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AFROMEDI VI Journalists Pledge Citizen-Centred Reporting To Advance Debt Justice Across Africa

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo The sixth edition of the African Media Initiative (AFROMEDI VI) has concluded in Nairobi, Kenya, leaving…

Sports

CAMTEL Retains Blue Podium As Race Begins

By Brian Mboh The 22nd International Cycling Tour of Cameroon is officially underway, with state-owned telecommunications firm CAMTEL and its…

Culture

Cameroon Festival of Living Together,Takes Center-Stage in Washington DC

By Brian Mboh It was in an electrifying atmosphere, marked by colour , rhythms and traditions from Cameroon, that a…

Culture

Fon Of Nso To Unveil Maiden Book On Peace, Reconciliation, And Ancestral Wisdom, June 25

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo His Royal Highness Fon Sehm Mbinglo I, the traditional ruler of Nso, will officially launch his…

2025 AFCON Qualifiers: The Most Important Thing For Us Is To Play For Cameroon – André Onana

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Cameroon’s goalkeeper, André Onana, has stated that the most important thing for players is to play for Cameroon. Onana made this statement during a pre-match press conference on September 6 in Garoua, the North Region of Cameroon.

André Onana speaking during the pre-match press conference

Responding to questions from reporters, Onana, who accompanied the coach, Marc Brys, said, “Hierarchically, our leader is the coach. As players, we follow Marc Brys. We don’t take sides. The most important thing for us is to play for Cameroon.”

Onana further added, “There’s a lot being said. I’m used to that. There’s a lot of manipulation and misinformation. Tomorrow, we’ll prove that we are professionals. The most important thing is the team.”

Concerning controversy surrounding the choice of the stadium, Onana said, players don’t choose where to play. “We only execute, and if we’re told to go and play in Bamenda, we will go.”

Cameroon will face Namibia on September 7 in the opening qualifying match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) to take place in Morocco. They will later face Zimbabwe in the second day of play.

PM Wades Into MINSEP/FECAFOOT Conflict, Garoua To Host AFCON Match

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo  

Wednesday, September 7th, marked a crucial turning point in the ongoing conflict between the Ministry of Sports and Physical Education (MINSEP) and the Cameroon Football Federation (FECAFOOT) as the Prime Minister stepped in to mediate the situation.

Chief Dr. Joseph Dion Ngute with a cross section of players

Just as the Prime Minister, Chief Dr. Joseph Dion Ngute, was meeting with players and the Sports Minister, the U-20 Lionesses were preparing to depart for Garoua.

According to sources, FECAFOOT had already replaced the Indomitable Lions squad due to the absence of several called-up players. The players were supposed to assemble in Douala before heading to Garoua, but they disregarded the FECAFOOT venue and instead went to Yaoundé.

Although details of the meeting at the Star building with the players remain confidential, sources indicate that Prime Minister Dion Ngute urged the players to be prepared to face Namibia in any stadium chosen by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

While the entire team selected for the AFCON qualifiers attended the match, reports suggest that the meeting was part of a series of discussions the Prime Minister has been holding since Tuesday, September 3rd, to address the ongoing venue dispute.

PM salauting Andre Onana, Cameroon’s Keeper

The source also mentioned that the one-hour meeting aimed to assess the team’s readiness, ensure they had everything they needed, and determine if the ongoing saga had affected their morale.

Speaking on CRTV’s 7:30 PM newscast on September 4, Coach Marc Brys stated that the team is focused on the game and preparing well. He stressed the positive mentality of the players and technical team, adding that they were ready to play anywhere, regardless of the situation or accommodation.

“We are not afraid; we don’t need anything there. We will play wherever we have to play and we will try to win the games. There is Garoua and Yaoundé, but we are not concerned with that. We are focused on the positive things and trying to get the three points,” Marc Brys said.

He added, “We have to be focused to play a good game, but it’s not natural that we win all these games. We have to prepare. We have to stay very close together, help each other, and trust and give all our confidence to this group of players.”

It’s worth noting that FECAFOOT, , had issued an ultimatum demanding that the players report to their assembly ground on September 4th or face consequences. Cameroon will face Namibia on Saturday and Zimbabwe later in the qualifiers for the 2025 AFCON.

Cameroon Athletes Shine At WFF Asia Pacific Bodybuilding Championship

By Brian Mboh

Cameroonian bodybuilders have once again showcased their prowess on the global stage, securing multiple medals at the recent Asia Pacific Bodybuilding Championship in Manila, Philippines.

The Cameroonian delegation, comprising of seven athletes, was among 15 nations vying for the coveted WFF pro card. The team’s primary goal was to qualify for the WFF Universe Championship in Las Vegas.

This impressive performance is a testament to the unwavering dedication and hard work of Cameroonian bodybuilders, solidifying the nation’s position as a formidable force in the world of bodybuilding.

Manga Salomon, Sanga Christian, and Tchitsou Tierri proudly claimed gold medals, while Ndadjie Ulrich and Anoho Kevin distinguished themselves with silver medals. Mani Oscar and Ndoko Espoir’s impressive achievements rounded out the tally with well-deserved bronze medals.

Complete lists

Solomon Manga

Gold medalist in bodybuilding 95kg

Gold medalist in bodybuilding Overall Amateur

Gold medalist in Heavy Weight Pro

1 Pro Card

Nsanga Christian

Gold medalist in bodybuilding 90kg

Silver medalist in bodybuilding Overall Amateur

Silver medalist in Heavy Weight Pro

1 Pro Card

Kevin Anoho

Gold medalist in Bermuda Tall

Gold medalist in Bermuda Overall Amateur

Silver medalist in Bermuda Beach Model Pro

1 Pro Card

Tchitsou Thierry

Gold medalist in Junior Bermuda

Gold medalist in Junior bodybuilding

Ndoko Espoir

Silver medalist in Men’s Sport Model

Ulrich Ndadjie

Silver medalist in bodybuilding 85kg

Mani Oscar

Bronze medalist in bodybuilding 80kg

Jikijem Hurricane FC Claims Oku Unity Football Tournament Title

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Jikijem Hurricane FC have stamped their name in the annals of the Oku Unity Football Tournament, securing the championship title in a thrilling penalty shootout victory over Down Town Fekeng on September 1st.

Jikijem FC, Champions of 2024 (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Staged in Yaounde, the final match was watched by a captivated audience including the Fon of Oku and other dignitaries. The hard-fought battle ended in a 1-1 draw after regulation time.

The tension was intense as both teams, buoyed by their passionate supporters, showcased their skills and determination.

Jikijem FC (in White) battling with Down Town Fekeng during the 2024 finals (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Down Town Fekeng struck first, capitalizing on a moment of brilliance from their forward to take the lead. However, Jikijem Hurricane responded with resilience, equalizing the score line and setting the stage for a tense second half.

Despite numerous attempts from both sides, the deadlock remained unbroken, sending the match into a penalty shootout.

Down Town Fekeng during the 2024 finals (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

In the decisive penalty shootout, Jikijem Hurricane’s nerves of steel and accurate shots proved to be the difference, securing the tournament title.

Prior to the final, the tournament kicked off with a gala match featuring Oku Veterans FC and Oku Technicians FC, with the Veterans emerging victorious by a narrow 1-0 margin.

Sustaining Peace Foundation Empowers Lasting Friends Association With Soap-Making Skills

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Sustaining Peace Foundation has equipped members of the Lasting Friends Association with valuable liquid soap-making skills.

Lasting Friends following step by step production process

The empowerment training session took place on Saturday, August 24, during the opening day of the 2024 Annual General Assembly Meeting (AGM) under the theme “Empowering Communities, Strengthening Peace.”

During the training, Linda Kekwi Kanjo stressed the delicate nature of liquid soap production and the importance of safety precautions.

Lasting Friends following step by step production process

She advised participants to wear gloves and face masks to protect themselves from chemical exposure. The step-by-step training process resulted in the production of 15 liters of liquid soap.

Kekwi Kanjo highlighted the economic benefits of learning soap-making skills, stating, “Knowing how to do this can make you economically capable of carrying out family duties and earning a steady income.”

Lasting Friends pose for a family picture with Linda Kekwi

Members of the Lasting Friends Association expressed their gratitude to Kekwi Kanjo for the empowerment training, recognizing its potential to enhance their economic stability.

Lasting Friends Association Commits to Sustainable Peacebuilding

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Sons and daughters of Kumbo, Bui Division in the Northwest Region of Cameroon, united under the Lasting Friends Association (LFA), have renewed their commitment to fostering peaceful communities through empowerment and sustainable development.

This is one among the many resolutions taken on August 25 in Yaounde during the second Annual General Meeting (AGM). The AGM was held under the theme, “Empowering Communities, Strengthening Peace.”

According to members, the theme underscored the essential connection between community empowerment and peacebuilding.

Addressing the gathering, LFA President, Etienne Mainimo stressed the importance of empowering communities to create a more stable and equitable environment.

He stated, “By equipping the community with the necessary skills and knowledge, we can reduce the likelihood of conflict and foster a sense of belonging.”

The AGM brought together participants from Bamenda, Douala, and Yaoundé, providing a platform for members to reflect on the association’s achievements, identify challenges, and chart a course for future endeavors.

Among the resolutions adopted, LFA members pledged to: equip the community by providing education, training, and mentorship to enhance skills and capabilities.

As afar as promote economic development is concern, LFA also resolved to create job opportunities and sustainable livelihoods to reduce poverty and inequality through sustainable projects.

While foster social cohesion through strengthen community bonds and promote a shared sense of identity members also resolved Invest to explore and support initiatives that contribute to long-term community development.

During the AGM, members participated in a hands-on workshop on liquid soap production, solidifying their commitment to empowering community members with practical skills and contributing to local economic development.

Since its creation in 2019, Lasting Friends Association has been dedicated to fostering unity, peace, love, dialogue, social integration, and sustainable development among its members and the wider community.

As LFA continues its mission, it remains committed to empowering communities and building a more peaceful and prosperous future for all.

At Peace-Unity Cup finals: Donga Mantung SDO Commends CAMTEL GM’s Sports-Based Unity Drive

By Brian Mboh

The Senior Divisional Officer (SDO) for Donga Mantung, George Magloire Emmanuel Basiliken, has commended the General Manager of Cameroon Telecommunications (CAMTEL), Judith Yah Sunday epse Achidi, for her initiative to foster unity through sports in the Division.

Winning team celebrates victory

Basiliken made the statement during the finals of the fourth edition of Mafor Yah Judith Sunday’s Peace and Unity Football Tournament, which took place on August 25 in Nkambe.

Highlighting the positive impact of the sports-based activities on the community, the SDO said the efforts to sustain and maintain peace, as well as encourage living together, are a great initiative.

He used the opportunity to call on all the living forces of Donga Mantung Division to follow the example of the CAMTEL General Manager. The Donga Mantung SDO also conveyed a message of peace to the population of the Division.

Real Madrid of Ako Triumphs in 4th Edition

In a highly anticipated match, Real Madrid of Ako emerged victorious, defeating Bocar Junior of Nwa by a score of 2-0.

Despite heavy rainfall, thousands of spectators flocked to the Nkambe Municipal Stadium to witness the tournament, which was organized by Yah Judith Sunday EPSE Achidi to promote peace and unity in the Donga Mantung Division.

Winning team celebrates

The event kicked off at 1:30 PM with a vibrant atmosphere, marked by the sounds of drums and trumpets. However, the final match began at 2:00 pm, with the enthusiastic crowd cheering on their respective teams.

Real Madrid of Ako took an early lead in the 15th minute through a stunning long-range shot by Kalla. Bocar Junior FC struggled to find their rhythm, but Real Madrid extended their advantage in the 38th minute with another goal.

CAMTEL stand during the finals with trophies

In the second half, Bocar Junior attempted to mount a comeback but were unable to break through the Real Madrid defense. At the final whistle, Real Madrid of Ako were crowned champions of the fourth edition of Mafor Yah Judith Sunday’s Peace and Unity Football Tournament.

Several outstanding players were recognized for their performances throughout the tournament. Kana from Real Madrid of Ako was named the best player, while Elvis of Early Bird International claimed the top scorer award with nine goals. The goalkeeper of Real Madrid was also honored for his exceptional performance.

Traditional rules celebrates with winning team

Over 50 teams participated in the tournament, which began on June 16th and was played across all five sub-divisions of Donga Mantung (Ako, Ndu, Nkambe, Nwa, and Misaje). The opening ceremony featured a thrilling match between Spartans of Bih FC and Young Stars FC.

Children Plead For Continued Sports Development After Edu Sports Holiday Camp

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Children have passionately appealed for extended football training following the successful conclusion of the Edu Sports Holiday Camp. The appeal was made on August 16 in Yaoundé during the closing ceremony of the holiday camp.

Children exhibiting their talents during the holiday Camp (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Overwhelmed with newfound skills and confidence, the young footballers expressed a keen desire to continue honing their football abilities beyond the camp.

“I’ve learned so much and want to keep improving,” said Purity Fogam. “Football makes me happy. When I go home, I’ll study hard.”

To Mike Bright Nkengbeza, “I want to thank my parents for making me part of this holiday camp. A lot happened during this camp, and I wish this could continue.”

Children exhibiting their talents during the holiday Camp (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

The 11-year-old boy added, “We were taught how to play, pass a ball, tackle the ball, love each other, and, most importantly, to take our studies seriously.”

While some children struggled to put their feelings into words, their satisfaction and eagerness for future camps were evident.

The parents who witnessed the closing ceremony also expressed their satisfaction, thanking Edu Sports Academy for the opportunity to develop their children’s talents.

Children exhibiting their talents during the holiday Camp (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

“I am so happy that my child was part of this holiday camp,” a parent said. “When it comes to football, he is so passionate. I am praying that this development should continue to help children identify their talents.”

Another parent, attending the camp for the first time, was amazed by the children’s talent and maturity.

“This is actually my first time here, and I am so amazed at the talents of these children. They behave like adults and have good skills. Thank you, Edu Sports, for giving parents the opportunity to discover talents in their children.”

Children, Edu Sport Academy Officials and Parents pose for a family picture at the closing ceremony of the holiday Camp (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Gabriel Sevidzem Wirndzerem, CEO and Founder of Edu Sports Academy, expressed satisfaction with the camp’s growth and impact. He said, since the first edition, the number of participants has kept increasing, with more internally displaced persons taking part in the camp.

“The children’s behavior and the positive feedback from parents are overwhelming,” he said. “As an optimist person, we’re looking forward to an even bigger and better camp next year.”

For over two months, more than 100 kids learned basic football skills such as ball control, kicking, heading, taking penalty kicks, and goalkeeping. They also learned about fair play and the love for one another.

MPOX Alert: Gov’t Urged Citizens To Wash Hands Regularly With Clean Running Water, Soap

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The government of Cameroon, through the Minister of Public Health, has called on citizens to respect basic hygiene rules, such as washing hands regularly with running water and soap, to avoid the risk of being contaminated with Monkeypox (MPOX).

In a communiqué issued on August 16 and signed by the Minister of Public Health, Dr. Manaouda Malachie, the Minister recommends that people should immediately go to the nearest health facility as soon as symptoms appear.

The government alert comes on the heels of the World Health Organization’s (WHO) declaration of MPOX as a “Public Health Emergency of Continental Concern on August 13.”

The Minister pointed out that washing hands regularly with clean running water and soap should be done especially after handling an animal or a product of animal origin or caring for a sick person with symptoms of MPOX.

Apart from that, citizens have also been cautioned to avoid contact with the body fluids of sick people, including unprotected sex, avoid contact with sick or dead animals, and wash and eat well-cooked and hot food. The Minister also reminded health personnel and facilities that MPOX treatment is free of charge.

On August 13, the WHO declared MPOX a “Public Health Emergency of Continental Concern” after the epidemic broke out in the DRC and spread to many African countries. According to Minister Manaouda, Cameroon needs to redouble its vigilance, especially since an active epidemic is currently rife in certain border regions of the Central African Republic (CAR).

With Cameroon known to be endemic for MPOX nearly every year, the Southwest, Northwest, Littoral Center, and East regions are commonly most affected. In 2024, the Ministry of Public Health reported approximately 30 suspected cases, with five confirmed cases and two deaths.

The active outbreaks, according to the Minister, have been in the Southwest (Mbonge, Buea, and Limbe Health Districts) and Northwest (Njikwa and Bamenda Health Districts) regions. While measures have been taken, especially strengthening epidemiological surveillance in risk zones, investigations and active searches for cases and contact persons in epidemic health districts are ongoing.

“Sensitization and community mobilization activities are also being strengthened,” the Minister stated in a communiqué.

Since the outbreak of MPOX, Sweden is the first country outside of Africa to have registered the disease. Pakistan has also registered cases. MPOX was first declared a “Public Health Emergency of Continental Concern” in 2022 and spread to over 70 countries.

It was largely contained due to the availability of the vaccine, but there was limited vaccine in Africa. The current outbreak is affecting children, and over 500 people have already died from it.

MPOX is a disease transmitted from animals to humans through rodents. Human-to-human transmission is also possible through direct contact with infected skin, through sex, and other means. It most often manifests as skin rashes accompanied by fever.

Bafmeng Futsal Team Clinch 2024 National Championship Title

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Bafmeng Futsal, representing the Northwest Region, emerged victorious as champions of the 2024 National Championship. The team clinched the title on August 17th after a thrilling penalty shootout against Gazelle FA.

Bafmeng Futsal team celebrating championship title

Gazelle FA took an early lead but Bafmeng fought back to level the score at 2-2 by the end of regulation time. The match was ultimately decided by a penalty shootout, which Bafmeng won 3-1.

Blaise Manjo Mbiydzenyuy (Green) defending Bafmeng Team

Epie Ngome Frankie from Bafmeng was recognized as the tournament’s Most Valuable Player, while Ndebi Onana of RSDV claimed the top scorer award.

In the women’s category, EEFA FF from the West Region secured the championship title. Ngo Biyo Princesse of AJSAC, Littoral, was named the best female player.