Logidoo-Skynet Partnership Boosts African Trade, Slashing Transit Times by 40%

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Logidoo and Skynet, two industry leaders in logistics and transportation, have formed a strategic alliance to revolutionize African trade. This groundbreaking partnership is set to significantly reduce transit times across major African trade routes, accelerating the movement of goods and boosting economic growth.

Since joining forces in January 2024, Logidoo and Skynet have accelerated supply chains, bringing China, Europe, and South Africa closer to West African markets. With smart groupage solutions at the core, this collaboration is not just moving goods faster—it’s driving Africa’s economic growth to new heights.

Logidoo’s partnership with Skynet, now in its ninth month, has proven to be a major improvement for their operations. Skynet as the world’s largest global franchise express network is at the right place at the right time to capitalise on the opportunities in Africa.

The impact of this collaboration has been particularly pronounced in three main corridors crucial to Logidoo’s strategic focus on simplifying the movement of goods and expanding its market presence across Africa.

The China to West Africa corridor has seen signiﬁcant improvements in shipping efﬁciency, reducing transit times for goods from China, one of the region’s largest suppliers. This enhancement has been crucial for businesses that rely on timely deliveries of Chinese imports, improving delivery services and customer satisfaction.

The Europe to West Africa route now beneﬁts from cost-effective, streamlined cross-border processes, essential for industries relying on European suppliers and manufacturers. Meanwhile, the South Africa to West Africa corridor, crucial for intra-African trade, has been strengthened, ensuring smoother transport of goods and expanding market reach across the continent.

“Through this partnership, we’ve not only expanded our operational capabilities but we’re now able to offer our clients more efﬁcient, cost-effective, and reliable shipping options than ever before, particularly along these vital trade routes”, said Tamsir Ousmane Traore, CEO of Logidoo.

The primary focus of the Logidoo-Skynet partnership has been implementing advanced groupage strategies. This allows for the consolidation of multiple shipments into single loads, optimising transport capacity and signiﬁcantly reducing costs. As a result, Logidoo has achieved signiﬁcant cost reductions by minimising empty transport space and solving issues like high shipping fees and inefﬁcient routing.

This partnership has cut transit times by up to 40%, substantially improved operational efﬁciency, and remarkably increased customer satisfaction.As Skynet expands its footprint in Africa and the Middle East, this partnership with Logidoo highlights its commitment to fostering more efﬁcient trade routes across emerging markets.

Chaminda Gunasekera, Managing Director of Skynet – Asia and Australia, emphasised: “Working with Logidoo has allowed us to tap into the immense potential of the African logistics market. Our combined expertise has resulted in a more efﬁcient logistics network that beneﬁts businesses across multiple continents.”

Logidoo continues to innovate and expand its services – the company remains committed to forging strategic partnerships that add value for clients and contribute to Africa’s logistics infrastructure development.

“The positive impact of our partnership with Skynet extends beyond just our business,” added Traore. “We’re contributing to the broader goal of making African trade more efﬁcient and accessible. This collaboration is a signiﬁcant step towards realising our vision of a more connected and prosperous Africa.”

Nso Boys To Battle Promise Enterprise In 2024 BSFC Finals

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Nso Boys FC and Promise Enterprise will face each other in the finals of the 2024 Bui Sports Fans Competition (BSFC). The finalists were determined on Sunday, November 4, following the return leg semi-final games.

***Nso Boys (Blue) vs Melim United (Rose) during the second leg semi-finals*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

Nso Boys, who had a commanding 4-2 lead from the first leg against Melim United, sealed their spot in the final with a 1-0 victory in the return leg. The decisive goal came late in the match through a penalty kick, securing a 5-1 aggregate win.

The match was a tense affair, with both teams battling fiercely for control. Melim United had their chances, but their efforts were thwarted by a resolute Nso Boys defense. The game took a dramatic turn when Melim United had two goals disallowed, further frustrating their hopes of a comeback.

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

To add to Melim United’s woes, their goalkeeper and captain was sent off with a red card, leaving them with 10 men for the remainder of the match. Nso Boys capitalized on their numerical advantage to secure the victory and advance to the final.

In the other semi-final, Promise Enterprise outclassed Dzekwa Rangers with a convincing 2-0 win. The victory, coupled with their 3-0 advantage from the first leg, sealed a 5-0 aggregate win for Promise Enterprise.

Dzekwa Rangers, despite their valiant efforts, were unable to overcome the deficit. Promise Enterprise’s superior skill and tactical acumen proved too much for the Jakiri-based team.

The two goals scored by Promise Enterprise were a testament to their attacking prowess and clinical finishing. The team’s ability to create scoring opportunities and convert them into goals has been a key factor in their success throughout the competition.

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

The upcoming final between Nso Boys and Promise Enterprise is a historic occasion for both teams. Neither team has ever reached the BSFC final before, making this a landmark moment in their respective histories.

The two teams have already faced each other once during the group stage, with Nso Boys emerging victorious in a thrilling 3-2 encounter. This previous meeting suggests that the final will be a closely contested affair, with both teams eager to claim the coveted BSFC trophy. The winner will succeed Bui Diaspora FC, winners of the 2023 edition.

Fans from both sides are eagerly anticipating the final, which promises to be a spectacle of skill, passion, and sportsmanship. The finals match will be a fitting climax to a thrilling BSFC competition.

US Embassy Striking Eagles Nip Foumban Veterans 1-0 In Friendly

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Striking Eagles of the US Embassy in Cameroon defeated Association Sportive Des Veterans of Foumban 1-0 in a friendly match staged in Yaoundé on November 2nd. This was the return leg of the friendly series, with the first leg resulting in a 3-1 loss for the Striking Eagles in Foumban.

***Striking Eagles (Red) vs Foumban Veterans (Orange)*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

Both teams approached the match with determination, with the visiting veterans aiming to maintain their dominance from the first leg, and the Striking Eagles seeking to overturn the deficit.

The first half was a tense affair, with the visiting team dominating possession but failing to capitalize on their chances. The score remained 0-0 at halftime.

***Striking Eagles of the US Embassy, Yaounde*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

The second half saw increased intensity from both sides, with the Striking Eagles breaking the deadlock and nearly doubling their lead. The visiting team fought back but were unable to equalize, and the match ended with a 1-0 victory for the Striking Eagles. The lone goal for the Striking Eagles was scored by Mbinkar Emmanuel Shiylajing

Striking Eagles Vice President Ernest Mbang expressed satisfaction with the win, highlighting the team’s determination to overcome the first-leg defeat.

***Association Sportive Des Veterans of Foumban*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

“We’re thrilled with this victory, especially after their dominant 3-1 win in the first leg. Overcoming that defeat is incredibly satisfying,” Ernest Mbang said

He acknowledged the visiting team’s strong performance and the tactical adjustments made by the Striking Eagles in the second half. Mbang also emphasized the importance of friendly matches in fostering relationships and promoting fair play, as well as the team’s focus on upcoming matches, including a crucial encounter against Victory Club in Douala.

“As Striking Eagles, we prioritize the Ambassador’s values which are Respect, Integrity, Community, and Efficiency (RICE). Friendly matches are opportunities to build relationships through fair play and create new connections,” he said

“Concerning the upcoming match against Victory Club, we’re excited to face the Cameroonian champions in Douala. They defeated us earlier, so we’ve been preparing diligently for this rematch in Douala.”

**Ernest Mbang Vice President of Striking Eagles** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Association Sportive Des Veterans of Foumban coach Prosper Sakah Ayuni praised the friendly atmosphere of the match and the positive impact of football on bringing people together.

“Football is magical. Though we didn’t win, a defeat like this one always make us stronger. But the true victory lies in the fair play and friendship we shared during the match,” Sakah Ayuni said.

He acknowledged the Striking Eagles’ strength but emphasized the unpredictable nature of the sport. Ayuni highlighted the value of defeat in motivating the team and the importance of fair play in football.

**Prosper Sakah Ayuni, Association Sportive Des Veterans of Foumban coach** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

“The match was a testimony to the power of football to unite,” he said. “We’re using this platform to instill these values in our youth. As for the result, the Striking Eagles are a formidable opponent, but not stronger than us. That’s the beautiful unpredictability of the sport.”

Return Leg Semi-Finals BSFC 2024 Preview: Fate Of Teams Hangs In Balance

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The four remaining teams in the ongoing BSFC will enter a crucial moment this Sunday, November 3th, as they face each other in the return leg semi-finals.

***Nso Boys vs Melim United during the first leg semi-finals*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

Given the first-leg semi-finals that took place on October 27th, qualifying for the finals of the 12th edition will be decisive as newcomers to the competition this year seek to challenge the old guards.

In one of the semi-final matches, Nso Boys FC will confront Melim United FC in one of the toughest matches of the day. Going into the return leg match, Nso Boys are in a comfortable position with a 4-2 lead advantage.

Their goal this Sunday will be to maintain the score line or score more goals to qualify for their first-ever edition of the BSFC. With their swift attackers as well as a formidable midfield and defense machinery, they may have an easy ride over their opponent, but that cannot be concluded until the final whistle.

On their part, Melim United will be coming to the game with their backs to the wall as they face elimination if their score line remains the same. Their goal will be to overturn the 4-2 score and pave their way to their first-ever finals.

Having participated in the last edition of the competition, their dream is to thrash their opponent in a comfortable way as they count on their striking squad made up of seasoned professionals who have proven themselves beyond reasonable doubt right from the group stage.

Meeting for the second time in the 2024 edition, the stakes of the two teams are high, and a win for either team will be their first finals in the history of the competition.

Another match to watch keenly is the confrontation between Promise Enterprise FC and Dzekwa Rangers. During the first leg, Promise FC took a comfortable position, registering a 3-0 win over their rivals.

The victory of Promise FC came as a surprise, but looking at their formidable squad, Promise FC dominated Dzekwa Rangers from all fronts to brilliantly carry the day. Their intention this Sunday is to maintain the score line or increase it aggregately to qualify for their first final in the history of the competition.

Counting on some of their professionals who play their trade in the elite competitions of the country, they stand a chance on paper to be one of the finalists, but Dzekwa Rangers will be coming with a different agenda.

Being the oldest team to have participated in the competition since 2012, Dzekwa Rangers, knowing their stakes, are confident of overturning the score line. With 0-3 down, their expectation is to gain the fighting spirit they have always had, challenge and take their opponents to a football fight and carry the day.

Bearing in mind that this is their second meeting in the competition, a win for either Promise FC or Dzekwa FC will be each team’s first final in the competition since its inception in 2007.

Considering the dire need to qualify for the prestigious finals of the 12th edition of the BSFC, the matches this Sunday promise to be spectacular, and fans can expect to watch thrilling encounters.

YOFAFA 2024: Young Climate Advocates Empower Themselves To Access GCF Finance

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Youth Forum on Adaptation Finance in Africa (YOFAFA) is currently underway in Yaoundé, empowering young climate advocates to access Green Climate Fund (GCF) finance. The forum, which commenced on October 29th, will end on October 31st with the adoption of key recommendations.

***Officials and youth pose for a family picture*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

This second edition of the forum has brought together approximately young people from across Africa to among other things identify critical barriers and opportunities for financing energy access projects that enhance climate resilience in Africa.

Speaking after the opening ceremony, H.E. Jean-Marc Chataigner, Ambassador of the European Union to Cameroon, acknowledged the importance of supporting adaptation efforts.

“Climate change is a reality, and its impact is evident in Africa, particularly in recent floods in the Northern Region of Cameroon. It is crucial to finance initiatives that enable us to adapt to this changing climate and anticipate its future effects,” he said.

***Young Advocates during the forum*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

Dr. Augustine B. Njamnshi, Executive Director of the African Coalition for Sustainable Energy and Access (ACSEA), highlighted the significant changes since the first edition of the forum.

“This forum will examine the persistent lack of adaptation finance. Climate finance from 2019 to 2022 was grossly insufficient to address Africa’s adaptation needs. However, increased advocacy and international attention on adaptation and adaptation finance are promising signs of progress since our last forum,” he stated.

Ambassador Seyni Nafo, Co-Chair of the Green Climate Fund and Coordinator of the African Adaptation Initiative, acknowledged the challenges associated with accessing climate finance, including the complexity of climate change itself.

***Officials during the forum*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

Building on the momentum of the 2023 edition, which took place in Cameroon, the 2024 forum aims to amplify the Yaoundé Declaration’s call for urgent action from the international community to prioritize and double climate adaptation finance flows to Africa. The youth participants recognize this as a moral imperative and a strategic investment in Africa’s future resilience and prosperity.

The Youth Forum on Adaptation Finance in Africa seeks to inspire and empower 200 young activists to advocate for increased funding for climate adaptation in Africa. The 2024 forum began with a four-week online training program on Climate Finance Mobilization and the Green Climate Fund (GCF), equipping participants with knowledge and skills in climate finance, advocacy, and project development.

***Young Advocates participating during the forum*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

The forum will culminate in a coordinated advocacy campaign to raise awareness and call for action on adaptation finance in Africa. Participants will review and potentially reformulate “The Yaoundé African Youth Call for More than Doubling Climate Finance for Africa’s Future.” This revised call will be presented at a side event during COP29 in November 2024.

Victoria Digital Strengthens Hospitality Tech Portfolio With Dual Acquisitions

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Victoria Digital, a subsidiary of the humelab group, has announced the acquisition of Quadriga Systems Limited and IT Hospitality, two market-leading companies in the provision of cloud-focused IT solutions and infrastructure, with operations in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.

In a press release, the strategic move significantly strengthens the humelab group’s position in the global hospitality sector while broadening its portfolio of products and services.

To offer better visibility and greater consistency in the market, these entities will operate under a unified brand within the humelab group: humelab hospitality. This consolidation aligns with the humelab group’s mission to expand its presence in the international hospitality sector and offer its customers a more comprehensive range of innovative solutions that meet the growing digital needs of this market.

Speaking, Wesley Palanicaouden, co-founder of the humelab group, said, “The creation of humelab hospitality demonstrates our continued commitment to supporting our clients across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa on their digital transformation journeys, through an innovative and comprehensive suite of digital solutions.”

Founded in 2013, humelab, a French company specializing in digital furniture and solutions, has developed extensive expertise in the hospitality industry through a series of strategic acquisitions, including Victoria Digital in 2017, Vision Media Partner in 2019, and Quadriga Systems Limited and IT Hospitality at the end of 2023.

Victoria Digital is a humelab group company, specializing in the development of technological solutions for the hospitality industry. Strong in its commitment to innovation, Victoria Digital offers cutting-edge products and services to improve the guest experience and optimize hotel operations.

humelab is a French manufacturer of digital furniture intended for dynamic display and interactivity. humelab also publishes its own software solutions around its humecloud platform.

IT Hospitality is a humelab group company based in Morocco, Egypt, Kenya, Ivory Coast, and the United Arab Emirates, specializing in the integration and deployment of technological solutions for the hospitality industry. With expertise in the MEA region, IT Hospitality provides tailor-made solutions to improve operational efficiency and customer experience.

Quadriga Systems Limited is a humelab group company based in the United Kingdom, Netherlands, Finland, and Poland, specializing in the provision of innovative technology solutions based on proprietary software solutions for the hospitality industry. With a commitment to excellence, Quadriga Systems Limited offers innovative services to meet its customers’ digital transformation needs.

The World Needs Innovative Finance To Raise $200B Annually To Save Biodiversity – Experts

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Experts say the world needs innovative finance to raise $200 billion annually to preserve biodiversity. This is one of the key lessons learned from the 7th Global Landscapes Forum (GLF) Investment Case Symposium, which ended last Friday, October 25, in Cali, Colombia.

During the 2024 UN Biodiversity Conference (COP16), experts and participants at the 7th GLF Investment Case Symposium debated and demonstrated how biodiversity finance can be effective, inclusive and sustainable – starting now.

***Opening plenary “Mobilizing the billions: Pathways to achieving the Global Biodiversity Framework” of the 7th GLF Investment Case Symposium*** *Photo: Javier Guzmán / Global Landscapes Forum*

With over 600 participants attending in person and thousands more online, the 7th GLF Investment Case Symposium took place under the theme, “Rewarding Nature: A Roadmap to Finance the Biodiversity Plan.”

Even though the symposium sparked crucial conversations alongside the 2024 UN Biodiversity Conference (COP16) in Cali, the event emphasized the need to integrate biodiversity into financial systems and build synergies between the three Rio Conventions (CBD, UNFCCC, and UNCCD). The event was co-hosted with the Luxembourg–GLF Finance for Nature Platform.

Speaking during the symposium, Serge Wilmes, Minister of the Environment, Climate and Biodiversity & Minister for the Civil Service of Luxembourg, said the Luxembourg government has many ongoing initiatives between the private and public sector, where the co-benefits are essential.

“We have to find back the spirit of the 1992 Rio Earth Summit and work together on all levels. The Luxembourg government has many ongoing initiatives between the private and the public sector, where the co-benefits are essential: the economic, the social, and the ecological,” the Minister said.

“We need to strengthen the rights of local communities, Indigenous Peoples, women, and children globally,” added Serge Wilmes, Minister of the Environment, Climate and Biodiversity & Minister for the Civil Service of Luxembourg.

***Serge Wilmes, Minister of the Environment, Climate and Biodiversity and Minister for the Civil Service of Luxembourg.*** *Photo: Javier Guzmán / Global Landscapes Forum*

According to the Minister, the government’s goal is for projects to become significant and bankable, attracting investment, and then the money should be used by local communities because they know how to preserve and conserve nature and manage it sustainably.

“That’s why we work together with the GLF and develop initiatives such as Resilient Landscapes Luxembourg (RLL),” he said.

Experts and participants also explored the opportunities and challenges of artificial intelligence (AI) and new technologies, which hold enormous potential in unlocking new financial mechanisms.

“For AI to be innovative, we need to first clearly identify the problems we want to solve. Cross-sector partnership is essential to drive such innovation. For example, the private sector offers the capital and knowledge, academia adds the deep research and technical expertise, and local innovators bring regional context,” said Gabriela Gutierrez, Founder and CEO of Tabs AI.

Talking about Indigenous and local perspectives, experts underscored how informed consent, sovereignty, and shared benefits are essential to any financial innovation.

***Youth workshop at the 7th GLF Investment Case Symposium.*** *Photo: Javier Guzmán / Global Landscapes Forum*

“Financing Indigenous Peoples is a global political commitment today, but we need to transform it into reality. Many Indigenous Peoples, organizations, movements, and local communities are conducting a debate process to create Indigenous-owned funding mechanisms,” said Kleber Karipuna, Executive Coordinator at The Articulation of Indigenous Peoples of Brazil (APIB).

Ane Alencar, Director of Science at IPAM, said, “Finance is a crucial catalyst element. We need to make sure that money is mobilized for conservation, biodiversity, and to support the cultures that safeguard biodiversity.”

He added, “Finance can also help develop new technologies, such as AI, allowing a better understanding of biodiversity, improving monitoring, tracing more effectively what’s happening with those engaging with biodiversity, and ultimately enabling the use of technology to truly conserve biodiversity without increasing inequalities.”

***Visualization of the plenary “Priorities and solutions for a global biodiversity finance roadmap.”*** *Image: Anna Denardin*

“To incentivize the private sector, we must address the perceived risk. Normally, private actors perceive biodiversity-related projects as high risk. We also need to address the uncertainty of the financial returns related to the early stages of biodiversity projects. Here is where blended finance plays a pivotal role by making biodiversity-related projects much more attractive and viable,” said Camila Silva Arango, Technical Assistance Manager at Finance in Motion.

Bambi Semroc, Senior Vice President at the Center for Sustainable Lands and Waters, Conservation International, said, “If we could get the top 70 companies worldwide in food, agriculture, retail, and consumer goods sectors to make nature commitments, we could see as much as 80 million hectares of land restored, better managed, and protected, alongside over a billion dollars in financing.”

During the event in Cali, the Amazon Environmental Research Institute (IPAM) joined the Global Landscapes Forum (GLF) as its 35th Charter Member. The GLF and IPAM will support local actors in leveraging the region’s unique biological and cultural diversity to tackle global challenges. The organizations announced their alliance at the 7th GLF Investment Case Symposium, held alongside the Biodiversity COP16, in Cali, Colombia.

Rice Value Chain Dev’t Project: Minister Mbairobe Launches Project To Revitalize Cameroon’s Rice Industry

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, (MINADER) Gabriel Mbairobe, has launched the Rice Value Chain Development Project (RVCDP) aimed at revitalizing Cameroon’s rice industry.

***Minister Gabriel Mbairobe speaking during the launching ceremony*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

Minister Mbairobe launched the project on October 22 in Santchou, West Region of Cameroon. He was accompanied by the Governors of the West Region, Augustine Awa Fonka, and the Northwest Region, Adolphe Lele Lafrique, and other dignitaries.

During the event, Minister Mbairobe stressed the project’s significance as a lifeline for the people of Santchou and other communities.

“This project will provide farmers with the necessary resources, training, infrastructure, and support to revive and improve rice farming, boosting local economies and improving livelihoods,” he said. “The aim is not only to increase production but also to create jobs and enhance food security in our communities.”

***Officials during the launching ceremony*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

Regarding the choice of Santchou for the launch, the Minister noted its rich history of rice cultivation. He however noted that many farmers have abandoned their rice farms in recent decades.

“With this project, we intend to revive this essential farming practice, bring the land back to life, and give hope to our farmers,” he said. “Santchou’s geographical location is also advantageous for the flow of agricultural products, particularly rice, to major urban centers like Douala and Bafoussam.”

Minister Mbairobe stated that the RVCDP aligns perfectly with President Paul Biya’s vision for Cameroon as outlined in the National Development Strategy 2030. The vision aims to achieve food sufficiency for all citizens and boost import substitution by 2035.

By reviving rice production in Santchou and increasing production nationwide, the Minister said, government is contributing to a national objective of ensuring every Cameroonian has access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food.

***Dance groups animating during the launching ceremony*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

“The RVCDP supports our commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations, particularly those on ending poverty, ensuring food security, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices,” he said.

The Minister reminded farmers of their crucial role in the project’s success. He emphasized their collaboration as essential for implementing the relevant strategies.

“Together, we can transform the rice sub-sector and once again make Santchou and Cameroon a leading rice-producing region in the Central African Sub-Region and beyond,” he indicated.

The project coordinator, George Muluh Nguh, praised the RVCDP as a concrete step towards increasing productivity. He presented the project and urged everyone to work towards its realization. Other speakers thanked the government and partners for their support.

***Officials pose for a family picture*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

The RVCDP is part of a 10-country regional rice value chain project announced by the President of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) as a response from ten member countries in Sub-Saharan Africa.

The project seeks to address constraints in the rice value chain, from seed production to the table. It aims to implement complementary interventions that increase rice production and productivity, with a clear focus on smallholder farmers in the North-West, West, and Far-North Regions of Cameroon.

The RVCDP is jointly sponsored by the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA), the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, the OPEC Fund, and the Government of Cameroon. Placed under the tutelage of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MINADER), the project will run for a period of five years.

ACSEA Empower Journalists, Content Creators To Tell In-Depth Climate Change Adaptation Stories

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Some 28 journalists from across Cameroon have been equipped to tell in-depth stories about climate change adaptation. This was the outcome of a three-day training for journalists and online content creators held from October 24 to 25 in Yaoundé. The training was organized by the African Coalition for Sustainable Energy and Access (ACSEA).

***Participants during the training*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

The training aimed to enhance the capacity of journalists to report effectively on climate change adaptation. According to the organizers, this critical topic requires accurate, impactful storytelling to raise awareness and drive action.

In Cameroon, where the impacts of climate change are increasingly evident, ACSEA said there is a pressing need to cultivate a cadre of skilled journalists who can convey the complexities of climate change adaptation and the urgency of addressing loss and damage.

***Dr. Augustine B. Njamnshi, Executive Director of ACSEA*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

The training included a combination of presentations, group discussions, and interactive sessions designed to improve participants’ understanding of climate change basics, local adaptation efforts, effective reporting techniques, and the role of media in climate action.

Speaking at the end of the training, Dr. Augustine B. Njamnshi, Executive Director of ACSEA, commended the level of discussion and urged media professionals to lead the awareness of climate change adaptation in bridging the gap.

He pointed out that, despite the growing importance of climate resilience, there remains a significant gap in the media landscape for in-depth, informed, and engaging coverage of these topics.

**Eugene Nforngwa, Programs Manager at ACSEA** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

“We have set out to demystify climate change and climate justice, and we believe this should be understood by everyone,” he said, adding that, “Especially those on the frontline of the fight against climate impact.”

He stated that, “Climate change reporting and climate change debates have been Northern-centric, presented from the perspective of developed countries. With the stories of frontline communities in developing countries bearing the brunt of climate change impacts often untold. And when they are told, the angle is that of the victim-oppressor.”

Eugene Nforngwa, Programs Manager at ACSEA, noted that this project will help to equip journalists with the knowledge and skills to produce high-quality reporting that can inform policy decisions, inspire community action, and amplify the voices of those most affected by climate change.

“This training is crucial for fostering a well-informed public discourse on climate change and developing effective adaptation and mitigation strategies in Cameroon,” he said.

***Officials and participants pose for family picture*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

He added, “There are many underlying currents in the climate change debate, which are sometimes shaped by the perspectives of different interests; with the African narrative often missing. Journalists, therefore, needed to be brought to a point where they can not only elevate African narratives but also participate in changing the narrative around climate change and climate adaptation issues to favor Africans.”

During the seminar, facilitators and participants discussed local adaptation efforts in Cameroon, community-led initiatives, as well as challenges and success stories. Effective reporting techniques, including storytelling methods, interviewing vulnerable individuals, and fact-checking and accuracy, were also covered.

The seminar also provided an opportunity for participants to examine the role of media in climate action, including ethical responsibilities, advocacy through journalism, and amplifying local voices.

Minister Calistus Gentry Unveils Tyre Factory Plans, Production to Save Cameroon FCFA Billions

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Cameroon’s Interim Minister of Mines, Industry, and Technological Development (MINMIDT), Prof. Fuh Calistus Gentry, has unveiled Cameroon’s tyre factory plan, which is expected to save Cameroon billions of CFA francs.

***Fuh Calistus Gentry during a working visit to the Southwest Region***

Minister Gentry unveiled the plans recently during his visit to the Southwest region. Reaffirming the government’s commitment to industrial development and economic growth, he announced that the tyre plant will be launched in 2025. The trye factory will be located in Tiko.

Local rubber from the Cameroon Development Corporation (CDC) will be used to produce tyres. This initiative aligns with the government’s import-substitution strategy and aims to create jobs and stimulate local economic growth.

***Minister Fuh Calistus Gentry speaking to the media***

Besides the tyre plant, the Minister highlighted the PRISTINE SASU project, a CFA 32 billion investment in Tiko, which will produce mineral water, carbonated drinks, and dairy products. The project is expected to create 10,000 direct and indirect jobs, contributing significantly to the region’s socio-economic development.

Minister Gentry reiterated the government’s policy of establishing one industry per subdivision across the country. This initiative aims to promote decentralized industrialization, leveraging regional resources and expertise.

***Minister Fuh Calistus Gentry during a working visit to the Southwest Region***

He indicated that recent decrees provide tax benefits for investors in economic disaster areas, including the Southwest Region. These incentives are designed to attract investment, stimulate growth, and support the region’s recovery.

Concerning energy, he stated that progress has been made, including the signing of agreements for cross-border oil and gas fields and the imminent exploitation of the Étindé gas field. These initiatives will provide a sustainable energy supply, driving industrial growth and development.

MINMIDT pledged support for leading agro-industries, PAMOL and CDC, to strengthen their capacities and contribute to the region’s economic development.

***Minister Fuh Calistus Gentry posed with authorities in the Southwest Region***

Before visiting the Southwest Region, Minister Gentry stopped in Douala, Littoral Region. He stated that the week-long visit was to touch base and assure Cameroonians that the State is working hard to improve the future of its citizens.

“I want to assure all the youths that Cameroon is under construction,” the Minister said. “We are building mines in Kribi and from next year we shall start the Adamawa project and the whole country will be under construction.”

He added, “…So I’ve come to assure Cameroonians that the government is working very hard to better their lives.” In order to implement the industrialization master plan, the Minister indicated that the government has mapped out a number of strategies to increase the density of Cameroon’s industrial fabric.

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