Thinking of you dear friend. Hard to believe it's been a year since you left us. Like a lost love, you've been on my mind alot these past days, which has led to lots of ponderation about the essence of life and the reason of our existence. 

If there is one thing your transition to the world beyond has taught me, it is not to take the gift of life and good friendship for granted. In my moments of solitude and in my dreams, we've conversed numerous times, though in reality it's monologues with numerous unanswered questions. You are missed my friend. Your infectious laughter is still ringing in my ears as i try to mimick your unique gaze every now and then.

Peace moh kembong

By Mbong/ Schola, Colleague and friend based in Johannesburg - South Africa

May 4 was meant to be a good day, I had just returned from a vacation and was feeling refreshed and upbeat. But it turned out to be one-dark-day. I got a message from Nchemty, it read ‘Hi Schola, I know you are vacationing somewhere and I didn’t want to bother you with my wahala but it has been confirmed that I have lung cancer and I need to start immediately chemo therapy....’. I couldn’t believe it, Nchenty had been unwell but cancer was certainly the last thing anyone could have thought of. This was heartbreaking to put it mildly and before I could collect my thoughts and coin a proper response, my fingers went ahead of me and replied ‘oh Lord’. I later muscled up some courage, and in my feeble attempt to be strong replied, ‘you’ve been treated on a false diagnosis all this why, what makes you think they got it right this time? please get yourself a second opinion somewhere credible’. I certainly wasn’t the only one who told Nchemty that , and his trip to SA was meant to confirm or deny the diagnosis. The confirmation of that diagnosis in Johannesburg was shattering not only to Nchemty but to everyone of us.

But despite his obvious pain Nchemty refused to be broken, he kept the spirit of a fighter and a sense of humour simply astonishing.

There was something unusual about Nchemty’s text message informing me of his diagnosis. He will normally address me ‘Hi Mbong’. That’s how everyone calls me at work and the huge professional boundary between us imposed that appellation. So While he was sick, I made a commitment to myself, to be there as Schola and not Mbong. To get to know him a bit more. And oh boy! Nchemty was simply the funniest patient ever admitted to hospice care. The burden of his health did but weigh him down. We chatted loudly and cracked jokes, we turned a hospice facility to a comedy club. I drove off after every visit with the guilt of only getting to discover su ch a funny, strong willed Nchemty under such difficult circumstances. I certainly regret not making more time, not swapping my two hats more regularly. In a subtle way, you’ve taught me that all work and no play makes us strangers.

I will never forget how well you fought and how elegantly you carried the burden of your illness. You gave me a glimpse of what a friendship it could have been, and I will be forever grateful.

We worked together and my gratitude to God is for giving me a chance to know you on two levels.

Nchemty joined Greenpeace in 2016 and was a valued member of the communications team. He was opinionated but openminded & enthusiastic to grow. He expressed an interest in the political economy of kleptocracy in Sub-Saharan Africa, a field he wanted to explore more closely. During his time with Greenpeace Africa, Nchemty was assigned to the forest campaign as Communication Officer. He also worked closely with the Executiv e Directors office, supporting communications for and by the Executive Director.

Nchemty was confident and had a high regard for himself, yet he was a humble guy. His peers at the office will call him ‘Nchemty man’. I can't forget an exercise at a staff retreat during which staff were asked to write the qualities they admire the most in each other. Everyone had an A4 sheet stapled to their back. Nchemty had just joined `Greenpece at the time However, someone wrote on his sheet, humble. I laughed so hard and teased him all day about being a humble bayangi boy. I actually went up to him and said, humble bayangi boy - do you spot the oxymoron. He giggled and did not respond. So I went forward to ask in pigin - you don ever hear say bayangi man humble? He lauged and said, na me a write tam?

We went to the same university and attended quite a few similar lectures even though we never exchanged a greeting. I barely knew his names. To have been able to manage Nchemty without conflict spoke to his humility. And it certainly confirms my personal conviction that humilty is a state of the heart, not an outward disposition.

So dear Nchemty, when you get to the gates of heaven and you are asked - 'what do you offer? ‘ like they will ask you in my favourite movie 'the God's of Egypt' my suggested response to you is, I offer a humble heart.

I hope the angels treat you with warmth and love, rest well 'Nchemty Man'

Mbong/ Schola
Colleague and friend

METIMI,
As I fondly called you, so it’s true that my private fears became a REALITY and that my mixed hopes for a miracle NEVER happened. I have lost close persons in my life time, but yours is a pain of its own kind. You were truly a cool guy… everybody’s special friend, a sweet soul that deserved to enjoy all the good things this life could offer!! Your last message to me was on early Thursday morning a “Thank You” after reassuring me you will be home in a week. Then on Friday that sad call came through. Were you ready to go or perhaps our Maker’s call was hard for you to resist. Good things don’t last so they say. You were tenacious, kept faith in God and clung to life. Even in those dark moments on this journey of no return you gave me hope. If death were a judgement in a court of law I would write an appeal for you. I have cried and once again your passing way has taught me that we don’t own our lives, in fact we own nothing in this world… we are just passing!!! And yes, as you told me “life is too short to be little”.
I can still hear your voice on the other side of the phone “Daddy” as you had decided to call me, imitating my boys, every time I checked on you. How could I have known back in May that you were to leave soon. As I struggled to translate your medical report into English so that you could travel to South Africa, I wondered what all those strange words really meant and the gravity of THAT thing that had so consumed your health. Now I know… the writings on the wall that I couldn’t decipher. Our common friends and my family members are in total shock: why a good man, full of life could just disappear.
Ehhhhhh Nchemty… remember how we used to talk about our lives, the future and how far we had come, as we shared the good wine and nuts you brought from SA. I must be dreaming….what happened to our special project…you know what I mean!
Fare thee well my friend… rest in PEACE if truly REST it is on that other side, you will be ever GREEN in our memories even as you leave many a broken heart to mourn you. Let they be blessed all those who gave you care and love on this daunting journey, Oscar Nanjia and co I am thinking of you. God bless you.
Adieu my friend…..But I am still waiting for you to return home in one week, you PROMISED!!!!

In June 2017, 15 years after we graduated from UB, Nchemty during one of our chats said "Working hard to become a present & future friend"

Little did we both know God had intended to honour every word of this statement.

Our chats after this were not frequent, we discussed business ideas ..nothing serious.

Then June 2019...2 years after ... a simple prayer on his hospital bed in SA bound us together for eternity...

Our chats and calls became frequent...With every conversation, an expression of confidence and hope..
With every chat, joy and peace that surpass all understanding.

I've often felt like the forgotten sibling- Nigeria is seldom remembered when "blocks" are mentioned in our class conversations.

But Nchemty remembered...and he came..beyond "prayers", he came to say goodbye.

As soon as he arrived, got a local line so i could reach him.....
We laughed and talked about his health, Nigerian delicacies, life..etc

...Nchemty promised he'll be back (this life!)

His return tip to Cameroon from Lagos was sudden..."see my life? i'll explain everything later" he said.

Nchemty did and called when he arrived Cameroon and was settled in Dr. Muna's clinic.

Our chats resumed...

August 14 was our last chat...

August 15 was a restless day and night for me... hoped in vain to catch some sleep.

Then came August 16 ..unlike the sudden Lagos-Douala journey, you were ready for this big one.. the other side beckoned

My future friend... we'll meet in heaven

more than a friend... my brother you became.

Angel
(J99 Family)

Friday august 16, 2019, the DARK day. The world offers friends aplenty, but the quality of friends shows only few can qualify to be called friends.
My association with you, Nchemty, makes me realize I had a friend in you. When we were fresh in the job market (after UB) with no money in our pockets, we still had fun in our own way and dreamt of making it big someday. You were a friend indeed.

Your soft spoken nature, humility, sense of humor, compassion, kindness, selflessness and spirit of sacrifice were unsurpassed. Your ability to remain humble despite getting an international job speaks volumes.
Bro your demise has left me broken and sore and I can only get strength from the Lord at this point. Your J99 family will forever miss you.
You are a hero.

I am consoled to know that although your life on earth was short, you succeeded to create an impact during that time.
I am also consoled because you only left your mortal body, to be reunited with Christ Jesus where there is no more pain caused by cancer. You fought the illness bravely and passed on to eternity honorably. You showed strength all along and your smile never left your face. You were brave bro!

You will be sorely missed.

ABWE ENANG

By Njike Celestine, JMC 99

Nchemty, I am ...... I knew ....... thought.....but.....
Weh Nchemty, the distorted and unsynchronised flow of my thoughts can better explain how heart-broken or dejected I am as I write this mumbo-jumbo called tribute. I first knew you casually as a classmate in 1999. This, because as JMCs then, one could never hide himself because willy-nilly, every one of us as was the tradition, had to mingle with each other for group assignments through various courses to our graduation in 2002. We had casually cracked jokes in class. As a young journalism student with vim and vigour, the professional in me was triggered the day our venerated lecturer, Victor Cheo read one of your journalistuc articles to the whole class. Your language, vocab, mastery of subject matter, logical presentation of facts etc were inexpressible!!! I could see in you at that tender age, a young talented professional with immeasurable journalistico-artistic bravery!!!

Years after, we only met again in Buea in 2015. This time around, on real professional basis when you told me you were working on a project with Namme Ivan. When Namme finally presented that project - a newly created Magazine whereof you were the Editor-in-Chief to me, I was like wow!! What a master piece!! I could see the professional in you in full blossom!! I was so thrilled by your work, reason why I voluntarily joined the Magazine production team and became a one time Editor-in-chief as well of the 3rd edition, though the publication became epileptic; probably because you left for your new international job.

When I got news of your new job, i was particularly enlivened that the professional I knew back in JMC was rising crescendo in his career!! To learn that you are now gone and gone forever with all these talents is really, really a bitter pill for me to swallow. Why will the unpitiful and fiddle-faddle hand of dead snatch you away from us so soon?. Where are you really going to with such ingenuity? Weh Chemti, you will forever remain an irreparable and irreplaceable loss to the JMC 99 family, your family, Cameroon and the international community as a whole!! We love you but God loves you more. Fare thee well, Bro!!!

Posted by Abwe Enang for Njike Celestine.

By Ayamba Edmond, younger brother.

Dear brother Nchemty,
It is with heavy hearts that we gather here in Limbe without you and without expecting any calls or text from you. The little time we spent together from October 2016 to August 2019 was the best part of my life and what i miss most, you were more than just a brother to me you were the father I never had because you did more than just the relevance.
The life you touch is enough prove that you once live on the surface of this earth. Its such a pity that you left so soon but even though your gone your lovely memories still live on and will never be forgotten, You are my counsellor, mentor, role model, my legend and guardian and forever your name shines. Rest in the bosom of the Lord.
Ayamba Edmond, younger brother.

By your friend and colleague, Helen

Nchemty, your death still feels like a bad dream to me. A dream I hope to wake up from soon. I can still vividly hear your enthusiastic greetings in the daily stand up - "Hello Mrs Nganga". Nchemty, you gave me hope when I saw you at the Hospice in Joburg, hope that you were going to fight this.

The team joked that the next communications meeting will be held in Cameroon and that you will be present. I knew death was a possibility but not this soon. My heart is overwhelmed with sadness, but I am comforted to know that you are resting, no more pain bhuti.

I will miss the early morning chats, the jokes, the teasing, the peer reviews, not forgetting the challenges we shared in our day to day work. Your jovial self even in the midst of a serious sickness is something I will always remember. You bravely fought this battle, may you sleep in the arms of the most high. Rest with the angels 'Nchemty man'.

Helen

By Pa Ozong Ashu (Father)

The news of my beloved son Nchemty Metimi Ozongashu reached me as a bomb. Metimi grew up gentle, kind, obedient, ambitious, and God fearing. I loved him but the Supreme Father loves him most. If it is destined that at the age of 85 I should bury my son instead, who am I to question the Lord? May God be with him till we meet again.

Ozong Ashu (Father) Limbe

you little cousin sister,
I thought of you today. But that is nothing new. I thought about you yesterday, and days before that too. I think of you in silence, I often speak your name. All I have are memories and your pictures in my mind. Your memory is a keepsake from which I'll never part. God has you in His arms, I have you in my heart. You made me prayed more than I ever thought possible, I felt your faith, your smile in your struggle and I believed distance is never a barrier, I sent my healings and was hopeful to see you back home healthy and strong. But as it is commonly said" Man proposes, God disposes, I can't still imagine the day I talked to Marievon " Sis, now that brother is in Cameroon, let's book permission to go see him, and as I was still talking, Etengeneng ray called and said, you have taken a journey to heavenly abord. There is none like God. I will always remember those moments when you visited us in the Mfuni village and the times you fought in order that I receive my own healings. Your reliability was unlimited. You were a WARRIOR, despite the knowledge of your health issues, you still didn't want to bug others about it but kept assisting others and sacrificing for their wellbeing. You were so empathetic. the true image of LOVE. You would have been a good rare pearl husband for any woman. Good people part so quick, chiaaaaaaaaaaa.. say hello to all our relatives who departed too soon too.


MY PRAYER FOR YOU WAS BASED ON THIS: Memorize and Meditate
“It is the same with my word. I send it out, and it always produces fruit. It will accomplish all I want it to, and it will prosper everywhere I send it.” (Isaiah 55:11, NLT)

T = THANK God that he will accomplish his purposes in us.

R = RECEIVE the revelation that leads to renewal.

U = UNDERSTAND. Understanding leads to conviction and results in our taking action.

S = SPIRIT. Through the power of the cross and the Holy Spirit, we are crucified to the flesh and to the lures of the world.

T = TRANSFORM by degrees as we forget the past, reach forward, and press toward the call of God in Christ Jesus.

MY POEM FOR YOU:
REMEMBER ME
to the living, I am gone.
To the sorrowful, I will never return.
to the angry, I was cheated.
But to the faithful, I have never left.
I can not be seen, but I can be heard.
So as you stand upon a shore, gazing at a beautiful sea- remember me.
As you look in awe at a mighty forest and it's grand majesty-remember me.
As you look upon a flower and admire it's simplicity-remember me.
Rember me in your heart, your thoughts, your memories of the times we loved, the times we cried, the times we fought, the times we laughed. FOR IF YOU ALWAYS THINK OF ME, I WILL NEVER BE GONE.

           Letter to a Fallen Friend, Comrade, and Brother

Sir Ozong,

I am still in dismay since learning of your transition to the other side, where I hope to meet you again when the creator calls out my number. We had texted a few days before, during which you indicated that you had returned home to be closer to family. Little did I know that would be our final conversation.

Like a child, abandoned by his parents and oblivious to the fact, I dialled your number and sent you a text message the other day and waited for a miraculous response. As you can tell, I am still waiting. That’s how hard it is to make sense of your untimely and unexpected transition, and how difficult it is to comprehend why God would choose to deprive us of your presence, especially as you were just beginning to rip the fruits of your labour. Well, I guess I will have to settle for the preacher’s explanation.

I remember you telling me how sick you were and how the cold hands of death almost snatched you while on your way to South Africa. However, being the eternal optimist and soldier, we all thought it was just a matter of time before you emerge stronger than before -in your own words - “Aladji, man go beat this thing”. So, you can imagine my bewilderment when I was informed on that fateful morning that “Nchemty done die”. I called Fefe for confirmation and we spoke at length about what you went through and reasons why you were not upfront with me about the true nature of your illness. I lack words to describe how bitter and upset I became when I found out you had lung cancer, as I could not comprehend why you waited that long before seeking medical assistance. For that, I have reserved a slap for you when we meet again. In the meantime, I commend Fefe and Oscar for the care while you were in South Africa for treatment. I am grateful for thier friendship, just as I am sure you are as well.

It is hard to think that our varied and unending conversations about our childhood, school days, and life is now history. I remember how we used to reminiscent about our primary school days at Catholic School Garden, how mischievous we were and the beatings we got from some teachers, the fights we got into, our high school days at GBHS Limbe and how some of the best days of our lives as young adults were during that time. Your time as manager with Press Book at various cities in Cameroon, and how your job with Green Peace was the gateway to other life-changing experiences.
I could rant for hours un-end about our experiences together as bosoms, but since you must rest, I will leave you with “Crossing the Bar”, which we enjoyed reading and often reflected on during our high school days.
Farewell my friend. You will be missed.

Aladji




Sunset and evening star,
And one clear call for me!
And may there be no moaning of the bar,
When I put out to sea,

But such a tide as moving seems asleep,
Too full for sound and foam,
When that which drew from out the boundless deep
Turns again home.

Twilight and evening bell,
And after that the dark!
And may there be no sadness of farewell,
When I embark;

For tho' from out our bourne of Time and Place
The flood may bear me far,
I hope to see my Pilot face to face
When I have crost the bar.

NOM (Nchemty Ozongashu Metimi)
You were not just a friend or classmate
You were my ever smiling brother.
In my stubborn spree, you will smile at me and say *Mpey you stronghead oh.Abeg woman no d strong head so.
The news came as a thunderbolt,I thought Jimmy was making April fool then I realized it wasn't April.
Chaiii.
Why must the good go quickly and the bad stay
I gave asked a thousand question and haven't got an answer
Sleep on.my dearest
You were one in a million

Nchemty, I met you very briefly in Johannesburg, South Africa where you so gallantly fought your illness. For less than 2 hours, we sat and spoke, and i was inspired by your positive spin on life and strong belief in destiny in the face of you struggle. The strength in your smile, even when in pain and your appreciation of your environment, making out time to notice and commend your neighbor in hospital, even as you lay suffering. The pain is over now and you rest in peace for sure, until we meet again. Rest Nchemty, Rest.

By Keh Elvis :
    
  Why Nchemty, What can i say am short of words thou i never get to know you much until the day you came pursuing your little cousin Moliki Jarvis Ozongashu to go and wrote his exams from that day i knew you were a wonderful person so i thought i could get to know you more which my dreams never came true, it was rather unfortunately death has to snatched you away from your love ones lets just say its a call everyone must answer when been called, only God knows the best maybe the pain was too much for you to bear that's why God decided to took you away from the people who believe in you,have faith in you, people who loved you, and people who look up to you for advice, is rather sad to know that you are no more dear uncle Nchemty, may the lord give you a peaceful place over there, may the angels sing and dance as you arrive the land of no return and you will always be in our hearts until we meet again.

Praying for healing from all the brokenness caused by Your death. 
I never met you but heard so many wonderful things about you from my cousin Mrs Akat Stela nee OzongAshu your sister. We thank God for your life and all the lives you touched.
We will never forget you for all the love and memories you shared with us.
May the Holy Spirit comfort our family and friends as we mourn and cherish our beloved brother Nchemti Metimi AzongAshu.
You will sorely be missed.

Pauline Etta (cousin) Dallas TX

Aghawin Marievon, your cousin sister

Nchemti, Nchemti, Nchemti safe journey to the Father Almighty and please, convey regards to our mothers(Late Mercy and Patience) and tell them we are well and happy. Nchemti, I text with so much grief and sorrow ,but with intense joy,.cause I know you are healed and you are fairing well with the angels and saints.
It hurts to know that, I knew about your existence only when I turned 25, when I decided to go in search of my maternal family. Late Aunty Bess, told me.... "Aghawin, this is your brother's number ,he is in Yaounde,call him, get to know your family....." I knew you to be a nice and caring person, though only through telecons. Unfortunately,because of time constraints we couldn't see each other face to face. And only when me and my daughter Gemma Dorcas and sister Ashu Loveline, were planning on seeing you once returned to Cameroon.Nchemti,we prayed for your earthly healing,but you kicked the bucket.Thanks to the blood Bond as family, we always kept in touch.
Nchemti,I know you are reading as IAM writing... I will end up seeing you face to spirit but I know, we will finally get to see each other face to face with the Father Almighty. Journey safely brother. I love you,we love you.... But the Father love you Most. Rest in peace

By Janet Ozongashu (Sister) Yaounde, Cameroon

TRIBUTE TO NCHEMTY
This year what I feared most came to pass.
Words can hardly express the pain I am currently experiencing.
Gone so soon but I believe God knows why.
By faith I know we shall meet again in our Father's Kingdom where there will be no more sorrow and pain.
Adieu Nchemty, may you find rest and peace in the Lord's bossom

Janet Ozongashu (Sister) Yaounde, Cameroon

By your Sister, Stella Akat, Ottawa, Canada.

Tribute to Nchemty
Daddy, is how you were fondly called as a kid. I baby sat you from birth, carried you on my back and did as much as I was able to do for you as a kid brother. It is difficult to believe what has happened in a relatively short period of time. Nchemty, my heart hurts and will hurt for a very long time. “Sister, I am in acute pain; the Lord will see us through this trying period; the good Lord doesn’t give someone a load he can’t carry”

That has been the beginning or end of your messages to me during your illness. Metimi, even though the pain is enormous on us, you are now relieved of the unbearable pain and suffering that diminished your quality of life. Heaven knows why; the good Lord knows it all. Go well brother, until we meet again.

Your Sister, Stella Akat, Ottawa, Canada.

By Oscar Nanjia Songe -Northcliff, Johannesburg, South Africa.

My Brother and Friend, Metimi Ozongashu Remembered…
Metimi, my friend and brother, with deep sadness in my heart and loads of tears, your opening tag line(“Mola, Neh? Na Komi Eh”) to every phone conversation with me went silent on August 14th, 2019 when we last spoke. So, with disbelief, I am coming to terms with the fact that you are gone. You had a good heart, very stubborn sometimes,silently persistent, loyal and understanding, but firm enough to be unpredictable, and even a little contrarian sometimes. That’s how unique my brother was, a man who had no interest in conforming to some pre-packaged version of what society norms are or what it expected him to be.
My freezer and kitchen cabinets are always filled with traditional foodstuff and other items because Metimi made sure my mum packed a full-sized luggage which he would then bring to me during his multiple trips to South Africa (SA). So, my mum and siblings are deeply saddened and mourning you as well because you were a gracious human who burned bright yet shared the warmth and light of your fire with all including my family.
I will miss our dinner dates, debates and one-on-ones! Wool worths and Edgars shops in Sandton City Mall and Cresta Mall will surely miss your shopping sprees too. Boy oh Boy! You, Maureen and I did shop! One time in Sandton City Mall, you bought so much stuff for your family and was very worried about luggage weight limits. However, you quickly stated, ‘I’d rather pay the exorbitant extra luggage fees, because my family is deserving of me.”This was a light bulb moment that signified you deeply loved, cared and valued family.
When you called me in March 2019 to inform me about your initial diagnosis, you trusted us and a few other friends to explore treatment possibilities in Morocco, India and SA. So, when you decided on SA as a treatment destination after serious considerations, I, and other close friends here in Johannesburg braved ourselves because we knew you will need every ounce of emotional and physical support. From picking you up at the OR Tambo International Airport on the night of May 28th, 2019 to being by your side during the multiple medical consultations, myriads of tests done on you, nerve-wracking diagnosis, and physiotherapy sessions, as requested by your Specialist Oncologist, Dr Mayet; Specialist Pulmonologist, Dr Bhamjee; and Specialist Radiologists (Dr Stanojevic, Dr Sacks, Dr Van Binsbergen) at Netcare Milpark Hospital, Johannesburg, you still remained highly positive, hopeful and strong. You always told me ‘Mola, my time is not yet up, So, I will keep fighting till the end.’ Boy, a resilient fight you did put up although God wanted you by His side!
You were based at my humble home for 11 days (outpatient days) before you were admitted into High Care (ICU) at Netcare Hospital, Milpark. Throughout your stay with me, I saw a brave warrior who was determined to get well although in severe pain. During the painful and sleepless nights, we both turned to God. I remember our bible readings, meditations and prayers sessions in the dead of the night and during discomforting moments. All through the critical and painful days you spent at the Netcare Hospital Milpark, Johannesburg, Stepping Stone Hospice in Alberton, Reddington Hospital in Victoria Island, Lagos and Clinique Muna in Bonanjo, Douala, you had every reason to think the world was an awful place, every reason to think the world was not worth living or fighting for, and every reason to think the world was worth leaving. However, you held on to your inner strength and belief, never giving up hope, braved the pain and resolved to build and strengthen your faith in God. I have never seen a better warrior who lived and died on his terms. Just very typical of my friend and brother and shine bright lights to all who may be in the tunnel.
Boy, your transition has taught me that, I do not know how long we’ve got here on earth; when fate will intervene, nor can we discern God’s plan. What I do know is that, materialism, envy, self-aggrandisement, greed and strife lead one to a dark path. Metimi, the tons of love, care, prayers, encouragements, financial and material support showered towards you from your family, Green Peace Colleagues and Friends, your medical and palliative care team, your JMC Alumni, close friends from all over the world and even strangers reinforced my faith in human beings and strengthened my resolve to continue being good, empathetic and selfless.
Your scars of pain and breath may have been extinguished, but I’m comforted that heaven is rejoicing because it gained a good person and a new resident on August 16th, 2019.So, my boy, rest, rest, rest, peaceful rest!
Oscar Nanjia Songe -Northcliff, Johannesburg, South Africa.

By Onege Ozongashu

Dear Brother Nchemty Metimi, even though you are gone your love is here and will always be here to stay. You touched our hearts with so many things. God knew you were the one to serve. He took you home to get some rest, even though we loved you best. Our hearts are filled with so much pain. God loved you most; there was no share. At this time we must let go. Your memories we will keep a flow. Rest with peace of mind; your memories will live on through.
Rest in peace, our dear brother.
Onege Ozongashu

By Ewede for the family

My beloved brother, I cannot still believe you are gone but what I know is that God has a better plan for everything. May your soul rest in his kingdom. We’ll always love, love ever in death. Good bye brother.
Ewede for the family / 25/08/2019

By Brenda Ojong

Nchemty, you have gone so soon. God knows why. When I got news of your demise I couldn’t believe it. The little time spent together with you was so great. We love you but God loves you best. Go well. Adieu.
Brenda Ojong

By Ray C. Nji (on behalf of Nji’s family).

Metimi,
The last 20years were made better and fun for me because of your great company. Always jovial, talkative, friendly yet frank. Our days in Molyko, Muyuka, Limbe, Douala and Yaounde remain fresh in my memory. I will forever remain grateful to God and to you for your loyalty, sincerity, generosity and humour. You will forever remain in my heart. Enjoy your stay in heaven, where cancer and evil have no place. Adieu “Sesekou.”
Ray C. Nji (on behalf of Nji’s family). 

By Etengeneng Thaddeus Ayuk

Nchemty, When I heard that you are no more, it was like a bombshell to me. Nothing has ever worried me like your death. Your calmness, soft spoken and gentle-like style to handle issues will never be forgotten of live to extent your magnanimity and benevolent in handle matters to others. I know you are with the Lord. Bye rest in peace.
Etengeneng Thaddeus Ayuk

By Monik, Classmate JMC UB (J99)

Metimi- I summarize your life with 1 Corinthians 13:4-7

4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

Nchemty I see you in these verses. You showed so much love and was always there to boost others . You believed in so many people here, especially our batch mates J99 family.
You were one real guy!
Your last days here were filled with faith and trust in The Lord. In all this your sense of humor was alive.
Selfless buddy , always ready to step in when there is work to be done. Your kindness is engraved in my heart.

Thank you for coming back to physically say good bye to us. Thank you for trusting me as a friend. You are a fighter!

It hurts so badly but I know you fought a good fight, you ran the race and the crown of victory has been given to you.

Thank you for being the humble, loving and jovial friend! Adieu Metimi, Adieu my Friend! 
You were truly a 1st Corinthian 13 guy.

Monik
Classmate JMC UB (J99)

By KANEBENA ALONNA James, RWANDA.

FAREWELL NCHEMTY
My dear friend and paddy-man, I still can’t believe my eyes and ears but I know it is true that you have left this world for good. Your unexpected departure from this world is a very painful one not just to me, but many especially your family whom you cherished so much and always told me clearly.
I can never forget how our friendship began in high school where I met you – Our love for football brought us close and the fact that we most often went to school together and returned together strengthened our bond.
After university studies we continued to share our strong ties – We have shared the same room, bed and meal in Douala at my mom’s house, at your house while you worked for Presbook Muyuka – And we have never had a single quarrel. I could not travel from Douala to Kumba without a stop at Muyuka to spend some time with you “Metimi” as I always called you.
Although your schedule at“GREENPEACE INTERNATIONAL” was very busy, you always made sure your return ticket should be booked for Douala upon returning from international duties just because you always wanted us to spend a few days together before you could set off for Yaounde. “Metimi”, I always appreciated your humility. You were a simple and kind person.
My travelling to the Republic of Rwanda for studies in January 2019, never kept us apart. We continued chatting via Social Media regularly and that is how you revealed to me the Chest Pains and Breathing Difficulties you were going through in April 2019. I linked you with a Lung Specialist at the Douala Military Hospital and arranged for you to travel to Douala for proper checkup. Unfortunately the result from the prognosis was not good. However, you shared with me every single detail of your health condition and continued calling me while on your sick bed in South Africa and back to Cameroon to update me. You called me four days before your death from the Muna Clinic in Bonanjo saying that I should keep on praying for you and I told you miracles do exist in life.
NCHEMTY OZONGASHU METIMI, you were a true friend and brother. Despite your health condition you kept close and trusted me like a brother. I cried so much that night after you thanked my mom and me on the phone for everything in our last phone conversation. I saw death looming from that moment and wasn’t surprised when I got the sad news four days after that conversation.
My “friend and Paddy-man”am powerless to give your life back.Your absence will be hard to fill, but God knows why. Farewell and may GOD receive you with open doors in heaven till we meet again.Your paddy-man Jimmy will truly miss you.

KANEBENA ALONNA James, RWANDA.

By Ashu Ma-Mbeng

TRIBUTE TO MY UNCLE SMART-A SINCERELY GOOD ,HUMBLE GENTLEMAN
A limb has fallen from the family tree.Your sudden death came as a rude shock to me, I vividly remember the early hours on that faithful morning of August 16th when I received a text saying “We lost,He didn’t make it”. I was in total shock and refused to accept while crying profusely.The world stood still and everything crushed at my feet,I was devastated and confused .That faithful day God called your name broke my heart to shreds,but Heaven needed an angel and the one he picked was you.I just wish he could have waited and let you stay with me a little, but God saw how you were in deep pain and getting tired . Oh! With tearful eyes uncle , I watched you and saw you pass away.It was a tough moment for me and all I could do was pray for a miracle.You always saw the look on my eyes and knew I was in pains seeing you in that state ,you would always laugh and bring out some comics so I can laugh out .I remember when you asked me about how you look ,I responded you looked so fresh and great and you later told Barrister to spray you some perfumes and dress you nicely so you smell like me.I laughed out so hard ,I could also catch a glimpse of your smile that evening.You always asked “why do you look sad, and why is "Nasangari" as you called him crying “,”Is somebody dead”,then you smiled.You always had that humour till your last days ,and gave me especially hope that you were going to be fine in no time.Although ,I love you dearly, I could not make you stay, because God knows best.
        You have left memories in my heart and that’s where they’ll always be.I just wish I could rewind the clock or make it turn real slow, I could have hugged you one more time before you had to go. No matter how much time will pass, I’ll miss you everyday .Keep shining bright in Heaven so you can light my way.Love you always Uncle.
  Love Lives
  Ashu Ma-Mbeng

BY MOLIKI JERESE NASANGEL TO HIS LATE UNCLE METIMI NCHEMTY OZONGASHU.

A TRIBUTE
I didn’t comprehend how big a hole your impromptu passing would leave behind.                      
I didn’t perceive how much loneliness I was about to receive.
I remember the thick and thin times I had with you and you made an impact in my life in one way or the other. You were industrious, pious, humble, reserved, laconic, determined, jovial, and optimistic even though you had some inevitable human weaknesses.
My first birthday (14th September 2019) spent without you was the most rigid after you had gone on the 16th of August 2019.
Your loss, like Mandela’s and other patriotic historic figures’ is a heavy burden to bear in my heart.
You came, you fought and you ultimately left the battle field for us to continue.
Oh! I wish that I could tell you that I am not ready to let you go but you have already departed and my heart is feeling so low.
Your memories will always remain deep down within me like a gem underground.
My only comfort is that you are in Heaven and looking down at me. You will be there through the coming years watching over and guiding my path.

By Armel

Mon ami, mon frère, tu m’as dit qu’on se reparlerait très bientôt ce jeudi à Douala veille de ton départ pour l'au-delà. mais hélas! Tu laisses un si grand vide dans ma vie, dans ma famille car tu as emporté cette joie de vivre, cet optimisme qui te caractérisaient, tant pour moi que pour mon épouse. Et que dire de mes enfants qui t’ont adopté si vite, à peine ils t’ont connu que tu t’en es allé. Nchemti je n’oublierais jamais cette fin de semaine. Mon ami, mon frère, je garde de toi le souvenir d’un homme digne et enthousiaste malgré la difficulté. Les plus grandes douleurs étant muettes, Va et repose en paix.
Armel

By Maureen Lifongo, Johannesburg, South Africa

Ozongashu, “Nyanga boy”, “Fine Bayangi boy,” as I use to call you. I can't believe you are gone, and neither can I believe I am eulogising my friend who to me embodies so much that brings out the best in human beings. To me, your passing is like having a nightmare which I can’t wake up from. You were soft-hearted yet resilient, stubborn, wise, caring, assiduous, meticulous, highly organised, witty sometimes, highly accountable, an achiever and a very giving brother.

I’m still waiting for you to call, informing me that you'll be “coming to SA for another workshop” as you did periodically! My family and I are going to miss our conversations, dinner dates and visits to your hotel. How do I even inform my kids about your transition? eerily knowing they may not fully understand as they always looked forward to "Uncle Nchemty's coming"; and knowing You never missed an opportunity to spoil them with goodies from home even against my wishes.

My good friend and brother, you had been to hell and back during illness and yet somehow never lost your energy, optimism or zest for life. Through the pain, you would maintain that buoyant spirit to the very end, too stubborn to sit still, as ever, fiercely devoted to your friends, colleagues, J99ers and most of all to your family. It showed his irreverence, his love, and a little bit of a mischievous streak which made him have the last laugh. This is the Ozongashu, “Fine Bayangi boy,” I knew.

During your stay with us in Johannesburg, you always mentioned that, I had assumed the role of your late mum since I strictly checked on your dressing, dietary and nutrition requirements, and encouraging you to take those batches of medication. While it may have been just a fleeting statement at the time, I now believe it was a compliment born from a good heart, a largess of your spirit and your ability to see good in people. While Nchemty’s illness took a physical and emotional toll on him, I never witnessed him exude bitterness or hate. As hard as it is right now for all of us, through all the heartache and through all the tears, it is our obligation to think not about what was and what might have been, but instead about the legacy he left and memories he has left.
As I borrow this quote from the late Billy Graham "you are not dead but you have just changed your address;" I say “Rest my dear friend, fine boy, Nyanga boy… till we meet again.”

Your Friend, Maureen Lifongo, Johannesburg, South Africa

By Oscar Nanjia Songe -Northcliff, Johannesburg, S. Africa.

My Brother and Friend, Metimi Ozongashu Remembered…
Metimi, my friend and brother, with deep sadness in my heart and loads of tears,your opening tag line(“Mola, Neh? Na Komi Eh”) to every phone conversation with me went silent on August 14th, 2019 when we last spoke. So, with disbelief, I am coming to terms with the fact that you are gone. You had a good heart, very stubborn sometimes,silently persistent, loyal and understanding, but firm enough to be unpredictable, and even a little contrarian sometimes. That’s how unique my brother was, a man who had no interest in conforming to some pre-packaged version of what society norms are or what it expected him to be.
My freezer and kitchen cabinets are always filled with traditional foodstuff and other items because Metimi made sure my mum packed a full-sized luggage which he would then bring to me during his multiple trips to South Africa (SA). So,my mum and siblings are deeply saddened and mourning you as well because you were a gracious human who burned bright yet shared the warmth and light of your fire with all including my family.
I will miss our dinner dates, debates and one-on-ones! Woolworths and Edgars shops in Sandton City Mall and Cresta Mall will surely miss your shopping sprees too. Boy oh Boy!You, Maureen and I did shop!One time in Sandton City Mall, you bought so much stuff for your family and was very worried about luggage weight limits.However,you quickly stated, ‘I’d rather pay the exorbitant extra luggage fees, because my family is deserving of me.”This was a light bulb moment that signified you deeply loved, cared and valued family.
When you called me in March 2019 to inform me about your initial diagnosis, you trusted us and a few other friends to explore treatment possibilities in Morocco, India and SA. So, when you decided on SA as a treatment destination after serious considerations, I,and other close friends here in Johannesburg braved ourselves because we knew you will need every ounce of emotional and physical support. From picking you up at the OR Tambo International Airport on the night of May 28th, 2019 to being by your side during the multiple medical consultations, myriads of tests done on you, nerve-wracking diagnosis, and physiotherapy sessions, as requested by your Specialist Oncologist, Dr Mayet; Specialist Pulmonologist, Dr Bhamjee; and Specialist Radiologists (Dr Stanojevic, Dr Sacks, Dr Van Binsbergen) at Netcare Milpark Hospital, Johannesburg, you still remained highly positive, hopeful and strong. You always told me ‘Mola, my time is not yet up, So, I will keep fighting till the end.’ Boy, a resilient fight you did put up although God wanted you by His side!
You were based at my humble home for 11 days (outpatient days) before you were admitted into High Care (ICU) at Netcare Hospital, Milpark. Through out your stay with me, I saw a brave warrior who was determined to get well although in severe pain.During the painful and sleepless nights, we both turned to God. I remember our bible readings, meditations and prayers sessions in the dead of the night and during discomforting moments. All through the critical and painful days you spent at the Netcare Hospital Milpark, Johannesburg, Stepping Stone Hospice in Alberton, Reddington Hospital in Victoria Island, Lagos and Clinique Muna in Bonanjo, Douala, you had every reason to think the world was an awful place, every reason to think the world was not worth living or fighting for, and every reason to think the world was worth leaving. However, you held on to your inner strength and belief, never giving up hope,braved the pain and resolved to build and strengthen your faith in God. I have never seen a better warrior who lived and died on his terms. Just very typical of my friend and brother.and shine bright lights to all who may be in the tunnel.
Boy, your transition has taught me that, I do not know how long we’ve got here on earth; when fate will intervene, nor can we discern God’s plan. What I do know is that,materialism,envy, self-aggrandisement, greed and strife lead one to a dark path. Metimi, the tons of love, care, prayers, encouragements, financial and material support showered towards you from your family, Green Peace Colleagues and Friends, your medical and palliative care team, your JMC Alumni, close friends from all over the world and even strangers reinforced my faith in human beings and strengthened my resolve to continue being good,empathetic and selfless.
Your scars of pain and breath may have been extinguished,but I’m comforted that heaven is rejoicing because it gained a good person and a new resident on August 16th, 2019.So, my boy,rest, rest, rest, peaceful rest!
Oscar Nanjia Songe -Northcliff, Johannesburg, South Africa.

By DOROTHY EMMANUELA FOHTUNG, Duesseldorf, Germany

Tribute for Metimi
He walked elegantly to my desk,and said “I hear you are a Bayangi girl, tainted with some Bali blood, but still a Bayangi girl”. And I said, you are? And he responded, “a fine Bayangi boy” . straight-faced! That name stuck. That was the name we called each other for over 20 years. Metimi was a fine, gallant, gentleman, with a very distinct sense of humor. He could make everyone crack at his jokes, while his expression remained unchanged.

He had fire in him – that subtle lifebuoy that was always present with him. That fire, that continued to fuel his fight until the end. He never once gave up – and his sense of humor was his constant companion. He was a friend, a classy classy classmate, a brother – never a boring conversation with him. You are already sorely missed, fine bayangi boy! God, please give him one of your choicest places. Till we meet again,

Your friend,
DOROTHY EMMANUELA FOHTUNG, Duesseldorf, Germany

By Your sisters Onege Ozongashu/ Ayuk Ozong-Ashu.

From birth, your name is Nchemty Metimi Ozongashu, but everyone in the family call you "Daddy"." Daddy", you were a brother, son and a husband. I knew you were the Pilar and foundation of the Ozongashu's family, but sickness came, and in serious pains, the cool hands of death snatched you away. Well, we love you, but God loves you best. If you find peace where you are, then- - - - - Rest in peace till we meet again. Pa, Paz Perfecta.

Your sisters Onege Ozongashu/ Ayuk Ozong-Ashu.