Documentary: Douala Discovers Baka Heritage

A 90-minute documentary on the historical lifestyle, cultural he­ ritage and contemporary chal­ lenges of the Baka community in Ca­ meroon’s East Region was premiered at Eden Cinema in Douala on Thursday, September 3, 2026. Titled “I See You in My Dreams,” the film is produced by River Film in collaboration with the Centre for Environment and De­ velopment (CED) and co-produced by Dr. Samuel Nguiffo. The documentary offers an intimate portrayal of the Baka people, highlighting their an­ cestral knowledge, relationship with the forest and traditional practices, while drawing attention to the pres­ sures threatening their way of life. Speaking on behalf of the CED com­ munications team, Mr. Giovanni En­ gamba stressed the need to preserve Baka heritage and promote greater inclusion of indigenous communities in national policies. “The Baka are an indigenous people rich in resources and incredible know- how. Today, due to increasing exposure to external pressures, their traditional practices are at risk of fading”, he said. According to Mr. Engamba, the docu­ mentary illustrates the community’s traditional healing methods, know­ ledge of nature and deep connection with the environment. He regretted that despite this cultural wealth, the Baka remain largely marginalized. The film is also the third installment of a documentation project spanning more than four decades. He explained that the documentary connects his­ torical footage captured 40 years ago with the present-day experiences of the people featured. “The narrative arc traces back to a scene filmed four decades ago sho­ wing a newborn baby who, in the present day, speaks to us as a 40- year-old woman. This isn’t just a...