Description

Among the many kingdoms (fondom) of the Cameroon Grassfields, the central fon (chief) and a number of secret societies are responsible for the social rule of each kingdom. In close counsel with Kwifor, Ngwerong, Mfu and Takumbeng (the social organisations of village elders, nobles, princes and elites) the fon must maintain spiritual and social order and is responsible for peaceful collaboration between neighbouring villages.

As a sign of social status and rank within the community, men within kingdoms of the Grassfields (including the Bamum, Bamileke, Bangwa and Tikar kingdoms) possess a beaded palm wine calabash vessel (nka'a ndü). The vessels are used to store and pour palm-wine during important rituals that safeguard the wellbeing of the family, community and kingdom. The fon and his elite group of nobles also display these vessels in groups during important ceremonies and festivals.