Edu Sport Academy Inspiring Kids at Holiday Camp

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Some 120 children from diverse backgrounds are taking part in a holiday camp organized by the Edu Sports Academy in Yaounde.

The camp, which began in June, aims to inspire and instill fundamental football skills in the young participants as well as cultivate responsible future footballers.

***Kids demonstrating their skills during a football match at Edu Sport Academy Holiday Camp*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

Speaking to the media, Gabriel Sevidzem Wirdzerem, CEO and Founder of Edu Sports Academy, expressed satisfaction with the progress made since the camp began a month and two weeks ago.

“We’ve seen significant improvement compared to previous years. I’m incredibly grateful to the parents for trusting Edu Sports during this challenging period,” he said.

While indicating that over 90 percent of the children present in the camp are internally displaced, he said, “They have learned a lot of things, including basic drills, ball control, passes, heading, football skills, managing emotions, and morals. Through the game, children learn about fair play, respect for opponents, and the importance of teamwork.”

When asked about the academy’s focus on children, he emphasized the need for Cameroon and Africa to invest in youth football to compete globally.

“The future of football lies in the hands of our youth. We must prioritize grassroots development and instill fundamental skills from a young age. That’s precisely what we’re doing here,” he explained.

Wirdzerem also highlighted the educational benefits of football. “Football is a powerful tool for breaking down barriers. We use the game to teach morals and fair play. It’s disheartening to see a child deny a handball when they know they’ve committed a foul. Immediately, we stop the game and educate them,” he said.

With the challenge of a lack of space for training, Edu Sports Academy is looking to the future with pride. “We will try to find a way to have a playground so that we can continue working with these children during school moments.”

Edu Sports CEO also belief in the transformative power of sports is evident in the academy’s holistic approach to development.

***Kids celebrating a goal during a football match at Edu Sport Academy Holiday Camp*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

The academy’s senior section is participating in the Mfoundi FECAFOOT League. Established in 2011 in Kumbo, Northwest Region, Edu Sports Academy relocated to the Center Region due to the ongoing crisis.

The academy’s vision is to create a world where education and sports work together to empower individuals and foster healthy, fulfilling lives. They are also committed to developing talent in various fields.

CBC Health Services: New Director Charged With Integrity As He Takes Helm

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

It is a new dawn in the Cameroon Baptist Convention Health Services (CBCHS) as the new Director has taken over the leadership of the department.

***Samuel Ngum, CBC Health Service Director*** *(Picture Credit: CBC)*

Samuel Ngum, the new man at the leadership of the services, has been challenged to embrace truth, fairness, and fight against corruption in the exercise of his duties.

The call was made by the Cameroon Baptist Convention (CBC) Executive President, Rev. Charlemagne Nditemeh, on July 27 in Bamenda during the installation and induction ceremony of the Director of CBC Health Services.

In a message, A Challenge to Lead with Integrity: A Call to Action, Rev. Nditemeh challenged the new director to lead with fairness and integrity.

***CBC Executive President, Rev. Charlemagne Nditemeh speaking during the Installation and induction ceremony*** *(Picture Credit: CBC)*

“Trust God in all you do. Embrace truth, fairness, and fight against corruption, tribalism, and embezzlement,” he urged.

Acknowledging the potential backlash on social media, he advised the director to stand firm and remain humble. “Always remember that we are a church, chosen by God to lead by example,” he concluded, emphasizing the importance of setting a positive example.

On their part, the council of all Protestant Churches in Cameroon extended its congratulations to the new director, pledging its collaboration.

“To whom much is given, much is expected,” stressing the trust placed in him by various organizations. Highlighting the importance of good leadership and the need for teamwork, they said, “The task ahead is daunting, but with our collaboration and God’s help, you will succeed. Never be afraid, for God is with you.”

***Rev. Pastors pray for Samuel Ngum, CBC Health Service Director*** *(Picture Credit: CBC)*

In his acceptance message, Samuel Ngum expressed gratitude towards the leaders and pioneers of CBCHS, celebrating both innovative achievements and the impactful legacies left by his predecessors.

He recognized the unwavering support from missionaries and partners whose collaboration is the lifeblood of CBC Health Services, acknowledging the exceptional leadership that thrives at every level of the organization.

He urged staff and partners to embody the values of Christ while casting aside fear, gossip, and doubt. He reminded everyone of their profound mission statement: “All we do is so that they may be brought to God through Jesus Christ.”

Reflecting on the leadership journey, he stressed, “We are not reinventing the wheel when it has proven to work.”

***Samuel Ngum, CBC Health Service Director (Middle)*** *(Picture Credit: CBC)*

Ngum’s focus is on fortifying the healthcare architecture to withstand challenges and augmenting infrastructure to prepare the organization for whatever lies ahead.

He is committed to developing transformative strategies that elevate the healthcare experience while actively expanding partnerships that enhance service delivery.

Ngum took over from Prof. Pius Tih Muffih, who headed the services for close to four decades. On May 3rd, Prof. Tih Muffih handed power to the new Director. Ngum described him as a library of knowledge and experience to tap from.

2023 Award Night: CENPA Recognizes Outstanding Achievements In Media, Public

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Some 25 outstanding journalists, media professionals, and organizations in Cameroon have been honored for their remarkable performance.

They were honored on July 25 in Yaounde during the maiden edition of the Cameroon English Newspaper Publishers Association (CENPA) Award Night.

***The Public during the CENPA Award Night*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

The ceremony was chaired by Prof. Felix Zogo, Secretary General at the Ministry of Communication, who represented the Minister of Communications Rene Emmanuel Sadi. He was accompanied by a host of government and diplomatic dignitaries.

During the occasion, Prof. Felix Zogo appreciated CENPA for the lovely initiative, indicating that this move is a great step in the right direction. He expressed hope to see several of these occasions organized next year.

***Minister Minette Libom Lilikeng hands Community Mobilisation Icon to Minister Felix Mbayu*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

On his part, Christian Ngah Mbibgo, President of CENPA, pointed out that the celebration goes beyond recognizing individual achievements.

“It serves as a platform to highlight the vital role media workers play in our society. Journalists and media professionals, often unsung heroes, inform, educate, and inspire the public,” he said,

According to Ngah, recognizing their efforts is also acknowledging the significant impact they have on their communities and society at large.

International Legal Consultant and Anti-Corruption Icon, Barrister Akere Muna, President of the Jury, highlighted the accuracy of the selection process stressing that the jury faced a challenging task due to the high caliber of nominees.

***Minister Minette Libom Lilikeng hands Best English Language Newspaper to The Guardian Post Publisher, Christian Ngah Mbibgo*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

However, he added that the jury was particular in its evaluations to ensure that the most deserving candidates were honored for their performance.

In some of the awards handed out, CENPA recognized Minette Libom Lilikeng, Minister of Post and Telecommunications, for promoting digitalization in Cameroon.

The Minister Delegate in charge of the Commonwealth at the Ministry of External Relations, Felix Mbayu, was awarded for his humanitarian endeavors.

Judith Yah Sunday Epse Achidi, Director General of Cameroon Telecommunications, was named the woman of the year, while the Media Personality of the Year was handed to Joe Chebonkeng, President of the National Communication Council of Cameroon.

The Post newspaper was recognized as the Best Anglo-Saxon Styled Print Media, while Kolle George Nkume (PhD) was awarded Best Radio Pidgin Newscaster for his work at Mount Cameroon FM in Buea, Southwest Region of Cameroon.

***Barrister Akere Muna hands Best Radio Pidgin newscaster to George Kolle Nkume*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

NEWSWATCH was recognized as the English language newspaper with the most creative headlines, and Bennen Buma of CRTV was awarded Best TV Journalist. The Municipal Updates was given the Best Local Councils Reporting Print Media award, while Ben Meno Pufong was awarded Best TV News Presenter.

Some of the other awards handed out include:

Fastest Growing Newspaper: The Voice
Most Resilient Print Media: The Sun
Best Radio Journalist: Albert Njie Mbonde
Best Investigative Journalist: Nalova Akua
Best Radio Sports Journalist: Rene Katche
Best Print Media Journalist: Maxcel Fokwen
Most Authoritative Newspaper: The Median
Best Environment Reporting: Eco-Outlook
Best TV Sports Reporter: Daniel Ekonde
Best TV Pidgin Newscaster: Smart Njikang Gabriel

Several prestigious awards were presented to leading private financial institutions for their outstanding contributions to enhancing the lives of Cameroonians through initiatives such as expanding access to credit and promoting financial literacy.

At SAGO 2024: CAMTEL Assures Sufficient Network Capacity To Drive Development

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Cameroon Telecommunications, CAMTEL, has affirmed its robust network capacity to drive development and improve the well-being of Cameroonians.

***Judith Yah Sunday Epse Achidi, DG of CAMTEL speaking during the conference*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

The assurance was made on July 24 in Yaoundé during the ongoing Trade Fair for Government Action better known by its French acronym SAGO. The 2024 edition is themed “Governance and the improvement of the living conditions of citizens.”

Speaking at a conference flanked by close collaborators, CAMTEL’s Director General, Judith Yah Sunday Epse Achidi, stress the company’s capacity to continue providing services due to its diverse network infrastructure.

“With four routes between Yaoundé and Douala – an underground cable, the ENEO cable, and an additional route via Bafoussam – we ensure redundancy and service continuity,” she said. “Even if one route is disrupted, communications automatically switch to another, ensuring uninterrupted service.”

***Judith Yah Sunday (Middle) accompanied by close collaborators during the conference*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

While underscoring its commitment to quality service, the DG recognized the role of CAMTEL as the backbone of Cameroon’s digital transformation. She pointe that the company is actively working to enhance service quality.

Addressing criticisms about poor electronic communications, the Director General clarified that CAMTEL is the sole operator authorized to provide network capacity to all telecommunications operators in Cameroon. While CAMTEL supplies the capacity to MTN and Orange, she said, the quality of service to end-users depends on these operators’ distribution channels.

“When communication is poor, it indicates issues with MTN and Orange’s distribution channels. We must publicly clarify this and insist that they stop attributing these problems to CAMTEL’s shortcomings,” she asserted.

However, CAMTEL highlighted its contributions to improving Cameroonians’ lives through modernized government services. From simplified customs procedures to expedited passport issuance, teleworking, and e-declaration, the company demonstrates its commitment to enhancing daily life.

***CAMTEL DG and officials pose for a family picture after the conference*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

The DG also maintained that CAMTEL has also established an ecosystem to support startups, with initiatives like the Blue Tech Challenge. In the main time, the company aims to digitalize decentralized territorial authorities, promote e-agriculture, and reposition community telecenters.

On his part, Christian Etoundi Ngaba, Head of CAMTEL’s marketing department, emphasized the company’s focus on smart cities projects, including land registry, tax collection, and parking management digitization. With international recognition and a five-year turnover doubling from FCFA 100 billion to FCFA 200 billion, CAMTEL aims to become a leading telecommunications company in sub-Saharan Africa by 2030.

***CAMTEL stand at SAGO*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

It is worth noting that the 13^th edition of SAGO, launched on July 22, by Communication Minister, René Emmanuel Sadi, brings together 245 exhibitors and is attracting over 200,000 visitors by its July 27 conclusion. Exhibitors include Government structures, parastatals, and businesses showcasing their products, services, and job opportunities to visitors.

CBC, PIC Northwest Sign MoU To Promote Inclusion Of PWDs

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Cameroon Baptist Convention (CBC) and the Public Independent Conciliator (PIC) for the Northwest Region have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at enhancing the inclusion of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in the region.

***Simon Tamfu Fai and Samuel Ngum exchanging MoU*** *(Picture Credit: CBC)*

The MoU was signed on July 19th in Bamenda by Samuel Ngum, Director of CBC Health Services, representing the CBC, and Simon Tamfu Fai, representing the PIC Northwest.

Speaking after the signing, Samuel Ngum stressed the significance of the partnership: “We couldn’t have found a better partner than the Public Independent Conciliator. This MoU reflects our shared commitment to human rights, justice, and equity, particularly for PWDs. We aim to ensure equal access to resources and opportunities for all members of our communities, especially those often marginalized.”

***Simon Tamfu Fai and Samuel Ngum brandishing MoU*** *(Picture Credit: CBC)*

According to information, the MoU aims to integrate persons with disabilities into development projects while preventing and eliminating direct or indirect discrimination against them.

Additionally, it will strengthen safeguarding and child protection systems within regional councils and address concerns related to the treatment and rights of individuals with disabilities.

The collaboration between the CBC and the PIC Northwest is seen a as a mile stone that marks a significant step towards creating a more inclusive society for persons with disabilities in the region.

1000 Pastors, Church Leaders To Be Train To Facilitate Trauma Healing & Recovery

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Some 1,000 Pastors and Church Leaders in the Cameroon Baptist Convention, CBC will be trained to Facilitate Trauma Healing and Recovery within and without the Church and Transform Personal, Group, and Community Conflicts.

The CBC Department of Evangelism and Missions in partnership with some of its partners have program train Pastors and Church Leaders in 10 Fields of CBC.

Following a 2-day training program for trainers that ended recently, trainers will engage with pastors and church leaders in four regions scheduled for 2024: Kumba (August), Magba (October), Gebauer (October), and Bamenda (December).

In the context of the Anglophone crisis, Pastors and Church Leaders now have before them Christians and community members who have been traumatized and who experiencing various forms of conflict or another.

Some of these people have no healthy relationship with their Creator and lack peace with themselves. Some have peace with God but are not at peace with their neighbors.

If trauma is not adequately processed (healed), unhealed trauma can linger and this can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and re-traumatization.

The initiative aims to empower the church to assist in trauma recovery and conflict transformation within and within the church by training 1,000 Pastors and church leaders to equip them to counsel and support up to 5,000 individuals within the community.

André Onana Excited After Captaining Manchester United In Pre-Season Match

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Cameroonian International André Onana says it’s a huge honor to captain Manchester United FC. He made the statement shortly after Manchester United defeated Glasgow Rangers 2-0 on Saturday, July 20, as part of their pre-season preparations.

***Andre Onana during Manchester United FC vs Glasgow Rangers FC match*** *(File Picture)*

“It’s huge to be captain of Manchester United. It’s also great to play with young players because we were in their shoes many years ago. We try to help them as our elders did in the past,” Onana said.

Brazilian captain Casemiro was replaced in the starting lineup after 46 minutes. And throughout the second half, it was Cameroon international André Onana who captained the Red Devils.

Onana also expressed excitement about Manchester United’s new signing, Leny Yoro, after his impressive first appearance for the club in pre-season.

“If you want to be a Manchester United player, you must have quality, and he’s already shown himself in the first half. He’s a young, talented player, good on the ball, so we’re going to enjoy him this season,” he said.

He added, “We’re here to help him. We’re going to give him time; we know he’s going to be alright, and we have very good scouts here, so if they brought him in, that means he’s got a lot of quality.”

Regarding the changes to Erik ten Hag’s backroom staff, Onana said, “I think it’s very positive for the whole club. It’s about all of us because we win and lose together. The club decided to make a lot of changes, so as players, we just have to follow the decision.”

He concluded, “We’re going to America next week to prepare for the Premier League. It’s a tough league, the best league in the world, so we’ll be ready for the new season. Last season, I don’t want to talk about it [laughs], so this season, it’s going to be nice.”

SIARC 2024: This Year, We Expect To Attract At Least 15 000 Visitors – Minister Achille Bassilekin III

Anna Ndifon Ting, Daisy Martina, Maurine Akum & Finels Mbabo (ASMAC Journalism Students on Internship at The Post)

The Minister of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises, Social Economy and Handicrafts (MINPMEESA), Achille Bassilekin III, has said that approximately 15,000 visitors are expected to attend the 2024 edition of the International Craft Fair of Cameroon (SIARC), which kicks off on July 22.

***Minister Bassilekin III speaking during the press conference***

Minister Bassilekin III made the statement on July 19 during a press conference aimed at outlining Cameroon’s preparedness for the Craft Fair.

“This year, we expect to attract at least 15,000 visitors,” said Achille Bassilekin III, expressing hope for a higher turnout than the previous edition held in 2021. The event will run from July 22 to 31, 2024, at the Esplanade of the National Museum.

Inspired by the National Development Strategy 2020-2030 (NDS30), the 8th International Craft Fair of Cameroon will be celebrated under the theme “Digital Technology: A Tool for the Craft Industry’s Sustainable Development and Craft People’s Global Inclusion.”

Tunisia has been chosen as the guest of honor to enable Cameroon to learn from its expertise in craft creativity and ability to adapt to technological changes. Special delegations will also arrive from Burkina Faso and Congo.

Speaking further, Minister Bassilekin III stated that SIARC is a platform for information sharing, training, and exchanging best practices on the progress, reforms, and public policies implemented to promote the development of the craft ecosystem at both national and international levels.

“The handicraft sector, which the government aims to make competitive and efficient, cannot remain on the sidelines of this global dynamic,” he said. “It will also be an opportunity for craftspeople to make good deals during special purchasing operations for the handicraft products on display.”

For ten days, craftsmen from Cameroon and beyond will showcase their craftsmanship in 510 stands at the National Museum. Craft operators, government officials, businessmen, ICT experts, and journalists will participate in capacity-building workshops. They will also organize conferences and debates to discuss the role of digital technology in the craft industry and its future direction. Craft products from different regions will also be exhibited.

Given that digitalization plays a key role in the economic growth of nations, Minister Bassilekin III noted that MINPMEESA has embarked on modernizing production tools, manufacturing processes, and ultimately product modeling and physical aspects.

He said numerous technological innovations have been implemented to improve the craft industry and advance its technological integration, including the provision of infrastructure. He added that handicraft villages have been established in all regions of the country, with Foumban, Mbalmayo, and the Yaoundé International Handicraft Center standing out due to their high-quality information technology equipment in the process of being connected to fiber optics.

While the Ministry has begun offering capacity-building courses in computer skills and plans to expand these efforts through future collaborations with training institutions, an online marketing and exhibition platform has been created at the Yaoundé International Handicraft Center, among other initiatives.

King Luca Joins Akumba Music

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Akumba Music has signed a promising new talent, Sah Muhamed Umaru, known by artistic name as King Luca.

The 21-year-old nursing student from Nso tribe in the Northwest Region of Cameroon has inked a seven-year deal that covers artiste development, music production, distribution, and image management.

King Luca caught the attention of Akumba Music with a standout verse on Elisha K’s “Joana” Open Verse Challenge.

His captivating performance led the label to feature him on the remix, which will be included in Elisha K’s upcoming EP, “Days of Elisha Epistle II.”

Akumba Music was impressed by King Luca’s originality, lyrical skills, and delivery. The label believes he has the potential to become a major star and is excited to nurture his talent.

Fans are looking forward to hearing King Luca when the “Joana Remix” drops as part of the “Days of Elisha Epistle II” EP.

Salatiel Unveils New Album, “Family Man”

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Cameroonian singer and producer Salatiel Livenja Bessong, known by his artistic name Highman General, has released a new album, “Family Man.” This is Salatiel’s second studio album, following his debut, “Africa Represented,” released on February 26, 2021.

***Salatiel Livenja Bessong, aka Highman General***

The 2021 album included a remix of Beyoncé’s “Water,” featuring Salatiel and Pharrell Williams. The new 11-track album highlights collaborations with MIMIE and Charlotte Dipanda on track 6, “Closer,” and LOCKO on track 11, “First Lady.” “Family Man” is currently available exclusively on Boomplay.

Born in 1987, Salatiel is the CEO of Alpha Better Records. He began his career in 2014, the same year the label was founded. He has produced hit songs for artists such as Mr. Leo, Daphne, Askia, and Blaise B.

Salatiel was named the best producer at the Urban Jamz Awards in 2018 and received six nominations in 2019 for Best Music Video Performance, Best Music Producer, Best Afrobeat/Pop Song, Best Collabo, Best Male Artist, and Artist of the Year. His single “Fab Kolo” won the MTN Cameroon Make the Contest competition.

In July 2019, he announced the release of his first international album, “Africa Represented,” on major streaming platforms. The album earned him a nomination at the AFRIMMA Awards 2019.

A singer, songwriter, and producer from Batibo in the Northwest Region of Cameroon, Salatiel’s music genres include Afro-pop, Afrobeats, and hip hop. He is proficient in vocals, guitar, and piano.

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