Historic Global Deal As 66 WTO Nations Agree On First-Ever Rules For Digital Trade

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The world of shopping and business just took a massive leap into the future. On Saturday, March 28, 2026, 66 nations within the World Trade Organization (WTO) reached a historic deal to create the first-ever global rules for digital trade.

***Members adopt a pathway to bring E‑Commerce Agreement into force via interim arrangements*** *(Photo Credit: WTO)*

The announcement, made during the 14th WTO Ministerial Conference (MC14) on March 28. This marks a huge shift toward making online business easier and more predictable for everyone. These countries together handle about 70 percent of all trade on Earth, making this a giant step toward a modern global marketplace.

This agreement arrives at a moment when the world truly needs it. Right now, digital transactions make up over 60 percent of the entire world’s economy. Even though we do so much business online, there hasn’t been a single set of international rules to follow.

This has created a messy mix of different regulations that often makes things more expensive for shoppers and harder for small businesses to grow. Research shows that without these rules, about $159 billion in trade value was being wasted every single year. Experts now believe that if every nation eventually joins in, the global economy could grow by a massive $8.7 trillion by the year 2040.

**Cross Section of delegates during the WTO Ministerial Conference** (Photo Credit: WTO)

WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala praised the progress as a sign that global trade is finally changing for the better. She noted that “Digital trade is an exciting frontier for driving economic growth and job creation.” She also explained that “By moving forward with the E-Commerce Agreement, participating economies are helping to establish a shared regulatory framework that can lower costs and unlock new opportunities.”

One of the most important parts of this deal is making sure everyone is included. Leaders want to ensure that small family businesses can compete just as easily as giant corporations. To help out, the agreement gives smaller or developing countries more time to adjust and offers them technical help to update their systems.

Allan P. Gepty, Undersecretary for the Philippines, shared his optimism for his country. He said, “For developing members like the Philippines, the E-Commerce Agreement provides a valuable framework to support MSMEs’ participation in global trade by enhancing trust and improving digital connectivity.”

Other leaders from across the globe shared this excitement. Mod K Ceesay, The Gambia’s Minister of Trade, called the deal a forward-looking step for development, and Manuel Tovar Rivera of Costa Rica said it helps bridge the technology gap in his region.

The entire effort was led by a group of countries including Australia, Japan, and Singapore. Matt Thistlethwaite, Australia’s Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, expressed his pride in the project. He stated, “Australia is proud to lead delivery of the first set of digital trade rules with global reach. The arrangements we are announcing today will deliver tangible benefits for our businesses and consumers.”

Even though the deal is reached, there is still some paperwork to do. Each of the 66 countries must now follow their own legal processes at home to make it official. The rules will start working once 45 of those members finish their paperwork. The hope is that these rules will eventually become a permanent part of international law.

The group involved is diverse and powerful, including the European Union, China, the United Kingdom, and Canada. Maros Sefcovic, EU Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security called it a vital step toward a “trusted digital trading environment,” while China’s Minister of Commerce, Wang Wentao, said the deal will promote “more inclusive and sustainable digital growth.”

As the world economy becomes increasingly inseparable from the internet, the WTO’s latest milestone suggests that international diplomacy is finally catching up to the speed of fiber-optic cables and digital storefronts.

Proposed Amendment Could Let Cameroon’s President Indefinitely Extend Municipal Mandates

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

A new bill before Cameroon’s Parliament could fundamentally change the country’s democratic calendar by granting the President of the Republic the power to extend municipal mandates indefinitely.

**Hon. Théodore Datouo, Speaker of the National Assembly chairing deliberation during the session** (Photo Credit: National Assembly)

The draft law, Bill N° 2093/PJL/AN, seeks to amend the Electoral Code of 2012. It was tabled in Parliament on 30 March by the Speaker of the National Assembly, Hon. Théodore Datouo, in the presence of the Minister-Delegate at the Presidency in charge of Relations with Parliament, François Wakata Bolvine, among others.

Prior to the plenary session, the Chairman’s Conference had declared the bill admissible in a session presided over by Hon. Datouo.

Under the current law, Municipal Councillors’ terms may be extended for a maximum of 18 months. The proposed amendment would remove that 18‑month cap, creating an open-ended allowance for local officials to remain in office without facing voters.

**A cross section of Members of Parliament during the session** (Photo Credit: National Assembly)

If adopted and promulgated, the President of the Republic would gain the authority to prolong or shorten municipal mandates after consulting the government and the Senate bureau. That would shift control over election timing from fixed statutory deadlines to executive discretion, thereby reshaping how and when citizens choose their local leaders.

The proposal has prompted immediate debate among political analysts and civil-society groups. Supporters say the revision to Section 170 of the Electoral Code would give the government necessary flexibility to manage the election cycle in exceptional or unstable circumstances.

Critics contend that eliminating a defined limit on extensions risks undermining electoral transparency, disrupting the regularity of democratic processes, and delaying local representation for extended periods — effectively concentrating power in the executive branch.

The bill has been referred to the Constitutional Law Committee and will be defended there by the Minister of Territorial Administration.

Nairobi To Host Inaugural “Africa We Build” Summit To Mobilize Domestic Capital For Industrial Growth

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Africa’s leading infrastructure financiers, fund managers and industry leaders will gather in Nairobi next month with a mandate to unlock domestic capital and transform the continent’s industrial ambitions into a job-creating reality.

Hosted by the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) in partnership with the Government of Kenya, the inaugural “Africa We Build Summit” is scheduled for April 23-24, 2026. Under the theme “Infrastructure as the Engine of Industrialisation,” the event aims to bring together decision-makers to originate bankable projects, strengthen regional integration and accelerate continental development.

Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), in Partnership with the Government of Kenya, convenes Africa’s leading infrastructure leaders in Nairobi for the inaugural Africa We Build Summit to mobilise domestic capital and advance bankable projects that will power the continent’s industrial future (Source: AFC)

Kenyan President William Samoei Ruto is expected to deliver the keynote address, signaling high-level political commitment to large-scale industrialization. The summit marks a strategic shift from isolated, standalone projects toward integrated infrastructure systems, including regional corridor investments, expanded rail and port networks, and cross-border energy systems.

A primary objective of the gathering is to mobilize a larger portion of Africa’s domestic capital base toward globally competitive industrial opportunities. To support this, organizers will launch the “State of Africa’s Infrastructure Report 2026,” a comprehensive analysis of the continental investment landscape, capital flows and project pipelines.

“Africa is not capital-poor; it is capital-trapped,” said Samaila Zubairu, President and CEO of AFC. “The opportunity now is to channel that capital into infrastructure and industry at scale—transforming resources into productivity, jobs, and long-term prosperity.”

The summit is designed as a delivery platform centered on execution-focused partnerships. Recent initiatives like the Lobito Corridor and the Kenya National Infrastructure Fund serve as models for how aligned policy and capital can create integrated economic ecosystems that connect raw resources to energy, logistics and processing.

Given the East African Community’s status as a dynamic regional bloc, the summit will specifically spotlight priority routes such as the Northern Corridor. This vital artery links the Port of Mombasa to Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo and South Sudan. Discussions will also focus on advancing the East African Railway Master Plan and upgrading key cross-border highways.

Beyond physical transport, a central theme of the summit involves linking power and minerals. Leaders intend to emphasize value addition over simple extraction, ensuring that infrastructure investments provide the foundation for long-term economic transformation across the continent.

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.

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