Dev’t Leaders Call For ‘High-Quality’ Border Posts To Boost Trade, Free Movement

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Development leaders have called for high-quality border infrastructure to facilitate the free movement of goods and people during the Africa Resilience Forum 2025, which took place from Oct. 1-3.

The call came during a panel session, “Regional Integration and Trade as Pathways to Peace,” on the forum’s opening day. Panelists argued that political will is essential to establish quality border infrastructure, including single, digitized checkpoints between neighboring countries.

“The political will to build quality infrastructure at borders, including the construction of a single digitized checkpoint between two neighboring countries, should facilitate the free movement of people and goods and help streamline cross-border trade in Africa,” the panelists concluded.

“The ideal is to have a single border post between countries — if we were to have strong infrastructure like that, it would help facilitate trade,” said Mohammed Abdiker, chief of staff for the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

Abdiker stressed that political commitment is a prerequisite for any progress in this area. “We must all work together, advocating to our governments on the importance of the movement of goods and people for a more integrated management of our borders,” he urged. “Not only for customs duties, but also for science and technology.”

The IOM previously worked on a successful single border post project between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda. Abdiker noted that a similar project is now underway with the African Development Bank (AfDB) between the Central African Republic and Cameroon, which he said is already “improving cross-border trade.”

Liberia’s Minister of Commerce and Industry, Magdalene Dagoseh, emphasized the need for technology. “As well as having a single border post at each of our borders, we will need to digitize border services,” Dagoseh said.

She added that digitalization offers a solution for controlling both people and commercial goods and helps combat corruption. “By digitizing the various border points, we can fight corruption — we know how many people have left or entered, and this prevents other problems.”

These calls support the goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which the African Union launched in January 2021 to increase intra-African trade and stimulate sustainable development. By January 2025, 49 countries had ratified the agreement, creating a potential market of 1.3 billion people.

The AfDB actively supports this initiative by financing projects to establish single border posts, or “trade facilitation centers,” designed to simplify customs clearance. The bank’s projects include a single control post between Tanzania and Kenya and a juxtaposed checkpoint between Benin and Togo, financed by the African Development Fund.

Ziad Hamoui, president of Borderless Alliance, a private sector initiative, called for civil society involvement in policy design to address the challenges of moving people and goods.

“There is formal trade, but also informal trade, not to mention illicit trade and smuggling,” Hamoui said. He argued that officials must understand what happens at borders because “the volume of trade in the informal sector is higher than in the formal sector.”

The Africa Resilience Forum, organized every two years by the AfDB Group, brings together policymakers and practitioners to explore strategies for prevention and peace-building investments.

BSFC Teams Hunt for Net-Busters on Match Day 2

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Teams participating in the ongoing 2025 Bui Sports Fans Competition (BSFC) will be eager to find the back of the net when they clash on pivotal Match Day 2, scheduled for this Sunday, October 5, in Yaoundé.

The opening day produced two results but no goals, as all four teams registered frustrating goalless draws.

While the defensive performance was commendable, fans are now clamoring for more action. The promise of the BSFC is entertainment, and the teams are under pressure to deliver a goal rush as they kick off the second matchday.

The stage is set for an exciting Sunday at the Lycée Leclerc football arena, featuring two thrilling fixtures with everything to play for.

Will we finally see a separation in the standings, or will the trend of stalemates continue? The BSFC table is currently filled with zeros, and the first team to secure a win will send a powerful statement.

In one of the day’s most anticipated matches, Dzekwa Rangers FC will face off against Chitah FC. After a disappointing outing against Melim United in their opener, the seasoned Dzekwa Rangers will rely on their history and experience in the competition to dominate their rivals, Chitah FC.

Managerial whispers suggest significant changes, with the starting XI expected to be revamped as the Rangers aim for a decisive victory to kickstart their campaign. Chitah, too, is looking to turn the tide.

In the second match of the day, Melim United will take on newcomers Nso Youths FC from Nkolmeseng. The Nso Youths are riding a wave of confidence after their gritty 0-0 draw with the formidable Chitah FC, which served as a morale booster, showcasing their ability to compete with established sides.

They aim to maintain their unbeaten start and prove they are in the BSFC to make a lasting impact, not just to participate.

Conversely, Melim United will be eager to turn the tables in their favor and secure three points. This match pits the experience and hunger of Melim United against the fresh ambition and defensive resolve of the Youths—a fascinating tactical battle awaits.

With the stakes high and the crowd buzzing, Match Day 2 of the BSFC promises the excitement fans have been eagerly awaiting.

Indomitable Lions Squad Named For Must-Win 2026 World Cup Qualifiers

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Coach Marc Brys has thrown down the gauntlet, naming a high-stakes 26-man squad for the Indomitable Lions’ do-or-die FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Mauritius and Angola on October 8th and 13th.

The official list, released on October 3rd, features a few fresh faces as Brys looks to inject new energy into the team’s struggling campaign.

Three uncapped players have earned their first senior call-up: midfielder Karl Edouard Blaise Etta Eyong, midfielder Fidèle Brice Ambina, and defender Samuel Junior Kotto.

These young Lions will be aiming to make an immediate impact and provide the necessary boost to the squad’s playing style.

Cameroon is under immense pressure following a disappointing qualification campaign. Their shocking defeat to Cape Verde on Day 8 of play has left them in a precarious position in Group D. The team, which once looked comfortable, now finds itself needing a near-miracle to claw back into contention for the top spot.

The Indomitable Lions will first travel to face Mauritius on October 8th, before hosting Angola on October 13th in a fixture that could ultimately decide their fate.

Their hopes, however, don’t just rest on their own performance. The team will be closely monitoring the results of current Group D leaders, Cape Verde, whose outcome will be paramount to Cameroon’s chances of qualification.

Brys’ men understand that maximum points are non-negotiable in these upcoming fixtures if they are to keep their World Cup dream alive.

Full list of players:

Three goalkeepers:

Dévis Epassy, Simon Omossola, André Onana.

Eight defenders:

Samuel Junior Kotto, Jackson Tchatchoua, Jean Charles Castelletto, Nouhou Tolo, Michael Ngadeu-Ngadjui, Nagida Mahamadou, Junior Tchamadeu, and Malcom Bokele.

Five midfielders:

André Frank Zambo Anguissa, Carlos Baleba, Arthur Avom, Martin Hongla, and Fidèle Brice Ambina.

10 forwards:

Christian Bassogog, Bryan Mbeumo, Nicolas Brice Moumi Ngamaleu, Frank Magri, Vincent Aboubakar, Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting, Dany Namaso, Georges-Kévin Nkoudou, Patrick Soko, and Karl Etta Eyong.

PM Dion Ngute Lays Foundation Stone For New Pharmaceutical Factory Aimed At Reducing Imports

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Aiming to reduce importation of medical supplies, Cameroon’s Prime Minister, Chief Dr. Joseph Dion Ngute, has laid the foundation stone for a cutting-edge factory dedicated to producing essential medicines and medical devices.

**Cameroon PM Chief Dr. Dion Ngute speaking during the occasion (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)**

The foundation stone was laid on October 3 in Meyo, located within the Yaoundé IV Municipality in the Center Region.

Accompanied by Qiu Jianyin, Chairman and CEO of Yicheng Pharmaceutical Group Fabrication Co. Ltd., and various diplomats and dignitaries, the Prime Minister on behalf of President Paul Biya stressed the critical need for a robust national pharmaceutical industry.

He noted that the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the country’s reliance on imported medical supplies, highlighting the urgency for local production capabilities.

**Partial view of officials during the ceremony** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

“This future industry is poised to become a powerful engine for inclusive growth, driving the entire value chain from raw material production to the distribution of medicines and medical devices,” Dr. Ngute stated.

He affirmed the government’s commitment to supporting this initiative, which aims to enhance the quality of healthcare in Cameroon.

The Prime Minister also expressed openness to foreign investments, urging potential investors to consider opportunities within the country.

**Qiu Jianyin, Chairman and CEO of Yicheng Pharmaceutical Group Fabrication Co. Ltd.** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

He however praised President Paul Biya’s efforts to advance national development, stressing action over rhetoric.

“He does not speak to seduce, but to build,” Chief Dr. Ngute remarked, reassuring citizens of the government’s dedication to sustainable development.

With over 90 percent of medicines consumed in Cameroon currently imported, Project Coordinator Idris Confiance Mbe identified the factory as a solution to supply shortages and high costs.

**The three phases of the project to cost FCFA 380 billion** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

“This will reduce our pharmaceutical dependence and improve health coverage while positioning Cameroon as a key player in the sub-regional pharmaceutical market,” Mbe said.

The factory, which will span five hectares and cost an estimated FCFA 580 billion, will be built in three phases. The first phase, costing FCFA 30 billion, will focus on establishing the Yicheng factory from October 2025 to September 2027.

**Cross sector of officials pose for a family picture** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

The second phase, running from 2027 to 2029, will involve constructing an ultra-modern hospital complex and expanding the Yicheng plant, with a budget of FCFA 250 billion.

The final phase, set for 2031 to 2035, will facilitate expansion into the CEMAC region and the development of a Research and Development (R&D) center at a cost of FCFA 300 billion.

The factory aims to produce a variety of essential medications, including antimalarials, antibiotics, and treatments for chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension. Annual production capacity is projected at 100 million bottles, 2 billion ampoules, and 10 billion tablets.

**Cross sector of population during the ceremony** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Upon completion, the project is expected to create over 1,000 direct jobs and more than 3,000 indirect jobs, significantly reducing the annual drug import bill and boosting exports within the CEMAC and ECOWAS regions.

Qiu Jianyin assured the government of Yicheng’s commitment to meeting deadlines, with the first products anticipated by 2027.

Cameroon’s Forests at Risk As Illegal Logging Costs Millions, Threatens Ecosystems – Study Reveals

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Cameroon’s Independent Forest Monitoring, coordinated by the World Resources Institute (WRI), has exposed rampant illegal logging, costing the state millions and threatening vital forest ecosystems, according to a new report.

The monitoring reporter was presented to the press and other partners on September 30 in Yaounde at a Café Science event hosted by the Association of Science Journalists and Communicators (SCILIFE).

**Angeline Modjo presenting the details of the monitoring report 9Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)**

The monitoring platform, known as the Normalized System of External Independent Monitoring (SNOIE), led by the Non-Governmental Organisation, Forêt et Développement Rural (FODER), pinpointed Mbam and Kim, Haut Nyong, Océan, Sanaga Maritime, and Mvila divisions as hotspots for illicit logging.

According to the monitoring report, it revealed that between 2022 and 2024, illegal activities destroyed nearly 12,000 hectares of forest, causing an estimated financial loss of FCFA 445 million to the state.

Speaking at the event FODER’s Angeline Modjo detailed widespread violations. These include logging beyond legal boundaries, unauthorized operations in national forests, cutting undersized trees, and failing to mark stumps or logs. Other infractions involved obstructing watercourses, abandoning timber, and producing sawn timber without permits.

“Governance failures exacerbate the crisis. Local authorities and communities have been implicated in complicity, while understaffed and underequipped forest control posts struggle to monitor vast areas,” she said.

She added, “Tensions between communities and logging operators have flared, with disputes over unfulfilled social commitments leading to blockades of logging trucks. Additional issues include destroyed farmlands, unmarked log trafficking, and conflicts of interest.”

“Our work is about detecting illegalities and ensuring respect for the law,” said Justin Kamga, FODER’s coordinator.

**Participants and officials pose for a family picture (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)**

WRI’s Achille Djeago stressed the need for transparency in the forestry sector, with monitoring funded by the EU’s Program for the Amelioration of Governance in the Forest Sector (PAMFOR3).

The initiative supports the Voluntary Partnership Agreement (VPA) for Forest Law Enforcement, Governance, and Trade (FLEGT), ensuring timber exports to the EU come from legal sources.

From 2022 to 2024, SNOIE conducted 25 field missions across five regions: Centre (Mbam and Kim), Littoral (Sanaga Maritime), South (Océan and Mvila), and East (Haut-Nyong).

The financial toll was stark: FCFA 91.7 million in Haut Nyong, FCFA 47.2 million in Mbam and Kim, and FCFA 306.2 million in Sanaga Maritime, Océan, and Mvila.

FODER said, they submitted reports to the Ministry of Forests and Wildlife (MINFOF) and the Ministry of Environment, Nature Protection, and Sustainable Development (MINEPDED).

They indicated that MINEPDED responded with 16 verification missions, including five joint operations, resulting in 15 seizures, four administrative summonses, and four official statements of offense. MINFOF has also imposed sanctions on violators.

Lebialem Traditional Rulers Pledge To Revive Economy, Enhance Education, & Ensure Peaceful Elections

By Doc Moore

Traditional rulers in Lebialem Division, Southwest Region of Cameroon have reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to revitalizing the local economy, promoting education, and ensuring a peaceful and successful presidential election scheduled for Oct. 12.

**Cross section of traditional rulers in Lebialem Division**

The collective commitment was made during an extraordinary session of the Lebialem Fons Conference, presided over by its president, Fon Aloysius Lekelefac Fotabong of Lewoh. The event, held in Menji, brought together all 17 Fons of Lebialem, presidents of various development associations, and was attended by Minister Paul Tasong, a prominent son of the division.

This crucial gathering focused on the social, economic, and political challenges facing the division, which have been severely impacted by years of crisis in Cameroon’s Anglophone regions.

Education was top on the agenda, with the Fons — the custodians of tradition and moral authority — expressing deep concern over learning disruptions caused by the prolonged conflict.

They pledged to take the lead in urging their communities to value education and to work closely with competent authorities and stakeholders to ensure that schools reopen throughout Lebialem.

“We must mobilize all human and material resources to bring our children back to school,” the Fons emphasized. “Education is the foundation of any progressive society, and we cannot afford to lose another generation.”

On the social front, the Fons stressed the urgent need to restore basic social amenities like clean water, health care, electricity, and access roads. They noted that these services are critical to fast-tracking the socio-economic recovery that has stalled for several years due to the ongoing crisis.

The traditional rulers also extended an olive branch to the few remaining armed fighters still hiding in the bushes.

They called on the separatists, many of whom they described as their own sons, to lay down their arms and take advantage of the government’s Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration (DDR) program in Buea.

While acknowledging that armed resistance has drastically reduced, the Fons stressed the importance of continued dialogue.

“We will continue reaching out to them as our children. They need to understand that peace and development go hand in hand,” they stated.

Economically, the Fons and Minister Tasong outlined ambitious proposals aimed at reigniting the division’s economic engine. Key among these are the reconstruction of local markets to boost trade, the rehabilitation of farm-to-market roads to ease access for farmers and traders, and support for agriculture and livestock sectors to provide jobs and food security.

The leaders stressed that local economies must be revived to prevent further rural exodus and to empower youth and women, who have been most affected by the economic downturn.

They also extended heartfelt congratulations to the government, through Minister Tasong, for the FCFA 1 billion electricity project recently financed under the Special Program for the Reconstruction of the Southwest and Northwest Regions.

The project, which aims to reinstate power using reinforced concrete poles from Dschang through Menji to Bakebe, was described by the Fons as a tangible demonstration of the government’s commitment to restoring normalcy and development.

On the political front, the Fons reassured the public that all necessary preparations have been made to ensure the upcoming presidential election on Oct. 12 will be peaceful, inclusive, and hitch-free.

They appealed to the entire population of Lebialem to turn out massively and exercise their civic duty. In reaffirming their support for President Paul Biya, the Fons cited a series of developmental projects and high-level appointments of Lebialem indigenes under his leadership.

They emphasized that the core message of the conference remains peace, unity, and mass participation in the electoral process. The resolutions from the conference are expected to serve as a blueprint for rebuilding the division.

“The once buzzing and hustling Lebialem will rise again,” the Fons declared, expressing confidence that with collective effort and unwavering determination, the division can regain its lost glory.

Minister Paul Tasong Affirms Total Support For President Biya In Lebialem Division

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Paul Tasong, Minister Delegate to the Minister of the Economy, Planning and Regional Development, has announced that the people of Lebialem Division are ready to deliver a 100 percent landslide victory for President Paul Biya in the upcoming presidential election set for October 12, 2025.

**Minister Paul Tasong speaking after the rally**

In an exclusive interview with The Lebialem Today newspaper, Minister Tasong, who also serves as the Head of the CPDM Central Committee’s Permanent Divisional Delegation for Lebialem and the division’s Campaign Manager, called on the population to vote en masse, assuring that Lebialem will fully engage in this significant national event.

“We are committed to giving President Paul Biya 100% support in the presidential election,” Minister Tasong confidently declared. “Our aim is to ensure that elections occur in Lebialem just as they do in the other 57 divisions of the Republic.”

Minister Tasong highlighted various achievements in Lebialem under President Biya’s leadership. He pointed to the construction of roads, bridges, and public buildings, as well as the revitalization of educational institutions, noting considerable progress despite previous challenges.

“The division has seen the opening of numerous schools, aimed at bringing education closer to the community. There is ongoing reconstruction of damaged infrastructure, and even more projects are on the horizon,” he explained.

He also promised that every household in Lebialem would soon have access to electricity and other essential social amenities, a commitment made during a rain-soaked address he referred to as “blessings from the gods of Lebialem.”

A Harvard-trained economist, Minister Tasong expressed satisfaction with the return of education to many areas in Lebialem. “Several years ago, our division was a dark spot on the educational landscape of Cameroon. We have turned that around; schools are operational, and children who were previously unable to study due to insecurity are now back in class,” he stated.

Social life in the division, once disrupted by conflict and inadequate infrastructure, is gradually returning to normal. Markets have reopened, and the local economy, especially agriculture, is recovering. “Cocoa farmers, who faced immense difficulties transporting their crops, can now access markets. We also produce Irish potatoes, cabbages, and other crops, and this season’s harvest has been plentiful due to favorable weather,” he added.

Addressing security concerns, the Minister noted that administrative officials, including Divisional and Senior Divisional Officers, are fully operational in the division, ensuring peace and security. “Their presence, along with other services, guarantees that we will all vote on October 12. It’s crucial to change the narrative that Lebialem is ‘hell’; it is not. I invite all registered voters to head to their polling stations and cast their votes,” he urged.

As the campaign manager for the ruling CPDM party in Lebialem, Minister Tasong stated that preparations are well underway to ensure maximum voter turnout and a significant victory for President Biya. “In Lebialem, when it comes to CPDM, we are united. I’m proud to lead the campaign for a candidate with a strong chance of winning, and I say it again: we will achieve a landslide victory,” he declared.

He emphasized that beyond merely winning, massive participation is vital: “We want to remind everyone that victory is not just about the results, but about showing up in large numbers.”

Minister Tasong has made several visits to Lebialem alongside CPDM comrades and local leaders, distributing farm inputs and essential materials to support local livelihoods and engage directly with the community.

With hope rekindled and development slowly returning, Minister Paul Tasong is confident that President Paul Biya will secure not only a victory but also a strong endorsement from the people of Lebialem.

“Lebialem is once again basking in the rays of light. Our people are ready, our hearts are united, and our victory is assured.”

Defensive Stalemate Marks Goalless Start To 13th Bui Sports Fans Competition

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The 13th edition of the Bui Sports Fans Competition (BSFC), the flagship tournament organized by the Bui Strikers Veteran Football Club of Yaoundé, kicked off on Sunday September 28 with an unusual—and unforgettable—display of defensive grit.

All four participating teams registered goalless draws in their opening matches, leaving spectators eager for the first breakthrough goal of the tournament.

The opening day was dominated by a resolute show of defensive strength and tactical discipline. Both afternoon contests failed to produce a single goal, setting a tense tone for a competition that is not only about football but also about fostering community spirit among the Bui community living in and out of Yaoundé.

In the first eagerly anticipated match, Dzekwa Rangers FC and Melim United FC battled to a hard-fought 0-0 draw. Dzekwa Rangers, an established presence and the oldest participant in the BSFC—having competed since the 2013 edition—entered the field as one of the favorites.

However, they were repeatedly thwarted by a fiercely determined Melim United squad. Melim, appearing intent on taking points away from the veterans, executed a tight defensive plan that frustrated the Rangers’ attack.

After a barren first half defined by midfield skirmishes, the second half promised more goals but ultimately ended with the points shared. Both clubs also competed in the last edition in 2024, continuing a developing rivalry.

Melim United, which joined following the tournament’s relaunch in 2022, has publicly stated its ambition to lift the prestigious trophy this year.

The action continued in the second fixture, where Chitah FC’s title aspirations were put on notice when they were held to a surprising goalless draw by the new commers, Nso Youth of Nkolmeseng FC.

**Chitah FC and Nso Youths FC battle for supremacy during the opening match** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

While Chitah FC looked strong on paper, boasting a talented lineup in what is their second time participating in the competition, the action on the field proved significantly different. Chitah pressed hard in the opening minutes, attempting to impose their style of play.

Yet, the young Nso Youth side responded with a series of unexpected, energetic moves that increased the match’s tension. This robust performance from the newcomers signaled clearly that Chitah FC was up against a far more formidable and organized side than perhaps expected.

Despite a lively second half that saw more spectacular offensive attempts from both teams, the match also finished 0-0.

**Dzekwa Rangers and Melim United battle for supremacy during the opening match** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

The 13th edition of the BSFC features a compact, intense format. The four competing teams will first complete a round-robin phase, playing each other once to determine their final group standing. Following this, the competition will advance to the decisive knockout phase, where there will be no room for further draws. The BSFC is a highlight of the Bui community calendar, symbolizing unity and healthy rivalry through sport.

Next week’s fixtures promise a shift in the current dynamic, as teams will be under pressure to find the back of the net to secure a better position before the knockout stage.

In the next matches, Chitah FC will face Melim United while Dzekwa Rangers will confront the spirited newcomers, Nso Youth.

Will the second week finally see the goal drought broken, or will the defensive masters continue their reign?

CAF, SIDI ALI Announce Partnership For AFCON Morocco 2025 Water Supplier

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF) and Les Eaux Minérales d’Oulmès, a leading Moroccan bottled-water company, have partnered to make SIDI ALI the Official Water of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025. Les Eaux Minérales d’Oulmès is a pioneering Moroccan company and a leader in the nation’s bottled-water sector.

According to CAF www.cafonline.com/inside-caf/, the official signing ceremony took place at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Complex in Rabat, the same venue designated to host the AFCON opening match on Dec. 21, 2025. The event was attended by prominent officials from both the sports and business communities.

Among those present were Fouzi Lekjaa, CAF First Vice-President and President of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF); Véron Mosengo-Omba, CAF General Secretary; Mohamed Hassan Bensalah, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Groupe Holmarcom; and Miriem Bensalah-Chaqroun, Vice-Chair and Managing Director of Les Eaux Minérales d’Oulmès.

SIDI ALI’s new role expands Les Eaux Minérales d’Oulmès’ long-standing support for Morocco’s national football teams to the continental stage.

The company stressed that this partnership with CAF represents more than just brand visibility; it embodies a determination to contribute to African sporting growth through operational excellence, a long-term vision, and socially responsible initiatives.

By broadening its commitment across Africa, SIDI ALI underscores Morocco’s role as a catalyst for progress and sporting pride throughout the continent.

CAF General Secretary Mosengo-Omba expressed his pleasure in welcoming SIDI ALI as the official water supplier. He described AFCON as “more than a football competition — it is a celebration of African unity, passion, and excellence.”

Mosengo-Omba noted that the partnership with a leading Moroccan brand highlights the growing strength of African companies supporting the continent’s flagship tournament. He affirmed that SIDI ALI will not only ensure “world-class hydration for players, officials, and fans” but also reinforce Morocco’s commitment to hosting an exceptional event that will inspire millions across Africa and beyond.

Here to hydrate talent, to refresh fans.💧

Please welcome Sidi Ali as the official water of the #TotalEnergiesAFCON2025 🤝🇲🇦 pic.twitter.com/Zu6ygsu450

— CAF_Online (@CAF_Online) September 25, 2025

Naoufel Jellal, Chief Executive Officer of Les Eaux Minérales d’Oulmès, called the agreement a “strategic partnership,” reflecting the ambition of a Moroccan private group to actively contribute to an African momentum rooted in excellence, youth, and cooperation.

As the Official Water of the tournament, Jellal stated SIDI ALI reaffirms its mission to support a unifying African sport that embodies shared values, uplifts communities, and empowers young people across the continent to realize their full potential.

SIDI ALI is tasked with ensuring proper hydration at every level of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025, from the athletes and match officials to the thousands of fans gathered at all competition sites.

At Bissaï University Institute, We Incorporates Principles Of Solidarity Economy – RENAPROV Comm. Officers

Jean Patient Tsala and Abel Bela Samari, Manager and Deputy Manager of Communications and Public Relations at RENAPROV Finance SA, have stated that at Bissaï University Institute, the approach of the institute incorporates the principles of the solidarity economy, stressing collaboration and mutual support. Speaking to News-Lens during the Open Door Day held on September 3, the officials highlighted that the institute’s mission goes beyond merely training Cameroonians to be job seekers. Instead, it aims to empower them to become job creators, fostering a dynamic spirit of entrepreneurship that can drive economic growth and innovation in the country. Read the following excerpts.

**Jean Patient Tsala and Abel Bela Samari, Manager and Deputy Manager of Communications and Public Relations at RENAPROV Finance SA speaking during the Open-Door-Day** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Excepts

News-lens: What inspired Bissaï University Institute to host an Open Door Day today?

Samari Abel: Today’s Open Door Day is a significant milestone for us. After three years, we felt it was the perfect opportunity to evaluate our progress and engage directly with parents and the wider community. We want to share the philosophy behind the creation of Bissaï University Institute, which uniquely specially incorporates both the professional training and the university LMD programme. Many parents are often confused about what makes our institution special. This is an opportunity and we are discussing with the parents to let them know what we offer. We aim to train Cameroonians not just to be job seekers, but to become job creators, and fostering a spirit of entrepreneurship.

Can you elaborate on the concept of job creation and the solidarity economy that you mentioned?

Jean Patient Tsala: Absolutely! At Bissaï University Institute, we are deeply committed to empowering our students to become successful entrepreneurs. We understand that while many individuals aspire to start their own businesses, they often lack a foundational philosophy that can drive sustainable growth and long-term success. Our approach integrates the principles of the solidarity economy, which stressing collaboration, mutual support, and community engagement.

**Jean Patient Tsala, Manager of Communications and Public Relations at RENAPROV Finance SA** **speaking during the Open-Door-Day** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

This Open Door Day presents a valuable opportunity for us to share this vision with parents and prospective students. We want to convey that education at Bissaï University Institute is not only transformative but also accessible, particularly for those who may face financial constraints. We firmly believe that education is a powerful tool for alleviating poverty and fostering economic independence. By encouraging entrepreneurship, we aim to equip our students with the skills and mindset necessary to create their own opportunities, contribute to their communities, and ultimately pave the way for a brighter future for themselves and others.

How does Bissaï University Institute ensure that its graduates are well-prepared for the job market?

Jean Patient Tsala: Great question! Our curriculum at Bissaï University Institute is designed with a strong emphasis on hands-on learning, featuring an impressive 80 percent practical training and only 20 percent theory. This practical experience is conducted within our own enterprises, such as RENAPROV Finance SA for banking and accounting, Royal FM for journalism, and MAMU Hospital Complex for health-related fields.

**visitors** **during the Open-Door-Day** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

By the time our students graduate, they are not merely job seekers; they are equipped with the skills and confidence to create jobs and contribute actively to the economy. We prioritize nurturing talent and fostering an environment where all students can thrive, regardless of their starting point. This approach ensures that every student not only gains valuable industry experience but also develops the entrepreneurial mindset needed to succeed in today’s dynamic job market. Our goal is to empower them to become leaders in their fields, driving innovation and positive change in their communities.

What message do you have for parents considering Bissaï University Institute for their children?

Samari Abel: Our message is clear: Bissaï University Institute is dedicated to recruiting the best students, but we also believe in inclusivity and opportunity for all. We strive to create a supportive environment that transforms every student into a valuable contributor to society, regardless of their background or academic history.

**Abel Bela Samari, Deputy Manager of Communications and Public Relations at RENAPROV Finance SA speaking during the Open-Door-Day** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Our Open Door Day serves as an invitation to parents to discover how we can assist their children in not just securing employment, but also becoming active agents of development within our community. We envision a collaborative effort where students are empowered to take charge of their futures, fostering innovation and positive change.

Together, we can build a brighter future for Cameroon through the combined forces of education and entrepreneurship. By investing in our young people, we are investing in the nation’s progress and prosperity, ensuring that they have the skills and mindset needed to thrive in an ever-evolving landscape.

Interviewed by Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

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