New Era Begins As NSODA Newly Elected Officials Installed

By Etienne Mainimo Etienne

A new era has dawned for the Nso Cultural and Development Association (NSODA) with the installation of its newly elected officials in Bamenda, Northwest Region of Cameroon, on July 19, 2025. The ceremony was chaired by His Royal Highness, the Paramount Fon of Nso, Sehm Mbinglo I, alongside other Fons of Nso land, their representatives, and various administrative dignitaries among others.

During the installation, the Paramount Fon, urged the new executive team to prioritize peacebuilding within Nso land and beyond. He called on them to serve the people diligently and work toward making Nso land prosperous.

In his address, NSODA President Sheey Tadze Adamu Mbiydzela expressed gratitude to all attendees, particularly the Fons, for gracing the occasion. He called for unity among the Nso people to foster a peaceful and thriving community. “ If we stand here today, it is because of our love for Nso and our commitment to listening to the guidance of our fathers,” Sheey Tadze Adamu said. “If we stand here today, i believe strongly, it is because we want to see the growth of Nso, and we must move forward with one voice.”

He stressed the importance of peace and collaboration, particularly among the Fons who lead the community. “If we are here today, it is a clear sign that we have embraced peace and love. This unity must extend to our Fons and everyone in Nso,” he added. Reflecting on the past, he urged the community to learn from history, embrace peace, and take the growth of Nso seriously. “We must ask ourselves if we are moving forward or backward,” he said.

Sheey Tadze Adamu highlighted NSODA’s achievements over the past two years, noting its tireless efforts to drive development through partnerships with other organizations. Looking ahead, NSODA plans to establish the Nso Farmers Marketing Cooperative and promote coffee cultivation in the land. Additionally, the Nso Arts and Cultural Heritage initiative has been created to collaborate with all fondoms to preserve and strengthen Nso’s cultural heritage.

Addressing artists, entertainers, sportspeople, and cultural promoters, Sheey Tadze Adamu praised their contributions and encouraged the youth of Nso to support these efforts. He also called on the Nso diaspora to uphold truth and reject hatred and division.

During the ceremony, several individuals were recognized for their significant contributions and dedication to the development of Nso land.

The new NSODA executive, led by Sheey Tadze Adamu, assumes leadership at a pivotal moment, as the return of the Ngonnso statue—the mother and cultural symbol of the Nso people—is set for September 2025. The statue, which has been in Germany for over a century, is seen as a turning point in the journey toward peace and unity in Nso land when it returns.

Nso sons and daughters on their part have promised to rally behind the new leadership, urging unity in the pursuit of a greater Nso land. While indicating that the need for peace, they have called on every Nso man and woman to embrace it. They have also pointed out that collective efforts are essential to sustain peace and drive development.

(Picture Credit: De Lavmfu)

Cameroonians Divided On Biya’s 2025 Candidacy For Upcoming Presidential Elections

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

As the 2025 presidential elections approach, a noticeable divergence of opinion has emerged among Cameroonians, particularly the youth in Yaoundé, regarding President Paul Biya’s candidacy. While some have urged the long-serving leader to step down with integrity, others believe his continued leadership is a patriotic duty.

**Paul Biya, National President of the CPDM: Presidential Candidate**

The discussions intensified on July 15 as The Post gathered reactions from residents. Many expressed a desire for President Biya, the presumed candidate for the Cameroon People Democratic Movement (CPDM) party, to consider retirement given his advanced age.

“When President Paul Biya’s intention to run for the upcoming Presidential Elections first emerged, it didn’t sound serious to me, but now I think he is earnest,” said Samson, who preferred to use only his first name. “If I had the power to advise him, I would urge him not to run again. At this time, he deserves a well-earned rest in retirement.”

Ethel who also preferred to be called only by her first name said, “I don’t subscribe to the idea that President Paul Biya should stand again for the upcoming elections. He has given his all to the country, and we appreciate him immensely; we hold him in high esteem. I believe it is time for him to leave the stage now.”

Stephen, a taxi driver, added, “I want to think that those calling for our president to stand in the upcoming elections do not truly care for him. As party comrades, they should be advising him and proposing better ways of serving this country. He has done so for almost 50 years. What more can we expect from him now? I believe he has given his best.”

However, a different perspective emerged from other young Cameroonians who believe President Biya still has much to offer, especially having learned from past experiences.

“I am one who thinks his decision to run for the upcoming elections is a well-crafted and sound one,” stated Peter. “He surely must have noted that there are several things he has not addressed and wants to rectify them now. It’s never too late.”

Joan Marie concurred, “Let us allow our President to stand again. I believe that his decision to stand again in the upcoming elections was well thought out. Let us allow him to consider his options as he galvanizes his party comrades for another mandate. To me, leadership has no age limit.”

Meanwhile, Kelly Thomas argued that despite Biya’s age, he has been blessed with a strong spirit and body, which is why Cameroonians should allow him to continue leading the country. “He still has the spirit and might to lead Cameroon, which is why he should be given the chance because he masters the environment.”

Since President Paul Biya made known his candidacy, tongues have been wagging, particularly among the youth. Beer parlors and entertainment spots have become centers for these discussions. While some youths see no problem with Biya running, others contend that it is time for a young and energetic person to take over and inject fresh ideas.

President Biya, who has been in power since 1982, would be seeking an eighth term. He is expected to face challenges from a number of political parties poised to change the narrative. If re-elected in October 2025, Paul Biya, already one of the world’s longest-serving heads of state, would be 99 years old when his mandate ends in 2032.

“Crown For A Cause” Project Launched To Promote Mental Wellness In Cameroon

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

A new initiative, “Crown for a Cause,” aims to empower voices and inspire change for mental wellness in Cameroon. Launched in June 2025, the project is coordinated by Ethel Kindzeka Abo, a passionate mental health advocate and public health enthusiast.

**Ethel Kindzeka Abo, a passionate mental health advocate and public health enthusiast**

Speaking to this reporter, Abo shared her insights on the pressing mental health challenges facing Cameroonians. “After living through the experience, I believe there is ample reason to acknowledge the damage caused by mental health issues and to combat the silent epidemic affecting our people,” she said.

Abo stressed the physical toll of emotional and psychological pain: “If the emotional and psychological pain people endure daily were to be manifested physically, you would be shocked at the alarming number of bruised bodies and broken bones you’d see around you.”

She noted that communities across the country are grappling with waves of crises, leading to prolonged stress, frustration, depression, and trauma. While some individuals remain unaware of mental health realities, others are silenced by fear of judgment and stigma.

“Just as we tend to a fever or a fracture, we must give the hurts of the heart and the stress of the mind the same attention,” Abo said. Her goal is to nurture the minds of Cameroonian youth, empowering them to build mental resilience and become agents of change in their communities.

“This journey is bigger than me; it’s about us as a community,” Abo said. She stressed the need for a collaborative approach to address gaps in mental health advocacy and response. “Crown for a Cause” is actively seeking partnerships and sponsorships to ensure the success of its inaugural edition.

Abo highlighted the vital role of youth in addressing mental health challenges: “Youths are closest to the rising challenge of mental ill health; they are uniquely positioned to create the change we need in our communities.”

The program, which is not a traditional beauty pageant, is a hybrid, three-month initiative for young people aged 15 to 35 who are passionate about mental health advocacy. Participants will gain valuable life skills, including communication, public speaking, and resilience, along with certified training in mental health advocacy and first aid.

“Crown for a Cause” seeks to harness the influence of beauty pageants for social advocacy, promoting community events that focus on mental health initiatives.

Barrister Mbah Eric Mbah Re-Elected President Of Cameroon Bar Association

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Barrister Mbah Eric Mbah has been re-elected as president of the Cameroon Bar Association. He was elected in the early hours of Wednesday, July 16, in Yaoundé, securing his second term.

Barrister Mbah, a seasoned lawyer from the Northwest Region who first took office in 2022, defeated contenders Anne Yolande Ngo Minyogo, Philippe Memong, and Arlette Ngoula Fotso. He garnered 1001 votes, significantly ahead of Ngo Minyogo (749), Memong (338), and Ngoula Fotso (265).

His re-election means that three Anglophones now hold the top positions within the Cameroon Bar Association: Bar President (Mbah Eric Mbah), President of the General Assembly (Ernest Gbaka), and Vice President of the General Assembly (Edward Ewule Lyonga).

Many observers did not anticipate Barrister Mbah Eric Mbah’s re-election, especially given Barrister Ernest Gbaka’s election as President of the General Assembly on Monday, July 15. Conventionally, and based on a gentleman’s agreement, if an Anglophone holds the position of President of the General Assembly, the Batonnier (Bar President) role is typically reserved for a Francophone, and vice versa.

Speaking after his re-election, Batonnier Mbah Eric thanked his colleagues and the Bureau for their diligent work and tireless efforts throughout the election process. “I want to equally thank the Cameroon Bar for confiding in me, for investing in me once more its confidence,” he stated.

Fifteen Bar Council members, who will oversee the affairs of the Cameroon Bar Council for the next two years, were also elected during the Elective General Assembly. Notably, the President of the Cameroon Union of Young Lawyers was chosen by his peers to serve as a Bar Council member.

The newly constituted team at the Bar faces the crucial task of ensuring the association continues to thrive despite various challenges. Mbah’s re-election comes with a renewed commitment to his previous promises, including the construction of a Bar head office in Yaoundé, projected to cost FCFA six billion.

He is also expected to boost access to training for lawyers, digitalize training programs, and enhance the protection of the profession and its members from all forms of intimidation.

As stipulated in Article 12 of the Rules of Procedure of the Cameroon Bar Association, this will be Batonnier Mbah Eric’s final term. The President of the Bar serves for a two-year term, renewable only once. In his capacity as President of the Bar, he will continue to serve as a representative (representing the Order in all acts of civil life), administrator, consultative member, and conciliator.

African Development Bank Launches System To Boost Youth Employment Across Investments

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The African Development Bank (AfDB), in partnership with the International Labour Organization (ILO), has launched a transformative system to integrate youth employment, skills development, and entrepreneurship across all its investments.

**The Carnegie-Mellon university project in Kigali financed by the African Development Bank, aims to become educational leader in information and compter technology in Africa** (Source: African Development Bank Group (AfDB)

The approach, named the Youth, Jobs and Skills Marker System, aligns with the Bank’s latest Ten-Year Strategy. This strategy places Africa’s young people at the center of development efforts, aiming to maximize the impact of every dollar invested and transform demographics into a dividend.

The Marker System ensures that AfDB projects spanning diverse sectors—such as agriculture, transport, energy, water, and education—systematically incorporate components that enhance youth employability, foster entrepreneurship, and build market-relevant skills.

“The Youth, Jobs and Skills Marker System is about ensuring Africa’s young people have a real say and active role in building sustainable economies and creating jobs – not as passive recipients of youth programs,” said Dr. Beth Dunford, the Bank’s Vice President for Agriculture, Human and Social Development. “This transformation of Bank practices and systems is a step toward making sure our investments have a positive impact on Africa’s young women and men.”

The integrated system focuses on three key areas which include Supporting youth-led micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises through targeted investments and operational integration, and expanding access to practical, market-driven training and apprenticeships to enhance career prospects.

In addition, it also ensures Bank-funded projects create sustainable job opportunities, particularly by developing youth skills for employability and promoting youth-led businesses in priority value chains.

Each year, approximately 10 to 12 million young Africans enter the labor market, which currently offers only three million formal jobs annually. Over the coming decade, the Bank will prioritize youth entrepreneurship and mobilize private sector partnerships to strengthen industry-oriented skills training and job creation.

“[This initiative] is very important because it allows us to significantly contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal #8 that includes decent work for all,” said Peter van Rooij, Director of Multilateral Partnerships and Development Cooperation at the International Labour Organization. “It also allows the International Labour Organization to influence the Bank’s work, to support their lending that is more geared toward more job creation and better jobs in a sustainable way.”

The Youth, Jobs and Skills Marker System is modeled on the success of the AfDB’s Gender Marker System and its online dashboard, which categorizes Bank projects based on their contribution to gender equality and women’s empowerment. Similarly, the new system will feature an online platform enabling Bank staff and consultants to access real-time data for preparing country strategy papers, mid-term reviews, annual reports, project supervision, and reporting on youth-related skills, businesses, and job outcomes.

The Bank has just launched a pilot version of the Youth, Jobs and Skills Marker System, with full implementation planned for 2026. This system will enhance data tracking, improve estimates of youth skills attainment and employment, strengthen labor market information systems, and support policymakers in making evidence-based decisions that drive meaningful change.

The International Labour Organization provided technical support for the system’s development, with financial backing from the Bank’s Youth Entrepreneurship and Innovation Multi-Donor Trust Fund. The Youth, Jobs and Skills Marker System is the first deliberate action of its kind developed by a development finance institution worldwide.

African Education Dental Association Launched To Tackle Critical Shortage Of Professionals

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The African Education Dental Association (AEDA) has been officially established, marking a significant step towards addressing the severe shortage of dental professionals across the continent. The association was founded during the inaugural African Dental Education Symposium that took place at the Université Mohammed VI des Sciences de la Santé (UM6SS) in Casablanca, Morocco, from July 11 to 12.

**Dr. Cherif Lamine Togba addresses a crowd at the African Dental Education Symposium in Casablanca, Morocco** (Source: Mercy Ships)

The symposium brought together 24 representatives from across Africa. Officials emphasized the pressing need for such an organization, given the critical deficit of dental professionals in many African nations.

Initiated by Professor Ihsane Benyayha, Dean of the UM6SS Dental School, and supported by international surgical charity Mercy Ships, the gathering convened deans and directors from dental schools across the continent. This successful collaboration and the formation of the AEDA signify a new era of intentional cooperation and innovation in dental education.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Africa has a mere 0.44 dentists per 10,000 people, starkly contrasting with approximately 7 per 10,000 in many high-income countries. With only 84 dental schools operating across 26 African nations, it’s not surprising that as of 2021, an estimated 42% of Africa’s population suffers from untreated oral diseases.

“As African leaders, professors, and dentists, we can do a lot for our countries. We should help each other,” stated Professor Benyayha. “We have an American Dental Education Association and a European one… Why not an African Dental Education Association?”

Dr. David Ugai, Mercy Ships Country Director for Guinea, echoed this sentiment: “We’re at a time where it should no longer be acceptable for any country to have one dentist per 1 million people. Now is the time to solve this issue and overcome it. All the stakeholders and leaders we need are in this room. We need to ask ourselves: how can we take the next step?”

The African Dental Education Symposium’s core objective was to foster new and dynamic collaborations among African nations to train dental professionals, develop sustainable education programs, and enhance access to dental health across the continent.

The launch of the AEDA is central to this mission. Modeled after similar associations in the United States and Europe, the AEDA will provide African dental educators with a unified voice, a platform for sharing best practices, and a clear structure for long-term collaboration.

Professor Mohamed Siddick Fadiga, Head of the Department of the Université Gamal Abdel Nasser de Conakry Dental School in Guinea, expressed his enthusiasm: “This is the realization of a great dream… This symposium is a necessity because everyone was in their own countries, working in isolation. But thanks to the symposium, we will be able to join forces, combine efforts, and try to share our points of view. Cooperation between African countries will allow the various dental schools in Africa to speak with one voice.”

**Symposium attendees tour a new simulation lab at Mohammed VI University at the African Dental Education Symposium in Casablanca, Morocco** *(Source: Mercy Ships)*

The symposium also welcomed international leaders from organizations such as the FDI World Dental Federation, the American Dental Education Association, and the Association for Dental Education in Europe. Their presence underscored global support as African deans and program directors assume leadership in transforming dental education for future generations.

Mercy Ships has demonstrated its commitment to strengthening dental education. As of 2025, the organization has partnered with UM6SS to support the training of over 20 dental professionals from Guinea, Benin, and Madagascar in advanced specialization programs. Upon graduation, these students will return to their home countries, equipped to teach, mentor, and expand access to vital dental care in their communities.

“This symposium is the first to my knowledge. It’s the first time I’ve seen so many schools come together in one country to discuss the problems of dental education in Africa,” remarked Professor El Hadj Babacar Mbodj, Dean of UCAD Dental School in Senegal. “So, it’s quite clear that this symposium is part of the history of dental education in Africa, and I hope it’s just the first of more.”

Mercy Ships’ partnerships extend beyond Morocco, encompassing long-term collaborations with universities and ministries of health across Africa. These initiatives aim to expand infrastructure, enhance clinical training, and equip faculty to bolster dental healthcare capacity.

Professor Jeannot Randrianarivony, Dean of the University of Mahajanga Dental School in Madagascar, highlighted the impact of these collaborations: “In the school’s years of existence, we have never thought about the next generation of teachers. But thanks to this partnership with Mercy Ships, we have hope for the survival of the school with the continuity of these young graduates who will return with their diplomas to our country. So, this partnership, for us, is very precious.”

The African Dental Education Symposium perfectly embodies the core of Mercy Ships’ mission: to bring hope and healing through surgical care, education, training, and advocacy. Events like this symposium offer a promising glimpse into a sustainable future where African nations are empowered, educators are skilled, and communities have access to the essential dental care they need.

President Paul Biya Announces Candidacy For October 2025 Elections

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

President Paul Biya has officially declared his candidacy for the upcoming Presidential Elections, scheduled for October 12, 2025. The 93-year-old leader, who has been in power for 42 years, announced his decision via a tweet on July 13, stating simply, “I am a candidate.”

Paul Biya announced his candidacy in the same manner as he did in 2018.

In his declaration, President Biya indicated he had “heeded the numerous and insistent calls from the ten regions of the country and from the diaspora.” He further stressed his commitment to the nation, acknowledging the “pressing challenges” facing Cameroon.

“My determination to serve the country is commensurate with the serious challenges facing Cameroonians,” Biya stated. He added, “The well-being of our youth and women will be at the heart of my priorities. Together, there are no challenges we cannot meet. The best is still to come.”

President Biya’s announcement adds his name to a growing list of declared candidates. These include Joshua Osih of the SDF, Professor Maurice Kamto of the CRM, Cabral Libii of the PCRN, Bello Bouba Maïgari of the UNDP, Issa Tchiroma Bakary of the FNSP, and Barrister Akere Muna, among others.

As the long-serving leader seeks to maintain his grip on power, he faces the daunting task of addressing growing discontent among citizens.

Muhammadu Buhari, Former Nigerian President Passes Away at 82

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The passing of Muhammadu Buhari, former President of Nigeria, has been confirmed. He died at the age of 82 in London on Sunday, July 13, after a prolonged illness.

In a statement released by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu expressed his condolences to Buhari’s widow, Aishat Buhari.

Mallam Garba Shehu, Buhari’s long-time spokesperson, also shared the news, stating: “INNA LILLAHI WA INNA ILAIHIRRAJIUUN. The family of the former president has announced his passing this afternoon in a clinic in London. May Allah accept him in Aljannatul Firdaus, Amin.”

In honor of the late leader, President Tinubu has ordered flags to be flown at half-mast. Several African and world leaders have sent their condolences.

Buhari had been in the UK since April, initially for what was described as a routine medical check-up, but his health subsequently declined. He served as Nigeria’s president from 2015 to 2023, stepping down on May 29, 2023, after completing his constitutionally allowed two terms. Additionally, he held the position of military head of state from January 1984 to August 1985.

During his presidency, Buhari frequently sought medical treatment in London. While his health reportedly improved after leaving office, it deteriorated again in April 2025, prompting him to remain abroad for ongoing treatment.

Buhari made history as the first opposition candidate to unseat a sitting president in Nigeria, defeating Goodluck Jonathan in 2015 with a promise to combat rampant corruption and address the Boko Haram insurgency.

He successfully secured re-election in 2019. However, his administration faced challenges, including persistent corruption, insecurity, economic difficulties, and criticism over his handling of protests.

Born on December 17, 1942, in Daura, Katsina State, Buhari was raised by his mother after his father’s death when he was four years old. His legacy as a leader who transitioned from military rule to an elected presidency remains a significant chapter in Nigerian politics.

US Embassy Yaounde Urges Peaceful, Lawful Elections In Cameroon Ahead Of October Poll

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The United States Embassy in Yaoundé, Cameroon, has called upon all election stakeholders to engage in the electoral process in a manner that promotes peace, respects the rule of law, and upholds democratic norms. The statement, issued on July 12, came in response to the official announcement of Cameroon’s presidential election date, set for October 12, 2025.

**HE Christopher J. Lamora, US Ambassador to Cameroon (Speaking during the 2025 US Independence Day in Yaounde)** Picture Credit: Mainimo Etienne

“We commend the efforts of Cameroonian institutions, civil society, political parties, and all stakeholders working to prepare for these elections,” the Embassy’s statement read.

“We urge everyone concerned to engage in the electoral process in a manner that promotes peace, respects the rule of law, and upholds democratic norms and the rights of all citizens to participate freely and to vote their consciences without fear of repercussions.”

The US Embassy stressed the critical importance of the Cameroonian people having full confidence in their democratic institutions, not only on election day but throughout the entire electoral period.

“This includes protecting the fundamental freedoms of expression, assembly, and association as guaranteed in the Cameroonian constitution, electoral code, and other relevant statutes,” the statement indicated.

Furthermore, the Embassy noted that journalists, political parties, civil society organizations, and religious institutions must be allowed to operate without harassment or undue restrictions.

“We stand with the Cameroonian people as they take this important step along their country’s democratic journey,” the Embassy affirmed.

As a longstanding partner and friend of Cameroon, the United States underscored the importance of free, fair, peaceful, and inclusive elections as a cornerstone of democratic governance and stability in Cameroon and Central Africa.

Cameroon’s President Paul Biya officially convened the electorate for the October 12, 2025, Presidential Elections through a decree signed on July 11. According to the decree, polling stations across the country will be open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., providing a 10-hour window for citizens to cast their ballots.

The upcoming election has sparked widespread discussion, with many citizens hoping for change amid ongoing challenges, including economic difficulties and regional tensions in the Anglophone regions.

Political analysts predict a competitive race, as opposition parties prepare to challenge the long-ruling Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM), which has been in power for 42 years.

Safeway Insurance Company Launches New Football Club To Support Young Talents

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Safeway Insurance Company has officially launched its football club aimed at nurturing talented young players from Cameroon.

**Safeway Insurance FC** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

The announcement was made on July 12 during the club’s inaugural ceremony held at the Febe Village football field, which featured a friendly match against the Striking Eagles from the US Embassy in Yaoundé.

Barrister Norbert Tatsa Fokwang, the club’s promoter, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, calling it a significant first step towards fostering local talent.

**Safeway FC and Striking Eagles displaying in the field of play** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

“Having served as president of several veteran clubs in Bamenda before relocating to Yaoundé, I felt it was important to establish this team,” he said. “While there are young players ready to showcase their skills, our ambition is to develop this club into a second division team and potentially aim even higher, resources permitting.”

The name “Safeway FC” reflects the club’s mission to support promising youth in football. Barrister Tatsa Fokwang emphasized that with adequate funding, they plan to send these players abroad to further their development and enable them to contribute to their communities and families.

**Safeway FC and Striking Eagles posed for a family picture** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Despite suffering a defeat in the friendly match against the Striking Eagles, Barrister Tatsa Fokwang expressed satisfaction with the event, highlighting the valuable networking opportunities it provided. He looks forward to future collaborations with the embassy team.

**Striking Eagles FC** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Shufai Ndzefoncho, the former president of the Striking Eagles, praised the fair play demonstrated during the match and expressed the team’s willingness to support Safeway FC’s growth.

In the match, Safeway FC initially took control with a 2-0 lead, but the Striking Eagles rallied to equalize at 2-2 before halftime. The second half saw both teams making strategic plays, with Safeway temporarily regaining the lead. However, the Striking Eagles ultimately triumphed, finishing the match with a score of 4-3.

Safeway FC stands as a promising new team under the umbrella of Safeway Insurance Company, dedicated to the development of young football talent in Cameroon.

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