Since December 18, 2000
How the foundation evolved
This timeline is a framework for the foundation’s evolution. The early entries are taken from the organization’s own prospectus. Later chapters can be added here as the record is assembled.
“In rural development, the peoples’ own effort is primordial and indispensable. They will forever appreciate what they participated in creating, and they will ensure the future maintenance of the infrastructure. This rural population needs to be prepared. They need to be accorded their dignity if their participation has to be willing.”
1985
A principle for rural development
Cameroon
As director of community development in Cameroon’s Ministry of Agriculture, Simon Shemka Shang argued that rural communities have to take part in creating what they will later maintain.
1987
Simon Shemka Shang
Simon Shemka Shang died on December 14, 1987. The foundation was later established in his memory by his children.
Before 2000
Olive Bongfen Shang
Cameroon
Olive Bongfen Shang produced and hosted “Calling the Women,” a weekly radio program on women’s participation in the country’s social and economic life, and served as president of Kongadzem. She later advised the foundation’s board from Sop.
1999
A strategy takes shape
Cameroon
Work begins on a strategy to revive and sustain community development in Cameroon, with healthcare, education, youth, and local economies as the first areas of attention.
2000
The foundation is established
Cameroon and the United States
The Shemka Foundation is founded on December 18, 2000, by the children of Simon Shemka Shang and Olive Bongfen Shang.
Early 2000s
Partnership with the Quality Healthcare Unit
Nkolbison, Yaoundé
The foundation partners with QHU at Nkolbison, on the outskirts of Yaoundé. Foundation healthcare projects are delivered through the clinic, and the clinic gains from that partnership.
2004
Healthcare training begins
Nkolbison
A nurse’s aide course opens in April 2004, with practical training hosted by QHU. The first class of 13 trainees graduates in July 2005.
2004
Care, education, and a children’s holiday
Cameroon
Early programs recorded with QHU include immunization, family health education, a pilot on mother-to-child HIV transmission, the youth radio program 100% Santé with Radio Venus, renovation work at the Sop Integrated Health Center, and Arbre de Noël, a December children’s program held with MTN Cameroon and the clinic.
2004
Partners on the record
Support acknowledged in the founding prospectus includes the U.S. Embassy in Cameroon, Direct Relief International, MTN Foundation Cameroon, and gifts from individuals, clubs, and other organizations.