Historical Evolution and Governance
Colonial Era & Early History: Founded according to legend by a hunter named Eye Njie Tama Lifanje, the town was known as "Mwea" (later Buea). It served as the capital of German Kamerun from 1901 to 1909.
Independence Era: It was the capital of the United Nations Trust Territory of Southern Cameroons (1919–1961) and later the capital of West Cameroon from 1961 to 1972.
Establishment of Council: The modern Buea Municipality was established on June 29, 1977.
Administrative Structure: The council covers 870 sq km, including 67 villages, and operates in a, urban/rural, setting with four main districts: Buea Station, Soppo, Molyko/Mile 17, and Muea.
Leadership: The council has been led by various mayors since 1977, including Ray Lyonga Ikundi (1984), Becke Smith Molua (1987), Gladys Silo Endeley (1995-1996), John Mokake Endeley, and Mbella Moki (elected in 2002). The late Mayor Ekema Patrick Esunge was a prominent figure, followed by the current administration under Mayor David Mafany Namange.
