Cameroon’s Digital Rights Standing Plummets 10 Places In Annual Ranking

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Cameroon has recorded a sharp decline in its digital rights environment, falling 10 places in a continental assessment of internet freedoms and inclusion. The 2025 Londa Report, released On April 21 at the Digital Rights and Inclusion Forum (DRIF26), identifies Cameroon as one of the year’s most significant decliners, highlighting a deteriorating landscape for online expression and privacy.

**Participants during the Digital Rights and Inclusion Forum (DRIF26)**

The report, authored by the pan-African non-profit Paradigm Initiative, utilizes a Digital Rights Score Index to evaluate countries based on privacy protections, freedom of expression, and access to information.

While some nations showed remarkable progress, Cameroon’s double-digit slide places it among the continent’s most concerning decliners, contrasting sharply with the stable or improving frameworks seen in Southern and Western Africa.

In addition to the ranking decline, Cameroon was featured prominently in a supplemental research report titled “Africa Facing Down: Disinformation.” The study identified the country as one of six African nations where factual information is frequently undermined by emotional and identity-based narratives.

Researchers found that activists and online influencers in Cameroon are often involved in the spread of falsehoods, with the impact of such disinformation varying across gender, age, and urban-rural divides.

Beyond the specific challenges facing Cameroon, the broader continental assessment confirmed South Africa as Africa’s leader in digital rights for the second consecutive year. Ghana, Namibia, and Senegal followed in the top rankings. Conversely, the report placed Mozambique, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Sudan among the bottom five performers. Botswana and Egypt were noted as the most improved, with both nations climbing more than nine spots on the index.

The three-day forum in Abidjan served as a platform for several strategic launches aimed at addressing these systemic gaps. Paradigm Initiative introduced its Digital Rights On-Demand Learning (DROL) platform, which provides free educational resources, and premiered “The Signal,” a short film dramatizing the consequences of digital exclusion for rural populations.

During the opening ceremony, Executive Director of Paradigm Initiative ‘Gbenga Sesan emphasized that the strength of a society is measured by its treatment of its most vulnerable members. “A society is only as strong as how it treats its weakest members. Yet in the area of inclusion, we must acknowledge that many have been left behind,” Sesan said.

He further urged stakeholders to move beyond assumptions of progress, stating, “We must continuously assess where we are, because we too often assume progress without truly measuring it. Only through honest evaluation and evidence can we understand the gaps and, more importantly, take meaningful action to close them. That is the responsibility we carry forward from this Forum.”

Technical experts at the event also called for the practical application of existing laws. Nnenna Nwakanma, an internet governance specialist, stressed the necessity of moving past the mere drafting of frameworks to implementing them in ways that reflect the lived realities of Africans.

Adding a legal perspective, African Union Legal Officer Meseret Melat Fassil discussed the 2023 enforcement of the Malabo Convention, noting that the delays in its implementation highlight the ongoing struggle for technology access across the continent.

The forum, supported by organizations including the Ford Foundation and Google, hosted over 400 physical attendees and featured more than 100 sessions focused on building a secure and inclusive digital future. Organizers announced that the next iteration of the event is scheduled to take place in Nigeria from April 13 to 15, 2027.

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.

RENAPROV FINANCE S.A. Opens New 30-Day Share Subscription Window

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

RENAPROV FINANCE S.A. has officially entered the second phase of its Initial Public Offering (IPO) following a robust initial turnout that saw high participation from small-scale investors.

The leading Cameroonian microfinance institution, in collaboration with its advisor Afriland Bourse et Investissement, announced the launch of this 30-day follow-up phase after successfully closing its first round. The current subscription window opened April 15 and is scheduled to run through May 15, 2026.

The expansion into the second phase comes on the heels of a successful first round that raised 1.1 billion FCFA. Data released by the institution indicates a broad base of support, with 60,000 subscribers participating so far. According to RENAPROV, the majority of these early investors are low-income earners and small-scale stakeholders.

Company officials stated that the massive turnout reflects the credibility of the institution and its focus on social-impact financial products. By opening this second window, RENAPROV aims to accommodate the continued demand from the public as it seeks to strengthen its capital base.

Headquartered in Cameroon, RENAPROV FINANCE S.A. has positioned itself as a key player in the regional microfinance sector, targeting growth through inclusive financial services. The ongoing IPO represents a significant step in the firm’s transition toward broader public ownership.

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

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