Final Preparations Intensify at Bamenda Airport Ahead of Papal Visit

With anticipation building for the arrival of Pope Leo XIV, authorities in Bamenda have stepped up sanitation and infrastructure works at the Bamenda Airport, a key venue for the historic visit.

On Tuesday, March 17, the Bamenda City Council deployed its clean-up team to the airport in a coordinated effort led by the Director of Urban Development, Tigooh Bertrand Tigooh, alongside the council’s Public Relations Officer, Ngekwih Jeannette, and the head of the sanitation team, Ndifon Peterson.

The exercise forms part of broader preparations already underway at the site, including ongoing roadworks and the construction of infrastructure to accommodate clergy, officials and thousands of worshippers expected for the papal Mass.

Speaking on site, Tigooh Bertrand Tigooh said the council is prioritizing hygiene and accessibility as the countdown to the visit narrows.

“We are continuing with preparations for the coming of the Pope, ensuring that sanitation is in order. We are making sure the toilets are functional, the environment is clean, and that movement within the premises will be easier, especially by covering open gutters,” he explained.

Across the airport grounds, council workers and volunteers were seen clearing green areas, sweeping, and opening up space to improve circulation and safety. Construction teams are simultaneously working on platforms and designated areas to host religious leaders and congregants during the major liturgical celebration scheduled at the airport.

For his part, Ndifon Peterson, who leads the clean-up squad, said the operation is being carried out under the directive of the Mayor of the Bamenda City Council, Achobong Tembeng Paul, and will be sustained in the weeks ahead.

“This is a special operation to keep the airport clean before, during and after the visit of the Pope. We have started by cleaning the halls, toilets and surroundings, and we will continue at least three times a week. As the visit approaches, we will be here daily,” he said.

He added that beyond the papal visit, the council envisions maintaining the site as a clean and attractive space, with hopes that continued improvements could support calls for the airport’s upgrade.

According to the official programme, Pope Leo XIV is expected to arrive in Bamenda on April 16, where he will hold a peace meeting at Saint Joseph’s Cathedral before presiding over a Holy Mass at the airport later that day. The visit is part of a broader itinerary that also includes stops in Yaoundé and Douala.

As preparations gather pace, the atmosphere in Bamenda reflects a city getting ready not just for a high-profile visit, but for a moment many believe will carry deep spiritual and national significance.