Pa Lewat receives gift from grandchildren
By Nformi Ngi Jones Tamfu
On January 16, 2026, a remarkable transformation took place at the esteemed Lewat Hotel located in Douala, as this iconic establishment celebrated its monumental 40th anniversary. The event turned the hotel into a lively center of joy and festivity, attracting guests from various backgrounds and professions, including high-ranking figures from administrative, traditional, religious, and diplomatic realms. The celebration was a vibrant decoration of cultural expressions, featuring traditional dances and music, while also serving as a significant moment for profound reflection on the rich history of the hotel and its contributions to the local community.
The ceremony was gracefully led by the Governor of the Littoral Region, Samuel Ivaha Dieudonné Diboua, who took the opportunity to praise the Lewat Hotel for its unwavering commitment to enhancing Cameroon’s tourism and hospitality industry since it first opened its doors in 1986. His warm and heartfelt address resonated with the attendees as he recounted his long-established relationship with the hotel and its distinguished founder, whom he endearingly referred to as “the Patriarch.”
Samuel Dieudonne Ivaha Diboua: Governor of the Littoral Region
In a touching moment that captivated the audience, Governor Diboua shared a vivid recollection from the 1990s, a tumultuous time marked by substantial social and political unrest in Cameroon. The Governor told a compelling story highlighting how the hotel’s founder stood firm against attempts by local instigators who sought to manipulate the hospitality business for wicked tribal agendas.
“The Patriarch’s bonds were stronger than our tribes,” the Governor emphasized, echoing a valuable lesson imparted to him by a former mentor. “If you observe closely, you won’t find any sign at the door of Lewat Hotel stating ‘No one may enter here unless they are part of our team.’ This establishment is meant for travelers from all walks of life. We must set aside tribalism.”
The Governor paid homage to the patriotism and vision of “Pa Lewat”, describing him as a foundational pillar of the city and a formidable innovator in the industry whose impact has persisted despite periods of political upheaval.
Pa Lewat poses in picture with Littoral Governor, Chiefs
During the ceremony, the founder, Pa Lewat, took a moment to express his heartfelt emotions to all those in attendance. He shared his immense happiness at seeing so many people who had dedicated their time to celebrate this special occasion alongside him. In a touching gesture, he referred to the governor as his son, demonstrating a deep sense of pride and affection. As the event continued, Pa Lewat’s joy reached new heights when he received a meaningful symbolic gift from his grandchildren. This moment not only highlighted the bond between generations but also reflected the warmth and love shared among his family and friends on this joyous day.
Chantal Lewat, the General Manager of Lewat Hotel, delivered a heartfelt keynote address that traced the origins of the hotel back to the founder’s early years. Born in the small town of Bangangte in the Nde Division of the West Region in 1930, the founder came to Douala filled with little more than aspiration and determination.
“He constructed his first humble dwelling using planks that he personally cut with a saw and topped it with a thatched roof in New Bell,” Chantal recounted, painting an inspiring picture of her predecessor’s humble beginnings. She went on to narrate his journey from being a driver at Alubassa to becoming a proficient salesman, ultimately leading to his dreams manifesting through the establishment of a hotel that has become a prominent landmark on the map of Cameroon.
Lewat Hotel has accomplished much more than just providing luxury accommodations; it has emerged as a beacon of excellence in education. With great pride, the General Manager brought attention to the impressive 100% pass rate achieved by students from the hotel’s training institute (IPH) during the 2025 Hotel Management Baccalaureate session.
Lewat Chantal: General Manager Lewat Hotel
“Since our inception in 1986, hundreds of young Cameroonians have received training and mentorship here,” she passionately declared. “This is not a statement of self-satisfaction; it reflects our genuine belief in facing and overcoming challenges. Now, forty years later, our journey continues.”
This landmark 40th anniversary not only serves as a celebration of the past but also marks the kickoff of a year-long series of events designed to honor the dedicated staff, loyal partners, and steadfast clients whose support has allowed the hotel to flourish for four decades.
As the ceremony came to an uplifting close, the Governor officially inaugurated the anniversary festivities, while the General Manager reaffirmed the hotel’s determination to maintain its competitive edge as it embraces the demands and opportunities of the 21st century.
“While it is true that the hotel is now 40 years old, its spirit remains youthful, its traditions are vibrant, and its future is abundantly promising,” she concluded, offering a final heartfelt tribute to the health and happiness of the founder, the visionary who embarked on this incredible journey equipped only with a single saw and a grand vision.
