Ahead of 2026 International Labour Day and World Press Freedom Day, CJTU North West holds working session with Bamenda Regional Hospital Mortuary Staff.

As part of activities commemorating the 2026 International Labour Day and World Press Freedom Day, members of the Cameroon Journalists Trade Union (CJTU) North West chapter, on Wednesday, 29 April 2026, held a working session with staff of the Bamenda Regional Hospital Mortuary. A delegation of 12 members, led by the chapter president, Ruth Che Wachong, said the engagement was intended to demystify the myths surrounding mortuary attendants, an essential yet often misunderstood segment of the health system. In her opening remarks, Ruth Che Wachong noted that the mortuary sector plays a critical role in public health and hospital operations, but is rarely discussed in ways that reflect the realities of the profession “We are here as a union to demystify the myths around mortuary attendants. The sector is important, but people seldom talk about it. So we have come as a union to encourage and motivate mortuary staff in our own little way,” she said.

Speaking to journalists during the session, the Chief Mortuary Attendant at Bamenda Regional Hospital, Mussa emphasized the professionalism of the work.

“Mortuary is all about science,” Mussa stated. He explained that mortuary work is guided by procedures that allow staff to operate efficiently and safely.

Dr. Denis Nsame, Director of the Bamenda Regional Hospital, used the occasion to provide details about the mortuary unit staffing and working conditions. According to Dr. Nsame, the hospital has improved capacity over time. He noted that, initially, the unit did not have trained specialized workers, but the hospital now counts 2 certified specialists. He also stated that mortuary attendants follow standard operating procedures (SOPs), which support orderly work in the facility. Dr. Nsame further said mortuary staff work as part of the hospital team and benefit from privileges available to other hospital employees.

The session also helped clarify common misconceptions about roles within the mortuary. A mortician for example is described as a certified embalmer while a mortuary attendant is trained through community based or structured training pathways to support mortuary operations.

Regarding statistics, mortuary staff indicated that they received a total of 1,680 corpses between 2025 and 2026.

They noted that during the COVID19 period and other periods of heightened crises, number of cases increased significantly. In 2019, the mortuary received about 300 corpses per month, a reflection of the pressure on the health sector at the time.

Mortuary staff described motivations received from the hospital administration, including free medical checks, accommodation and other supporting services.

According to the mortuary staff, some difficulties facing the unit include:

- Persistent myths and misconceptions about mortuary work.

- Situations involving decomposing and unidentified corpses.

- Family disputes or concerns related to mortuary fees, with some households questioning charges during distress. The working session provided a platform to underline that behind each case is a workforce often exposed to difficult circumstances and public misunderstanding.

The National Vice President of CJTU. Bakah Derek in his remarks, emphasized labour rights for mortuary workers.

“You deserve same benefits under labour law as other workers,” the National VP stated. The union through its First National Vice President made several recommendations, including: - Health insurance for all mortuary staff

- Psycho social support sessions for mortuary staff, including counselling to help address emotional and psychological strain.

- Ensuring National Social Insurance Fund (CNPS) registration for all mortuary workers.

- Paid leave in line with labour standards.

- Continued recognition and support for staff, including incentives and welfare measures.

As part of activities, the union presented certificates of recognition and token cash gifts to mortuary staff, acknowledging their service and reinforcing the message that professional, humane care is central to hospital operations.

By linking International Labour Day and World Press Freedom Day to a direct engagement with mortuary workers, CJTU North West sought to promote respectful understanding of a sensitive but necessary profession.

The session also underscored the need for consistent labour protections, improved welfare, and public education so that mortuary staff can work with dignity, safety, and support.

Published by Upfront237 29th April 2026