Football World Mourns Passing of Issa Hayatou

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The global football community is in mourning following the death of former Confederation of African Football (CAF) President, Issa Hayatou. The legendary administrator passed away on August 8 in Paris on the eve of his 78th birthday after a prolonged illness.

Hayatou, who led CAF for an impressive 29 years from 1988 to 2017, was a towering figure in African football. His influence extended beyond the continent as he also served as interim FIFA President from 2015 to 2016 during Sepp Blatter’s suspension.

Tributes have poured in from across the world, recognizing Hayatou’s immense contribution to the growth of African football. CAF President Patrice Motsepe described him as a “great man” whose legacy will forever be cherished.

“CAF and African football will forever be grateful to President Hayatou for his enormous and far-reaching contributions, over many years to the development and growth of football in Africa,” Motsepe said. As a mark of respect, CAF has ordered flags to be flown at half-mast until August 13.

Football icons and leaders have joined in expressing their condolences. FIFA President Gianni Infantino in a message hailed Hayatou as a “passionate sports fan” who dedicated his life to sports administration. Former FIFA President Sepp Blatter described him as a “great fighter for African football and longtime companion.”

The Cameroon Football Federation (FECAFOOT) hailed Issa Hayatou as one of the greatest sports leaders of all time. FECAFOOT President, Samuel Eto’o, expressed his deep sorrow, saying, “Issa Hayatou! A true Indomitable Lion has departed.”

Eto’o further emphasized Hayatou’s enduring legacy: “He leaves behind an immeasurable legacy. A solid foundation upon which to build an African football that commands greater respect and prominence on the global stage.”

The Nigerian Football Federation and the Ghanaian Football Federation both recognized his visionary leadership in advancing African football.

Nigerian President Bola Tinubu added his voice to the chorus of tributes, highlighting Hayatou’s role in developing football in Africa and beyond. Former Football Kenya Federation President Sam Nyamweya credited Hayatou for playing a pivotal role in bringing the World Cup to Africa for the first time in 2010 and for leading Cameroon to become the first African team to reach the World Cup quarter-finals in 1990.

Hayatou’s legacy as a strong, influential leader who shaped the course of African football will undoubtedly continue to inspire generations to come.

Former CAF President, Issa Hayatou Dies At 77

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Football legend and former President of the Confederation of African Football, CAF, Cameroonian born Issa Hayatou has died.

Cameroon Radio Television (CRTV) announced on Twitter that Issa Hayatou, former President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), died in Paris, France, on August 7, on the eve of his 78th birthday. He passed away after a long illness.

Born on August 9, 1946, in Garoua, Hayatou dedicated over three decades to African and world football, leaving an enduring legacy of leadership and commitment. As CAF president from 1988 to 2017, he was instrumental in the growth and recognition of African football.

Under his guidance, CAF experienced significant development, marked by improved infrastructure, professionalized leagues, and increased funding for African competitions.

A young Issa Hayatou excelled in athletics and became Cameroon champion in the 400 and 800 metres, even taking part in the first-ever All-Africa Games in Brazzaville in 1965. At the same time, he was a member of the Cameroon national basketball team and a university football international in 1964 and 1971.

After this successful athletic career, he went on to become a physical education and sports teacher in Yaoundé, but only practiced the profession for a year. In 1974, he became general secretary of the Cameroon Football Federation.

In 1984, he became vice president of the Cameroon Football Federation. Two years later, he ascended to the presidency of FECAFOOT while simultaneously joining the executive committee of the Confederation of African Football. He has also been interim FIFA President from 2015 – 2016 after Sepp Blatter was suspended.

Glencore Corruption Scandal: The Culprits Are Within Cameroon – Barrister Akere Muna

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Eminent lawyer and International Legal Consultant, Barrister Akere Muna, has stated that individuals involved in the Glencore corruption scandal, considered the biggest of the century, are located within Cameroon.

Barrister Akere made this statement on his Facebook page on August 3. His reaction follows a communique from the National Hydrocarbons Company (SNH) indicating that those implicated in the corruption scheme with Glencore have been identified and will appear before the Westminster Magistrates’ Court in London on September 10, 2024.

According to Barrister Akere, the communique is rather absorbed arguing that the core of the corruption took place within Cameroon and that any meaningful resolution must originate domestically.

“The culprits are within Cameroon; the transactions that gave rise to the corruption took place in Cameroon, yet they expect us to believe the solution will come from London. It is clear that action must be taken locally,” he asserted.

Barrister Akere recalled that when he exposed the Glencore corruption scandal over two years ago, SNH claimed that corruption was impossible due to their internal regulations.

“Now, following the UK’s disclosure of the names of former Glencore employees facing charges, we are informed through a communique that a complaint was lodged in September 2023,” he said.

He pointed out that despite a recent SNH Board Meeting dedicated solely to the SAVANA case, there was no mention of Glencore.

“It seems they are now rushing to inform us about a complaint filed last year, possibly due to the upcoming revelation of names by the English courts. Who is the complaint against, and what are the allegations? All Glencore files have been transferred from SONARA to the Presidency. Can SNH explain why our crude oil was sold at a 30 percent discount below market price? Additionally, why was our crude sold to Vittol (a company accused of corruption in Latin America) at a 70 percent discount?” Barrister Akere questioned.

While indicating that the plea agreement with the US Department of Justice requires Glencore to fully cooperate with Cameroonian investigation authorities, Barrister Akere stated that SNH should suspend all dealings with Glencore due to their admitted corruption and compel them to disclose their Cameroonian accomplices.

On August 2, SNH issued a communique welcoming the progress of the proceedings against the perpetrators and the acts of corruption that tarnish its image regarding the Glencore Corruption Scandal.

The communique, signed by Adolphe Moudikle, Board Chair of SNH, indicated that the perpetrators’ appearance in court marks a significant step forward in the search for the truth in this scandalous affair.

“The SNH, which filed a complaint before the Special Criminal Court (TCS) on November 6, 2023, to identify the Cameroonian accomplices of these acts of corruption, is confident that the outcome of the procedure in London will allow the acceleration of investigations at the TCS level,” the communique reads.

Return To MMA: Francis Ngannou Makes PFL Debut Against Ferreira

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Former UFC champion and Cameroonian-born Francis Ngannou is making a triumphant return to Mixed Martial Arts. The “Predator” will face off against Brazilian powerhouse Renan Ferreira for the PFL Super Fights Championship title on October 19th.

“The Professional Fighters League is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated comeback of superstar and undisputed Heavyweight Champion, Francis Ngannou,” said PFL CEO Peter Murray. “In a battle of giants, he will face the formidable 6-foot-8, 2023 PFL Heavyweight Champion, Renan Ferreira, in the biggest world title fight of the year.”

Ngannou’s last MMA fight was in January 2022 when he successfully defended his UFC heavyweight title against Ciryl Gane. Since then, he has stepped into the boxing ring against Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua.

This bout marks Ngannou’s highly anticipated debut with the PFL, following his departure from the UFC in May 2023. The promotion has secured its biggest free agent signing to headline a major event. Ngannou’s decision to join the PFL was influenced by the organization’s financial offer and its support for his boxing ambitions, which the UFC had previously rejected.

“Renan is a formidable opponent, and I’ve been closely watching his career,” said Ngannou. “He’s a unique fighter with speed, athleticism, and impressive skills.”

On his part, Renan Ferreira boasts a professional record of 13-3, with four consecutive knockout victories. His most recent win was a stunning 21-second knockout of former champion Ryan Bader in February. This will be Ferreira’s biggest challenge yet, as he faces a global superstar, Ngannou.

The main event will be preceded by a world title fight between the legendary Cris Cyborg and two-time PFL champion Larissa Pacheco. Cyborg, considered the greatest women’s MMA fighter of all time, will face Pacheco’s ten-fight winning streak, which includes victories over Kayla Harrison and Julia Budd.

This epic showdown between Ngannou and Ferreira promises to be a highlight of the year, as two of the most devastating strikers in the world collide.

FECAFOOT Ends Kit Deal with One All Sports

By Fon Christbright A. (UB Journalism Student On Internship at The Post)

The Cameroon Football Federation (FECAFOOT) has parted ways with its national team kit supplier, One All Sports (OAS).

The announcement was made on August 6 in a communique signed by Blaise Djounang, FECAFOOT’s Secretary-General. According to the communique, the termination of the contract follows a breach by OAS.

In a statement, FECAFOOT said, “…The Cameroon Football Federation attaches great importance to the proper execution of contractual commitments made freely by the parties. For this reason, it has decided to terminate this contract, thus putting an end to the partnership with this equipment supplier.”

Going by the Country’s Federation Accosication, the Cameroon’s National Football Selections will wear “One All Sports” products for the last time during the competitions scheduled in the month of September 2024.

In the meantime, FECAFOOT stated that they will, in the very near future, launch an invitation to tender aimed at selecting a new equipment supplier commensurate with the prestigious status of Cameroon’s National Selections.

At news time, OAS has not issued a statement to that effect but remours to replaced them have been circulating since the beginning of the year 2024. It is worth noting that, OAS became Cameroon’s team equipment supplier in 2022 taking over from Le Coq Sportif.

While details of the FECAFOOT-OAS contract remain undisclosed, sources within the federation suggest that OAS was to provide a VIP bus, equipment worth FCFA 655 million annually, and an annual payment of FCFA 1 billion to FECAFOOT.

Although many saw this as a lucrative deal, skepticism arose due to the lack of public contract details. FECAFOOT officials have publicly expressed satisfaction with the OAS partnership.

The contract termination could lead to another legal battle, as FECAFOOT previously faced a lawsuit from a former supplier and paid significant damages. However, this marks the second contract termination under the leadership of Samuel Eto’o, who has been at the helm of the federation for about three years.

Africa’s Campaigners Cry For Change, Demand Urgent Call To Reform Global Finance

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

African campaigners have called for a more equitable and just system in the international financial architecture that has persistently marginalized African nations.

The call was echoed on Monday August 5, during a virtual presser. Leaders from renowned institutions such as Southern and Eastern Africa Trade Information and Negotiations Institute (SEATINI)-Uganda, Tax Justice Network Africa and African Forum and Network on Debt and Development, AFRODAD participated in the presser.

Speaking during the presser, campaigners asserted that the international financial architecture in its current form has marginalized African nations grappling with shrinking fiscal space, the climate crisis and high youth unemployment.

Jason Braganza, Executive Director of AFRODAD, highlighted the unsustainable debt burden on African nations. “Much of the borrowing is being used to service existing debts rather than investing in development,” he stated. “This vicious cycle traps us in a precarious position.”

To address this crisis, Braganza proposed a new global financial framework where borrowing countries, especially African nations, have a unified, powerful voice in negotiations.

“We envision a UN-led platform where developing and developed countries, as well as creditors, can engage as equals,” he explained. “This would foster fairer, transparent negotiations, prioritizing the borrowing country’s development goals while ensuring debt servicing.”

Jane Nalungu, Executive Director of SEATINI, echoed the call for reform, accenting the need to revamp the decades-old international financial architecture. She argued that this overhaul is essential for boosting domestic revenue, facilitating a green transition, and eradicating poverty in Africa.

Nalungu stressed that revisiting international financial and trade treaties is pivotal to breaking the vicious cycles of indebtedness, trade deficits, and balance of payments challenges that continue to afflict African economies..

Chenai Mukumba, Executive Director of the Tax Justice Network Africa called for heightened oversight to close legal loopholes that facilitate illicit financial outflows and tax evasion by multinational corporations operating within the continent.

She noted that illicit financial flows deprive African governments of critical revenue needed to fund public services, thus perpetuating economic vulnerabilities and social inequities.

Activists are united in their demand for a restructured economic order that recognizes and rectifies the historical marginalization of African countries. They believe this is the only path to achieving sustainable and inclusive development.

It’s worth noting that four African countries namely Zambia, Ghana, Ethiopia, and Chad have defaulted on their debt. Several others are teetering on the brink of default.

BSFC 2024, The Ultimate Showdown Kicks Off September 1st

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The 2024 edition of the Bui Sports Fans Competition (BSFC) will kick off on September 1. The information was disclosed recently by the competition’s coordination team after consultations.

According to the organizers, the competition will be played at General Leclerc High School stadium in Yaoundé. Eight teams will participate in the competition, which promises to be the ultimate showdown of sports in the Center Region.

***Melim FC Fans cheer their players during the 10th edition of the BSFC*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

BSFC 2024 has been described as more than just a sports competition but a cultural extravaganza that unites the power of sports, entertainment, and tradition.

Considering the past editions celebrated, sports analysts have defined the BSFC as a transformative force that will engage and transform the field into a vibrant stage for unforgettable performances, thrilling matches, and a celebration of the Bui community.

***Mile One FC vs Won Mbveh Chitaah FC*** ***during the 10th edition*** **of the BSFC** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

With its slogan “Community Sports for Peace and Development,” the competition will excel in identifying and promoting young talents from the division.

With the countdown already promising, the eight shortlisted teams will battle it out to succeed Bui Diaspora FC, last year’s winners. Bui Diaspora FC secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Mile One FC on December 17, 2023, becoming the second team in the competition’s history to win back-to-back titles after Sun City FC in 2010 and 2011.

***Bui Strikers Veteran FC vs Kinkerangker FC during the 10th edition of the BSFC*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

The Bui Sports Fans Competition, established in 2007, has become a major sporting event in Yaounde. Organized by Bui Strikers Veteran FC, the competition has a history of promoting local talent.

Sons of the Division who have participated in the competition have played in the country’s top leagues and even internationally. Some have even represented the Bui division in Cameroon’s senior national teams.

Award-Winning Film, “When The Levees Broke” Makes Cameroon Debut

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Award Winning-Movie, “When The Levees Broke” has been premiered in Cameroon for the first time. The Award-Winning Movie made it Cameroon debut on Saturday, August 3^rd at Canal Olympia in Douala in a star-studded audience ceremony.

Directed by Musing Derick Tenn, the phenomenal Cameroonian movie was premiered after touring the globe for nearly two years, garnering multiple awards and recognitions.

Stephanie Tum and Nollywood heartthrob Efa Iwara star as the lead actress and actor, respectively. Principal sponsors Tecno Cameroon and Access Bank were present at the ceremony.

*Stephanie Tum (R) and Nollywood heartthrob Efa Iwara* (L) ***during the premiere in Douala***

According to Ernest Okoro, Marketing Manager for Tecno Cameroon, partnering with “When the Levees Broke” aligns with the brand’s vision of contributing to the industry’s growth.

On his part, Franklin Fobah, Head of Retail and Business Banking for Access Bank Cameroon, emphasized the importance of supporting the Cameroonian film industry through investments in “When the Levees Broke.”

Before its official cinema release, the movie will make stops in Bamenda, the USA, and Canada and other parts of the world. The film has already won 17 awards.

***Derick Musing, Director of the Movie*** ***during the premiere in Douala***

Director Derick Musing, with over 20 years of experience in the film industry, previously worked on two Cameroonian movies “Therapy” (Director) and “The Fisherman’s Diary” (Technical Director). He is also the founder of the recently launched local streaming platform, FilmRoom.

Meanwhile, during a press conference before the premiering, Derick said, the movie highlighted the urgent need to eradicate corruption in Cameroon and Africa.

Stephanie Tum on his part described the film as a challenging, physically, mentally, and emotionally demanding project, emphasizing its dark and intense nature.

***Stephanie Tum*** ***during the premiere in Douala***

“When the Levees Broke” is a fascinating thriller that digs into the complexities of morality and passion. Set in Cameroon, the film follows the story of Ngwe Fidel, a highly formidable lawyer who becomes involved in a dangerous web of intrigue, forcing her to confront the conflict between her principles and her desires.

Stéphanie Tum’s performance as Ngwe Fidel, portrays her journey from a confident advocate to a woman torn between her duty and personal motivations. Tum’s portrayal captures the essence of Fidel’s struggle as she struggles with the pressures employed by her powerful family members, including her influential father and her mother.

Through Fidel’s character, the film explores themes of justice, family, and the corrupting influence of power, inviting the audience to reflect on the intricacies of the human condition and the societal structures that shape our lives.

***Stephanie Tum, Musing Derick (2^nd from right), others during the premiere in Douala***

From its captivating opening sequence to its gripping finale, “When the Levees Broke” maintains a perfect balance of aesthetic beauty and narrative tension. The film’s cinematography creates a compelling atmosphere that immerses viewers in Fidel’s world and underscores the film’s thematic depth.

Stephanie Tum’s nuanced performance, coupled with Derick Tenn’s visionary direction, elevates “When the Levees Broke” beyond the boundaries of a traditional thriller, earning both critical acclaim and audience admiration. The film was shot in Douala, Cameroon.

Sex Hawkers Bask In Warm Demand As Yaounde Shivers Under Unusual Weather

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Yaounde is currently grappling with the harsh effects of severe weather, which has plunged residents into a state of discomfort and hardship. From impassable roads to disrupted livelihoods, the city is bearing the brunt of nature’s fury.

The city has been thrown into an unexpected deep freeze. Temperatures have dropped well below the norm, transforming the typically tropical climate into a bitter chill.

Residents, unaccustomed to such cold conditions, are struggling to adapt. Blankets, once considered unnecessary, have become essential bedroom companions. Beyond the discomfort, taxi and motorcycle riders, as well as businesses, have been affected on a daily basis.

However, while most residents are shivering through the cold spell, a surprising sector of the economy is experiencing a boom: the sex industry.

The city’s sex hawkers have reported a significant increase in clientele. The attraction of warmth, both physical and emotional, has driven customers to seek solace in the company of these women.

Known hotspots for sex work, such as Entrée Simbock, TKC, Mini Ferm, City Council, Essos, Emana, and Soa, just to name these few are experiencing a surge in business. The unexpectedly cold weather appears to have prompted more sex joints to open earlier, often as early as 7:00pm, in an effort to capitalize on increased customer demand.

Despite the obvious increase in patronage, some joints are experiencing a low turn out in business. Nevertheless, sex hawkers are reluctant to discuss the impact of the weather on their business.

While some briefly acknowledged the uptick in clients, most preferred to maintain a low profile. “I am on duty and doesn’t need disturbance,” a sex hawker said while rushing for a customer.

The weather in Yaounde since July 1 has been changeable, with extreme shifts between light hot and cold temperatures. Unlike typical weather patterns for the region, the city has experienced drizzling rainfall.

“I haven’t experienced this type of weather in Yaounde before,” said a city dweller. “We’ve had extreme cold in recent days.”

Abandoned bad roads have deteriorated significantly, especially during this challenging period. Silas expressed deep concern about the weather’s impact, stating, “It doesn’t rain heavily, but when it drizzles, the rain is actually cold. I believe many people will fall ill because of this.”

Mary Stella shared her family’s experience with illness due to the weather, stressing the reality of climate change. “We should be better prepared, especially those who are skeptical about it,” she said.

With many city dwellers battling with colds and flu doctors have advise city dwellers to stay warm by wearing thick clothing and to seek medical attention if they experience any unusual symptoms.

Meteorologists have warned that the unusually cold weather is expected to continue through the month of August.

Social Media Activist Junior Ngombe Release After Spending Nights In SED

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

23-year-old hairdresser and social media activist, Junior Ngombe, arrested in Douala on July 24, transferred to Yaoundé, has been released. He was released on July 31.

***Junior Ngombe (Middle) sitting with between Barrsiter Akere and others alongside his maother*** *(Picture Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

In a press conference following Ngombe’s release, Barrister Akere Muna, who led the defense counsel, announced that his client had been released on bail.

“This morning, we were informed that he would be released on bail. We signed the bail agreement, obligating us to ensure his appearance when required,” Barrister Akere stated.

He added, “He has not been charged yet. After the investigation, authorities may decide to either drop the case or press charges.”

However, the barrister highlighted the concerning trend of civilians being tried in military courts, a practice contradicting international treaties signed by Cameroon.

“These are issues that can be raised in due course. But it is crucial to emphasize that liberty is at stake,” he added.

He expressed satisfaction with Ngombe’s treatment while in Yaoundé and the court, noting that the personnel were considerate. “They could have made conditions harsher to intimidate him psychologically. Ngombe is intelligent, and I am impressed by his behavior.”

According to lawyers present at the press conference, unidentified individuals in civilian attire apprehended Ngombe in Douala without providing a reason. Ngombe was taken to a Gendarmerie station in Douala on July 24 before being transferred to the Secretariat of State for Defense (SED) in Yaoundé the following day.

In Yaoundé, Ngombe was questioned by a Colonel in charge of investigation about the reasons for his detention. When he stated he was unaware, authorities explained that he was suspected of committing offenses related to spreading false information and inciting violence.

***Junior Ngombe*** *(Picture Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

Barrister Akere revealed that upon learning of the incident, he accompanied other lawyers to be present during Ngombe’s testimony. His file was transferred to the court, returned to the SED on July 30, and brought back to court on July 31 before his release.

Meanwhile, Bernadette Nguele, Ngombe’s mother, expressed gratitude to the lawyers who supported her son during the ordeal. “It hasn’t been easy but I am happy to be going home now,” she said.

However, many believe Ngombe’s arrest is linked to TikTok videos where he encouraged voter registration for the 2025 presidential elections, advocated for democratic regime change, and challenged the authorities’ intolerance of criticism.

Since his arrest, civil society and opposition figures called for his release using the #FreeJuniorNgombe hashtag on social media. Human Rights Watch (HRW) demanded Ngombe’s release, dropping of charges, and respect for his rights to freedom of expression and opinion.

Maurice Kamto, National President of the Cameroon Renaissance Movement (MRC), issued a statement demanding Ngombe’s immediate release. He stressed that Ngombe represents a peaceful and engaged youth eager to participate in the democratic process. Kamto condemned the state’s silencing of dissenting voices and warned of severe consequences for the nation as the presidential elections approach.

Joshua Osih, President of the Social Democratic Front (SDF) and Member of Parliament for Wouri, voiced deep concern over Ngombe’s detention, highlighting his use of TikTok to advocate for peaceful change. The SDF pledged to investigate the circumstances of Ngombe’s arrest and urged the government for transparency.

The Center for Human Rights in Africa (CHRDA) declared Junior’s arrest and detention arbitrary in a statement released on July 30, 2024.

Cameroon has a history of suppressing dissent, with numerous political activists, human rights defenders, and journalists imprisoned. According to city dwellers along the streets of Yaounde, recent crackdown on freedom of expression is particularly alarming as the country approaches presidential elections.

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