Cameroon’s Indomitable Lions Secures Spot In 2025 AFCON

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Indomitable Lions of Cameroon have secured their place in the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament to be held in Morocco.

***Boris Enow celebrates his goal*** *(Photo Credit: FECAFOOT)*

A solitary goal from Boris Enow in the second half was enough to seal a 1-0 victory over Kenya in their Group J match in Kampala, Uganda. This win extended Cameroon’s lead at the top of the group to 10 points, effectively securing their qualification.

Despite early pressure from Kenya, Cameroon’s goalkeeper, Andre Onana, remained composed. The match remained goalless at halftime, despite both teams having chances.

The breakthrough came in the 63rd minute when Enow’s free-kick found the back of the net. Cameroon pushed for a second goal, but Kenya nearly equalized late in the game. However, Olunga’s shot was deflected for a corner.

Speaking after the game, Andre Onana said, “I think we’re already qualified. We came here to win, we did. Happy for the victory because we have shown that we are a great team. Am happy with how we played Now we are moving forward.”

He added, “Playing for the Cameroon national team is a great honor and also a great responsibility. Playing with this jersey is something extraordinary. We must always be prepared, I am very confident.”

With this victory, Cameroon has qualified for the 2025 AFCON with two matches still to play. They remain undefeated in the group.

Cameroon currently leads Group J with 10 points, followed by Zimbabwe with 5 points. Kenya is in third place with 4 points, and Namibia is at the bottom with no points.

BSFC Honors Colombe of Dja and Lobo Captain, Randy Kwalar

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Randy Kwalar, the captain of Colombe of Dja and Lobo Division, has been recognized by the Bui Sports Fans Competition (BSFC). The recognition was bestowed upon Kwalar on October 13th in Yaoundé during the fifth day of play of the ongoing 2024 edition of the BSFC.

***Bui Strikers Veteran President, Hyginus Sakah (L) and BSFC Coordinator, Godlove Meye (R ) honouring Randy Kwalar (middile)*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

Kwalar was celebrated for his exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment in leading Colombe to their historic first-ever Cameroon Cup Trophy. Speaking during the ceremony, Hyginus Sakah, the President of Bui Strikers, praised Kwalar for his leadership and dedication.

“We are immensely proud of you,” Sakah said. “This is just the beginning of great things to come. Continue in this spirit.”

***Bui Strikers Veteran President, Hyginus Sakah (L) and Randy Kwalar (R)*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

Colombe of Dja and Lobo Division clinched their first-ever Cameroon Cup trophy with a 1-0 victory over Aigle Roya of Menoua on September 29th. In the ongoing 2024 edition of the BSFC, Randy Kwalar plays for Promise Enterprise FC, which has qualified for the second round of the competition.

Kwalar has been a key player in the South Regional team, which has been performing well in the Cameroon Elite One Championship. Before joining Colombe, Kwalar played for Yong Sport Academy of Bamenda, where he was also the team captain. He has also played for several other elite one and two teams in the country including Kumbo Strikers N. FC.

***Promise FC team mates celebrating with Randy after BSFC recognition (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)***

Kwalar has a history of success in the BSFC, an annual football tournament aimed at identifying and promoting talented players from Bui Division in the Northwest Region of Cameroon. Since 2007, the competition has played a crucial role in spearheading community development through sports.

Players from Bui Division who have participated in the BSFC have gone on to achieve great success both in Cameroon and abroad, with some even representing the country at the senior national team level. The competition also fosters peace and social cohesion.

BSFC 2024: Nso Boys FC, Promise Enterprise FC Secure Second Round Berths

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Nso Boys FC and Promise Enterprise FC have both secured their spots in the second round of the ongoing 12th edition of the Bui Sports Fans Competition (BSFC) in Yaoundé. The two teams qualified on October 13th after their final Group A matches.

***Nso Boys FC*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

In the first match of the day, Takijah FC, despite a 3-0 victory over Nso Boys FC, were unable to advance to the next round. Nso Boys FC benefited from their previous wins. However, the match served as a showcase for Takijah FC’s skills, as they aimed to finish the competition on a high note.

Takijah FC started the match with a with 10 players but dominated the early stages, taking the lead in the eighth minute through a goal from Perez Dimale. Despite Nso Boys FC’s efforts to equalize, Takijah FC maintained their lead, going into halftime with a 1-0 advantage.

**Nso Boys FC and Takijah FC battling for supremacy** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

In the second half, the light rain did not deter either team’s determination. Nso Boys FC continued to press for an equalizer, but Takijah FC’s defense held firm. In the 65th minute, Lawrence Njodzeka doubled Takijah FC’s lead, and Innocent F. sealed the victory with a third goal in the 88th minute.

The second match of the day was a highly anticipated clash between Promise Enterprise FC and NDECA FC. Both teams tied on points needed a win to secure their place in the second round. The match was a tense affair, with both teams creating numerous chances.

***Promise Enterprise FC*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

However, Kelly Fru broke the deadlock for Promise Enterprise FC in the 30th minute, giving his team a slender lead at halftime. NDECA FC fought back in the second half, equalizing through Nicodemus Makeje in the 69th minute.

Nevertheless, Promise Enterprise FC regained the lead just fifteen minutes later through a penalty from Macgregor Veraloh. Veraloh again completed his brace with another goal in the 88th minute, putting Promise Enterprise FC firmly in control. NDECA FC managed to score a consolation goal in extra time, but it was not enough to prevent their elimination as Promise FC sealed the day with Fonyuy Platini.

***Promise FC and NDECA FC during their last Group match*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

Nso Boys FC and Promise Enterprise FC (Group A) have therefore qualified for the second round of the BSFC. Their impressive performances have set them up for exciting challenges in the next stage of the competition.

Environmental Leaders Chart Data-Driven Path for Sustainable Biodiversity Management

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Environmental leaders from across Africa have outlined strategies to promote the sustainable management of the continent’s biodiversity and ecosystems through data-driven approaches. This was the outcome of a three-day event held from October 8 to 11 in Dakar, Senegal.

***Participants at the first Annual Meeting of the Regional Centres of Excellence for Biodiversity and forests in Africa.*** *(Photo by Gilberte Koffi/CIFOR-ICRAF.)*

The First Annual Meeting of the Regional Centers of Excellence for Biodiversity and Forests in Africa brought together 50 participants from governments, donors, multilateral organizations, regional bodies, research institutions, and other key environmental stakeholders.

The aim was to develop a transformative roadmap for the sustainable management of Africa’s vast environmental resources and rich biodiversity, including forests, water bodies, and wildlife.

Stakeholders stressed the need to ensure that Africa’s forests, ecosystems, and biodiversity are sustainably managed. This will enable them to continue providing essential services, such as food, water, fuel, and shelter, that contribute to the well-being of local populations while supporting rapid economic growth and development across the continent.

Speaking during the opening ceremony, Prof. Daouda Ngom, Senegal’s Minister of Environment and Ecological Transition, expressed Senegal’s gratitude for hosting the first Annual Meeting of the Regional Centers of Excellence for Biodiversity and Forests in Africa.

He added, “This is a great initiative that will enable African countries to access quality data and share best practices for the effective management of the continent’s environmental resources, forests, biodiversity, and ecosystems, which are vital for our well-being and economic development.”

Jean-Marc Pisani, Ambassador and Head of the European Union Delegation to Senegal, stated, “This Regional Centers of Excellence initiative seeks to strengthen the Africa-EU partnership on science, technology, and innovation, with a special focus on the science-policy interface.”

He added, “We are committed to enhancing the technical capacity of the centers to deliver data, knowledge, and expertise across thematic areas that include biodiversity, forests, food security, agroecology, water, oceans, as well as climate and disaster resilience.”

Peter Minang, CIFOR-ICRAF Director for Africa, highlighted the numerous threats facing Africa’s rich biodiversity and ecosystems, such as deforestation, land degradation, climate change, human-wildlife conflict, and environmental pollution. He emphasized that the Regional Centers of Excellence are crucial for the continent as they will enable the development of data-driven solutions to address these challenges.

Dr. Cheikh Mbow, Director General of the CSE (Senegal), noted that the Ecological Monitoring Center has the privilege of hosting the Centre of Excellence for Biodiversity and Ecosystems in West Africa. He expressed the center’s eagerness to collaborate with other centers of excellence in Africa to actively contribute to the monitoring and implementation of global biodiversity commitments, particularly through the implementation of National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans.

The Regional Centers of Excellence initiative is funded by the European Union and implemented by the Center for International Forestry Research and World Agroforestry (CIFOR-ICRAF) in collaboration with the Ecological Monitoring Centre (CSE) in West Africa, the Central Africa Forest Observatory (OFAC) in Central Africa, and the Regional Centre for Mapping of Resources for Development (RCMRD) in Eastern and Southern Africa, among other partners.

The Regional Centers of Excellence program supports three units in Africa, based in West Africa, Central Africa, and Eastern and Southern Africa. The centers are hosted by CSE, OFAC, and RCMRD respectively.

At MINPOSTEL Working Visit: CAMTEL Unveils Strategies To Combat Infrastructure Vandalism

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

National incumbent operator, Cameroon Telecommunications, CAMTEL has said, they have taken up strategies aimed at combating the rampant vandalism of its infrastructure.

***CAMTEL GM, Judith Yah Sunday (L) welcoming Minister Minette Libom Li Likeng (R)*** (*Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

The strategies were announced on October 11 in Yaoundé by CAMTEL’s Director General, Judith Yah Sunday épouse Achidi, during a working visit by the Minister of Post and Telecommunications, Minette Libom Li Likeng, and her team.

Speaking during the visit, Judith Yah Sunday emphasized that CAMTEL has faced numerous challenges in recent months, particularly regarding service quality.

Fully aware of Cameroonians’ expectations and its responsibilities, she stated that immediate corrective measures were taken to address these inconveniences. According to her, CAMTEL is committed to finding lasting solutions to strengthen its resilience in the face of these crises.

***CAMTEL GM, Judith Yah Sunday (L) and Minister Minette Libom Li Likeng (R)*** ***during the working visit*** (*Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

“Several external factors have contributed to this situation,” she explained. “Acts of vandalism targeting our infrastructure, especially optical fiber, have increased significantly in recent months.”

She added, “These acts of sabotage directly impact service continuity and disrupt user experience. In response, CAMTEL has intensified its collaboration with relevant authorities to protect its strategic infrastructure and bring the perpetrators to justice.”

In addition to vandalism, she pointed out that power supply challenges, including prolonged power cuts that affect technical equipment stability, and uncoordinated public works, have also caused damage to critical cables and equipment.

Despite these obstacles, the Director General said, CAMTEL has continued to implement initiatives to improve service quality. She stated that, the recent handover of the fiber optic cable deployed by ENEO is a significant step forward in optimizing connectivity nationwide.

***Minister Minette Libom Li Likeng visiting CAMTEL’s infrastructure***s (*Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

“CAMTEL has also signed an agreement with CAMWATER and is exploring opportunities with CAMRAIL to utilize rail corridors for fiber deployment. These initiatives aim to pool and leverage national infrastructures for the benefit of all,” she added.

The CAMTEL boss also stressed that these efforts can only be successful with the collective participation of public authorities and citizens in preserving infrastructure.

“Optical fiber, the backbone of the telecommunications network, must be considered a national asset, requiring collective vigilance,” she said.

Meanwhile, during a press conference after the working visit to CAMTEL, Orange Cameroun and MTN Cameroon, Minister Libom Li Likeng noted that the field mission was prompted by a resurgence of complaints related to service quality, including frequent network interruptions, slow internet connections, and poor voice quality.

***Minister Minette Libom Li Likeng speaking after visiting infrastructures*** (*Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

Going by her, the visit aimed to ensure that mobile operators are fulfilling their commitments made in 2023, especially as telecom service quality in Cameroon has deteriorated in recent months.

After listening to the problems and solutions presented, the Minister in the press conference said, there is need for strengthened dialogue and synergy among stakeholders to address the identified issues promptly.

She however, called on the Telecommunications Regulatory Board, ART to strengthen and modernize its system for monitoring and controlling operators’ contractual commitments, ensuring their full compliance with obligations.

She said, this requires the implementation of more rigorous monitoring and evaluation tools, including automated monitoring of network performance and appropriate sanctions are applied in the event of non-compliance.

2025 AFCON Qualifiers: Cameroon Dominates Kenya, Secures Top Spot In Group J

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Indomitable Lions of Cameroon have regained their position at the top of Group J in the 2025 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers with a convincing 4-1 victory over Kenya in Yaoundé on October 11.

Both teams entered the match with high stakes, knowing the importance of securing a win. Early on, Cameroon faced a setback when Christopher Wooh was injured following a collision and was replaced by Jean-Charles Castelletto in the 13th minute.

However, Cameroon took the lead through a penalty kick converted by captain Vincent Aboubakar, but Kenya responded with increased pressure. Martin Hongla extended Cameroon’s advantage with a long-range strike in the 39th minute.

Kenya pulled one goal back through Michael Olunga’s header from a free kick, but Cameroon quickly restored their two-goal lead with Bryan Mbeumo’s goal, through an assist from Christian Bassogog.

The first half ended with Cameroon leading 3-1. In the second half, Kenya continued to press forward, but Cameroon’s defensive resilience held firm. Christian Bassogog scored Cameroon’s fourth goal at the 55^th minutes with an assist from Hongla.

Despite Kenya’s efforts to reduce the deficit, Cameroon’s dominance prevailed. The final whistle confirmed their victory, extending their unbeaten record against Kenya to nine wins in confrontation between the two countries.

With seven points, Cameroon now sits two points clear of second-placed Zimbabwe, who defeated Namibia 1-0. Kenya is in third place with four points, while Namibia remains at the bottom of the group with zero points.

Since their early exit from the last AFCON, Cameroon has remained unbeaten under coach Marc Brys. They have recorded three wins and two draws in both World Cup and AFCON qualifiers. Additionally, Cameroon has not lost a match at the Yaoundé Omnisport Stadium since 1988.

2025 AFCON Qualifiers: Cameroon Coach, Marc Brys Confident Ahead of Kenya Clash

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Cameroon national team coach, Marc Brys, has expressed his team’s determination to give their best in the upcoming match against Kenya.

**Marc Brys speaking during the pre-match press conference**

The statement was made during a pre-match press conference in Yaoundé on October 10th, ahead of the crucial 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, AFCON qualifier.

“We approach this match with humility but are not overawed,” Brys stated. “We will strive to perform at our highest level, as we always do. Kenya is a formidable opponent with the same points as us, and we respect them. Our focus is on finding the right moments to exploit their weaknesses and secure a victory.”

Jackson Tchatchoua, who accompanied the coach said, “Our mentality remains unchanged since we arrived here. We have no choice but to win, especially on home soil with the passionate support of our fans. We possess a winning mindset and will give our all to achieve success.”

Cameroon and Kenya will renew their rivalry in a crucial 2025 AFCON qualifier on Friday, October 11^th. The two sides have faced off eight times previously, with Cameroon maintaining an unbeaten record. The Indomitable Lions and Harambee Stars have split their encounters in the group stage, each with a win and a draw.

Despite their unbeaten streak since the round of 16 exit at the last AFCON, Cameroon’s performances have been mixed. While they comfortably dispatched Namibia in their opener, a goalless draw against Zimbabwe raised eyebrows. However, the Lions will need to improve their attacking output to secure a place in the continental tournament.

Kenya, who missed out on the previous AFCON, have been in impressive form. They’ve suffered just one defeat in their last ten matches across all competitions and have kept clean sheets in several of those games. Their recent 2-1 victory over Namibia showcased their growing confidence.

Bryan Mbeumo, the in-form Brentford star, is expected to lead Cameroon’s attack. Kenyan-born Adam Wilson, currently on loan from Bradford City, has been making waves in the Welsh Premier League and could be a key player for the Harambee Stars.

Nso Traditional Secret Society, “Nwerong”, Confirms Ngonnso Cultural Festival, Calls for Peace

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The highest traditional secret society of Nso land, “Nwerong”has confirmed that the Ngonnso Cultural Festival, as decreed by the Paramount Fon of Nso, will take place this year from November 26 to 30. The society also called for peace to reign among the sons and daughters of the land.

***“Nwerong” moving to the Mbveh Market Square for the Announcement*** *(Photo Credit: De Lavmfu)*

The confirmation was made on October 9 in Kumbo during a public outing by “Nwerong” at the Mbveh Market Square. Speaking through an interpreter (Shey Mbisey), “Nwerong” urged the people of Nso to prioritize peace:

“Nso should hear… The first thing I am begging is that let there be peace in this land. There is nothing that can go well without peace.”

“Nwerong” added, “… I have accepted with you that the Ngonnso Cultural Week will take place.”

The secret society emphasized the importance of showcasing Nso’s traditions to the younger generation: “It is time to show the tradition of the land children so that they can see what Nso is made of.” The society further urged all compound heads to prepare their lands and pray for peace.

“Nwerong” cautioned families against the practice of “washing of Faays” and stressed the importance of thorough due diligence by competent persons before any candidate is presented for enthronement as a compound head.

Among other things, “Nwerong” encouraged mothers and the wives of their sons to maintain harmonious relationships and avoid unnecessary conflicts.

The Ngonnso Cultural Festival, the largest cultural event in Nso, is making a triumphant return after a seven-year break. The festival was suspended in 2017 due to the socio-political crisis in the Northwest and Southwest Regions.

This year’s edition, themed “The Culture of Peace and Reconciliation,” will take place from November 26 to 30, 2024.

The Ngonnso Cultural Festival commemorates Ngonnso, the mythical founder and mother of the Nso people. In the 1950s, Nso residents began an annual cultural week to celebrate this Nso hero, warrior, and founder. Yaya Ngonso, as she is also known, was the first Fon (head) of Nso.

BSFC Day 5 Match Preview: Teams On Brink As Fate Hangs In Balance

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The stakes are high for Group A teams in the BSFC competition as they prepare for their do-or-die matches this Sunday, October 13^th.

***Nso Boys vs Promise Enterprise (3rd day of play)*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

With only two spots available in the next round from the group, the pressure is mounting on each team to deliver a strong performance when they face each other in the 5^th day of play in BSFC.

Promise Enterprise vs NDECA FC

This Sunday’s clash between Promise Enterprise and NDECA FC promises to be a must watched encounter, as both teams fight for their survival in the competition. This will be their first-ever meeting, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the match.

With three points each, Promise Enterprise and NDECA FC are currently occupying the second and third positions in the group. A victory for either side would secure their place in the next round, while a loss could prove fatal to their tournament hopes.

Given the high stakes, fans can expect a fierce battle between these two rivals. The talent and experience within both squads ensure that the match will be a spectacle for fans to enjoy.

***NDECA FC*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

Nevertheless, this encounter promises to be a high-scoring affair, as both teams possess a wealth ready to deploy it during the match day. However, midfield battle will be crucial, as the teams will be seeking to kill and control the tempo of the game besides creating scoring chances.

While a draw would favor Promise Enterprise’s chances of qualifying, a victory for either team could dramatically alter the group standings. This Sunday’s match is shaping up to be a must-watch for fans of the competition.

Takijah FC vs Nso Boys

Takijah FC and Nso Boys will clash in another match of the day. The two teams will have a story of their own to tell when they meet for the first time in the BSFC.

***Takijah FC*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

Nso Boys will surely be playing the match relaxed, given that they are already a step into the next phase of the competition. From every indication, they will be playing with confidence and aiming to maintain their unbeaten streak. A victory on Sunday would solidify their lead and give them a significant advantage heading into the final stages of the tournament.

Takijah FC, on the other hand, are already eliminated from contention but are determined to finish the season on a positive note. Despite having no stakes in the competition, they will be motivated to play with pride and leave a lasting impression. A win would provide much-needed morale boost and set them up for a successful campaign in the next edition of the BSFC.

From all indications, fans can expect an exciting atmosphere filled with excitement, anticipation, and passionate support. As their favorite teams battle it out on the field, should be ready to cheer their teams to success as every goal, every tackle, and every save could be crucial in determining which teams advance.

Nso Indigenes Hail Return Of Ngonnso Cultural Festival As Step Towards Peace, Reconciliation

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Sons and daughters of Nso land in Bui Division, Northwest Region of Cameroon, have celebrated the announcement of the 2024 Ngonnso Cultural Festival as a significant step towards peace and reconciliation in the land.

***Cultural Display during the 2017 edition***

The news was shared in a communiqué released by the executive committee of the Nso Development and Cultural Organization (NSODA), signed by the Paramount Fon of Nso, HRH Sehm Mbinglo I and the President General, Shey Tadze Adamu Mbiydzela.

“I’m overjoyed to witness this moment,” said Samson Kpuyuf, an indigene of the land. “The return of the Ngonnso Cultural Festival is a monumental step towards restoring peace and reconciliation in Nso land.”

Shey Nathan Fai echoed this sentiment, noting that the festival’s return is the most significant event in the Nso land history, especially given the ongoing crisis that began in late 2016.

“I commend our Fon and the leaders of NSODA for this great initiative, which I believe will bring much-needed peace and reconciliation to the land,” Fai stated.

Emilia Tirnyuy expressed similar enthusiasm, saying, “Nso people, both within and outside the land, yearn for peace. I’m proud and happy that as a Nso woman, we’re taking steps towards that goal. The return of the Ngonnso festival is a giant leap forward.”

Many sons and daughters of the land have praised the leaders of Nso for their efforts to restore peace and reconciliation in a land deeply affected by the ongoing socio-political crisis in the Northwest and Southwest Regions of Cameroon.

Ngonnso Festival Returns After A 7-Year Pause

This year’s edition, themed “The Culture of Peace and Reconciliation,” will take place from November 26 to 30, 2024.

***Governor Lele L’Afrique and the then Minister of Culture, Prof. Mouelle Kombi at the event***

During the Ngonnso Cultural Festival, Nso people showcase their rich cultural heritage through traditional dances, art exhibitions, and crafts. The Nso people are people of the Bamenda Grass fields in the Northwest Region of Cameroon.

One of the festival’s objectives is to preserve and promote the Nso people’s cultural heritage. This heritage is evident in their arts, crafts, and historical sites.

Ngonnso, the matriarch of the Nso Dynasty, migrated from Rifum in the Adamawa Region in 1394. Her siblings, Nchare Yen and Mfoomban, founded the Bamoun and Mbamois Dynasties in the West Region and Bafia in the Center Region, respectively.

Historical records indicate that in 1394, three members; Mfoombam, Nchare Yen, and Ngonnso (Nchare Yen’s sister) of the Rifum Royal family in Bankim, Adamawa Region, Cameroon, left their home in anger due to a succession dispute.

In honor of this influential woman, the Nso people, under the leadership of their Fon, named their cultural festival after her. The Ngonnso Cultural Festival is a celebration and promotion of Nso culture to the world.

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