CPDM Mokolo Market Section Militants Pledge Unanimous Vote For Biya In Upcoming Presidential Election

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM) 14 Sub-Section “C” of Mfoundi II, situated in the Mokolo Market area, has pledged to deliver 100 percent of its votes to presidential candidate Paul Biya in the upcoming election.

**Cross section of militants during the campaign rally** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

The commitment was taken during a rally held on Oct. 8 in Yaounde. The event was chaired by Hon. Paul Eric, President of the CPDM Yaounde Zone 2, and was accompanied by S.M Bienvenu Lonkeu Njouboussi, President of the Mokolo Centre CPDM section, among other party officials.

Addressing the militants, who had gathered to strategize for Biya’s victory, Hon. Eric praised the enthusiasm of the CPDM members. Drawing inspiration from the speech of President Biya made in Maroua on Oct. 7, Hon. Eric asserted that the president demonstrated a deep understanding of the nation’s and its people’s problems.

**Hon. Paul Eric, President of the CPDM Yaounde Zone 2** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

“We can be happy because he has promised that he will never tire himself to solve the problems of the Cameroonians,” Hon. Eric stated. “And for that, we must applaud the president. This is just a reminder that there is only one sentence: We vote for him, we vote for him, we vote for him.”

Hon. Eric also commended the section president for his work and urged all militants to remain steadfast as the election day approaches.

S.M. Lonkeu Njouboussi, speaking to the militants and well-wishers, stressed that the primary objective of the gathering was to unite and ensure that on Oct. 12, the militants of CPDM Mokolo Centre secure a victory for their “champion,” Paul Biya.

***S.M Bienvenu Lonkeu Njouboussi, President of the Mokolo Centre CPDM section*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

While acknowledging that much work had already been accomplished, Njouboussi stressed the remaining task was to ensure the victory is realized. He highlighted the section’s policy of inclusiveness, stating, “Here at Mokolo Centre, we work as a family. No one is isolated, no one is marginalized.” He specifically called on militants to make sure that everyone vote by 10 a.m. on Oct. 12 to achieve the promised 100 percent turnout for President Biya.

Following the rally, CPDM militants praised President Biya, referring to him as the “wise man” who has led Cameroon “wisely and intelligently,” and expressed their belief in his vision to make Cameroon an emerging nation by 2035.

**Officials during the campaign rally** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

“For all that our president has done for us, the best we can appreciate him is to give him the confidence because he is the best driver,” a militant commented.

Incumbent Candidate, Biya Pledges Economic Revival, Youth Jobs in Rare Campaign Rally Appearance

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

In a rare campaign appearance just five days before the close of the 2025 presidential election campaign, incumbent President Paul Biya has promised the people of the Far North Region, and all Cameroonians, a revitalized economy and vast new opportunities if re-elected.

**Incumbent CPDM candidate speaking in Maroua**

Speaking in Maroua on October 7, the Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM) candidate said he came to the region to address their concerns face-to-face and demonstrate his commitment to them.

“I will not rest until significant progress has been achieved in this area,” Biya said, acknowledging that he is aware of the region’s problems and “unfulfilled expectations” that have caused doubt about the future. He vowed he would “never resign” himself to the current situation.

While assuring citizens that substantial efforts are underway, Biya stated that “the best is still to come.”

“We will demonstrate greater inventiveness and ingenuity to facilitate the socio-economic integration and self-entrepreneurship of our young compatriots,” he said. The incumbent pledged to further professionalize training at all levels of education “with a view to better matching training with job market needs.”

Biya promised to optimize existing youth programs, training centers, and business incubators. Simultaneously, he said, “specific financing mechanisms for projects initiated by young people will be developed.” The National Employment Fund will be restructured with this in mind, he added.

“My goal, my dear compatriots, is that every young person, wherever they may be, should have opportunities to easily find a job or become an entrepreneur,” Biya asserted. “No young person, whether or not a certificate holder, will be left behind.”

Biya reiterated a commitment to keep the situation of women and young people at the heart of his concerns during the next seven-year term. “You can be sure of that. I urge you to, once again, kindly lend me your valuable support in this regard.”

The president also focused on infrastructure and energy improvements. Regarding roads, Biya promised a special program to rehabilitate degraded roads and construct new ones, in addition to mentioning existing strategic roads. This program, which he said would receive “substantial financial resources,” is intended to ease movement and “breathe new life into the economy.”

For electricity supply, particularly in the northern regions, Biya promised continued efforts to increase the number of solar power plants and complete the linking of the northern and southern interconnected grids.

He also highlighted plans for innovations in the health, security and other sectors. He however urged militants and Cameroonians to join him in continuing “the great adventure” of building “the united, prosperous, democratic and stable Cameroon they all dream of.”

At M’Mockmbie CPDM Campaign Launch, Population Affirm “Paul Biya Is Lebialem’s Best Choice”

By Doc Moore

M’Mockmbie, nestled in the lush hills of Alou Subdivision within the Lebialem Division, came alive this past weekend as thousands gathered for the Communal Launch of the Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM) campaign. The event was led by Minister Paul Tasong, Chair of the Divisional Campaign Commission for the ruling party.

From dawn, roads into M’Mockmbie overflowed with foot traffic, motorbikes, and convoys of supporters heading to the central rally ground, adorned in CPDM colors. Traditional dancers, accompanied by ancestral drums, welcomed dignitaries and onlookers alike, waving peace plants and party flags.

Minister Tasong took the stage with calm authority, delivering a message that resonated deeply with the crowd. Speaking in a blend of English and the local dialect, he asserted, “A Lebialem man is a man of gratitude,” urging the population to reaffirm their support for President Paul Biya.

“President Biya has always stood with Lebialem, even in the toughest times. Now, it’s our turn to stand with him,” Tasong declared, highlighting key developmental achievements under the President’s leadership. He cited infrastructure projects, youth empowerment initiatives, agricultural subsidies, and ongoing reconstruction efforts as evidence of Biya’s commitment to Alou and Lebialem.

Despite ongoing socio-political challenges in the North-West and South-West regions, Tasong emphasized that the government had not neglected remote areas, focusing on education, agriculture, and rural development.

The rally also featured speeches from local political and traditional leaders. Senator Fon Lekunze called on all Lebialem residents to support the CPDM, stating, “We are a people who do not bite the hand that feeds us. Let us give President Biya the mandate to continue his work.”

Hon. Dr. Ateawung Bernard Foju, the local Member of Parliament, passionately appealed for unity and highlighted Biya’s peacebuilding efforts. HRH Chief Dr. Fotsop Dominic Yimnai, CPDM Section President for Lebialem II, praised the President’s inclusive governance approach, asserting that “Alou is not an afterthought but an integral part of the national agenda.”

Traditional rulers, dressed in full regalia, invoked ancestral blessings and publicly declared their allegiance to the CPDM. However, the day’s most poignant moments came from the people themselves, who expressed their unwavering support through song, dance, and chants.

As Minister Tasong and other dignitaries joined in traditional dances, the rally transformed into a vibrant celebration of political conviction. A banner held by a local youth group proclaimed, “100% for Biya in Alou – No Turning Back!”

In a gesture of commitment, farm inputs and kits were distributed to attendees, a move that was warmly received. “This is not just talk; this is politics that touches the people,” remarked a local elder. Farmers expressed gratitude, noting the impact on productivity and food security.

Organizers heralded the massive turnout as a sign of recovery for Lebialem. For a division previously affected by the crisis, the unity displayed in M’Mockmbie symbolized a new chapter of healing and progress.

“Lebialem is bouncing back,” Minister Tasong affirmed. “We will do so hand-in-hand with President Biya, who has never stopped believing in us.”

As the sun set over the highlands, the rally ended with chants of “Paul Biya! Paul Biya!” echoing into the evening as the crowd dispersed with renewed spirits.

With elections approaching, the CPDM in Lebialem has made a bold statement: they are mobilized, motivated, and ready for action. The Communal Launch in M’Mockmbie was more than just a campaign event; it was a reaffirmation of a long-standing political covenant.

As the campaign unfolds across the Division, one sentiment remains clear among the people of Alou: “President Paul Biya is not just a candidate; he is our choice, our father, our leader.”

Melim United Breaks Goal Drought In 2025 BSFC With 1-0 Win

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Melim United claimed the first victory and the first goal of the 13th annual Bui Sports Fans Competition (BSFC) on Sunday October 5 beating Nso Youths FC 1-0 at the Lycée Leclerc School Stadium in Yaounde.

The long-awaited goal drought of the tournament was finally broken by Divine Love, who slotted the ball past the keeper midway through the first half.

Love capitalised on a corner kick to secure the decisive goal and hand Melim United their initial three points of the competition.

Both teams started the highly anticipated fixture with an aggressive stance. Despite periods of end-to-end action, both sides initially struggled to convert their chances into goals, reflecting the tension of the opening match in the second playing day.

Melim United entered the break with a one-goal advantage. Returning for the second half, the victors attempted to maintain their momentum while Nso Youths pressed hard for an equaliser.

**Nso Youths FC vs Melim United FC** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Melim’s defence was resolute, successfully repelling several close-range attacks from Nso Youths. Though Melim United also pushed to double their lead, the 1-0 scoreline remained unchanged to the final whistle.

The match ended under heavy rainfall, which complicated the final minutes of play. Despite the challenging conditions, Nso Youths nearly levelled the score in the final moments of the game.

With the crucial win, Melim United move to the top of the group standings with four points, following their draw in the competition’s opening match on Sunday, September 28.

Due to the persistent rain, the second scheduled fixture between Dzekwa Rangers and Chitah FC was postponed and will be replayed at a later date.

Competition play is set to be briefly interrupted next weekend. Matches will not take place on Sunday, October 12, as citizens are scheduled to go to the polls to elect the new President of Cameroon.

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.

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