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.

BSFC 2024 Semi-finals: Promise FC, Nso Boys Secure Crucial First-Leg Advantage

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Promise Enterprise FC and Nso Boys FC have taken a decisive step towards qualifying for the finals of the 2024 Bui Sport Fans Competition (BSFC).

***Promise FC (white/black) and Dzekwa Rangers facing each other*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

In the first leg semi-finals staged this Sunday, October 27, in Yaoundé, Promise FC and Nso Boys thrashed their different opponents, sending significant messages ahead of the second leg matches.

Promise Enterprise Dominates Dzekwa Rangers

In the first match of the day, Promise FC thrashed Dzekwa Rangers 3-0. Promise Enterprise began their sweet journey at the 6th minute when team captain Louis Berka opened the score sheet.

Dzekwa Rangers, knowing the stakes of the game, began their search for an equalizing goal, but things turned at the 27th minute when Platini Fonyuy doubled the score line to 2-0.

Despite their efforts, Dzekwa Rangers couldn’t balance the score, and the first half ended on a 2-0 deficit. In the second half, Dzekwa Rangers multiplied their efforts but their attempts were met with a stone wall as Promise FC maintained their focus.

However, things turned sour again at the 59th minute as Platini Fonyuy scored a brace, beautifully passing the goalkeeper of Dzekwa Rangers to make it 3-0. Their attempts to reduce the score line was not enough as the match finally ended on a 3-0 scoreline in favor of Promise FC.

Nso Boys Edge Past Melim United

In the second match of the day, Nso Boys beat Melim United 4-2 to take the advantage in the first leg. As early as the third minute, Nso Boys had a chance to take the lead through a penalty spot, but they wasted the opportunity.

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

After several attempts from both sides, Nso Boys broke the deadlock at the 34th minute through Victor Somo. Seven minutes later, Etienne Kuwong fired a powerful shot from a long range to beautifully put his team 2-0 up.

After failing to score twice from the penalty spot, Ausseni Nyuykighan finally converted a penalty to put his team on a 3-0 advantage at the 60th minute. However, Melim United responded positively at the 64th minute through Bryan Tanlaka. Five minutes later, Derick Tata scored from the penalty spot to reduce the score line to 3-2.

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

At the 80th minute, Lesly Jumbam put the final nail in the coffin for Nso Boys as he scored the fourth goal to put them 4-2 up. The second leg matches, scheduled for November 4th, promise to be intense encounters.

Dzekwa Rangers will need to mount a remarkable comeback to overturn their 3-0 deficit, while Melim United will have to improve their defensive performance to challenge Nso Boys.

The Bui Sport Fans Competition has generated significant excitement and passion among football fans in Yaounde. With the semi-finals delivering thrilling action, expectations are high for the upcoming return leg matches on November 4.

Nso Community Mobilizes For Spectacular 2024 Ngonnso Cultural Festival

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Nso people of Cameroon are gearing up for the highly anticipated 2024 Ngonnso Cultural Festival. This annual event, scheduled to take place from November 27th to December 4th, is a vibrant celebration of Nso culture, history, and traditions.

***Celebrations in a Ngonnso Cultural Festival*** *(Photo Credit: Penjo Photography)*

The theme for this year’s festival is “Culture of Peace and Reconciliation.” Various committees have been established to oversee the organization of the event. Additionally, Nso indigenes from all over are mobilizing to contribute to the success of the cultural festival.

In addition to cultural displays, a week-long cultural extravaganza will feature food exhibitions, trade fairs, sporting activities, conferences, Miss Ngonnso Pageant and health awareness campaigns.

“We are doing our part to elevate the Ngonnso Cultural Festival to new heights,” said a member of one of the organizing groups.

Notables from the region have been urged to support the festival and contribute to its success. The cultural festival will be held under the patronage of the Fon of Nso, HRH Sehm Mbinglo I, and the NSODA, with the blessing of the Nwerong, the highest traditional secret society of Nso land.

***Celebrations in a Ngonnso Cultural Festival***

The Ngonnso Cultural Festival serves as a platform to foster unity, peace, and understanding among the Nso people and beyond. By celebrating their shared heritage, the Nso community aims to strengthen social bonds and promote cultural preservation.

The Ngonnso Cultural Festival commemorates Ngonnso, the mythical founder and mother of the Nso people. In the 1950s, Nso residents began an annual cultural week to celebrate this Nso hero, warrior, and founder. Yaya Ngonso, as she is also known, was the first Fon (head) of Nso.

During the Ngonnso Cultural Festival, Nso people showcase their rich cultural heritage through traditional dances, art exhibitions, and crafts. The Nso people are people of the Bamenda Grass fields in the Northwest Region of Cameroon.

One of the festival’s objectives is to preserve and promote the Nso people’s cultural heritage. This heritage is evident in their arts, crafts, and historical sites.

2024 BSFC Semi-Finals Preview: A Clash of Titans

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Teams in the Bui Sports Fans Competition (BSFC) will beginning their final push for the championship title this Sunday October 27 as the competition narrows down to the final four.

With just four teams remaining, the race for the 2024 championship title is reaching its climax. But the question on everyone’s lips is: Who will be crowned the 2024 BSFC champions?

Nso Boys FC and Melim United FC: A Clash of Newcomers and Veterans

One of the most intriguing matchups of the semi-finals is between Nso Boys FC and Melim United FC. Nso Boys, relative newcomers to the competition, have stormed into the semi-finals with impressive performances. Their attacking prowess, coupled with a solid defense, has made them a formidable force.

Melim United, on the other hand, are seasoned campaigners in the BSFC. They’ve learned from past experiences and are determined to make a strong impact this year. Their disciplined defense and clinical finishing have been key to their success.

Promise Enterprise FC against Dzekwa Rangers: A Battle of the Underdogs

The other semi-final pits Promise Enterprise FC against Dzekwa Rangers. Promise Enterprise, as newcomers, are eager to prove their worth and upset the more experienced Dzekwa Rangers. Their youthful exuberance and attacking flair could surprise many.

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

Dzekwa Rangers, however, are not to be underestimated. With a strong core of experienced players, they have consistently performed well in the BSFC. Their tactical acumen and physicality will be crucial in this high-stakes encounter.

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

The Road to the Final

The semi-finals promise to be a electrifying spectacle, filled with intense battles, breathtaking goals, and unexpected twists. The winning teams will have to wait for the return leg semi-fianls clash to advance to the final, where they will have the opportunity to etch their names in the history books of the BSFC.

***Partial view of fans during the BSFC*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

As the competition reaches its final stages, fans are eagerly anticipating the exciting matches ahead. With so much at stake, every game being a must-watch.

BSFC Day 6: Dzekwa Rangers, Melim United Secure Qualification to Next Round

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Dzekwa Rangers and Melim FC have picked up their qualification tickets to the next round of the ongoing 2024 Bui Sports Fans Competition, BSFC after crucial day six matches.

**Teams battling for the supremacy** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Staged on October 20 in Yaoundé, both teams secured hard-fought wins to ensure their participation in the next phase of the 12th edition.

Bui Diaspora FC 0 – 3 Dzekwa Rangers FC

In the first match of the day, cup holders Bui Diaspora FC saw their dream come to an end as an inspiring Dzekwa Rangers outclassed them 3-0.

In the early minutes of the game, Bui Diaspora, who seemed to have fielded their second-choice team, looked promising and almost took the lead, but the opportunity went wide over the crossbar.

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

Faced with a determined Dzekwa Rangers who needed a win, the exploits continued, and they opened the scoring in the 15th minute through Emmanuel Shiylajing. In the 28th minute, a mix-up in the defense of Bui Diaspora allowed Dzekwa’s Leonard Wirba to increase their tally.

In the second half, Bui Diaspora gathered their efforts to pull the strings, but they were thwarted each time they came close to scoring.

In the 64th minute, Germaine Fon scored the third goal for Dzekwa Rangers. The dream of qualifying for the next round was fading for Bui Diaspora, who tightened their defense to maintain their lead.

At the sound of the final whistle, Dzekwa Rangers booked their ticket to the next phase of the competition.

10-Man Melim United Thrashed Mile One 1-0

The second match of the day saw two determined teams fight for a lone ticket into the next round of the competition. While Melim United needed just a draw to qualify, Mile One Kumbo needed a victory to secure their chances.

The two teams started flexing their muscles with good football from both sides. However, Mile One Kumbo almost broke the deadlock, but their attacker was brought down, leading to a red card for Melim United.

Knowing the stakes of the game, Melim United began to mobilize. Their efforts collided with Mile One, who had a singular agenda of winning the game. However, Melim FC stood firm and took the lead from a free kick, earning a 1-0 advantage.

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

In the second half, both sides created multiple chances, but their ability to outmaneuver each other was constantly halted. Despite Mile One’s domination, they couldn’t equalize the score.

Their dreams came to an end when the final whistle was blown. Melim United, therefore, joined Dzekwa Rangers in the next phase of the competition.

PFL Super Fights Heavyweight World Champion: Emotional Ngannou Honors Late Son With Knockout Victory

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Francis Ngannou is the new reigning Professional Fighter League (PFL) Super Fights Heavyweight World Champion. Ngannou claimed the title on October 19 in Mayadeen, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, defeating Brazilian Renan Ferreira in a fight that lasted three minutes and 32 seconds.

After the stoppage, the 38-year-old Cameroonian sat by Ferreira’s side weeping while receiving treatment. He had just finished a fight he dedicated to his son, who died in April at the age of 15 months.

“I just want to say please, remember my son, remember my son Kobe. I dedicate this one to him as his father,” Ngannou said. “I only took this fight because of him. I wanted to fight for him and I have done it. I hope the fans can remember his name because without Kobe, we wouldn’t be here tonight. I wouldn’t have fought.”

He added, “Thank you everyone for coming. Thank you to everyone for having us here. The people here are very lovely. I think you guys are more than fans in the 10 days I have been in Saudi. What I can call it in another way, family.”

“I think my next move in combat sports is all dependent on me, how I feel, how I deal with my life right now,” Ngannou said. “I always thought I still had a lot to give in combat sports and hopefully I keep thinking that way.”

In the first round, the two met in the center, receiving low kicks. After the low kicks, Ferreira narrowly missed a left hand, but a strong right hand from Ngannou shot in and scored a takedown. As Ngannou was looking to do work, Ferreira suddenly threw up his legs for a triangle choke attempt, but Ngannou got his head out as the referee warned Ferreira for having his toes in the fence.

About halfway through the round, Ngannou (6-4, 255 pounds) took down Ferreira (6-8, 261-pounds) near the fence inside the cage. Suddenly, caught dangerously between Ferreira’s massive legs, Ngannou muscled free and let his fists fly.

A barrage of punches pounded Ferreira’s head, and the massive Brazilian looked helpless when the referee called the fight with 1:28 left in the first round.

The victory marked Ngannou’s first appearance for the PFL since making his high-profile switch to the promotion in May last year. During the time in between, the heavyweight star made a brief, and lucrative, foray into boxing with bouts against Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua, also in Riyadh.

In another fight, Cris Cyborg, 39, was crowned PFL’s featherweight world champion, beating an opponent almost a decade younger in her fifth title from a major promotion. Larissa Pacheco, 30, landed plenty of hard shots, and it left Cyborg bleeding over both swollen eyes, but Cyborg survived thanks to her fists and determination. All three judges scored it 49-46.

“Larissa fights really hard. She’s a really good fighter,” Cyborg said. It’s a pleasure for me as I make the older generation fight for the new generation.”

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