A SPECIAL event has been held to celebrate Cameroon Day in Waltham Forest.

Attended by new mayor Cllr Anna Mbachu, the event was organised by local charity Africa Foundation Stone (AFS) and the Cameroonian Friends Association.

Taking place at the Paradox Centre, Ching Way, Chingford, it was aimed at raising awareness of the work AFS does in Cameroon.

The charity sends “diaspora volunteers”, or volunteers from Cameroon who have settled in the UK, to share their skills with people in their country of origin.

The event, which took place on May 30, featured a fashion show organised by a student from Waltham Forest College, as well as refreshments and live music.

AFS CEO Valentin Yombo Djema said: “Our project is not only about tackling poverty and disadvantage in Cameroon, but it is also targeting social inclusion in the UK.

“We organise regular awareness campaigns using volunteers as an opportunity to share their work in Cameroon with local people.”

Since 2005, AFS has sent a total of 74 volunteers to Cameroon.