BSFC 2024 Day 4 Match Preview: Do-Or-Die Matches In Group B As Teams Fight For Survival

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Sunday September 29 will mark another crucial moment for teams in the ongoing Bui Sports Fans Competition as teams seek redemption after their first group matches.

Given the stakes of the matches, teams will be looking to consolidate their position in the group face as they eye a spot in the net round of the competition.

Mile One Kumbo FC vs Dzekwa Rangers FC

This is one among the crucial matches that will put fans at the edge of their seats when the game finally kicks off this Sunday September 29.

***Mile One Kumbo FC*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

This will be the second time these two teams are meeting in the history of the competition. During the last edition, both havens drawn in Group B faced each other in one of the opening matches of the competition.

The match played under the rain ended on a 2-2 draw with Nwang Hansen scoring two goals for Dzwekwa Rangers (First Half) while goals from Mile One Kumbo came from Minard Fanka and Platini Fonyuy (second half).

The encounter this Sunday will surely be one that will leave spectator’s spirit high as both sides fights to position themselves in the next phase of the competition.

***Dzekwa Rangers FC*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

Haven suffered a 0-1 narrow defeat to Bui Diaspora Fc during the first group match, the current last position in the group gives them reason to take this match against Dzekwa Rangers seriously. Incurring a defeat will surely eliminate them from the competition. With these, the need to fight to win or secure a draw as a second option while hoping to win their last match.

Dzekwa Rangers have another difficult task as a win is the only best option to register during this playing day. Haven played a 1-1 draw against Melim United during the first group match, they need to step up. However, a draw will give them hope as they need to won their last group match to qualify for the next round of the competition.

Bui Diaspora Fc vs Melim United FC

The match between Bui Dispora FC currently topping the group against Melim United FC is another match of the day to watch keenly. The match is expected to produce a lot of fire works as both teams will be looking forward to have a comfortable position in qualifying for the next phase of the competition.

***Bui Diaspora FC*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

A win for Bui Diaspora FC will give them a comfortable position in qualifying for the next round of the competition. However, a draw will still put them on four points and giving them an opportunity to either win and register a draw in other to qualify for the next phase of the competition.

***Melim United FC*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

Melim United FC has a task to register a win to book a comfortable position in the group. A win will give them a moral boaster considering that their last group match will be tough. A draw will surely put them under pressure to win their last match.

However, the clash between Bui Diaspora, current cup holders will be a match to watch keenly as both sides will want to step their play to satisfy their fans with good playing style and consequently a victory. Backing on youthful nature of the playing the two matches promises to be a most watched encounter

8 Winners Emerge As CAMTEL Blue Tech Challenge Champions

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Eight young Cameroonians have emerged as winners of the 2024 edition of the Cameroon Telecommunications, CAMTEL Blue Tech Challenge Competition. The winners were announced on October 2 in Yaoundé after a rigorous selection process involving over 30 finalists.

***Winners pose for a family picture with CAMTEL officials*** *(Photo Credit: CAMTEL)*

Launched in May 2024, the competition was open to youths aged 15 to 35 and aimed to showcase the innovative talents of Cameroonian youth in the ICT ecosystem.

One of the winners in the Blue Star category, Moses Anuagueleh Afobezi, expressed his gratitude to CAMTEL for the opportunity to present his work. Afobezi, co-founder of AgricFresh, a Cameroonian startup, explained that his inspiration came from his mother’s struggles with storing perishable tomato crops.

***Moses Anuagueleh Afobezi, one of the Blue Star award***

“AgricFresh is an agricultural startup dedicated to helping small-scale farmers to reduce post-harvest losses,” Afobezi said. “Our innovations include solar panels, sensors, and batteries.” He added that the company also provides market access through its website and offers farmers educational videos on improving their yields.

Meanwhile, Judith Yah Sunday, General Manager of CAMTEL, while opening the session stressed that the Blue Tech Challenge is more than just a competition. “It’s a showcase for digital excellence made in Cameroon,” she said. “We are here to honor the innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit of our youth.”

***CAMTEL GM, Judith Yah Sunday speaking during the opening ceremony*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

The three winners in the Blue Star category were Moses Anuagueleh Afobezi (AGRICFRESH), Cedric Hugues Ngbwa Ngbwa(MENDO COTI), and David Kenfac (TSAF).

Treasure Bah Nkwambi (E-FARM), Murielle Nahomy Kombou (CommuneConnect), and Johan Megnemo Wirdzeyii (Input Automatic Transfer Switch with with Lo T and Data Logging Features) won in the Blue Academic Innovation category while Grace Megaptech Djambou (SolarSync) and Rayan Hessack (LINA) emerged as winners in the Blue Tech Women and Handi Blue categories, respectively.

The competition attracted 289 applicants, from which 50 were shortlisted and 30 advanced to the final stage with eight crown as winners. The Blue Tech Challenge is part of CAMTEL’s 25th anniversary celebrations and aims to identify, assess, reward, and promote innovative projects and technological practices from universities, researchers, and startups.

***CAMTEL officials and Jury member pose for a family picture (Photo Credit: CAMTEL)***

Candidates submitted solutions addressing the needs of Cameroonian populations, the government’s development plan, SND30, CAMTEL, or public administration. The competition featured four award categories: Blue Star Award, Blue Academic Innovative Award, Blue Tech Women Award, and Handi Blue Award.

Finalists and winners received visibility, funding opportunities, networking connections, and mentorship to support their technological advancements and contribute to a sustainable future.

The Blue Tech Challenge Competition is a significant initiative by the state-owned operator, supported by its top management. This competition demonstrates their unwavering belief in the ingenuity of Cameroonian youth and their commitment to fostering the growth of digital startups and projects that drive the development of the digital economy and digital transformation in Cameroon.

Minister Ousmane Mey, New Swiss Ambassador Discuss Strengthening Cooperation

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Minister of the Economy, Planning, and Regional Development (MINEPAT), Alamine Ousmane Mey, and the new Swiss Ambassador to Cameroon, H.E Natalie Kohli, have held discussions focused on strengthening economic relations between the two countries.

***Minister Ousmane Mey (R) and H.E Natalie Kohli (L) during the audience*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

This was the substance of an audience MINEPAT granted to H.E Natalie Kohli on October 1 in Yaoundé. For nearly 45 minutes, both personalities reviewed the rich cooperation and had detailed discussions on fostering relations between the two countries.

Speaking shortly after the audience, Ambassador Kohli expressed her appreciation for meeting the Minister. She added that they held discussions centered around both the private and public sectors.

“I was very happy to meet the Minister this morning to discuss cooperation in the economic area between Switzerland and Cameroon,” the Ambassador said. “We have discussed both areas in the private and public sectors. We had a very good exchange on how we can further strengthen cooperation.”

Besides strengthening cooperation ties, she said, they also discussed actions to be taken to accelerate the implementation of the projects included in the Swiss Counter-Value Funds program, in order to achieve the closure of the said program signed in 2017.

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

“The priority is to finish projects we started before the pandemic. These projects include the development of renewable energies and capacity-building for certain SMEs in Cameroon,” H.E Kohli said.

Their closure, announced by the Ambassador for early 2025, will enable new development projects to be included in the Cameroon-Switzerland cooperation portfolio.

Appointed in August 2024, Natalie Kohli is Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Cameroon, the Central African Republic, and the Republic of Equatorial Guinea, based in Yaoundé.

Before her appointment, she was Presidential Adviser and International Adviser at the Federal Department of Home Affairs (FDHA) General Secretariat in Bern, Switzerland.

Colombe Sportive Claims 2024 Cameroon Cup Title

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Colombe Sportive of Dja and Lobo have emerged victorious in the 2024 Cameroon Cup, defeating Aigle Royal of Menoua, Dschang in a closely contested final. The match, played at the Yaoundé Omnisport Stadium on September 29, saw Colombe secure a narrow win to claim the coveted title.

The game began with both teams displaying attacking intent. Colombe had early opportunities but were denied by Aigle Royal’s goalkeeper. However, the deadlock was broken in the 10th minute when Boris Ekotto headed home a cross from Ivan Mvondo Olama, taking advantage of a defensive lapse.

***Chief Dr. Dion Ngute hands trophy to Randy, team captain of Colombe FC*** *(Picture Credit: FECAFOOT)*

Despite Aigle Royal’s efforts to equalize, Colombe maintained their lead going into halftime. The second half saw an intense battle as both teams fought for control. While Colombe sought to extend their advantage, Aigle Royal pushed for an equalizer.

**Captain Randy of Colombe Sportive lifts the 2024 Cameroon Cup Trophy** (Picture Credit: CRTV Web)

The final minutes of the match were filled with drama as Aigle Royal desperately tried to find a goal. However, Colombe’s defense held firm, and the final whistle confirmed their victory.

With this win, Colombe Sportive becomes the second team from the South Region to win the Cameroon Cup, after Ocean FC of Kribi failed to win in 1995. Aigle Royal, on the other hand, reached the final for the second time, having previously lost in 2008 to Coton Sport of Garoua.

***Both teams battling*** *(Picture Credit: FECAFOOT)*

Prior to the final, Aigle Royal had secured their place by defeating Mintack FC, while Colombe overcame ISOHSA FC. This was the eighth meeting between the two teams, with Aigle Royal holding a slight advantage in their head-to-head record.

The Cameroon Cup final marked the conclusion of the 2023/2024 football season and was also an occasion to celebrate the achievements of other sports disciplines. Various trophies were awarded to winners in different sports.

Youth Empower Peers To Recycle Plastic Waste Into Functional Brooms

By Violet Mbasso Lale (ASMAC Journalism Student On Internship)

Through the One Million Leaders Africa Fellowship (OMLA), a group of youth is inspiring their peers to turn plastic waste into functional brooms. This is the result of a two-day workshop held in Yaoundé, Cameroon. The first phase took place on September 12, and the second on September 27.

***Participants pose with brooms produced***

During the workshops and hands-on training sessions, approximately 18 youths learned how to transform discarded plastic items into useful household tools, thereby reducing landfill waste and promoting sustainable living.

The practical phase involved collecting plastic bottles from the streets, washing them, cutting them into smaller pieces, and attaching them to sticks using a machine. Over 100 bottles were used to create 10 household brooms.

Ruth Obi Eban, the Project Manager of OMLA, explained that the project will help reduce the amount of plastic found on the streets, thus mitigating the risk of flooding. She stressed the importance of protecting the environment for future generations and highlighted the project’s potential to contribute to the fight against food scarcity by reducing plastic bottles found in farms.

The youths were encouraged to take sustainable actions to address societal challenges and contribute to combating climate change in their homes and communities. During the first phase, the youths were educated about the role they play in fighting climate change and learned how to manage household waste sustainably by ensuring proper disposal and generating creative recycling ideas.

At the conclusion of the production process, the project leaders expressed their intention to donate the brooms to a community school for use in keeping the campus clean. They also plan to establish environmental clubs in schools to educate students on sustainable actions to combat climate change.

The Clean Sweep Project, launched by youths under the One Million Leaders Africa Fellowship, aims to reduce plastic waste on the streets by transforming plastic bottles into household brooms. The project also seeks to empower youths with skills for environmental protection and climate change mitigation. Ultimately, the project aims to inspire youths to engage in sustainable activities.

Minister Ousmane May, New WFP Country Director Discuss Enhanced Cooperation

By Jacqueline Nyingchia

The Minister of Economy Planning and Regional Development (MINEPAT), Alamine Ousmane Mey, and the new representative and country director of the World Food Program (WFP) in Cameroon, Gianluca Ferrera, have explored new avenues for cooperation.

During an audience granted by MINEPAT on September 25 in Yaoundé, the two officials sought to familiarize themselves with each other and review the existing cooperation between Cameroon and the WFP.

The two parties also reaffirmed their desire to work together for the well-being of the people and the sustainable development of Cameroon.

Their discussions centered on the various humanitarian crises affecting Cameroon, particularly the recent floods in the Far North region that have displaced numerous families. They explored the need for swift and effective humanitarian interventions to accommodate and assist the affected families.

In addition, Minister Ousmane Mey and Ferrera discussed the WFP’s impact on the local economy and the job creation it has fostered in vulnerable areas. They also deliberated on the development of a new cooperation framework that will soon be implemented.

It was also an opportunity to look at the vision of a new cooperation framework between Cameroon and the WFP. This framework aims to strengthen the actions of the World Food Programme while aligning itself with national development priorities.

Gianluca Ferrera is a seasoned humanitarian professional with two decades of experience in implementing and managing emergency and development humanitarian assistance programs. He has served as a country director for food programs in eight countries, including Niger, Côte d’Ivoire, and Mozambique.

Minister Ousmane Mey, Latifah Elbouabdellaoui Explore Investment Opportunities

By Jacqueline Nyingchia

The Minister of Economy, Planning, and Regional Development (MINEPAT), Alamine Ousmane Mey, and the Director General of the Islamic Center of Trade (ICDT) in Morocco, Latifah Elbouabdellaoui, have discussed potential investment opportunities between Cameroon and Morocco.

***Minister Ousmane May (R ) and Latifah Elbouabdellaoui (L) during the audience*** *(Photo Credit: MINEPAT)*

During an audience on September 25 at MINEPAT, both officials focused on strengthening the existing economic, social, and commercial ties between the two countries. Elbouabdellaoui shared her satisfaction with the fruitful relations and collaborations While Minister Ousmane Mey equally disclose to him the number of investors available in Cameroon.

Following the meeting, Elbouabdellaoui expressed her heartfelt gratitude for the successes and achievements of the bilateral relationship. She highlighted the favorable investment climate in Morocco and its alignment with international standards.

“It was an occasion to present to Cameroon the climate of affairs extremely interesting and its link with international standards,” Elbouabdellaoui said.

Reaffirming Cameroon’s commitment to pursuing reforms aimed at improving the business climate and welcoming more foreign investment, the Minister of the Economy, Planning and Regional Development stressed the importance of international cooperation, particularly with Islamic countries, for Cameroon’s economic development.

Discussions also centered on the economic and investment forum held on September 24 in Yaoundé. The event, themed “Investing in the New Cameroon: Land of Attractiveness,” attracted investors from around the world, particularly those from member countries of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).

The forum was the result of a strategic partnership between the Cameroon Investment Promotion Agency (API) and the Islamic Center for the Development of Trade. This relationship between the OIC and Cameroon is expected to open new avenues for partnerships in various domains.

The Islamic Center for Development Trade (ICDT), a pivotal institution within the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), is dedicated to fostering trade development among Islamic countries. Through initiatives like the ICDT Invest Days, the ICDT actively promotes economic opportunities in emerging markets, including Cameroon.

This growing relationship between Cameroon and OIC member countries presents exciting prospects for establishing strong partnerships in sectors such as agriculture, renewable energy, manufacturing, and more.

At MINEPAT Audience: Cameroon, Germany Discuss Strengthening Cooperation In Vital Sectors

By Jacqueline Nyingchia

The Minister of the Economy, Planning, and Regional Development, MINEPAT, Alamine Ousmane Mey, and the new Head of Cooperation of the German Embassy in Cameroon, Knut Gummert, have discussed ways to strengthen cooperation in vital sectors between Cameroon and Germany.

This was the substance of an audience, Minister Ousmane Mey granted Knut Gummert on September 25 in Yaounde. It was in the presence of H.E Corinna Fricke, Ambassador of Germany to Cameroon.

During the meeting, Minister Ousmane May and Gummert stressed the importance of consolidating bilateral relations. While specific details were not disclosed, report say the meeting highlighted the strong existing ties between Cameroon and Germany.

Ambassador Fricke highlighted the strong bilateral relations between Cameroon and Germany. Over the decades, the two countries have cultivated a fruitful partnership in various sectors, including agriculture, environmental protection, and sustainable development. This bond of trust is evident in the numerous projects that have directly contributed to enhancing the quality of life for Cameroonians.

Gummert stressed the importance of strengthening cooperation in agriculture, a sector that can significantly contribute to the prosperity of rural communities in Cameroon. By promoting sustainable agricultural practices, the two countries aim to improve farmers’ incomes, enhance food security, and build resilience to environmental challenges.

The meeting also addressed the preservation of Cameroon’s natural resources in the context of climate change and deforestation. The three personalities discussed how agriculture can be a driving force for economic growth and income generation for local populations. Cameroon will benefit from German expertise in sectors crucial to its economic future, while continuing its efforts to protect its rich natural heritage.

Cameroon and Germany have a long history of fruitful cooperation in various fields, including agriculture, natural resource protection, and sustainable development. This partnership has resulted in numerous projects that have directly improved the living conditions of Cameroonian people.

CRM To Hold National Council Meeting On October 26

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The National Council of the Cameroon Renaissance Movement (CRM) party has been schedule to take place on October 26. The announcement is contained in a press release issued by Prof. Maurice Kamto, the party’s National President.

***Prof. Maurice Kamto, CRM National President***

The release, issued on September 10, states that the National Council summons members of the Directorate, Secretaries of National Federations, and has been expanded to include Secretaries of Divisional Federations.

According to Prof. Kamto, the National Council meeting on October 26 will be followed by an information meeting on Sunday, October 27. The agenda of the National Council meeting will focus on the modalities of the CRM party’s candidate’s participation in the upcoming 2025 Presidential Elections.

The release further states that during the third Ordinary Convention held on December 9 and 10, 2023, important decisions were made, including the designation of the CRM candidate for the upcoming 2025 Presidential elections.

As a result, the need to make certain decisions related to the CRM’s participation in the upcoming elections necessitates the convening of the National Council meeting to decide on these matters and gain momentum from the party’s grassroots.

However, the decision to convene the National Council is in line with Article 19 of the CRM party’s Statutes, which provides that between two conventions, a National Council may be convened if necessary.

BSFC Continues To Inspire, Unify, & Promote Social Cohesion Among Bui Residents

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The 2024 edition of the Bui Sports Fans Competition (BSFC) is currently underway, marking its 12th year. Despite facing challenges over the years, the competition has remained steadfast in its mission to identify and promote young talent from the division.

***Team battling for supremacy at the ongoing 2024 BSFC*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

Serving as the driving force, the competition has helped foster unity, social cohesion, and entertainment. Since its inception in 2007, the BSFC has achieved significant milestones, overcoming numerous obstacles but much still need to be done.

Apolitical by nature, the competition has strived to bridge social divides and reunite a division once peaceful but now torn by socio-political crisis. The previous edition undoubtedly inspired, unified, and promoted social cohesion in different forms.

Many individuals have seen their dreams realized through sports, education, and a deeper understanding of community thanks to BSFC.

“I am so grateful to the initiators of this competition because it has given us internally displaced people a new perspective on life after experiencing so much trauma. During the competition, I feel like I am back home,” Mary said.

For Elen Jaika, the participation of all three tribes in the Bui Division is a powerful symbol of unity.

“The feeling about this competition is pure happiness. Seeing this happening brings me joy because there is strength in unity. Witnessing the three tribes (Nso, Oku, and Noni) playing together and participating in various activities speaks volumes,” Elen Jaika said.

Between 2012 and 2016, Oku and Noni participated in the competition. Oku’s team, Kilum Bees FC, was crowned champions in 2014, defeating Royal Olympic of Kikaikom (champions of the 2013 edition) in the finals. Noni FC also came close to winning the trophy.

In 2024, the enthusiasm and atmosphere have remain unchanged but with a broader sense with the continuation of fostering unity and promoting young talent from the division in diverse fields. With eight teams participating in the ongoing BSFC 2024, sons from all three tribes are involved in the competition.

The spectacle is unique, and the zeal for unity is overwhelming as everyone plays their part in promoting social cohesion.

***The goalkeeper trying to stop a penalty shot*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

“This year’s edition is very special to me because we have exceptional talents. The atmosphere is also unique as everyone is speaking the same language: peace is the only way forward,” Peter Chika, a spectator said.

From artistic displays to athletic achievements, the sons and daughters of the division are greatly benefiting from this fan-funded competition, a situation that has been since its inception. Many participants are involved in sports management, coordination, refereeing, commentary, and responsible etiquette, which will significantly enhance their resumes. Time management and fair play are also emphasized.

Many sons of the division have participated in the competition and gone on to play in prestigious football leagues both domestically and internationally. Some of them have even represented Cameroon at the junior and senior levels, fulfilling one of the competition’s primary objectives since its inception in 2007.

While individuals in various roles work tirelessly to ensure the competition’s success, their efforts indirectly and directly inspire others. Young ball boys and girls are not exceptions, as some are inspired to follow in the footsteps of their older peers and find joy in participating.

As the competition continues, the untold story is still unfolding. The BSFC is truly a community-driven sports initiative dedicated to peace and development.

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