Constitution of the Menoua Family UK
1. Name of the Organization
The name of the organization shall be Menoua Family UK (hereafter referred to as “the Organization”).
2. Legal Status
The Organization shall operate as a non-governmental, non-profit, community-based organization registered in the United Kingdom, registration No 16460622.
3. Vision Statement
To foster unity, cultural heritage, and socio-economic development among members of the Menoua diaspora in the UK and beyond.
4. Mission Statement
To promote solidarity, support, and empowerment within the Menoua community in the UK through cultural, educational, and charitable initiatives.
5. Objectives
The objectives of the Organization shall include:
- Promoting Menoua culture and values.
- Supporting members in times of need (e.g., bereavement, illness, unemployment).
- Organizing cultural, educational, and recreational events.
- Facilitating integration and representation of Menoua people in UK society.
- Supporting development projects in Menoua Division, Cameroon.
6. Membership
6.1 Eligibility
Membership is open to:
- Individuals of Menoua origin residing in the UK.
- Spouses and children of Menoua individuals.
- Friends and supporters of the Menoua community.
6.2 Categories
- Full Members: Voting rights and eligibility for office.
- Associate Members: No voting rights but can participate in activities.
- Honorary Members: Recognized for exceptional contributions.
6.3 Dues
- Annual membership dues: £50 per adult member, payable by 31st January each year.
- Youth members (under 18): £10 per year.
- Late payment penalty: £10 after 28th February.
7. Governance Structure
7.1 General Assembly
- Supreme decision-making body.
- Meets annually in March and during extraordinary sessions.
- Elects the Executive Committee.
7.2 Executive Committee (2025–2027 Term)
- President: Filbert Nguefack
- Vice President: Emile Demanou
- General Secretary: [Name Placeholder]
- Deputy General Secretary: [Name Placeholder]
- Treasurer: [Name Placeholder]
- Deputy Treasurer: [Name Placeholder]
- Statury Auditor: [Name Placeholder]
- Vice Statury Auditor: [Name Placeholder]
- Cultural Affaires: [Name Placeholder]
- Deputy Cultural Affaires: [Name Placeholder]
- Communication Manager: [Name Placeholder]
- Sport & Welfare Manager: [Name Placeholder]
7.3 Advisory Council
- Composed of elders and experienced members.
- Provides guidance and mediation.
8. Elections
8.1 Frequency
- Held every two years during the Annual General Meeting.
8.2 Eligibility
- Candidates must be Full Members for at least 12 months.
- Must be in good standing (dues paid, no disciplinary record).
8.3 Voting
- Secret ballot.
- Simple majority wins.
- In case of a tie, a runoff vote is held.
9. Meetings
9.1 Annual General Meeting (AGM)
- Held every March.
- Quorum: 50% of Full Members.
9.2 Executive Committee Meetings
- Held quarterly or as needed.
9.3 Emergency Meetings
- Called by the President or 1/3 of Full Members.
10. Finance
10.1 Sources of Funds
- Membership dues
- Donations
- Fundraising events
- Grants
10.2 Financial Management
- Bank account in the name of the Organization.
- Treasurer presents annual financial report at AGM.
- Independent audit every 2 years.
11. Disciplinary Procedures
11.1 Grounds for Disciplinary Action
- Misconduct
- Non-payment of dues
- Disrespectful behavior
- Breach of constitution
11.2 Procedure
- Written complaint submitted to the Executive Committee.
- Investigation and hearing within 30 days.
- Sanctions may include:
- Warning
- Suspension (up to 6 months)
- Expulsion (requires 2/3 vote of General Assembly)
11.3 Appeals
- Must be submitted within 14 days of decision.
- Heard by the Advisory Council.
12. Amendments to the Constitution
- Proposed amendments must be submitted in writing at least 30 days before AGM.
- Requires approval by two-thirds of voting members present.
13. Dissolution
- May be dissolved by a two-thirds majority vote at a General Assembly.
- Upon dissolution, assets shall be donated to a charitable cause aligned with the Organization’s mission, preferably in Menoua Division, Cameroon.
14. Adoption
This constitution was adopted by the General Assembly of the Menoua Family UK N.G.O. on 23rd October 2025.