At 2026 TEDxYaoundé event: Participants Urged To Be Resilient In Their Pursuit To Greatness & Success

By Desmond Mbua

Participants at the 2026 edition of the TEDxYaoundé event have been encouraged to remain resilient in the face of challenges encountered on the path to success. The gathering took place on Sunday, April 19, in the conference rooms of First Bank in the Hippodrome neighborhood of Yaoundé.

**Participants immortalize event with a family picture** (Photo: Desmond Mbua)

Themed “Unbreakable: Rethinking resilience,” this year’s edition drew more than 500 attendees, including students, entrepreneurs, diplomats, and thought leaders, for discussions on shifting perspectives and fostering change.

Speakers included the Ambassador of Japan, H.E. Minami Kentero, and the Resident Representative of the African Institute of Computer Science, Armand Claude Abanda, each of whom described resilience, success, and personal experience.

Speaking at the event opener, Hapsatou Nadia, organiser and license holder of TEDxYaoundé, stated the role of ideas in shaping societies and driving transformation. She said the event aims to prompt individuals and communities to reconsider difficulties and adopt solutions that enable constructive change.

The Japanese model of resilience was a focal point of the discussions. Hapsatou noted that this model, demonstrated in the face of social disasters, serves as a foundation for the year’s theme. She said: “The main aim is to encourage Cameroonians to develop similar resilience, even in the face of different local challenges. While Cameroon may not frequently experience earthquakes or tsunamis, societal, economic, and environmental pressures demand an equally strong and united response.”

“The goal is to create impact within our community,” the organiser added, explaining that the platform brings together people across generations, from young innovators to business leaders and diplomats, to exchange ideas and explore solutions.

**Participants listen keenly to speakers** *(Photo: Desmond Mbua)*

H.E. Minami Kentero cited Japan’s response to past events as a reference. He said: “From historical tragedies such as the Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombings to recurring natural disasters like earthquakes and tsunamis, Japan’s ability to rebuild and adapt has become a global reference point.” He urged participants to continue following setbacks and not to fear beginning again.

Queening up from the ambassador, Armand Claude Abanda told participants that Resilience in its full splendour is an asset to create value and boost Entrepreneurship.

The event also provided a setting for the sharing of knowledge, with speakers offering views on resilience. Organizers stated that such exchanges assist communities in understanding and addressing the challenges they encounter.

Participants Laud Initiative

Participants left visibly moved and inspired. Heaven Tchapchet attended the event, “Most of the time, we have difficulties that don’t come from society, but from us… it was important for me to see how people who have experienced those difficulties went through and changed their mindset,” she stated.

The participant recounted being particularly touched by speakers such as Jamie Steell, and Portia Mutunzi. “It gave me goosebumps… to see the way people decided to change things in their environment… It’s very inspiring.” She concluded.

Pope Leo XIV Urges Cameroonians To Face Life’s Storms With Faith, Solidarity

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Pope Leo XIV on Saturday April 18 urged Cameroonians to confront life’s storms with courage and solidarity, drawing on the biblical account of Jesus walking on water to assure the faithful that Christ remains present amid personal and societal challenges.

**Faithful gather in prayer as Pope Leo XIV delivers the Homily in Yaoundé** (Photo: Mainimo Etienne)

The final mass in Yaoundé was attended by President Paul Biya and First Lady Chantal Biya, who were accompanied by a host of government officials and diplomats. The pontiff delivered the message during a final Mass at Yaoundé-Ville Airport, marking the conclusion of his four-day apostolic visit to Cameroon. Thousands gathered for the outdoor celebration as the pope prepared to depart for the next leg of his African journey.

In his homily, Leo XIV reflected on the Gospel reading from St. John, in which Jesus approaches his terrified disciples on a stormy sea at night and declares, “It is I; do not be afraid.” He noted that the evangelists each emphasize different aspects of the miracle, but all convey reassurance that Jesus does not abandon his followers in times of fear or danger.

“Faith does not spare us from tumult and tribulations,” the pope said. “At times, it can seem that fear has the upper hand. However, we know that even in these moments, Jesus does not abandon us.”

He compared the Church’s historical trials to the disciples’ struggle on the Sea of Galilee, where strong winds battered their boat. Jesus, the pope observed, does not always immediately calm the storm but enters into the danger with his people, inviting them to remain united in the same “boat.”

Pope Leo XIV extended the lesson to social and political spheres, calling for communal responses to crises involving poverty, injustice and inequality. He referenced the first reading from the Acts of the Apostles, which describes how the early Church resolved tensions over the distribution of aid to the poor by appointing deacons “full of the Spirit and of wisdom.”

The passage, he said, shows that growth brings new challenges, but prayerful discernment and shared responsibility can transform crises into opportunities for stronger community structures. Isolated individual efforts are insufficient, he added; what is needed is a collective commitment that weaves Gospel values into institutions serving the common good rather than self-interest.

“Every community has the obligation to create and sustain structures of solidarity and mutual aid,” the pope said, stressing that no one should face adversity alone. He highlighted the dignity of every person, regardless of social status, and echoed his predecessor Pope Francis in praising ordinary believers who carry forward their faith, families and work with strength.

The homily also touched on the symbolic meaning of water in Jewish tradition — evoking both chaos and divine liberation, as in the Exodus story — to underscore God’s power over forces of evil and death.

Pope Leo XIV however, expressed gratitude to Cameroon’s bishops, civil authorities, organizers and especially the sick, elderly and nuns who supported the visit through prayer. He thanked the people of Cameroon for their warm welcome and the moments of shared faith.

“People of God living and journeying in Cameroon, do not be afraid!” he said in his final words. “Remain firmly united to Christ our Lord! With the power of his Spirit, you will be the salt and light of this land!”

The pope described the Church in Cameroon as “alive, young, blessed with gifts and enthusiasm, energetic in its variety and magnificent in its harmony.” Invoking the Virgin Mary, he encouraged the faithful to let life’s “strong winds” foster growth through sharing, listening, prayer and mutual support.

The visit, which included stops in other cities such as Douala and Bamenda, comes as Cameroon grapples with ongoing challenges, including regional tensions and issues of poverty and justice. Leo XIV’s messages throughout the trip have emphasized peace, reconciliation and care for the vulnerable. The Mass preceded a formal farewell at the Yaounde Nsimalen International Airport before the pope’s departure.

Pope Leo XIV Challenges Youth to Reject Violence for Values-Based Leadership

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Pope Leo XIV on Friday April 17 challenged Cameroonians to reject despair, violence and corruption despite the nation’s abundant natural resources, urging them instead to harness their deep-seated values of faith, family, hospitality and hard work to shape a better future.

**Pope Leo** XIV in Douala (Photo: Vatican Media)

In a homily during Mass in the city of Douala, the pontiff drew on the biblical account of Jesus multiplying five barley loaves and two fish to feed a crowd of thousands. He used the miracle — recounted in the Gospel of John — to illustrate how sharing limited resources with gratitude can yield abundance, a message he tied directly to Cameroon’s realities of material want and spiritual hunger.

“Despite the richness of the land in Cameroon, many experience both material and spiritual poverty,” the pope said during his homily. He warned the faithful against the “easy gains” promised by abuse and violence, which he said only serve to harden the heart and render it insensitive to the needs of others.

The pope’s address leaned heavily on a vision of self-reliance and moral integrity. He urged the congregation, particularly the youth, not to give in to “distrust and discouragement” but to recognize that their greatest assets are not the minerals or crops beneath their feet, but their communal values.

“Do not forget that your people are even richer than this land,” Pope Leo XIV said. “Your treasure lies in your values: faith, family, hospitality, and work.”

Throughout the homily, Pope Leo XIV framed the act of sharing as a “miracle” in itself, suggesting that social and political problems are solved when resources are distributed with a “hand that gives” rather than a “hand that snatches away.”

He explicitly addressed those in positions of power, reminding social and political leaders that they bear a responsibility to seek the well-being of the people rather than personal gain.

“Be the first faces and hands that bring the bread of life to your neighbors, providing them with the food of wisdom and deliverance from all that does not nourish them, but rather obscures good desires and robs them of their dignity,” he urged.

Focusing on the future of the nation, Pope Leo XIV challenged the younger generation to become “protagonists” of their own destiny. He cautioned them against allowing their energy to be drained by corrupt practices that offer no contribution to the progress of society.

The pontiff however called on the Church in Cameroon to be a “prophetic voice” of justice and peace, urging believers to leave signs of faith that liberate the country from superstition and indifference.

“Proclaiming the Risen Jesus means leaving signs of justice in a suffering and oppressed land, signs of peace amid rivalry and corruption, signs of faith that free us from superstition and indifference,” Pope Leo XIV said.

National Malaria Control Program Reviews 2025 Achievements, Unveils 2026 Strategy

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The National Malaria Control Program (NMCP) has celebrated the significant milestones achieved throughout 2025 while simultaneously unveiling a robust 2026 strategy dedicated to intensifying the fight against malaria and drastically reducing child mortality.

**Dr. Albert Zeh Meka, Coordinator of the NMCP briefing journalists** (Photo: Mainimo Etienne)

This strategic pivot was the focal point of a media information day that took place on April 17 in Yaounde, where the NMCP briefed the press on past successes, persistent challenges, and the comprehensive roadmap for the year ahead.

Reflecting on the progress made, Dr. Albert Zeh Meka, the Coordinator of the NMCP, noted that 2025 was a year defined by substantial progress as the overall malaria burden in Cameroon saw a marked decline.

While expressing hope to maintain this momentum and further decrease the prevalence of the disease, he highlighted that the number of severe cases dropped significantly in 2025 compared to 2024.

Dr. Zeh Meka stressed the weight of this achievement by stating, “We went below 30 percent which has never been the case in the past. It means all the efforts being done by the government are yielding fruits. We can also notice that during the year 2025 we recorded a decrease in the number of deaths by practically 37 percent.”

Data provided by the coordinator indicated that malaria-related deaths in the country, which peaked at 2,016 in 2024, fell to 1,261 in 2025. This downward trend is attributed to the strategic vision of the Minister of Public Health and the concerted efforts of the government.

Dr. Zeh Meka shared his optimism for the future, asserting, “We are confident that if we maintain the efforts by 2030 we are going to achieve our objective of elimination of malaria.”

However, the coordinator acknowledged that despite these major breakthroughs, infant mortality remains a primary concern and a formidable challenge for the program. He revealed that out of the 1,261 deaths registered in 2025, approximately 72 percent were children under the age of five.

To address this, he explained, “That’s why there are a couple of strategies which are being set up to maintain vaccination and scale up because as of now vaccination is being offered in 42 districts. So we need to scale up vaccination and increase the number of districts, increase the coverage.”

In addition to expanding immunization, the NMCP plans to bolster the distribution of preventative tools. Dr. Zeh Meka stated, “We need to maintain the availability of mosquito nets for children and one of the strategies which is being planned for the new strategies plan is distributing mosquito nets in schools. To be able to cover the children who don’t receive mosquito nets during routine activities.” This school-based distribution is designed to ensure that children, who are the most vulnerable demographic, are directly reached.

Complementing these efforts are regional interventions such as the chemo-prevention campaigns in the North and Far North Regions, which continue to play a vital role in controlling morbidity and mortality. To ensure better accountability and data-driven results, Dr. Zeh Meka added, “Also we are working on setting up a strategy to review all the cases of deaths in children to make sure each case is accounted for.”

The media information day served as a prelude to the 19th edition of World Malaria Day, scheduled for April 25. This year’s celebration will be held under the theme: “Driven to End Malaria: Now We Can, Now We Must.”

According to health officials, this theme underscores the belief that total elimination is a realistic goal facilitated by advancements in medical science, including new vaccines, next-generation treated nets, and innovative treatment protocols.

CAMTEL Denies Responsibility For Pope’s Speech Broadcast Interruption At Unity Palace

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Cameroon’s state-owned telecom provider has denied responsibility for a brief interruption in the live broadcast of Pope Leo XIV’s address at the Unity Palace in Yaoundé.

In a statement released Thursday, CAMTEL rejected accusations by state broadcaster Cameroon Radio Television (CRTV that the outage stemmed from a failure in the national fiber optic network. The company said no disruption or unavailability of its infrastructure occurred during the event.

CAMTEL said data from its field teams and network monitoring center showed no fiber optic cuts or malfunctions in its internet services at the time of the broadcast.

The telecom operator instead attributed the interruption to decisions made by CRTV. It said the broadcaster mainly used its own satellite transmission system for coverage at Nsimalen International Airport and along the pope’s route, relying on fiber optics only as a backup.

At the Unity Palace, CRTV employed a TVU transmission system that depends on mobile internet data from various local operators rather than CAMTEL’s national fiber backbone, the company said. The on-screen “TVU” label during the live feed indicated the primary signal did not travel through CAMTEL’s infrastructure, according to the statement.

CAMTEL noted that a real failure in its fiber optic network would have disrupted service for multiple users at once. Other broadcasters, including PRC TV, continued transmitting without interruption, it said.

While expressing regret over what it called a “premature public accusation,” CAMTEL reaffirmed its ability to deliver reliable services, saying it had deployed exceptional technical measures to ensure seamless connectivity during the papal visit.

The company said it remains ready to work with authorities on a joint technical audit to determine the exact cause of the disruption and “restore the truth of the facts.”

Oil Prices Offer Relief But Cloud Cameroon’s 2026 Outlook As IMF Urges Structural Reforms

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

As the global economic landscape continues its turbulent dance, Cameroon, a pivotal economy within the Central African Economic and Monetary Community (CEMAC), finds itself at a critical juncture. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) in its April 2026 Regional Economic Outlook for Sub-Saharan Africa, titled “Hard-Won Gains Under Pressure,” paints a picture of a continent grappling with external shocks, a narrative that resonates deeply within Cameroon’s borders.

While Sub-Saharan Africa celebrated a robust 2025 with a regional growth of 4.5 percent, the ongoing conflict in the Middle East has cast a shadow, recalibrating growth projections and intensifying existing vulnerabilities across the region, including Cameroon.

Cameroon, classified as an oil exporter and a significant contributor to CEMAC’s GDP, is experiencing a nuanced impact from these global dynamics. The IMF’s report highlights that oil exporters generally benefit from elevated oil prices, leading to stronger export revenues

However, this advantage is tempered by exposure to volatility and procyclical policy risks. Recent news indicates that the CEMAC bloc, including Cameroon, is expected to see a moderated growth of 2.9 percent in 2026, partly due to the clouding effect of oil prices on the outlook. This suggests that while higher oil prices might offer some fiscal relief, the broader economic environment presents significant challenges.

The nation’s fiscal health remains a key area of focus. Preliminary estimates suggest a weakening of Cameroon’s fiscal position in 2025, with a non-oil primary deficit exceeding budget target. The IMF’s 2026 Article IV Consultation with Cameroon emphasized the delicate balance required between preserving sustainable fiscal policy and unlocking growth.

Government debt, while showing a slight decrease in 2025, is projected to remain a concern, necessitating prudent fiscal management. The IMF has consistently prescribed fiscal discipline for Cameroon, acknowledging its economic resilience while highlighting the need for continued reforms.

Inflation, a persistent challenge across Sub-Saharan Africa, is also a factor for Cameroon. While the regional median inflation is projected to pick up to 5.0 percent by the end of 2026, Cameroon’s consumer prices are estimated to be around 3.4 percent in 2025, with a slight increase to 3.5 percent in 2026.

This relatively contained inflation, compared to some regional counterparts, underscores the effectiveness of certain monetary policies but also points to the ongoing need for vigilance against external price shocks, particularly in food and energy.

The broader regional outlook, as detailed by the IMF, points to significant downside risks, including a prolonged Middle East conflict that could further escalate oil, fertilizer, and food prices, potentially triggering a risk-off episode and sharply raising borrowing costs.

For Cameroon, an oil-exporting nation, this could mean a double-edged sword: while oil revenues might increase, the broader economic instability and increased cost of imports could offset these gains.

Structural reforms are identified by the IMF as crucial for unlocking private sector-led growth across Sub-Saharan Africa, and Cameroon is no exception. The report emphasizes the need for reforms in governance, business regulation, and the external sector to foster a more dynamic and resilient economy.

While the document does not delve into specific Cameroonian reform initiatives, the general recommendations for the region—such as improving the business environment, strengthening institutions, and enhancing transparency—are highly pertinent to Cameroon’s long-term economic development.

The April 2026 IMF Regional Economic Outlook serves as a sobering reminder that economic stability in Sub-Saharan Africa is often at the mercy of factors far beyond its borders.

While the 2025 recovery proved that sound domestic policies can drive significant growth, the subsequent “war-induced shock” illustrates the region’s continued vulnerability to global supply chains and commodity volatility

The report ultimately frames 2026 as a year of defensive maneuvering, where the primary goal is to anchor inflation expectations and protect social spending while waiting for the global storm to pass

For Cameroon, the message is one of disciplined stewardship: using today’s oil windfalls not just to survive the current pressure, but to build the structural foundation for a future less dependent on the whims of the global oil market

NCC President Urges Media Excellence Ahead Of Papal Visit

By Brian Mboh

The President of the National Communication Council (NCC), Joseph Chebongkeng Kalabubsu, has emphasized the imperative need for media organizations to adhere strictly to ethical and professional standards during the upcoming coverage of Pope Leo XIV’s visit to Cameroon.

**Joseph Chebongkeng Kalabubsu – National President of NCC**

Speaking during a press conference in Yaoundé on Tuesday, April 14, the NCC Chairperson highlighted that the Holy Father’s presence in Yaoundé, Bamenda, and Douala transcends religious and diplomatic formalities, representing a moment of profound symbolic importance for the nation. He described the visit as a pivotal opportunity for communion, unity, and a collective renewal of hope for all citizens.

Addressing the current national climate, Joseph Chebongkeng noted that Cameroon is navigating a complex period marked by various challenges, most notably ongoing security crises. These circumstances, he argued, necessitate a constant and deliberate effort from all sectors of society to consolidate peace and strengthen social cohesion.

In this specific context, the arrival of the Holy Father serves as a much-needed call for national reconciliation and brotherly love, making the role of the press even more critical in shaping the public narrative.

Consequently, the NCC boss called on media practitioners to remain steadfast in their commitment to the ethical and professional frameworks governing journalism. He stressed the importance of responsible information handling as a direct contribution to the preservation of social stability. By prioritizing accuracy over speed, journalists can ensure that their reporting supports the peaceful atmosphere required for such a historic event.

The Council further urged the press to ensure that all media coverage is anchored in the foundational values of the profession. This includes maintaining rigorous standards in the gathering and dissemination of information, alongside a scrupulous respect for verified facts and credible sources. He demanded total rejection of sensationalism, manipulation, or exploitation, while charging the media to actively combat misinformation and hate speech in favor of promoting a unifying and civic discourse.

True Education Prioritizes Character Over Grades; The Nation’s Future Is Found In The Soul Of The Child – Rev. Dr. Pastor Dora Bongajum

Rev. Dr. Pastor Dora Lemnyuy Bongajum has asserted that true education must prioritize character over academic grades, arguing that a nation’s future is ultimately found in the soul of its children. Speaking in an exclusive interview with The Post following the publication of her new book, “Handbook for Transformative Education: A Character Development Manual for Schools,” Rev. Bongajum emphasized that schooling must go beyond traditional metrics. While her manual offers practical, step-by-step implementation plans and evaluation tools for school leaders, she maintains that the human element is the most vital component. During the conversation, she challenged educators and administrators to serve as living examples of integrity and accountability, fostering an environment where students don’t just study values, but naturally absorb them through observation and daily practice. Read the full excerpts below:

Excerpts:

What inspired you to write “Handbook for Transformative Education: A Character Development Manual for Schools”?

Rev. Dr. Pastor Dora Lemnyuy: My inspiration stems from a deep-seated vision of a society where integrity, compassion, and good governance are the norm rather than the exception. In witnessing global struggles with corruption, environmental decay, and a general disregard for human life, I felt a spiritual and professional calling to act. I often return to the wisdom of Proverbs 22:6, which highlights the lifelong impact of training a child in the right way. As an advocate for change, I realized that while many desire a better world, schools often lack a guided, practical approach to nurturing the soul of a student. This handbook serves as a response to that void, offering a roadmap for schools and communities to raise morally and spiritually upright individuals. I am grateful that this manual is now available globally on Amazon to support that mission.

In simple terms, what does “transformative education” mean, and why is it so urgent for schools today?

At its heart, transformative education is a process of making meaningful sense of our experiences to create positive change. It is not just about memorizing facts; it is about an enhanced awareness of our beliefs and a willingness to critique our own assumptions. It encourages students to look at alternative perspectives, let go of old, unhelpful habits, and adopt new ways of thinking that benefit the broader community. In the context of this handbook, it means empowering students to become active, empathetic citizens rather than passive learners. We need this right now because the world is changing rapidly, and students need more than just technical skills—they need the character to navigate complex ethical landscapes and drive social progress.

As a practical guide, what specific tools and activities will educators find within the book?

The handbook is designed to be a functional resource filled with actionable content. Teachers will find character development modules that include lesson plans on honesty and respect, alongside spiritual exercises focused on mindfulness and gratitude. We also dive into the attributes of good governance, such as accountability and leadership. Beyond the classroom, the book provides guidance on establishing school chaplaincy and pastoral care, including techniques for trauma healing.

We also emphasize environmental stewardship through sustainability projects and social responsibility via restorative justice practices. To make these concepts come alive, I have included role-playing exercises for conflict resolution, service-learning projects like community clean-ups, and reflective journaling. Finally, the book offers step-by-step implementation plans and evaluation tools to help school leaders measure the impact of these programs.

How has your diverse background as a pastor, chaplain, and academic shaped the ideas in this manual?

My journey has been a blend of faith, practice, and research. As a pastor, I am able to integrate spiritual values into the educational framework, while my time as a school and hospital chaplain helped me identify the specific gaps in pastoral care that this manual seeks to fill. My PhD in Educational Foundations and Administration allowed me to ground these ideas in technical teaching strategies and research-based best practices. Furthermore, my theological background provides a unique lens on human nature, blending general ethics with African morality and spirituality. I believe experience is the best teacher, and my personal journey makes this manual both authentic and relatable for those on the front lines of education.

Many schools prioritize academic grades above all else. How does your book help them find a balance?

The manual demonstrates that academic success and character development are not in competition; they go hand-in-hand. We provide strategies to integrate character building into the existing curricula so it doesn’t feel like an “extra” burden. By highlighting how emotional intelligence and moral stability actually enhance a student’s ability to learn, we encourage schools to prioritize holistic growth. Significantly, the book also focuses on teacher development. An educator cannot give what they do not have. We challenge teachers and leaders to be living examples of integrity and accountability, creating an environment where students naturally absorb these values through observation and practice.

This is your third book. How does it differ from your previous work, and who is the intended audience?

While my previous books explored social transformation, personnel development at the seminary level, and the “three pillars” of a better community, this handbook is the culmination of those ideas specifically tailored for the educational system. It is meant for anyone invested in the next generation. This includes teachers and school administrators looking for a more holistic approach, but it is equally valuable for parents who want to support their child’s growth at home. It is also a vital resource for school chaplains, youth mentors, and even religious leaders in seminaries or mosques who are passionate about fostering positive values in young people.

As a mother and community leader, how do you see the relationship between families, communities, and schools?

Schools cannot do this work in isolation. Families and communities are the primary partners in transformative education. When parents model respect and responsibility at home, they reinforce the lessons taught in the classroom. Communities then provide the real-world stage where these values are practiced, whether through cultural events or service projects. Together, these three pillars create a supportive ecosystem. This collaboration helps students see that their education is relevant to real life, ultimately building a stronger and more cohesive society.

What is your greatest hope for the impact of this handbook over the next five years?

My hope is to see a fundamental shift in how we define a “successful” student. In Cameroon, for example, many students earn high marks in Religious Studies as an academic subject, yet we still see challenges with morality and the misuse of social media. I want to see this manual adopted as a standard text across all levels of education to combat issues like poor waste management and social decay. I have done my part by creating this resource, and now I invite everyone who longs for a better world to join me in putting these materials into practice. In five years, I envision schools producing well-rounded individuals who excel in their exams but, more importantly, excel in their humanity.

Interviewed by Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Former Senate President Marcel Niat Njifenji Dies At 91

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Senator Marcel Niat Njifenji, 91, the first president of Cameroon’s Senate has died. His death was announced on April 11 in a hospital in Yaounde just weeks after he was officially relieved of his duties as the President of the Upper House of Parliament

**Senator Marcel Niat Njifenji, then President of the Senate, during the 2023 National Day Celebration on 20 May at the 20th May Boulevard in Yaoundé. Celebrations were chaired by President Paul Biya.** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Senate President Aboubakary Abdoulaye, the Lamido of Rey Bouba who succeeded Mr. Njifenji on March 17, 2026, issued a formal statement confirming the death.

“It is with deep regret that I announce the passing of Marcel Niat Njifenji, former President of the Senate, this Saturday, April 11, 2026, in Yaoundé,” read the announcement from Mr. Abdoulaye’s office. “On behalf of the members of the Bureau, the staff of the Senate, and on my own behalf, I extend my sincere condolences to the biological family and the entire political family, and assure them of my compassion in this painful trial.”

Born in 1934 in Bangangté, in the West Region, Senator Njifenji was a product of France’s prestigious École Supérieure d’Électricité (Supélec), graduating in 1960—the same year French Cameroon gained independence. Returning home as an engineer of roads and bridges, he was immediately thrust into the task of nation-building.

While his later career was political, his foundational legacy is physical. For nearly three decades, including a long tenure as Director-General of the National Electricity Company (SONEL), Senator Njifenji was the state’s primary energy fixer.

He oversaw the expansion of the Edéa power complex and drove the construction of the Song Loulou hydroelectric dam, projects that provided the kilowatts for Cameroon’s aluminum smelting industry

Colleagues spoke of his “obsession with redundancy,” insisting infrastructure handle double the projected load. That engineering foresight proved vital during the rapid urbanization of the 1990s.

Senator Njifenji’s transition to full-time politics came during the turbulent early 1990s. He served as Minister of Planning and Territorial Administration before being appointed Deputy Prime Minister in charge of Mines, Water, and Energy. But it was the creation of the Senate in 2013 that defined his final act. Appointed as a senator by President Paul Biya, he was elected the chamber’s first president at the age of 79.

For thirteen years, until his health visibly declined, Senator Njifenji served as the “silent guarantor” of state continuity—managing the house not with flamboyant rhetoric, but with the steady, administrative hand of the engineer he never stopped being .

In his home region of Ndé, he was also a patriarch and long-time mayor of Bangangté, known for funding local schools and clinics. Burial arrangements are expected to be announced by the Senate in the coming days

Shey Kuotieh Eric Enthroned As Fai/Nkfem Kountih In Mbesa Tradition

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

In a ceremony steeped in the rich cultural heritage and ancestral rites of the Mbesa people, Shey Kuotieh Eric has been enthroned as Fai Nkfem Kountih. His enthronement took place on April 8, 2026 in Yaoundé.

The transition of power was sanctioned by the highest traditional authorities of the Mbesa Fondom, including the Kwifon and His Royal Highness, Fon Gilbert Njong, the Fon of Mbesa.

This elevation represents a significant milestone for the Itinikum compound and the broader village community, as the new Fai assumes his role as a primary traditional leader.

The enthronement marks a profound shift in the social and spiritual standing of the new Mbesa leader.

Moving forward, the title of “Shey” has been superseded by his new status, which carries rigorous traditional protocols.

According to closed sources, community members are now expected to observe the sacred customs associated with the office of Fai.

This includes the cessation of common handshakes; instead, individuals must bow and offer the formal salutation of “Njii” to acknowledge his authority.

Only after this respectful greeting is performed may the community partake in the symbolic act of drinking from his cup, a gesture representing shared peace and communal blessings.

The event was attended by a distinguished assembly of traditional and administrative figures, highlighting the prestige of the appointment. Among those present to witness the rites were high-ranking authorities from the Kwifon Mbesa and representatives from Ntum Ntock a Mbesa Yaoundé.

The presence of the Ntock a Mbesa Yaoundé leadership and the wider Mbesa community residing in the capital further underscored the unity and support behind the new Fai.

This installation ensures the continued preservation of Mbesa customs and the strengthening of the Fondom’s leadership hierarchy for future generations.

It is worth noting that the Mbesa Compound traces its origin to Nkar in Nso Land. Tfekenu was the individual who departed from Nkar, passing through Djottin and several other places, before finally settling in Mbesa.

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