Cameroon’s World Cup Hopes Dim After Shock Loss to Cape Verde

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Cameroon’s hopes of direct qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have suffered a major setback after their 1-0 loss to Cape Verde in Group D. The match took place in Praia on September 9. The result ended coach Marc Brys’ 13-match unbeaten run with the Indomitable Lions and leaves the team four points behind group leader Cape Verde with two matches remaining.

Striker Dailon Livramento scored the only goal in the 54th minute, dispossessing Carlos Baleba in midfield, driving through the center of Cameroon’s defense and finishing calmly past goalkeeper Andre Onana.

However, Cameroon struggled to create clear chances in response. A penalty appeal from forward Bryan Mbeumo was denied, and Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha saved a stoppage-time volley from defender Flavien Boyomo.

The final whistle sparked a pitch invasion by home fans, who waved flags and lit flares in celebration.

Cape Verde now has 19 points from eight matches. Cameroon remains on 15 points and must win its final two games — away to Mauritius and at home against Angola — and hope Cape Verde drops points in its remaining matches against Libya and Eswatini.

Only the top team from each African qualifying group automatically advances to the 2026 World Cup. The best four group runners-up will enter a playoff tournament for two additional spots.

Cape Verde, which lost 4-1 to Cameroon in Yaoundé last year, could become the second-smallest nation to ever qualify for a World Cup with a strong finish in October.

Dr. Michelle White Appointed Mercy Ships New Chief Executive Officer

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Mercy Ships, the international non-profit that operates the world’s largest fleet of civilian hospital ships, has appointed Dr. Michelle White as its new Chief Executive Officer.

***Dr. Michelle White, New Chief Executive Officer of Mercy Ships*** *(Source: Mercy Ships)*

Dr. White, a long-standing member of the Mercy Ships community, first volunteered with the organization in 2005. She later spent five years aboard the Africa Mercy in leadership roles, including Deputy Chief Medical Officer and Director of Medical Capacity Building.

A native of the United Kingdom, she is a current Trustee of Mercy Ships UK and a member of the Mercy Ships International Board of Directors.

In addition to her work with Mercy Ships, Dr. White is an award-winning Anesthesiologist at Great Ormond Street Hospital in London, one of Europe’s leading children’s hospitals. There, she leads complex surgical services and has introduced significant operational improvements.

Her career also includes spearheading multi-country health system initiatives in Africa, where she has partnered with Ministers of Health, NGOs, and donors to expand surgical safety and training programs.

Reflecting on her new role, Dr. White stated, “I believe this opportunity represents the culmination of my professional calling and spiritual journey. This is a chance to lead an organization I love into its next season of growth and gospel-shaped impact.”

With more than 17 years of leadership experience in healthcare, missions, and academia, Dr. White brings a unique blend of clinical excellence, non-profit governance, and faith-driven servant leadership to the position. She has authored over 70 peer-reviewed publications and continues to champion operational excellence.

“Dr. Michelle White lives out the values and vision that have defined Mercy Ships for nearly 50 years,” said Board Chair Gary Brown. “As a valued MSI Board member, we have seen her medical expertise, leadership skills, and deep commitment to Jesus. Her long-standing service as a volunteer with our community makes her the ideal leader Mercy Ships needs for the years ahead.”

Dr. White is expected to assume her new role early next year after transitioning from her position at Great Ormond Street Hospital. She succeeds Interim CEO and Board Chair Gary Brown, who has led the organization during the transition period. The firm of CarterBaldwin Executive Search supported Mercy Ships in the selection process.

Africa Must Be The Architect Of Its Own Ecological Future – SECAM

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM) has declared that Africa must not be a passive recipient of external climate agendas. Instead, it must become a full architect of its own ecological future. This powerful message was delivered at the Second Africa Climate Summit.

In a formal statement, SECAM affirmed that the climate crisis is a moral and ecological emergency. Africa bears a disproportionate burden—experiencing severe droughts, cyclones, floods, and desertification—despite contributing the least to global emissions. Because of this, the Catholic Church in Africa is calling for bold, fair, and urgent action. They believe climate solutions should be Africa-led, community-rooted, and just.

“Rural communities, rich in indigenous wisdom, are laboratories of integral ecology and must shape pathways to sustainable development,” the statement said.

While the Church supports renewable energy, regenerative agriculture, and appropriate technologies that protect biodiversity and cultural heritage, they emphasize that true solutions must integrate social equity, human dignity, and creation care. They warn against short-term profits or “false solutions,” such as harmful offsets or extractive projects.

SECAM is urging for investments in decentralized, community-driven renewable systems, especially solar energy. This approach, they argue, can create decent jobs, empower women and youth, reduce energy poverty, and curb carbon emissions.

The Church is also calling on wealthy nations to repay their ecological debt through transparent, accessible, and non-indebting climate finance. They insist that funds for loss, damage, and adaptation must be operationalized quickly, directly reaching vulnerable communities to foster resilience rather than dependency.

“As Catholic communities in Africa, we ask the leaders of nations and institutions to recognize their moral duty and commit to urgent and ambitious action to protect our common home and the most vulnerable,” the statement read.

According to SECAM, adaptation efforts must prioritize the poor and marginalized by safeguarding food security, water systems, and livelihoods. The statement also noted that faith communities are ready to collaborate in educating, mobilizing, and supporting affected populations.

Recognizing that climate action is a spiritual imperative, SECAM insists, “We must stop the expansion of fossil fuels and instead expand clean, renewable energy solutions that empower our communities, respect our cultures, and protect our common home.”

Ultimately, SECAM believes Africa must rise as a moral voice and agent of its own transformation. They assert that justice, solidarity, and care for creation demand nothing less.

We Provide Practical Experiences That Prepare Youth For The Realities In The Film Industry – Bernard Wirsiy

Veteran Cameroonian film actor and cultural advocate Bernard Wirsiy has indicated that the future of the nation’s burgeoning film industry depends on equipping the next generation with both skills and real-world experience. The founder of the Rainbow Interactive Association made the comments during an exclusive interview with News-lens, outlining a comprehensive strategy for nurturing new talent. Moving beyond basic training workshops and production opportunities, Wirsiy stressed that a core focus is dedicated mentorship, arguing that the guidance from seasoned professionals is “invaluable” for young creatives navigating the complexities of the cinematic landscape.

**Bernard Wirsiy, Veteran Cameroonian film actor and cultural advocate**

Read the excepts.

News-lens: You are a veteran in the film industry in Cameroon. How has your journey been in this field?

Wirsy Bernard: Thank you for having me. If we were to make a film about my journey, it would be titled From Everyman to Everybody’s Man! My story began in 1995, when I first stepped onto the stage as an actor in Obotunde Ijemire’s Everyman. We toured secondary schools, introducing students to the magic of theatre. This experience served as my baptism of fire, allowing me to immerse myself in the world of performance and storytelling.

In 1999, I ventured into film for the first time with Tradition in Want of Sacrifices, where I played the role of a nurse. Imagine the scene: me, in a nurse’s uniform, surrounded by a cast and crew, almost administering real injections on set! This was a pivotal moment for me, sparking a deeper commitment to the craft of acting.

I enrolled in the University of Yaoundé I, where I studied theatre and cinema, completing my degree in 2009. This academic foundation was crucial in honing my skills and understanding the intricacies of both performance and production. Later on, I was fortunate to receive a scholarship to study in South Africa, where I earned my Master’s in Participatory Theatre. This experience broadened my horizons, exposing me to diverse styles and approaches in the performing arts.

Since then, my life has revolved around teaching, acting, directing, and producing. I have dedicated myself to living and breathing theatre and cinema. The journey has not been without its challenges; however, my passion for the craft acts as the fuel that keeps me moving forward. Every setback I’ve encountered has only strengthened my resolve to contribute positively to the industry.

How are you specifically helping young actors in Cameroon get their start?

This is a topic that resonates deeply with me. Since 2014, through my Rainbow Interactive Association, we have trained over 250 young Cameroonians in both theatre and film. These numbers represent more than just statistics; they embody the potential of future stars, storytellers, and cultural ambassadors.

Our approach goes beyond traditional classroom settings. We provide hands-on, practical experiences that prepare the youth for the realities of the industry. Every Tuesday, we produce short didactic and entertaining sketches that air on CRTV. This platform allows our trainees to not only dream about being on television but to actually see themselves in that role. It’s a powerful motivator. I often remind them, “You don’t need to wait to be in Hollywood to be somebody. Start with Yaoundéwood.”

In addition to workshops and productions, we also focus on mentorship. I believe that guidance from experienced professionals is invaluable. By sharing my own experiences, successes, and failures, I aim to inspire them to navigate their paths with confidence. The creative community in Cameroon is vibrant, and I see it as my responsibility to nurture the next generation of talent.

Why is it important for you to tell Cameroonian stories in your films?

Telling Cameroonian stories is of paramount importance. If we don’t take the initiative to narrate our own tales, who will? There’s a saying that when a lizard falls from a tall tree and survives, it nods its head in self-praise. In the same vein, it is essential for Cameroonian filmmakers to share our stories, as Hollywood is unlikely to do it for us.

Our stories encapsulate the essence of our identity—our realities, proverbs, humor, struggles, and triumphs are uniquely Cameroonian. Through film, we have the opportunity to showcase that Cameroon is not merely a football nation; we are a tapestry of rich culture, complex politics, diverse people, and boundless creativity.

By sharing our narratives, we challenge stereotypes and misconceptions that may exist about our country. We open a dialogue with the world, inviting others to understand our perspectives and experiences. I firmly believe that film is a powerful medium for cultural exchange and understanding.

How do you combine theatre art with your work in film, given that they are two distinct disciplines?

That’s a nuanced question. Balancing theatre and film is akin to being married to two wives—you must maintain harmony, or you’ll find yourself in a difficult situation. Theatre and film are related but distinct disciplines; they don’t share the same plate.

Theatre is live, immediate, and unforgiving. If you forget your line, even your ancestors will hear it! The audience experiences the performance in real-time, which creates a unique connection between the actors and the spectators. Film, conversely, provides the luxury of editing, retakes, and polishing. This allows for a different kind of storytelling, where the final product can be meticulously crafted.

To combine both realms, I respect their differences and leverage the strengths of one to enrich the other. The discipline and immediacy of theatre enhance my presence in film, while the technical precision of film sharpens my theatre practice. This cross-pollination has made me a more versatile artist, allowing me to draw from my experiences in both fields to create compelling narratives.

What is the biggest change you’ve seen in the industry?

The most significant change I’ve observed is the rapid advancement of technology! When I first started, we used cameras that resembled relics from the Second World War. Now, many filmmakers are capturing stunning visuals with just their smartphones. This democratization of technology has opened doors for aspiring filmmakers who may not have had access to traditional resources.

Another notable shift is the boldness of young creators. Today’s filmmakers are not waiting for government backing or foreign aid before embarking on their projects. They are taking the initiative, creating content that reflects their experiences and perspectives. This newfound independence is invigorating, fostering an environment where creativity can flourish.

Of course, challenges remain—funding, distribution, and recognition are still significant hurdles to overcome. However, the creative energy in Cameroon is palpable. The youth are eager to tell their stories, and that passion is what will drive the industry forward.

What advice do you have for young filmmakers and what is your biggest hope for the future of the industry in Cameroon?

My advice to young filmmakers and actors is straightforward: Don’t be lazy, don’t be cheap, and don’t be fake. This craft demands discipline, humility, and a commitment to lifelong learning. The entertainment industry can be competitive, but those who are dedicated and passionate will find their place.

My biggest hope is for Cameroon to develop a robust film industry where our stories are well-funded, properly distributed, and celebrated both at home and abroad. I dream of a future where our films are recognized at international festivals and where our filmmakers receive the support they deserve.

Additionally, I hope for the establishment of more training institutions that provide structured learning opportunities. Aspiring talents should not learn by chance but by design. By investing in education and training, we can cultivate a generation of filmmakers who will carry our stories forward, ensuring that the rich tapestry of Cameroonian culture continues to thrive.

Interviewed by Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

VTI-GATE 12th Batch Graduates Urged To Mentor, Bring In Creative Innovation

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The 12th graduating class of the Vocational Training Institute of Giddis for Advanced Technology and Entrepreneurship (VTI-GATE) has been challenged to become agents of social change during the graduation ceremony on Aug. 30, in Yaounde.

**Teachers and graduating students pose for a family picture**

Director, Bruno Lukong Berinyuy, who presided over the event, urged the graduates to mentor others and develop innovative solutions to local problems. “As you enter the workforce, remember that your skills are tools for building a stronger Cameroon,” Berinyuy said. “Contribute to society by mentoring others, innovating solutions, and fostering inclusivity.”

Berinyuy stressed that professionalism goes beyond punctuality, requiring excellence, integrity, and purpose. He described vocational training as a bridge between theory and practice, transforming knowledge into impact. “Your attitude toward work is what turns a job into a true calling,” he said.

**Director of GYTEC-Africa, Bruno Lukong Berinyuy speaking during the graduation ceremony**

Highlighting Cameroon’s growing digital landscape, Berinyuy noted the graduates’ computer literacy skills position them as key contributors to change. “You have acquired technical expertise and soft skills like resilience, teamwork, and an ethical approach prioritizing sustainability and community welfare,” he said.

He added, “Embrace professionalism, value your vocational foundation, and serve society with excellence. The world needs your talents; go forth and build a brighter tomorrow.”

**Mercy Meya Akenji, speaking for the graduating class**

Mercy Meya Akenji, speaking for the class, expressed their readiness to tackle the job market and address societal issues. “The future is not something you wait for, but something you create,” she said. “You’re not just graduates; you are innovators, problem-solvers, and game-changers.” Akenji encouraged resilience, adaptability, and lifelong learning as critical for success.

Keynote speaker Promise Yokwei urged graduates to maintain a positive mindset, pursue ongoing learning, and establish clear values. The graduates voiced enthusiasm for entering the workforce and using their skills to address community challenges. VTI-GATE is currently accepting registrations for the next academic year.

Léandre Bassolé Takes Office As New Director General Of AfDB Regional Office For Central Africa

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Léandre Bassolé has officially assumed the role of Director General of the African Development Bank Group’s (AfDB) Regional Office for Development, Integration, and Business Delivery for Central Africa.

Léandre Bassolé, Director General of the Regional Office for Development, Integration, and Business Delivery for Central Africa, presents his letters of introduction to Oumarou Chinmoun, Secretary General of the Cameroonian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, representing Minister Lejeune Mbella Mbella, on 27 August 2025 in Yaoundé (Source: AfDB)

On August 27, 2025, Bassolé presented his letters of introduction to Oumarou Chinmoun, Secretary General of the Cameroonian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, who represented Minister Lejeune Mbella Mbella in Yaoundé, Cameroon. Their discussions underscored the Bank’s strategic importance in the development of both Cameroon and the broader sub-region.

“We understand that you are here as a son, a brother, and a friend,” Chinmoun stated. “I must express how pleased our government is that the Bank has chosen our country to host its sub-regional headquarters.”

He further emphasized the importance of the AfDB’s support: “At the sub-regional level, we welcome your assistance in implementing economic and financial programs. Given the challenges posed by the global financial crisis, the African Development Bank’s support adds value in strengthening our countries’ resilience against various shocks.”

The following day, August 28, Bassolé received an official welcome from Alamine Ousmane Mey, Minister of Economy, Planning, and Regional Development, who also serves as the Governor of the Bank for Cameroon. Their discussions focused on the status of cooperation, progress on existing projects, and future commitments in support of the National Development Strategy 2030.

Léandre Bassolé, Director General of the Regional Office for Development, Integration, and Business Delivery for Central Africa, meets Alamine Ousmane Mey, Cameroon’s Minister of Economy, Planning, and Regional Development, MINEPAT, and Governor of the Bank for Cameroon, on 28 August in Yaoundé. (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

“I greatly appreciate the quality of our cooperative relationship with the Bank Group,” Mey remarked. “We currently have 24 active projects in priority development sectors, focusing on integrated initiatives that will significantly impact the economy and the quality of life for our citizens.”

Bassolé reiterated the Bank’s commitment to enhancing its operational presence, accelerating project implementation, and increasing the impact of initiatives in the seven countries covered by the regional office: Cameroon, Central African Republic, Congo, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, DRC, and Chad.

“The African Development Bank’s strategy is to launch all our regional operations from Cameroon and establish Yaoundé as a center of excellence,” he stated. “Our commitments in the country now total approximately $2.2 billion, with nearly 50 percent allocated to transport, followed by energy and agriculture.”

He concluded, “We will work closely to develop projects and programs that align with the aspirations of the Cameroonian authorities and sustainably improve the living conditions of the population.”

As of June 30, 2025, the African Development Bank Group’s portfolio in Cameroon comprised 24 projects valued at $2.2 billion. Across the Central Africa region, it encompasses 130 operations, including around 40 regional and multinational projects, totaling over $5 billion.

Cameroonian Fish Farmers See Hope In PD-CVEP Project

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Fish farmers in Cameroon are finding new hope and enthusiasm through a major initiative designed to boost the nation’s aquaculture sector. The Livestock and Fish Farming Value Chain Development Project (PD-CVEP), a collaboration between the African Development Bank (AfDB) and Cameroon’s Ministry of Livestock, Fisheries and Animal Industries (MINEPIA), is investing €84 million to transform the industry.

**Simplice Nouma Mendel, a beneficiary living in Douala, talks to the monitoring team next to her fish tank** (Source: AfDB)

For many, this project is already making a difference. “The support provided by the project encourages us to push further,” says Fanta Njifondjou Oumarou, a fish farmer in Limbé. “We are motivated to continue our efforts, and I feel better equipped to profit from fish farming.”

Another beneficiary from Douala, Hermine Kemedeu Tchuileu, highlights a significant change. “We have received certified broodstock with excellent yields. These reliable strains grow faster and mitigate many issues associated with older strains. This will revolutionize our production.”

A key element of this transformation is a new strain of the African catfish (Clarias) developed by the Agricultural Research Institute for Development. This new variety offers rapid growth, low fat content, and high survival rates.

Unlike older strains, which take eight to nine months to reach a harvest weight of 350–500 grams, the new fish are ready in just five to six months. Fry survival rates have jumped from around 60 percent to 80-85 percent, and each female can produce 15,000 to 20,000 fry per cycle, with up to three cycles per year.

**Fanta Njifondjou Oumarou, fish farmer in Limbé, happy to have received clarias broodstock** (Source: AfDB)

The enhanced quality of the fish is also benefiting vendors and restaurants. Ms. Moukoudi Mbappé Dolie, who sells grilled fish in Douala, reports that her income has increased. “The flesh remains firm after grilling because it contains less fat than older strains. The flavor appeals to customers.” Marthe Epoko, a vendor at the Deïdo market, believes the project is a necessity, not a luxury. “Clean and secure counters will help us preserve fish better and sell with dignity.”

Reports indicate that ongoing improvements to fish farms in Bamenda, Yaoundé, and Foumban will significantly boost the national supply of quality fish. These locations are being developed into strategic supply centers to support hundreds of fish farmers.

Victor Viban Banah, MINEPIA’s regional delegate in Douala, emphasized the importance of this work. “We will provide close support to the beneficiary hatcheries. It is essential to ensure traceability, broodstock performance, and fry quality. This project is crucial for the future of our aquaculture sector.”

To date, 2,600 broodstock fish have been delivered to 50 hatcheries selected for the project’s pre-extension phase. Since October 2024, these pilot hatcheries have already produced and sold over 115,000 fry.

**A net of clarias broodstock during distribution in Douala** (Source: AfDB)

The project also provides comprehensive training to stakeholders, covering everything from floating cage farming and reproduction to business management. A total of 280 fish farmers have received this training, strengthening their technical capabilities and economic resilience.

The project’s ultimate goal is to increase Cameroon’s annual fish production by 10,000 tons by 2027, reducing the country’s reliance on imports and enhancing food security. To achieve this, an AfDB mission in April 2025 recommended accelerating the supply of improved Clarias and tilapia broodstock.

Under an agreement with the Agricultural Research Institute for Development, 15,000 broodstock—12,000 Clarias and 3,000 tilapia—are set for delivery. This effort is supported by a tripartite system involving the Institute, the Project, and the Ministry, which uses a digital data collection system to monitor production levels and ensure quality control.

Na We We Sports Jamboree 2025: Uniting IDPs As Camping Experience Fosters Hope, Cohesion In Bertoua

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

After a month of competition and community, internally displaced persons (IDPs) are leaving the 2025 Na We We Sports Jamboree with renewed hope and a stronger sense of belonging. The event, which concluded on August 31 in Bertoua, fostered social cohesion and collaboration among participants.

The fourth edition of the jamboree, held under the theme “Uniting Through Sports,” brought together IDPs, refugees, and members of host communities. It wasn’t just about athletic competition; participants also took part in bonfires, discussions on drug abuse and gender-based violence (GBV), and celebrated their togetherness by roasting corn.

Teams with powerful names like “Non à la haine” (No to Hate), “Stop VBG” (Stop GBV), Unity 4 Peace, and “Amour” (Love) competed in sports like football and handball, reflecting the event’s core messages.

The closing ceremony at Stade Mokolo in Bertoua featured several community-focused activities, including a cleanup exercise to promote environmental stewardship, an election workshop to encourage youth engagement in democratic processes, and a tree-planting initiative to foster community involvement and sustainability.

Organizers say these activities align with the jamboree’s broader goals of creating safe spaces for dialogue, raising awareness of critical social issues, and inspiring youth leadership.

Bertoua Mayor, Jean Marie Dimbélé Sodéa praised the initiative, stating that the jamboree reinforced the existing “living together” spirit of his town. “I am very happy to host this year’s edition of the Na We We sports jamboree,” he said. “Bertoua is a town where everyone feels at home, and this jamboree came to reinforce the living together that has been existing.”

The event is an initiative of Local Youth Corner (LOYOC), which has used sports since 2022 as a tool for conflict prevention, social cohesion, and health promotion. This year’s month-long event, which began on August 2, featured guest appearances from former Cameroonian football star Tchoutang Bernard and artists Joly Garcon, Ibrahim Moustapha, Aristide Mpacko, and Petit Malo.

Since its launch, the Na We We Sports Jamboree has reached over 3,800 IDPs and mobilized 1,500 athletes across three previous editions in Douala, Yaoundé, and Bafoussam. The events have engaged more than 300,000 people in person and over 2 million through media coverage, showcasing the program’s significant impact.

Indomitable Lions Face World Cup Test As Brys Lined up Key Players For Crucial Qualifiers

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Cameroon’s national football team, the Indomitable Lions, are gearing up for two crucial 2026 World Cup qualifying matches, and head coach Marc Brys is prioritizing thorough preparation. Speaking in Yaoundé on August 29 while announcing his 26-player squad, Brys stressed the importance of solidifying the team’s position while also integrating new talent.

**List of players called up by Marc Brys**

During the press conference, Brys highlighted the dual objective for the upcoming games against Eswatini and Cape Verde. “We are fortunate to have a very competitive squad,” he stated. “Our priority is to prepare as best we can for the upcoming encounters. On the one hand, we must confirm our qualification for the World Cup. On the other, we must strengthen and consolidate the squad. It’s about finding the right balance between continuity, cohesion, and openness to new talents.”

The Indomitable Lions will first host Eswatini in Yaoundé on September 4, before traveling to Praia to face Cape Verde on September 9. These matches are the seventh and eighth fixtures of the qualifying campaign.

The coach addressed the notable absences of several players, including Jean Onana, Fai Collins, and Christian Fofane, providing specific reasons for each decision. Regarding Jean Onana, Brys explained, “His situation at the club is not ideal. So we’re giving him time to get back into the swing of things. But he remains in our minds. He provides a credible and interesting alternative in midfield.”

While acknowledging the talent of Darlin Yongwa, Brys justified his omission by citing the intense competition for places. “He’s an interesting player. But competition requires choices. As I often say, to choose is to renounce. These decisions are always difficult. But they’re part of being a coach…Having this kind of competition is a blessing. It’s a sign that Cameroon is competitive.”

The squad announcement was marked by the return of veteran striker Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting after a one-year absence. The 36-year-old has been in fine form for his club, New York RB, scoring 16 goals and providing two assists in 27 MLS matches. His inclusion adds significant experience to the forward line.

The rest of the squad features a mix of established stars and promising new faces. Goalkeepers include André Onana and Simon Ngapanduentbu. In defense, Enzo Boyomo, who has started the season well with Osasuna, earned a call-up.

The midfield is anchored by familiar names like Zambo Anguissa, Martin Hongla, and Carlos Baleba, with Arthur Avom also making the list. Surprisingly, striker Vincent Aboubakar was also called up despite not currently being affiliated with a club.

“Vacances Secours, Vacances-Loisirs” Cécile Akame Mfoumou Urges Youths To Exhibit Exemplary Commitment

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The president of the Cameroon Red Cross, Cécile Akame Mfoumou, has called on young people to exhibit the “exemplary commitment” they showed during the “Vacances Secours, Vacances-Loisirs” program. She said they are the future of the Red Cross and the Red Crescent movement.

**Officials and children posed for a family picture after the closing ceremony** (Photo Credit: Cameroon Red Cross)

Cécile Akame Mfoumou made the statement while closing the 7^th edition of the “Vacances Secours, Vacances-Loisirs” program. She was accompanied by a number of dignitaries, including the representative of the Minister of Youth Affairs and Civic Education among others.

“To you, dear children, I would like to congratulate you warmly for your active participation and your exemplary commitment throughout this year’s edition,” Cécile Akame Mfoumou said.

She added, “You are the relief and the future of our movement. You have shown that one can be young and already bear the values of peace, humanity, respect and service. You are this relief that we are proud of and in which we place great hopes.”

**Cross Section of youths during the closing ceremony** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Cécile Akame Mfoumou stated that for several weeks, the children took part in activities that not only strengthened their knowledge of the Red Cross and Red Crescent but also promoted national culture, education, citizenship, morality, discipline and human solidarity.

“Beyond games and leisure, this program has been a real school of life,” she said. “It has allowed our young participants to initiate the mastery of first aid gestures.”

She added, “Through all these activities, we have transmitted the values and fundamental principles of our movement: humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity, universality.”

Cécile Akame Mfoumou said these principles are not just words but “profound commitments” that give meaning to the movement’s actions and “that we have in our hearts to transmit to each generation.”

**Youths demonstrating practical help to a victim** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

While thanking partners, the government and others, she called on parents to continue to “accompany, listen and encourage their children” so they can “train young people to the values of humanity, so that we can build a fairer, stronger, more resilient and more solidary society.”

Jean Urbain Zoa, secretary general of the Cameroon Red Cross, stressed the importance of “Vacances Secours, Vacances-Loisirs” program to the national society. He said it is a way to reinforce “the ideals of the movement, the promotion of humanitarian values, living together, the promotion of first aid measures and also the valorization of cultural heritage.”

“These activities have allowed us to familiarize the youth with the ideals of our movement,” Jean Urbain Zoa. “I would also like to say that this is an activity that extends throughout the territory through the various departmental and surrounding committees of our movement.”

**Youths performing during the closing ceremony** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Valeray Noumi Ngansop of the International Committee of the Red Cross, Regional Delegation for Central Africa, said, “The future is being built today. The future is being built now, and it is today that we train the volunteers of tomorrow.”

He added, “And knowing that the volunteers are the base, the only foundation of the Red Cross and that it is a priority for the national society, it was natural that the International Red Cross Committee accompanies the national society in this project whose importance is no longer to be demonstrated, because it is today that we constitute the future base of the national society.”

The young participants expressed their appreciation for being a part of the event, stating that it helped them learn about “living in society.” They said they had talks on civic values, peace consolidation and the promotion of tolerance and solidarity, among other topics.

**Cécile Akame Mfoumou handing school kits and certificates to a participate** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

During the closing ceremony, the Cameroon Red Cross distributed school kits to the youth, encouraging them to study hard. The children also gave performances that included musical numbers, Chinese-language demonstrations, modern and traditional dances, and first-aid actions.

The Cameroon Red Cross said this year’s edition, like previous ones, helped young people and adolescents learn about the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, contribute to human dignity, and find new volunteers. It also helped to “break certain linguistic cultural barriers between children and to develop in young people the sense of solidarity of sharing and the patriotic spirit.”

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