On February 25, 2025, the Diocese of Buea gathered its Parish priests, heads of services, and bursars at the Auntie Kate Banquet Hall for the crucial review of the 2025 budget. The meeting presided over by His Lordship Michael Bibi, Bishop of the Diocese of Buea, marked a significant moment, coinciding with the 4th anniversary of Bishop Bibi’s Canonical Possession of the Diocese.
2025 budget review session
In his opening remarks, Bishop Bibi expressed profound gratitude to all participants for their outstanding contributions and commitment to their respective parishes and services. He acknowledged the importance of collaboration and innovation within the Diocese to enhance financial stewardship and accountability.
Bishop Bibi chairs meeting
The Finance Administrator, Mr. Tienyi Anthony, presented a comprehensive overview of the Diocese’s financial performance for the year 2024. He reported an impressive increase in investments totaling 2,170,679,994 FCFA compared to the previous year. However, he also pointed out notable challenges, such as the delayed submission of financial reports from certain parishes and services, and a lack of supporting documentation for funds collected. To remedy these issues, he urged all participants to adhere to the Diocese’s financial policy, which mandates that reports be submitted by the 10th of every month. Additionally, he emphasized the need for training for individuals managing finances within parishes.
attendees encouraged to follow diocesan finance policy
The Bishop reinforced this message, calling upon all parish priests, finance committee members, and stakeholders to foster a culture of timely reporting. The establishment of a day book for recording financial transactions was highlighted as a critical aspect of the reporting process, which all parishes, services, and institutions are encouraged to implement. It was also agreed that any funds withdrawn must be reported prior to any further disbursement of finances.
The agenda for the meeting also included a thorough review of the proposed budgets for 2025 for various parishes and services, ensuring a collaborative approach to finalizing these budgets. Additionally, discussions were held regarding ongoing Diocesan projects, including the ceiling project at the Divine Mercy Co-Cathedral, which is currently under construction.
visit to ongoing work at the Co-cathedral
This productive gathering marked an important step towards ensuring financial transparency and accountability within the Diocese of Buea, as participants committed to upholding high standards of financial management.
