Agritech Innovation Challenge 2026: Young Innovators Pitch Digital Tools To Revolutionize Cameroon’s Agri Sector

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Over 40 youths have begun pitching their innovative ideas before a five-member jury as the second edition of the Agritech Innovation Challenge moves toward its final stage. The pitching ceremony that ended on March 28 in Yaoundé, gave young entrepreneurs the opportunity to present projects that could be among the final 12 selected for the competition.

***A candidate pitching his innovative idea*** *(Photo Credit: Emmanuel Beng)*

Candidates defended their proposals behind closed doors, each presenting in two phases. In the first phase, contestants were allotted 10 minutes to outline their ideas and explain why they should advance to the next round. The second phase was more interactive, with jury members requesting explanations and clarifications on specific aspects of each pitch.

Speaking shortly after presenting his idea, Bindzi Brice, an agricultural engineer who pitched a project called “Agrohub,” described it as a stock market for agricultural commodities in Cameroon that promises to transform the sector.

“Our platform enables farmers to sell their harvests before production begins to buyers across Cameroon and internationally. It facilitates product discovery, purchase, payment and delivery nationwide,” Bindzi said.

He expressed optimism about reaching the finals and said the team intends to raise awareness of the platform among target users so it will be available to producers across the country.

Tchame Kerine, another contestant, presented “AUDECAM Connect,” a digital platform designed to survey bee farmers, manage apiculture farms, and secure payments through a complementary solution called AUDECAM Finance.

She said the initiative already supports over 3,600 producers and that she hopes to win financial support to expand the platform. “My main expectation is that AUDECAM Connect convinces the jury and that we are selected for the final,” Tchame said.

**Members of jury at work** (Picture Credit: Emmanuel Beng)

Kamdem Noubissi, who is also seeking a place in the final round, presented FORPET, a solution aimed at digitizing aquaculture farms, particularly those that produce fish food. “My session with the jury went well. The exchanges were objective. I explained the solution I’m offering and how it can impact society, stimulate business development and drive sectoral progress,” Kamdem said.

The Agritech Innovation Challenge is technically coordinated by the Digital Acceleration and Transformation Project (PATNUC) under the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications (MINPOSTEL) and is financially supported by the World Bank.

This edition aims to identify, promote and support innovative digital solutions that sustainably transform Cameroon’s agropastoral sector. The 12 best digital solutions across areas such as fisheries, livestock, fintech, agriculture and climate change will be rewarded.

Winners will receive technical coaching and financial support of up to FCFA 40 million for the leading digital solutions in agriculture and livestock. Through regional heats, a bootcamp and a national grand finale held alongside B2B trade fairs, the Agritech Innovation Challenge positions itself as a strategic platform for visibility, partnerships and impact for agritech startups, young entrepreneurs and women-led initiatives.

Stakeholders Harness Education To Drive Peace And Security

By Gilfort Fur

Education experts and security stakeholders gathered in Yaounde from March 26 to 27 to explore how academic frameworks can be transformed into practical tools for national stability.

**Officials and participants posed for family picture** (Picture Credit: LOYOC)

The two-day Continuous Professional Development Course (CPD) focused on the intersection of education, peace, and security, aiming to move beyond traditional military responses toward evidence-based prevention.

The initiative was a collaborative effort between the University of Aberdeen in the United Kingdom, Local Youth Corner (LOYOC) Cameroon, Institute for Innovation in Peace and Sustainable Development in Africa, and the UNESCO Regional Multisectoral Office for Central Africa.

The two-day training session brought together policymakers, government officials, security practitioners, intergovernmental organisations, and civil society actors from across Cameroon.

Imteyaz Khodabux, Program Specialist and Head of the Science sector at UNESCO, stressed that the pursuit of peace is the foundation of the organization’s mission across all disciplines. He noted that the goal of the session was to help participants translate academic theories into tangible results.

**Imteyaz Khodabux, Program Specialist and Head of the Science sector at UNESCO speaking to the press** (Picture Credit: LOYOC)

“We’re expecting that the participants have a broader knowledge and refresh their memories with the expertise of the University of Aberdeen,” Khodabux said. “Peace is not just by learning; it’s also how do you act on the ground.”

The human rights dimensions of security were also a primary focus, particularly regarding the disproportionate impact of conflict on women who are largely victims. Louise Rozès Moscovenko, from the U.N. Human Rights Central Africa Regional Office, stated the necessity of including women in every stage of the peace process.

“It was very important for UN Human Rights to be here today to discuss with different stakeholders and really push the women topic in all approaches for peace and security,” Moscovenko said. She added that she hopes to see women at the core of both theoretical discussions and practical actions.

Jude Atefor, National Programs Manager at LOYOC Cameroon, described the timing of the course as critical given the current security climate in the country. He explained that the conversation around peace in Cameroon has evolved significantly, requiring practitioners to update their strategies.

**Stakeholders during the two-day workshop in Yaounde** *(Picture Credit: LOYOC)*

“It was very necessary for us to be able to see how to bring up to date our practitioners that are working in the domain of peace and security on the latest theory,” Atefor said. He noted that the partnership with the University of Aberdeen allows local actors to access in-depth research and apply new initiatives to accelerate the peace process within the Cameroonian context.

According to officials, promoting peace and security is a key component of Cameroon’s development strategy. In regions affected by violent conflicts and insecurity, building the capacity of stakeholders remains critical.

Against this backdrop, the University of Aberdeen is collaborating with national institutions to offer an integrated, education-informed approach to peace and security. This goes beyond traditional military and intelligence frameworks, focusing instead on evidence-based prevention and peacebuilding.

**Louise Rozès Moscovenko, from the U.N. Human Rights Central Africa Regional Office talking to the press** *(Picture Credit: LOYOC)*

The first day featured sessions on Peace and Security in Cameroon, including presentations on national security theory, a workshop on the Common Ground Approach, and a high-level panel on Youth, Peace and Security. A session also addressed the protection of civilians and the Responsibility to Protect in Cameroon’s context.

Day two explored components of national security, the role of the Gendarmerie in Cameroon’s security architecture, and Women in Peace and Security. The day also included sessions on policy design and evaluation, along with a panel on best practices in civilian collaboration and protection.

**Achaleke Christian Leke speaking during the workshop** (Picture Credit: LOYOC)

Cameroon, Saudi Fund For Development Ink FCFA 45.83B Loan For Road Projects In North Region

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Cameroon and the Saudi Fund for Development have signed a financial agreement of over FCFA 45.83 billion to rehabilitate the 68-kilometre Sorawel–Guider–Mayo Oulo–Dourbeye road in the North Region of the country.

**Minister Alamine Ousmane Mey and Sultan A. Almarshad exchanging MoU after sealing the agreement** (Photo Credit: MINEPAT)

The loan agreement was signed on 23 March in Yaoundé. Alamine Ousmane Mey, Minister of Economy, Planning and Regional Development (MINEPAT), signed on behalf of Cameroon, while Sultan A. Almarshad signed for the Saudi Fund for Development.

Beyond its financial value, officials say the agreement forms part of a broader vision for economic transformation.

Speaking at the signing, Minister Ousmane Mey said that “infrastructure is a key driver of connectivity, mobility, and competitiveness.” He added that the project will help “strengthen national and sub-regional integration and stimulate economic activity.”

The government intends this investment to improve the movement of people and goods, facilitate access to markets and basic social services, and boost agricultural and commercial activity in a high-potential area.

Officials described the signing as a concrete illustration of the strong relations between Cameroon and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, reflecting a shared commitment to sustainably support the country’s economic and social development for the benefit of its people. The step also consolidates long-standing cooperation between the two countries.

Over the years, the Saudi Fund for Development has become a major bilateral partner, financing numerous projects in sectors such as road infrastructure, education, health and agriculture. Roads, universities and hospitals are among the achievements that demonstrate the vitality of the partnership.

Completion of the road is expected to have an impact beyond the immediate area. By facilitating trade within Cameroon and with neighbouring countries—particularly Nigeria, Chad and the Central African Republic—it will help strengthen sub-regional integration and support economic growth. The project should also create jobs, especially for young people and women, and contribute to poverty reduction in the affected areas.

The Yaoundé agreement brings total Saudi Fund financing to Cameroon to US$136 million (approximately FCFA 76 billion), further reinforcing the strategic cooperation. The project is also aligned with the 2020–2030 National Development Strategy and the vision of President Paul Biya to make Cameroon an emerging country based on a competitive, integrated economy.

Solange Tegwi Launches Healing-Focused NGO, TAIA

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Solange Tegwi, a local journalist, officially launched the Therapeutic Action Initiative Association (TAIA) on March 21, establishing a new non-governmental organization dedicated to emotional restoration and community healing.

**Solange Tegwi, CEO and Founder of TAIA speaking** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

The launch ceremony drew a diverse group of dignitaries, including Fon Gwan Mbanyamsiq III of Guzang Village and Prophet Roland M. Obi, Chef Chevalier of The End Time Revival, CEOs and founders of NGOs among others

During the occasion, Tegwi described the organization as the culmination of a nine-year journey shaped by meditation and personal conviction. While she could not pinpoint the exact moment of the NGO’s inception, she attributed her motivation to a sense of spiritual obligation.

“All I know is that my life is a loan from God that I must refund,” Tegwi said during the event.

Reflecting on personal challenges that once hindered her ability to walk at the tender age, Tegwi noted that her recovery serves as the foundation for the association’s mission.

“God gave me a second chance, but this came with an indelible and inescapable mandate upon my head,” she said. “To go and heal the world with the healing that he healed me; thus, healed to heal.”

Tegwi added that TAIA aims to “raise a generation of healers” who will advocate for social change and support the restoration of broken individuals.

Prophet Roland M. Obi, acting as a mentor to Tegwi, acknowledged the scale of the task ahead while expressing confidence in the initiative’s success.

**Fon Gwan Mbanyamsiq III of Guzang Village speaking during the launching ceremony** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

“Every strata of society is in need of therapy,” Obi said. “I say this to challenge you, to motivate you, and to inspire you to excellence in every endeavor in fulfillment of the mandate of Therapeutic Action Initiative Association.”

Fon Gwan Mbanyamsiq III emphasized the symbolic timing of the launch, noting that the nine-year period of development represents life.

“The whole world is sick. We have a duty for our country. We have a duty for the younger generation,” the Fon said. “I am happy you included them in your actions today, because we are doing all of this for them.”

**Cross section of officials during the launching ceremony** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

The initiative has also gained support from youth and political leaders who see it as a necessary tool for national recovery. Lidovic Ndzedzeni Nyuydzefon, the Youth Senator for Tubah, highlighted the importance of the NGO in the context of ongoing regional instability.

“This is a vision that comes at a timely moment, especially this period where Cameroonians are still healing, especially those facing the hit of the Anglophone crisis,” Nyuydzefon said.

Lisa Nsai, Senator for the Bui Division, praised the association for providing mentorship and counseling to the youth, allowing them to learn from the lived experiences of others.

**Prophet Roland M. Obi speaking during the launching ceremony** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

TAIA is built on the philosophy that “broken crayons still color beautifully.” The association plans to operate as a platform for women to serve as “candles of hope,” providing a voice to the voiceless and fostering a “social renaissance” across the region.

**Officials posed for a family picture after the launched** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

“Lights Out” Movie Premieres In Douala On April 18, Igniting Global Buzz

By Doc Moore

The curtain is about to rise on one of the most highly anticipated cinematic events of the year. Lights Out, a haunting and emotionally charged mystery drama, will make its world premiere on April 18, 2026, at Majestic Cinema, Bessengue, Douala, an occasion already being hailed as a defining moment for Cameroonian cinema on the global stage.

Crafted with meticulous artistry, Lights Out is written by Proxxy Buh Melvin and masterfully directed by Enah Johnscott. The film is produced under Check Sense Productions by Carista Asonganyi, with Proxxy Buh Melvin also serving as co-producer. Together, they deliver a spellbinding narrative that promises to linger in the minds of audiences long after the credits roll.

At the heart of the story lies Lucas, portrayed with gripping intensity by veteran actor Wale Ojo. An elderly man mysteriously admitted into the Anone Dementia Care Foundation, Lucas finds himself trapped in a shadowy world where reality blurs, memories fracture, and every face hides a secret. Within these walls, nothing is as it seems, and the deeper he searches for truth, the more unsettling the revelations become.

The film boasts a stellar pan-African ensemble cast, featuring powerhouse performances from Shaffy Bello, Syndy Emade, Ngongang Elizabeth, and Libota MacDonald. Each actor brings depth, nuance, and magnetic screen presence, elevating the story into a truly unforgettable cinematic experience.

With its eerie atmosphere, layered storytelling, and psychological tension, Lights Out delves into profound themes of memory, identity, and the delicate boundaries of human care. It is a suspense-laden journey that masterfully intertwines emotion with mystery, keeping viewers on edge from beginning to end.

Beyond its cinematic brilliance, Lights Out arrives at a crucial time

Dementia, an often overlooked and misunderstood health condition, continues to affect countless individuals and families across Africa and the world. The film courageously shines a spotlight on this growing concern, transforming entertainment into a powerful vehicle for awareness and dialogue.

As anticipation reaches fever pitch, audiences across Cameroon and beyond are eagerly awaiting this landmark premiere. Lights Out is not just a film, it is an experience, a conversation starter, and a bold step forward for African storytelling on the world stage.

The film has already gained international recognition, with screenings at the Silicon Valley African Film Festival and the ORION International Film Festival, where it was named a finalist for Best Feature Narrative. It also earned multiple nominations at the 2025 Abuja International Film Festival.

The premiere tour begins on April 18 in Douala, Cameroon, before expanding to Abidjan on May 1 for a wider Pan-African release. The U.S. premiere is scheduled for May 2 in Columbus, Ohio. Cast members and producers are expected to attend the events.

Shot in Limbe, Cameroon, Lights Out is being praised for its socially conscious storytelling and its effort to spark conversation around aging, memory loss, and care systems in African societies.

Producers say the film is rooted in lived experiences and aims to move conversations beyond fear toward empathy and awareness. The project is supported by African Pictures International, with additional distribution partnerships currently open as the film prepares for a broader global rollout.

On April 18, 2026, in the heart of Douala, the lights will dim… and a powerful story will finally come to life.

“Through Lucas’s perspective, the audience is placed inside a mind struggling to hold onto reality, inviting empathy before judgment” – Enah Johnscott, Director

“This story comes from lived experience and from observing families quietly navigating dementia without support.”- Carista Asonganyi, Producer

“Lights Out aims to spark conversations that move beyond fear toward awareness and care”, – Buh Melvin (Baba Proxy), Writer/Co-Producer

ATTENDANCE & PRESS ACCREDITATION

Cameroon: WhatsApp +237 650 438 308

United States (RSVP): https://eventbrite.com/e/lights-out-movie-premiere⁠

PRESS CONTACTS

African Pictures International

Email: info@africanpicturesinternational.com

Phone: (+234) 704 928 0787 | +1 404 647 4952

Website:

www.africanpicturesinternational.com⁠

PRODUCTION CONTACT

Check Sense Productions

Carista Asonganyi — Founder & Producer

Email: carista.a@checksenseproduction.com

Phone: +1 (614) 344-6773 | (+237) 650 438 308

Website: www.checksenseproduction.com⁠

Cameroon To Take On Australia On March 27 In FIFA Series

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

As the second edition of the FIFA Series prepares to kick off in Australia, the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon are gearing up for a high-stakes encounter against the host nation on March 27.

Competing in Group A alongside Australia, China PR, and Curaçao, the Cameroonian side enters this tournament under the guidance of coach David Pagou, who recently unveiled a 26-man squad that signals a significant shift in the team’s composition.

This selection is particularly notable for the absence of seasoned veterans and the introduction of fresh talent, aiming to revitalize the squad following the recent Africa Cup of Nations.

The roster marks absence of several key Indomitable Lions players, including goalkeeper André Onana, striker Vincent Aboubakar, and captains Nouhou Tolo and Christian Bassogog. Also missing are Carlos Baleba, Junior Tchamadeu, Georges-Kévin N’koudou, André-Frank Zambo Anguissa, Frank Magri, and Christopher Wooh.

However, the goalkeeping department sees a distinct renewal with the inclusion of Blondy Noukeu and Housseini Ousmanou, while the defensive line is bolstered by the return of Jackson Tchatchoua alongside newcomers Emmanuel Moungam A Ngon and Olivier Kamdem.

In the midfield, the selection of nine players has been trimmed to six due to administrative hurdles faced by Olivier Kemen, making room for “fresh blood” like Konrad Nfanseu Sinyam.

The attacking front is perhaps the most exciting area of development, featuring the “thunderous entrance” of Lille’s Yondjo Matah, who is expected to energize the offense alongside Christian Kofane and Karl Etta Eyong. This revamped squad will undergo a rigorous test as they face Australia in Sydney before traveling to Melbourne to take on China on March 31.

Australia, Azerbaijan, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, New Zealand, Puerto Rico, Rwanda and Uzbekistan will be the hosts for the men’s edition of the FIFA Series. Brazil, Côte d’Ivoire and Thailand, meanwhile, will host the women’s event.

Beyond the immediate matches, the FIFA Series 2026 serves a broader strategic purpose by facilitating cross-confederation friendlies that foster global football development. By hosting 48 teams across 12 groups in 11 different nations, the initiative allows countries to compete against unfamiliar opponents without overextending the international calendar. The men’s series runs 25–31 March, while the women’s series runs 9–18 April.

This edition not only promotes technical growth on the pitch but also provides member associations with vital operational experience, mirroring the logistical demands of major global tournaments to strengthen the sport’s infrastructure worldwide. Held in March/April 2026, the second edition will feature 48 teams in 12 groups, with 11 host nations.

Hope For Anglophone Separatist Leaders As Cameroon’s Supreme Court Orders For Re-Hearing

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The legal landscape in Cameroon shifted significantly on Thursday, March 19, when the Supreme Court intervened in the long-running case of ten prominent Anglophone separatist leaders.

The Supreme court overturned a previous ruling from September 17, 2020, which had originally upheld the life sentences handed down by the Yaounde Military Tribunal in 2019. This was the third hearing in the proceedings since the appeal was originally lodged on March 3, 2020.

This new verdict essentially resets the legal clock for the detainees, who have spent years in custody following their controversial arrest in 2018 in Nigeria’s Nera Hotel and subsequent extradition to Cameroon to face judgement.

The proceedings were remarkably brief, lasting less than five minutes. Justice Abomo Maire Louise, acting as the President of the Jury, delivered a judgment that did more than just cancel the previous decision; it rendered the entire prior Appeal Court process null and void.

The court determined that the matter must return to the Center Regional Court of Appeal for a completely fresh hearing. Crucially, the Supreme Court mandated that this new trial must be overseen by a different, legally constituted jury to ensure the procedural integrity that was previously lacking.

Legal analysts suggest that this referral back to the lower court highlights deep-seated procedural flaws and irregularities that have haunted the case since its beginning. Meanwhile, the defense team viewed the outcome as a major breakthrough, noting that the rights of the accused were likely compromised by a panel that was not properly formed.

Barrister Paddy Yong, the Lead Counsel for the defense, expressed a mix of triumph and caution regarding the path forward. He noted that while the decision is a win, he wished the Supreme court had taken a more direct approach to hearing the case.

“We hope they learn their lesson, because I think the better option would have been for the Supreme Court to hear the matter directly,” Barrister Paddy Yong said. He clarified that he was not blaming the court for choosing a different legal route, but pointed out that given the lengthy imprisonment of the accused, a direct hearing by the Supreme Court might have provided a faster path to justice.

Regarding the next steps, he explained that the timeline now rests with the lower court, stating, “Now, how soon the matter comes up in the Court of Appeal depends on the court itself. The Supreme Court has ruled, and once they type the judgment, they will send it back to the Court of Appeal. Then the Court of Appeal will issue summons, giving us a date to appear. So, it’s up to the Court of Appeal to activate the process.”

The unique nature of the ruling was also highlighted by Barrister Muna Akere, who observed that the Supreme Court took an independent path in its reasoning. He remarked, “The ruling has been given. The first thing which is remarkable is that the Supreme Court didn’t use any of the grounds raised by the counsel for the appellant. Rather, it brought up its own ground.”

To Barrister Akere, this suggests the court found fundamental legal errors that went beyond the specific arguments presented by the defense team.

Barrister Joseph Fru on his path pointed out that the United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention had previously labeled the imprisonment of these leaders as illegal and unconscionable. He believes the Supreme Court’s decision validates those international criticisms.

He noted that “When the Supreme Court of Cameroon emphasizes that injustice, it shows that international jurisdictions have already seen something grossly wrong, and now the Supreme Court itself is acknowledging that something is wrong.” He further argued that the persistent procedural failures should ultimately lead to the release of the leaders, questioning who is left to solve the problem if the courts cannot get it right.

Barrister Roland Ashu described the annulment of a life sentence as an inherent victory, suggesting that the previous judgment lacked merit. He characterized the Supreme Court’s instruction to the lower court as a firm nudge toward proper judicial conduct.

“It’s like saying, ‘You know the proper way—write it down correctly and send it back.’ So, to an extent, this is a victory,” said.

For Sisiku Ayuk Tabe and his colleagues, who also faced massive financial penalties alongside their life terms, this ruling represents the first major crack in a legal wall that has stood for years.

Observers hold that the decision comes at a critical juncture in Cameroon’s Anglophone conflict, now in its ninth year, and could influence prospects for dialogue and peace in the English-speaking regions. However, the leaders remain in detention pending the rehearing.

Meet Hon. Théodore Datouo, Cameroon’s National Assembly’s New House Speaker

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

On March 17, Cameroon’s National Assembly elected Hon. Théodore Datouo as its new Speaker in a vote that sent shockwaves through the political landscape. Datouo received 133 of the 147 votes cast, with 14 invalid ballots.

While the election may have astonished some observers, Datouo is far from a newcomer to the halls of power. His journey to the speakership began decades ago in Nkongsamba, where he was born in 1960.

His early leadership roots can be traced back to 1975, when he served as a Boy Scout at Sainte Jeanne d’Arc College, a formative experience that preceded a steady climb through the ranks of community and national service.

By the 1980s, Datouo was already refining his administrative skills. He served as president of the Bangou Students’ Union in 1981 and later took on the role of Secretary General of the Bangou Development Committee in 1987. His formal entry into national politics arrived in 2002 when he became an Alternate Member of Parliament for the Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement in the Hauts-Plateaux.

Hon. Datouo’s influence within the CPDM grew rapidly as in 2007, he was named president of the party’s section for the Southern Hauts-Plateaux in Bangou. That same year, he transitioned from an alternate to a full member of Parliament following the twin Parliamentary and Municipal elections. His initial years in the National Assembly were marked by a focus on national stability, serving as Secretary of the Defense and Security Committee.

The veteran legislator’s resume continued to expand with his appointment to the CPDM Central Committee in 2011 and a successful re-election campaign in 2013. For the past decade, Datouo has occupied the role of Vice President of the National Assembly, a position that placed him at the heart of the chamber’s operations. In addition, since 2017, he has also overseen the ambitious construction of the new National Assembly building as chairman of the monitoring committee and delegated project owner.

Beyond his legislative duties, the 63-year-old is an accomplished businessman and academic. A 1986 graduate of the University of Yaoundé with a degree in Economics with specialization in Business Management, he has earned numerous international distinctions for his professional contributions. Datouo is married and is the father of five children.

Crackdown On Electricity Fraud Begins March 16 As Government Reports FCFA 60 Billion Loss

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The government of Cameroon has launched a nationwide crackdown on electricity fraud starting March 16, aiming to curb practices that cost the energy sector more than FCFA 60 billion annually in lost revenue.

**Gaston Eloundou Essomba, Minister of Water and Energy speaking during the consultation meeting** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Gaston Eloundou Essomba, Minister of Water and Energy, announced the intensified operations on March 12 in Yaoundé during a consultation meeting that brought together stakeholders in the electricity sector including Energy of Cameroon (ENEO) and National Electricity Transport Company (SONATREL) as well as consumer associations.

The crackdown, the Minister said, targets illegal connections, meter tampering, unlicensed usage, and other forms of theft. He stressed that these measures follow the recent renationalization of ENEO and aim to recover funds necessary for infrastructure upgrades, transformer replacements, and improved service reliability.

Electricity fraud, termed by the Minister as economic sabotage, results in an estimated FCFA 60 billion in losses each year. Such losses he stated deprive the sector of essential investments, leading to unreliable supply, overloaded transformers, frequent outages, and even deadly accidents from illegal connections.

However, this initiative marks a shift from passive awareness to active restructuring. The Minister stressed that the primary goal is normalization and regularization, not merely punishment.

“The first objective is to normalize and regularize to ensure everyone pays for their electricity consumption, vital for the survival of the electricity sector and the well-being of all Cameroonians,” Minister Eloundou Essomba stated.

In many areas, the Minister noted that “barons of fraud” act as illegal intermediaries, supplying power through tampered installations or unauthorized networks. He warned that engaging with these operators is both dangerous and illegal.

“Paying these intermediaries exposes customers to sanctions and serious risks of electrical accidents,” the minister continued. “The population is urged to stop paying third parties or barons of fraud for electricity access. Citizens can legally access energy by regularizing their status or by contacting the appropriate agencies.”

The Minister stated that during the crackdown, government plans widespread sensitization campaigns underscoring that electricity is a commercially paid product, not a free resource. “My message to the public and households is clear: it is time to strengthen the relationship with the electricity sector,” the Minister asserted.

“We must improve our income levels, starting with one simple thing: everyone must pay their electricity bill,” he added.

Despite acknowledged service quality issues, the Minister affirmed that the State would continue funding development. “Aware of the poor quality of services, the government will continue to finance the development of electricity infrastructure to permanently enhance public service,” he said.

However, Consumer Associations, during the consultation meeting, thanked the government for its efforts in fighting fraud but raised concerns about increasingly sophisticated fraud techniques that evade detection by criminals.

“Criminals are clever and are multiplying strategies that allow them to thrive,” representatives from consumer groups said.

Concerns were raised regarding fraudulent practices within ENEO, specifically the unauthorized cancellation of bills and the resale of prepaid meters at inflated prices. This deep-seated fraud is further complicated by the ‘Protégé’ syndrome and the involvement of influential figures, making eradication efforts significantly more difficult.

They proposed creating a cartography and typology of fraud and fraudsters, emphasizing the localization of fraud across the nation. “We are particularly concerned about the industrial sector, illegal trade, and manufacturing workshops,” they urged.

Consumer advocates pointed out that small-scale household fraud often overshadows the significant threats posed by powerful “barons” who intimidate inspectors.

“We have detected a manufacturing workshop and identified an agent supplying a neighborhood,” they noted. “But the real barons are the ones who threaten inspectors with weapons, attempting to block legitimate access.”

They stressed that ordinary consumers lack the power to resist these operators, while ENEO agents encounter barriers during inspections.

“The big barons often intimidate agents, refusing them access,” a representative emphasized. “The government must take this seriously; that is where the problem lies, Mr. Minister.”

Concerns were also raised about internal issues within ENEO, including canceled invoices and corruption. “There is significant internal fraud within ENEO, including the cancellation of invoices in their system. I speak from personal experience,” one association member said.

To improve reporting and engagement, they proposed establishing a dedicated free hotline accessible to all consumers, including those in remote areas lacking connections, to anonymously report fraud.

“A hotline for all consumers, even those in remote areas where ENEO does not exist, is essential,” they suggested.

This sustained campaign, involving ENEO, public authorities, and consumer groups, seeks to eradicate entrenched practices and foster a healthier sector for all Cameroonians. Citizens are encouraged to regularize their accounts and promptly report suspicions as the crackdown unfolds.

Mutualists Receive Automobile Equipment Won During MASO Act 5 Raffle Draw in 2025

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Beneficiaries of the Mutual Assistance and Solidarity (MASO) Act 5 raffle draw that took place in 2025 have officially received their automobile equipment in a ceremony that took place at RENAPROV Finance S.A. branch in Mimboman, Yaounde.

**Cyril Nyemb, personal representative of Rev. Pastor Emmanuel Noël Bissaï, President of the Board of Directors of RENAPROV FINANCE S.A. handing documents and keys to a beneficiary** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

The equipment was handed over on March 14 by Cyril Nyemb, personal representative of Rev. Pastor Emmanuel Noël Bissaï, President of the Board of Directors of RENAPROV FINANCE S.A. A total of two taxis, two inter-urban vehicles, four motorcycles, and one tricycle were handed over to the beneficiaries.

During the handover, Nyemb thanked the beneficiaries and emphasized that MASO is a product of RENAPROV Finance S.A, which embodies African solidarity. He expressed that the initiative aims to help many Cameroonians escape the cycle of poverty.

***Cyril Nyemb, personal representative of Rev. Pastor Emmanuel Noël Bissaï, President of the Board of Directors of RENAPROV FINANCE S.A. speaking during the ceremony*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

“That’s the main objective. I encourage all winners, and even those who didn’t win, to keep contributing. The goal is to lift everyone out of poverty,” Nyemb said adding, “If you haven’t won today, you will surely win tomorrow. Remember, the benefits of MASO go beyond just the rolling materials. There are additional advantages for being a MASO mutualist.”

Nyemb urged the beneficiaries to make good use of the motorcycles, tricycles, and vehicles handed to them. “Don’t forget to come and reimburse. It’s crucial for allowing others to win this year and for the cycle to continue,” he stated.

**Front view of the RENAPROV Finance S.A. Mimboman branch in Yaoundé, hosting the event** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Ngo Marie-Rose Epse Mei Pen, who received an inter-urban transportation vehicle, expressed her joy, noting that this was her first time being a mutualist and also winning.She stated that “As a school founder, this car will greatly assist me in transporting my students.”

Parfait Litinyuy, a taxi car winner, expressed his excitement, calling it a dream come true to own a taxi in Yaoundé. He plans to start working immediately stating “I have to respect my commitment and reimburse the money because this will help another mutualist in the next raffle.”

**Beneficiaries and officials of RENAPROV Finance S.A posed for a family picture** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

He encouraged Cameroonians who are not yet mutualists to register, explaining, “The secret is saving 100 a day and 500 a week. By the end of the year, you can reach 26,000. Register, and you, too, will experience this joy.”

Meanwhile, Andre Nyobe, another beneficiary, expressed his delight, stating he is already an ambassador for RENAPROV Finance S.A. He stated that the number of mutualists will double in 2026 due to increased promotion that he will carry out.

**Cyril Nyemb, personal representative of Rev. Pastor Emmanuel Noël Bissaï, President of the Board of Directors of RENAPROV Finance S.A., pouring champagne on the automobile equipment** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

Jean Patient Tsala, Director of Information and Public Relations at Group RENAPROV Finance S.A, advised the beneficiaries to respect their commitments.

“Those who will complete their commitments will become owners. The cycle of solidarity must continue. We urge all beneficiaries, as well as those who have previously received assistance, to act responsibly and commit to African solidarity, which will be highlighted once again on July 4, 2026,” he stated.

The mutualists who officially received their automobile equipment are among those who became winners during the raffle draw that too place on July 4, 2025, at Ahmadou Ahidjo Stadium in Yaoundé. Other prizes included houses and additional items. They are to reimbursed with zero interests’ rates.

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