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.

**Cross-section of motorcycles being offered to mutualists** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

**ENAPROV Finance S.A. officials educating Cameroonians about MASO on the streets of Yaoundé** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

Bui Strikers Veteran Hails Grace Wirba’s Mount Cameroon Win, Urges Continued Training

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Bui Strikers Veterans FC of Yaoundé has congratulated Mary Grace Dzekenyuy Wirba, winner of the 2026 Mount Cameroon Race of Hope in the Senior Female category. The club commended her exceptional performance during this year’s race and encouraged her to continue working hard for future challenges.

**Grace Mary in action during her visit to Bui Strikers Veteran FC Yaounde** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

The remarks were made on March 14 in Yaoundé by Shey Gishline Balon, President of Bui Strikers Veterans, during a visit Grace Mary paid to the club to present her trophy.

Following Bui Strikers regular football session at the Cite Verte neighborhood in Yaoundé, Shey Balong expressed pride in Grace Mary’s achievements, urging her on behalf of the club to intensify her training as she prepares for upcoming competitions.

“We are incredibly proud of you, Grace Mary, for your outstanding accomplishments. We know that winning the race was no easy feat, but we are delighted that you have made us proud. As the Fon of Nso said, you must continue to seek further victories,” he stated.

**Bui Strikers Veteran FC in action during the normal session session in Yaounde** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

He added, “Looking ahead, we encourage you to double your training because many challenges lie ahead. Other competitors will be aiming to defeat you, so maintain your strength and focus on your winning journey.”

He described her victory as a source of pride that will inspire more youth, particularly young girls, to pursue their dreams.

“Every child from Nso, Bui Division, Northwest Region, and Cameroon looks up to you like they have been doing to past winners. Keep bringing smiles to their faces and remember, we are here to support you,” he said.

Reflecting on the moment Mary Grace crossed the finish line, Shey Balong shared that the club, watching the race after their training, celebrated her achievement. Her victory, he said adds another historic milestone to Nso, Bui Division, Northwest Cameroon, in the context of the Mount Cameroon race.

During her visit to Bui Strikers, Grace Mary, who is also a teacher and referee, showcased her officiating skills by presiding over a Bui Strikers Veterans match. Her passionate and skilled performance received accolades from spectators. She also paid a courtesy visit to the Nso Veteran Club.

**Grace Mary speaking to Bui Strikers Veteran during her visit** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

Mary Grace Dzekenyuy Wirba became champion after finishing the race in 5 hours, 22 minutes, and 11 seconds. More than 600 athletes participated in the 2026 edition, including 70 senior women and 270 senior men among other categories. Hamadu Bi Ibrahim was crowned winner in the Men’s Senior category.

**Grace Mary curtesy visit to Nso Club Veteran** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

MINEPAT Strengthens Staff Vigilance In Public Spending Management

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Ministry of the Economy, Planning and Regional Development (MINEPAT), has moved to strengthen the vigilance and professional responsibility of his staff regarding the management of public spending. This initiative follows a one-day capacity-building workshop that took place on March 11 in Yaounde, designed to instill a culture of transparency and accountability within the ministry’s ranks.

**Officials during the workshop** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

The workshop was chaired by Minister Ousmane Mey and featured the participation of Eric Omengue Messanga, a State Inspector and Secretary-General of the Supreme State Audit Office, (CONSUPE).

Organized by the MINEPAT Anti-Corruption Unit, the session targeted stakeholders throughout the expenditure chain to consolidate the regularity of public fund management. According to government officials, the training reflects a dedicated commitment to promoting rigorous management practices that comply strictly with the legislative rules governing national finances.

Opening the workshop, Minister Ousmane Mey reiterated that the improvement of public financial management remains a top government priority. He noted that such measures represent a crucial pillar of good governance and are essential for the harmonious development of Cameroon.

The minister explained that these requirements are part of broader reforms undertaken by the State, including the introduction of program-based budgeting and a performance-based approach to public action. These reforms he said, also involve strengthening the regulatory framework for public accounting and increasing oversight for those tasked with managing the expenditure chain.

Minister Ousmane Mey further stressed that mastering the rules of public finance is not merely a bureaucratic necessity but is essential to ensuring the effectiveness of public action and preserving the credibility of state institutions.

He encouraged participants to view the training as a strategic opportunity to enhance their professional skills while actively contributing to the quality of public spending. He further urged stakeholders to demonstrate high levels of rigor and ethics in their daily duties.

Omengue Messanga on his part addressed the technical aspects of public management, stating that it is vital for managers to be sensitized to the specific irregularities and faults that can occur. He noted that public management covers a vast field, including revenue collection, public markets, heritage management, and general rules of conduct.

He explained that the workshop aimed to help managers understand what constitutes an irregularity and the specific conditions under which their personal responsibility might be challenged in the event of a management fault.

Joel Christine Mbamband, Inspector General in Charge of Evaluating Service Performance and President ofMINEPAT Anti-Corruption Unite, noted that the workshop was particularly timely given the high number of new appointments within the ministry over the past year.

She explained that with new directors and cash register managers appointed for the 2026 fiscal year, the Ministry took the opportunity to renew its staff’s awareness of mismanagement risks. She characterized the activity as a preventive measure in the fight against corruption, aimed at identifying the root causes of mismanagement and sharing best practices to foster an ethical culture.

Meanwhile, during the session, participants were educated on the legal concepts of irregularity and the resulting liabilities under Cameroonian financial law. Beyond theoretical presentations, the staff engaged in practical case studies to better identify and prevent mechanisms that lead to the mismanagement of public funds.

MINEPAT Sensitizes Public Institutions On New Legal Framework For Project Maturation

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Ministry of the Economy, Planning and Regional Development (MINEPAT) has officially launched an awareness campaign for public administrations and institutions concerning the newly established legal framework on project maturation.

**Christian Arnault Emini, Director General of the Economy and Public Investment Programming (DGEPIP) speaking during the workshop** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

This strategic engagement took place on March 10 in Yaounde during a high-level workshop chaired by Christian Arnault Emini, Director General of the Economy and Public Investment Programming (DGEPIP).

Opening the workshop, Arnault Emini stressed that the project maturation process recently underwent a significant overhaul, now enshrined in Decree No. 2025/1081/PM signed by the Prime Minister on June 17, 2025.

According to him, this revision directly supports the directives of President Paul Biya, who has consistently advocated for more rigorous, efficient, and strategic management of Cameroon’s public resources.

To Arnault Emini, these adjustments are timely as they coincide with the mid-term review of the 2020-2030 National Development Strategy (SND30). The reform he said aims to bolster the quality and strategic relevance of public initiatives to ensure they maximize socioeconomic impact and sustainably improve the living conditions of the population.

The Director General underscored this vision by calling for “good projects, not just more projects,” emphasizing that the nation needs fewer improvised ventures and more well-developed, transformative projects that can truly shift the needle for the national economy.

The conference proceedings featured two primary segments to ensure clarity for all stakeholders. The first session examined the specific innovations introduced by the new framework, while the second focused on the procedural requirements for developing projects during the critical pre-selection phase.

Going by officials, this new dynamic is the result of a comprehensive assessment following seven years of implementing the previous 2018 decree. While the older legislation improved project preparation and accountability, the June 2025 decree introduces several major upgrades, such as the introduction of the program vehicle in investment structuring and a clearer categorization of projects to streamline resources.

Beyond organizational changes, the legal framework mandates the appointment of dedicated Project or Program Managers to ensure stronger coordination and accountability. It also introduces a portfolio management approach within government departments and necessitates more robust climate assessments for all future projects.

Furthermore, the decree harmonizes preparation methods for Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) and design-build approaches, while strictly limiting the maturity period of a project to five years to prevent stagnation.

The primary goal of the conference was to ensure that government departments and public institutions fully adopt these new standards while simultaneously strengthening their technical capacities. Through detailed presentations and interactive discussions, representatives from various sectors gained a deeper understanding of how to navigate the pre-selection and maturation phases effectively.

However, officials expressed confidence that the transition to this modernized framework would lead to a more disciplined and impactful public investment landscape, ultimately benefiting the country’s broader economic goals.

After Akere Muna’s comment: Transparency International clarifies collaboration with SNH

By Desmond Mbua

International Non-Governmental Organisation, Transparency International Cameroon (TI-C) has issued a clarification distancing the organization from recent statements made by its former leader, insisting that its engagement with state institutions remains strictly technical and aligned with its anti-corruption mandate.

In a press release dated March 9, 2026, and signed by the organization’s chair, Barrister Njoh Manga Bell, the civil society organization stated that views expressed by former officials, including lawyer and anti-corruption advocate Akere T. Muna, do not represent the official position of Transparency International Cameroon.

The clarification follows public reactions to comments attributed to Muna regarding exchanges between the organization and the state-owned National Hydrocarbon Company, commonly known through its French abbreviation, (SNH), Cameroon’s national oil and gas corporation.

Organization Affirms Its Independence

According to the statement, TI-C emphasized that it operates independently under the authority of its current statutory organs and elected leadership. While acknowledging the historical contribution of its founding members, the organization stressed that individuals who no longer hold executive or decision-making roles cannot speak on its behalf.

“Transparency International Cameroon is governed by its current leadership and statutory bodies,” the communiqué stated, underscoring that opinions expressed by former officials engaged in other activities, including political ones, should not be interpreted as representing the organization’s official stance.

Barrister Akere Tabeng Muna speaking in Yaounde during the African Anti-Corruption Day July 11, 2024. The African Anti-Corruption Day observed annually on July 11th to commemorate the 2003 adoption of the African Union Convention on Preventing and Combating Corruption (AUCPCC) (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Technical Cooperation with SNH

The anti-corruption watchdog also addressed its interaction with the National Hydrocarbons Corporation, clarifying that the exchanges are purely technical.

According to TI-C, the discussions are consistent with its mission to promote transparency and integrity in the management of public resources. The organization indicated that such technical engagements are part of its broader efforts to strengthen accountability mechanisms within key public institutions.

Commitment to Good Governance

Reaffirming its core mandate, Transparency International Cameroon reiterated its commitment to combating corruption and promoting good governance across the country.

The organization noted that its work continues to focus on encouraging transparency in public resource management and supporting institutional practices that strengthen accountability.

“TI-C remains fully committed to integrity, accountability, and good governance in Cameroon,” the statement concluded.

The clarification comes at a time when public debate around transparency and the management of strategic national resources remains high on the national agenda.

Minister Asheri Kilo Commends Mount Cameroon Winners; Encourages Sustained Performance

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Dr. Kilo Vivian Asheri, the Secretary of State to the Minister of Basic Education, has celebrated the victors of the 2026 Mount Cameroon Race of Hope from the Nso community of Bui Division, urging them to maintain their exceptional momentum.

**Minister Asheri Kilo poses with 2026 champions** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

This message of encouragement was delivered on March 11 in Yaoundé during an audience Minister Asheri Kilo granted the successful athletes in her cabinet. Speaking directly to Senior Women’s Champion Mary Grace Dzekenyuy Wirba, third-place senior finisher Tata Carine, and third-place junior men’s finisher Musa Oumarou, the Minister hailed their remarkable achievements.

She specifically commended them for transforming Bui geographical landscape often associated with negativism into a platform for positive triumph, training in the hills and bringing medals back to their ancestral land.

**Minister Asheri Kilo poses with trophies** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Expressing her pride during the reception, Minister Kilo remarked, “I am very, very delighted that you thought it wise to bring the trophies to show me. I am very delighted and always very delighted to receive my people, to receive Cameroonians who have a zeal, Cameroonians who know where they are going.”

She called on the champions to remain disciplined and consistent in their pursuit of excellence while extending the benefits of their success to those around them. She thanked them for making their tribe, their division, and the entire nation proud, stating, “I wish to thank you for your remarkable success in making our tribe, division and Cameroon proud. I am glad and happy because I know your future still hold a lot.”

**Minister Asheri Kilo in a picture with 2026 Senior Women’s Champion Mary Grace Dzekenyuy Wirba** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

The Minister underscored that the Nso and Bui people are a remarkable gift to mankind, known for their intelligence, forthrightness, and boldness. She urged the community to harness these qualities for the nation’s glory, stating, “We are great people. The Nso and Bui communities exemplify exceptional traits. Let’s use our strengths for positive purposes rather than negativity.”

Reinforcing government’s stance, she reminded the athletes that no achievement is too small to bring fame and prosperity. Referencing the philosophy of President Paul Biya, she stated that no sport is minor or less important than another, and just as the nation celebrates soccer, it also celebrates its elite runners.

**Minister Asheri Kilo in a picture with third-place senior finisher Tata Carine** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

She used the occasion to encourage other young Cameroonians with athletic aptitude to participate in such competitions, noting that if you don’t try, “you’ll never know whether you can make it.” On behalf of the Nso community, she also charged the athletes to serve as peace ambassadors.

For Mary Grace Dzekenyuy Wirba, the visit was a deeply honoring experience, noting that “we feel acknowledged. We want to appreciate her for welcoming us and talking to us.”

While the champions expressed a desire to celebrate their victory in their home region, Mary Grace issued a plea for stability, stating, “We want the peace, we want to go back home, we want to celebrate this with the people back home. We do not know how long that can take, but this is our plea.”

**Minister Asheri Kilo in a family picture with third-place junior men’s finisher Musa Oumarou** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Tata Carine, a five-time champion in the Senior Women’s category, echoed the same sentiment, sharing her dream of training young girls in Kumbo. She noted that while she wishes to promote the talents of her sisters in her village, she requires a peaceful environment to establish such a legacy.

“My dream was to train young athletes, especially female, to be like me, but I don’t have the opportunity to be back home, especially in my village. There’s no way to promote my own sisters to be like me. But if there’s peace, I will go back home to train other athletes,” she said.

**Minister Asheri Kilo, representatives and athletes posed for family picture** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

The 18-year-old Musa Oumarou expressed his deep satisfaction with the ministerial audience, stating his unwavering commitment to winning more trophies to bring joy to his land, division and the Republic of Cameroon.

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