Gertrude Acha (AKA Auntie) was born in Mutengene, in the Southwest Region of Cameroon, within the Tiko Subdivision, to her parents, Stanilus and Felicia Nkeng of Essoh Attah. She attended Catholic School Mutengene from Class 1 through Class 6.

At the age of 17, she married Acha Nke Abel on November 22, 1980, at the Catholic Church in Mile Four, Limbe. Shortly after their marriage, on November 24, 1980, the couple relocated to Yaoundé, where Mr. Acha worked with the National Assembly. Gertrude supported her family through small businesses, including selling fruits, cooking, and farming. Together, they were blessed with seven children. 

Against her husband’s wishes, she rented farmland in a swampy area, which eventually became the site of their family home, significantly reducing the burden of caring for the family since rent was no longer a concern. Shortly after constructing their home, Mr. Acha became ill. After seeking medical care across multiple cities including Yaoundé, Mbalmayo, Bamenda, Buea, and Limbe, and undergoing both surgical and traditional treatments, he sadly passed away on Monday, March 9, 1998, at Mile 17 Hospital. At the time, several of their children were still in school, including Simon and Armelle at Seat of Wisdom, and Irene preparing for her Common Entrance examinations.

Life after Mr. Acha’s passing was extremely difficult. Determined to care for her children, Gertrude relied on petty trading and farming to meet their needs. Without companionship, guidance, or support, she persevered, working tirelessly to ensure her children did not feel the absence of their father. She often reflected that, despite the hardship, her upbringing instilled in her the values of hard work and independence, which sustained her through life’s trials.

Through her sacrifices, she sponsored three children through Seat of Wisdom, supported one through university, and another through Teacher Training College.

In 2002, with the support of her brother, Abraham Nkeng, also known as Chief Fuahlendem, she relocated to the United States. Five of her seven children later joined her. The family began humbly, living together in a one bedroom apartment, then gradually moved into larger homes before eventually purchasing their own. Throughout the years, Gertrude continued working to
support her family, even while managing minor health challenges.

In July 2025, she faced a sudden health challenge that required brain surgery. By God’s grace, the surgery was successful and she is recovering. We kindly request that if you are just learning of Mrs. Gertrude’s surgery, you refrain from contacting her directly so that she does not become overwhelmed during her continued recovery. Prior to her surgery, Gertrude had often expressed her wish for her children to organize a grand celebration in her honor. Following her recovery, her children immediately began planning her long wished for thanksgiving celebration.

While we do not know how much time remains, we are deeply grateful to still have her with us and look forward to celebrating her life, strength, and legacy alongside family and friends.