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Archbishop Of Canterbury Urges Cameroon Anglicans To ‘Stand Firm’ Amid Life’s Struggles

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo The Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Rev. Sarah Mullally, spiritual leader of the worldwide Anglican Communion,…

Sports

Cameroon Secures 5 Medals, Finishes 16th At 2026 Commonwealth Games

By Brian Mboh Cameroon wrapped up its participation at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, on Sunday, Aug. 2,…

Society

Minister Ousmane Mey Urges ISSEA Graduates to Leverage Cutting-Edge Skills for Development

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo The Minister of the Economy, Planning and Regional Development (MINEPAT), Alamine Ousmane Mey, has urged 108…

Sports

2026 WAFCON: Cameroon, Ghana Renew Storied Rivalry In High-Stakes Group D Clash

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo Ghana and Cameroon will renew one of West African women’s soccer’s most contested rivalries Sunday August…

2024/2025 Cameroon Elite One championship: Stade Renard To Hosts Aigle Of Moungo In Season-Opening Clash

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Stade Renard of Melong and Aigle of Moungo will face off in the opening match of Cameroon’s 2024/2025 football season. The information was disclosed by Abdou Raza, Director of Local and International Competitions at the Cameroon Football Federation.

Coton Sport of Garoua vs Renaissance of Ngoumo during the 11th day of play of the 2022/2023 football season in Cameroon (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

The season-opening match is scheduled for December 7th at the Melong Municipal Stadium. The Elite Two championship will commence on December 14th.

Abdou Raza outlined the calendar for the 2024/2025 season, revealing that 16 clubs will participate in the Elite One championship, playing a total of 30 matches. In the Elite Two, 17 clubs will be divided into two pools.

After completing 15 matches in the first leg and 15 in the second leg of the Elite One Championship, the top team in the league will be crowned champion, while the bottom four teams will be relegated to the Elite Two.

In Elite Two, the 17 clubs will be divided into Pools A and B. The pool leaders will compete in the playoffs for the championship title and promotion to the Elite One, while the bottom-ranked teams will face relegation to the regional league in the relegation playoffs.

According to the calendar, the Elite One season will conclude on May 28, 2025, and the Elite Two season will end on February 28, 2025. The Female football championship will begin on November 30, 2024, and will conclude on June 25, 2026.

It’s worth noting that the league system of play is returning to the Elite One championship after a three-year hiatus, during which a group format was used.

Elite One calendar

Nso Boys Kick Off Bui Unity Super Cup With A Win Over Kilum Bees

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Nso Boys got their Bui Unity Super Cup campaign off to a flying start with a convincing 2-0 victory over Kilum Bees in the opening match of the tournament.

Nso Boys FC (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Staged at the Mateco Stadium, University of Yaounde I campus on November 24th, both teams displayed impressive footballing skills throughout the first half, but the score line remained unchanged. Despite several close attempts from both sides, the deadlock persisted.

The second half witnessed a significant shift in momentum with more aggressive approach from but it Nso Boys that broke the ice with a well-taken goal. Buoyed by their lead, Nso Boys doubled their advantage, leaving Kilum Bees struggling to find a way back into the game.

Kilum Bees and Nso Boys battling for supremacy (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Despite their valiant efforts, Kilum Bees were unable to breach the resolute Nso Boys defense. The final whistle confirmed Nso Boys’ 2-0 victory, setting the stage for the remainder of the tournament.

Speaking after the match, Kilum Bees President Albert Ndikwa expressed his satisfaction with the level of organization of the tournament, stating, “It is true that my team was defeated, but in the game of football, anything can happen. We are happy losers today, and it’s a good opener for us. Our next opponent should be on a hot seat because we are determined to reach the finals.”

Kilum Bees FC (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Hyginus Sahka, President of Bui Strikers and coordinator of the competition, echoed Ndikwa’s sentiments, saying, “I am very happy because the opening day was a success. We are evolving and bringing the three communities together is a great achievement. I am happy that we have responded to the call.”

He added, “While the fan turnout wasn’t as expected, we are hoping to see more support in the upcoming matches. I urge everyone to come out and support this initiative, as we strive to foster peace, love, and solidarity among the sons and daughters of Bui Division.”

Kick off of the Bui Unity Super Cup Football Competition (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

The Bui Unity Super Cup aims to promote peace, love, and solidarity among the three communities of Bui Division through football. The tournament brings together football champions from each community to compete for the coveted title.

UNFPA, EU Unite To Promote Youth Peace & Security in Cameroon

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has joined the European Union (EU) to support the organization of the National Colloquium on Youth Peace and Security, YPS in Cameroon.

Officials and participants pose for a family picture

This was a key outcome of a three-day colloquium held at the International Relations Institute of Cameroon (IRIC) in Yaoundé from November 20 to 23. The colloquium was themed, “Driving towards the finalization and implementation of the national action plan on youth, peace, and security in Cameroon.”

The first two days of the colloquium saw an in-depth review of the inception report by a committee of 50 experts from government, UN, international organizations, civil society and young people.

During the closing ceremony, over 300 participants including young peacebuilders, government officials, members of parliament, religious and traditional authorities, students, development partners, and members of the national commission and technical committee on Youth, Peace, and Security met to reflect on the inception report while sharing their insights and data to help improve the YPS NAP

Speaking at the closing ceremony, Robert Theophile, the Secretary General of MINJEC, applauded the initiative, stating that it is a significant step in the right direction.

He expressed confidence that the proposals put forward by the team of experts would result in a relevant document that would address the pressing challenges faced by today’s youth, particularly in the areas of peace and security at both the national and international levels.

“We believe that the proposals from the expert team will result in a relevant document that addresses the challenges facing our youth, particularly in the areas of peace and security, both nationally and internationally.”

“We, the youth of Cameroon, were fully mobilized across the nation,” said Fadimatou Iyawa, President of the Cameroon National Youth Council (CNJC). “This three-day intensive colloquium allowed us to contribute our unique perspectives to the cause of peace and security.”

Dr. Neba Ridley Ngwa, Secretary General at the International Relations Institute of Cameroon (IRIC), stated that the initiative aligns with IRIC’s objectives, interests, and vision.

Officials and participants pose for a family picture

“We welcome this initiative and champion it. We aim to ensure that the framework, which will be outlined in a document, serves as a guideline for young people, particularly in the field of business,” he said.

Professor Jean-Emmanuel Pondi who is the lead consultant in the elaboration of the plan emphasized the importance of this plan in empowering young people, who are often both actors and victims of conflict and insecurity.

He added that this initiative would demonstrate to Cameroonians and the international community the aspirations of Cameroon’s youth and their commitment to achieving peace and security within the country and nationally with the support and contributions of various stakeholders.

It is worth noting that the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Civic Education (MINJEC), Local Youth Corner Cameroon (LOYOC), and the Cameroon National Youth Council hosted the colloquium in collaboration with Search for Common Ground Cameroon as part of the Young Cameroon project, funded by the European Union.

YPS is been implemented by Local Youth Corner Cameroon and Search for Common Ground Cameroon under the leadership of MINJEC & CNJC. This collaboration led to the development of an inception report which serves as the first draft of the National Action Plan (NAP) on YPS in Cameroon.

As noted by a youth participant, the Young Cameroon project funded by the EU has indeed contributed in accelerating the development and implementation of the Cameroon National Action Plan on Youth, Peace, and Security, which has been in development since 2016.

The Country Director of SFCG, Mrs Tatiana Lobe joined her voice with the Executive Director of LOYOC, Mr Achaleke Christian Leke to reaffirm their commitment towards supporting national efforts in advancing the YPS agenda in Cameroon.

The colloquium provided an inclusive platform for fostering dialogue, strengthening political commitment, collaboration, and feedback, as well as reinforcing multi-sectoral engagement.

NCC Sanctions Media Outlets, Journalists for Ethical Breaches

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Cameroon National Communication Council (NCC) has issued sanctions against several media outlets and journalists for ethical breaches.

Joseph Chebongkeng Kalabubsu, President of NCC speaking after the session (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

The decisions were announced on November 20, 2024, following the 44th ordinary session of the NCC, chaired by Joseph Chebongkeng Kalabubsu, President of NCC. The session was held in accordance with Decree No. 2012/038 of January 23, 2012, which reorganizes the NCC.

While some cases resulted in warnings, others were suspended, adjourned, or dismissed. The case involving Fuh Calistus, Acting Minister of Mines, Industries, and Technological Development (MINMIDT), and the publisher and journalist of the newspaper “Repères” was one among the cases examined.

The Council found the media organ responsible for publishing unfounded and insinuating accusations against the Minister. As a result, the publisher received a warning, and Christelle Belibi, journalist was suspended from practicing journalism for one month.

Another case involved Gaston Komba and the print media outlets L’Expression and Perspectives D’Afrique. The complainant filled a petition to the council in the wake of the publishing of allegedly unfounded statements made by the above organs. He was accused of tarnishing the image of the President of the Republic as part of his actions as President of the Nkam-CPDM section in the Northwest Region.

Upon examining the case, the NCC suspended the publishers of L’Expression and Perspectives D’Afrique for one month each, due to their refusal to comply with the NCC’s summons, despite being served by a bailiff.

The case involving Cyprus Ngo’o, General Manager of the Autonomous Port of Douala (PAD), along with the publisher of Premiere Heure and journalist Alain Moukouta, was adjourned. The NCC acknowledged the offenders’ written request for an adjournment and will examined the case during the next session.

The complaint was filed following publications on August 28, 2024, and November 5, 2024, that made allegedly unfounded and damaging accusations regarding financial malpractice and scandals in Ngo’o’s management of PAD.

Another brough before the council was the case of Father Nkouly Nkouly Gregoire Benoit, Parish Priest of St. Kisito’s parish in Mvog Mbi, against the General Manager of Satellite FM radio and journalist Manga Cedric was dismissed.

The NCC found that the offending statements were not broadcast on Satellite FM or its digital platforms but were instead posted exclusively on Cedric Manga’s personal Facebook page. As a result, the NCC determined it lacked jurisdiction over the matter and dismissed the case.

Bui Unity Super Cup 1st Edition: Nso Boys Face Jikejem Hurricanes In Opening Match

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Bui Unity Super Cup is set to ignite with a thrilling opening match between two formidable teams: Nso Boys FC and the Jikejem Hurricanes FC.

Jikejem Hurricanes FC, 2024 champions of Oku Unity Football Tournament (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

This highly anticipated encounter is scheduled for Sunday, November 24th, at 2:00 PM, at the Mateco Stadium on the University of Yaounde 1 Campus.

A Clash of Champions

Both teams arrive at this showdown with recent championship victories. Nso Boys FC, fresh from their triumph in the Bui Sports Fans Competition (BSFC) 2024, will be looking to carry their winning momentum into this prestigious tournament. Their victory over Promise Enterprise FC in the BSFC final was a testament to their skill and determination.

The Jikejem Hurricanes FC, on the other hand, have also tasted recent success. They emerged victorious in the 2024 Oku Unity Tournament, defeating Down Town Fekeng FC in a nail-biting penalty shootout. This victory has boosted their confidence and fueled their ambition to kick start the Bui Unity Super Cup with high hopes.

Nso Boys FC, 2024 Champions of the Bui Sports Fans Competition (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

A Historic Rivalry

While this is the first time these two teams will face each other in a competitive match, the history of Bui football is rich with intense rivalries.

The clash between Nso Boys and Jikejem Hurricanes FC echoes the spirit of past finals, such as the 2014 encounter between Kilum Bee and Royal Olympic of Kikaikom, and the 2010 final between Kilum Bees and Sun City FC.

A Spectacle for the Ages

With both teams possessing a wealth of talent and a burning desire to win, the Bui Unity Super Cup opener promises to be a spectacle for the ages. Football fans from across the Bui Division and beyond are eagerly anticipating this clash of titans.

As the two teams step onto the pitch, the stage is set for a thrilling battle. Who will emerge victorious? Only time will tell.

2024 National Technology Days: Minister Calistus Hails Creative Innovators, Pledges Gov’t Support

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The interim Minister of Mines, Industry, and Technological Development (MINMIDT), Prof. Calistus Fuh Gentry, has praised the creative innovations of inventors.

Minister Fuh Gentry cutting the inaugural ribbon (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Prof. Fuh Gentry made this statement on November 19 in Yaoundé while officially launching the 2024 edition of the National Technological Days. The 9th edition of the National Technological Days is being held under the theme, “Local Technological Innovations: A Lever for Import-Substitution.”

Speaking shortly after inaugurating the technology village, Minister Fuh Gentry not only hailed the innovators but also pledged that the government will support and exploit the talents of these young individuals.

“I am very convinced with what I see today, that Cameroon is blessed with talent and human resources,” the Minister said.

He added, “we are going to exploit these talents, and we are going to put these talents at the disposal of businessmen, industrialists, and international organizations such as the OAPI, to improve the efficiency of everything we see here, so that it becomes an industrial project.”

Minister Fuh Gentry visiting stands of innovators (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Indicating that this is how China and India have developed their industries, Minister Fuh Gentry stated that it is time for Africa, and in particular for Cameroon, to take its place.

Several innovators told The Post that their inventions were motivated by shortcomings in society. They believe that if well-applied, these inventions could reduce imports and encourage domestic consumption.

Thaddeus Anga Mukong, an inventor of a solar inverter, said his invention would help transform solar energy from lower levels to higher alternating current levels, enabling the operation of larger equipment.

Etienne Kanjo Shey’s invention, which converts waste plastics into fuel, was developed to address environmental degradation caused by plastic pollution in cities and oceans.

A total of 50 inventors from all 10 regions of the country are competing to showcase their creative prowess. Alongside them, 15 innovative companies and research centers, including IRAD, MIPROMALO, CNDT, IAI, IUT Douala, and IUG, are participating in the event.

Minister Fuh Gentry visiting stands of innovators (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Key government departments and partner organizations, such as CAMTEL, API, PAK, CCIMA, and OAPI, have joined forces to support this initiative, underscoring the importance of public-private collaboration in promoting local expertise.

The National Technological Days allow local inventions to be exhibited with the aim of qualifying them for exploitation and industrial development, the driving force behind wealth creation and job generation.

The last edition of the National Technology Days, held in 2022, focused on promoting local know-how in identified areas to enhance existing skills and potential, encouraging investments from both the public and private sectors.

Bui Unity Super Cup Football Competition Set To Kick Off

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The inaugural Bui Unity Super Cup Football Competition, has been scheduled to kick off on Sunday, November 24. This triangular football competition aims to foster unity among the three tribes that make up the Bui Division: Nso, Noni, and Oku, in the Northwest Region of Cameroon.

The tournament will take place at the Mateco Stadium, University of Yaoundé I Campus. The opening match features the champions of the Bui Sports Fans Competition, Nso Boys FC, who will face off against the winners of the Oku Unity Football Tournament, Jikejem Hurricanes FC.

According to the organizers, the tournament will run from November 24 to December 22, culminating in a grand final at the Military Stadium. Organizers say one of the primary objectives of the Bui Unity Super Cup Football Competition is to utilize sports, particularly football, as a means of strengthening the bonds of unity within the Bui Division.

The Nso, Oku, and Noni communities have unanimously agreed to participate in this tournament to send a powerful statement advocating for love, peace, and solidarity among the people of Bui.

This marks the first time such a competition has been organized, and both observers and fans view the Bui Unity Super Cup Football Competition as a significant step toward promoting the values of peace, unity, and love among residents of the division, both locally and in the diaspora.

For the past nine years, the socio-political crisis in the region has had a profound impact on the Bui Division, leading to numerous challenges and hardships. While conditions are gradually improving, the ongoing need for sustained peace and community cohesion remains critical.

As the tournament approaches, anticipation is building among local fans and players alike. The Bui Unity Super Cup Competition promises not only to showcase local talent but also to serve as a beacon of hope and reconciliation for the community.

Through this event, the organizers aim to remind everyone of the importance of coming together in solidarity, celebrating shared values, and working toward a peaceful future for all.

At 2024 Africa Industrialization Day: Minister Calistus Drums Promotion Of Local Tech Solutions As Key Foundation To Inclusive Economy

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Interim Minister of Mines, Industry, and Technological Development (MINMIDT), Prof. Calistus Fuh Gentry, says promoting local technological solutions will help lay the foundations for a stronger, more diversified, and more inclusive economy for future generations.

Minister Calistus Fuh Gentry speaking to the press (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Prof. Calistus made the statement on November 20 in Yaoundé during celebrations marking the 35th anniversary of the Africa Industrialization Day. The 2024 edition is celebrated under the theme, “Taking advantage of artificial intelligence (AI) and green industrialization to accelerate Africa’s structural transformation.”

Celebrations marking the 35th anniversary come at the moment when the 9th edition of the National Technology Days (JTN) is taking place under the theme, “Local technological innovations, a lever for import-substitution.”

“By promoting our own technological solutions, we are not only meeting the needs of today; we are laying the foundations for a stronger, more diversified, and more inclusive economy for future generations,” Minister Calistus said.

Stressing that technologies are evolving at a frantic pace, constantly redefining the economic boundaries between nations and the opportunities available to them, he added that for Cameroon, the challenge is daunting.

“It is about building a future where local innovations and endogenous technology will meet the needs of our society, reduce our dependence on imports, and stimulate the creation of quality jobs. Import substitution, far from being a simple economic concept, then becomes a promise of self-sufficiency, prosperity, and resilience for our nation,” he said.

In order to take full advantage of the natural factorial endowments that abound in Cameroon to definitively position itself on the paths of structural transformation, Minister Calistus noted that it is essential, in the spirit of the times, for a faster development of local technological innovations, which will undoubtedly serve for a better implementation of the import-substitution policy, that Cameroonian youth are more interested in artificial intelligence techniques.

Talking about the National Technology Days, which he says comes at the moment of the celebration of the African Industralisation Day, he said the technologies presented by the youths, born from Cameroonian ingenuity, demonstrate the potential to become a key player in the African and global technological economy.

To meet the challenges that come with industrialization, he said, Cameroon has adopted a number of reforms resulting in innovations at institutional, legislative, and regulatory levels, as well as in infrastructure.

“At the institutional level, the country has adopted a new roadmap, the National Development Strategy 2020-2030 (SND30), which focuses on the structural transformation of the productive fabric and industrialization through import substitution,” he said.

Besides Legislation and Regulations, the Minister indicated that the State of Cameroon, in line with the achievements of the first phase of its Vision of Emergence, has undertaken major investments to make the country an attractive destination for private investment in three areas: physical, energy, and cognitive.

“New physical infrastructures have been built, notably the hydroelectric dam on the Sanaga River at Nachtigal, with an installed capacity of 420 MW, as well as new universities and training schools, geographically distributed throughout the country,” he added.

He, however, stated that the past year has been marked by significant achievements, which clearly illustrate the dynamism of Cameroon’s industrial sector, driven by the strong actions mentioned above, but above all by the political will to develop locally, the value chains of all kinds of wealth present in Cameroon’s soil and subsoil.

This includes the inauguration in Kribi of the CADYST Group wheat processing plant and also CIMPOR Cameroun S.A cement production plant in Kribi, the award to CAMALCO S.A. of the industrial exploitation permit for Minim-Martap bauxite, as well as visits over the past month to major industrial projects completed or under development, relating to the establishment of automotive oil manufacturing plants, domestic gas cylinder manufacturing plants, and tire manufacturing plants among others.

He said these projects, which demonstrate the attractiveness of Cameroon’s business environment, are in line with our import-substitution policy, in accordance with the requirements of sustainable development and resilience of the national economy.

“The 35th Africa Industrialization Day reminds us of the imperative to redouble our efforts to ensure the achievement of the targeted objectives. It invites us all together, Governments, private sector actors, development partners, and civil society, to work towards sustainable and inclusive industrialization, a guarantee of a prosperous Africa with integrated economies,” he noted.

Africa Industrialization Day, celebrated every 20 November since 1989, was instituted by the Organization of African Unity and endorsed by the United Nations General Assembly. Its mission is to raise awareness among governments, the private sector, civil society and international partners of the challenges of industrialisation in Africa, while mobilising greater support for its sustainable economic transformation.

Paradigm Initiative Commends Cameroon’s Data Protection Bill, Notes Shortcomings

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Paradigm Initiative (PIN), a leading pan-African organisation advocating for digital rights and inclusion, has commended the tabling of Cameroon’s Personal Data Protection Bill in Parliament.

According to PIN, the landmark legislation marks a significant step towards safeguarding privacy in an era dominated by data-driven technologies. Its provisions lay the groundwork for enhanced personal data protection and align Cameroon with global efforts to address the risks of data misuse. 

While the pan-African organization commends the bill for laying the groundwork for robust data protection, it is also raising concerns about certain provisions, questioning potential effectiveness. One area of concern highlighted by the organisation is the independence of the Personal Data Protection Authority, as outlined in Section 53.

The appointment of the Authority by the Head of State raises questions about its ability to operate without political influence, which is crucial for impartial enforcement. Similarly, the provision under Section 9(2) allowing the waiver of consent for tasks deemed in the ‘public interest,’ including matters of health, lacks sufficient safeguards. Without judicial oversight or clearer definitions, PIN warns that this clause risks being misinterpreted or misused.

Paradigm Initiative believes there is a unique opportunity to address these gaps during parliamentary deliberations, ensuring that the law is not only progressive in theory but also practical and effective in protecting citizens.

“Cameroon’s Personal Data Protection Bill is a significant achievement and demonstrates a growing recognition of the need for strong data protection frameworks across Africa,” said Khadijah El-Usman, Senior Programs Officer, Anglophone Africa at Paradigm Initiative.

“We urge legislators to address the ambiguities in the bill and ensure its implementation is backed by adequate capacity to monitor compliance and protect citizens from data exploitation which includes but is not limited to financial independence,” she added.

As tech corporations continue to mine data on a global scale, Cameroon’s progress in this area signals a promising step toward greater accountability in the digital age. With proper implementation and oversight, the country could join others in holding violators accountable and protecting the digital rights of its citizens.

Paradigm Initiative remains committed to working with policymakers, civil society, and other stakeholders to ensure that this bill delivers on its promise of meaningful data protection for all Cameroonians.

Paradigm Initiative (PIN) connects under-served young Africans with digital opportunities and ensures digital rights for all. We have worked in communities across Nigeria since 2007 and across Africa since 2017, building experience, community trust, and an organisational culture that positions us as a leading non-governmental organisation in ICT for Development and digital rights on the continent. 

PIN promote a rights-respecting continent through our team in subregional offices in Cameroon, Kenya, Nigeria, Senegal, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. The interventions of PIN are spread across more than 27 African countries. Paradigm Initiative pushes for an Internet that is open, accessible, and affordable to all.

PIN’s programs include a Life Skills, ICT Skills, Financial Literacy, and Entrepreneurship (LIFE) Training Program, a digital readiness workshop for youth, and a Life at Schools Club Program. PIN has also built online platforms such as Ayeta and Ripoti that educate and serve as safe spaces for reporting digital rights violations.

Experts Unit To Combat AMR Through A One Health Approach

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Experts from various sectors in Africa have united to address Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR). This outcome emerged from a high-level meeting that began in Yaoundé on November 14. The meeting coincides with Africa’s observance of World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week (WAAW) under the theme, “Educate. Advocate. Act Now.”

Officials during the opening ceremony

Hosted by the Government of Cameroon, the high-level meeting brought together policymakers, health experts, and youth leaders.

Opening the meeting, Dr. Taïga, Cameroon’s Minister of Livestock, Fisheries, and Animal Industries (MINEPIA), emphasized that AMR is a global concern affecting human, animal, and environmental health.

“It represents one of the most serious threats to the world today. Despite its silent nature, AMR is particularly devastating for our health systems, with repercussions for economic development,” the Minister stated.

Speaking on behalf of the Assistant Director General and Regional Representative for Africa, Athman Mravili, FAO Subregional Coordinator for Central Africa, emphasized that population growth in Africa places immense pressure on food demand in agriculture, leading to increased production of food of animal origin and crops associated with the use of antimicrobials.

“The FAO’s mandate covers antimicrobial stewardship across various disciplines, including aquatic and terrestrial animal health, welfare and production, food and feed safety, crop production and protection, and overall stewardship of water and land along the agri-food system,” he indicated.

Meanwhile, Huyam Salih, Director of the African Union Inter African Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR), stated, “With an estimated 60 to 75 percent of emerging human pathogens originating from animals, the responsible use of antimicrobials in animal health is critical.”

The week-long event features a series of impactful activities, including high-profile panel discussions, youth engagement initiatives, and field visits to showcase ongoing efforts to tackle AMR across sectors.

While the high-level meeting reflects Africa’s dedication to reducing AMR—a growing public health challenge threatening human, animal, and environmental health—experts note that this year’s theme stresses the need for cross-sector collaboration to preserve the effectiveness of antimicrobials.

AMR, driven by the misuse and overuse of antibiotics across sectors, is a significant concern in Africa, where resistance rates are rising and threaten decades of progress in disease control. As AMR poses a major health threat that could lead to up to 4.1 million deaths annually across Africa by 2050 if left unchecked, this year’s observance comes at a crucial time.

Key messages throughout the week will highlight the urgent need for responsible antimicrobial use and stronger surveillance to protect public health, livelihoods, and food security across the continent.

WAAW is an annual collaboration in Africa spearheaded by the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), the AU Inter-African Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR), the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), and the World Health Organization (WHO).

The involvement of these diverse organizations underscores the necessity of a One Health approach—an integrated strategy that recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health to mitigate AMR effectively.