Cameroon like we never have time to do during our presentations.

The road to the Baka village travel down a picture gallery we hung from the clothesline.

And then to top it off, a Baka village . . .

If this wets your appetite for visiting Cameroon, come see sometime between July 2010 and 2013. We'll be there. Even now we are busy sorting packing and making final arrangement for our return to Cameroon in less than six weeks!