Football World Bids Farewell To Issa Hayatou, Former CAF President

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Former President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Issa Hayatou, who passed away on August 9 in Paris, France, has been laid to rest in his hometown of Garoua, North Region of Cameroon.

***The remains of Issa Hayatou lying in state in Garoua, North Region of Cameroon***

Cameroon’s President, Paul Biya, was represented at the funeral by the Minister of Sports and Physical Education, Prof. Narcisse Mouelle Kombi. Also in attendance were CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe and FIFA President Gianni Infantino, among other dignitaries.

On behalf of President Biya, Minister Mouelle Kombi conferred honors on Hayatou’s remains. In his tribute, Dr. Motsepe hailed the deceased as a great figure who made significant contributions to African football. He stressed the importance of continuing to strengthen African football’s structures, a cause Hayatou championed throughout his career.

***Cameroon Minister of Sports, Prof. Moulle Kombi sitting along with CAF President, Dr. Patrice Motsepe and FIFA President Gianni Infantino***

Addressing the ongoing conflict between the Ministry of Sports and Physical Education and FECAFOOT, Dr. Motsepe appealed to FECAFOOT President, Samuel Eto’o to collaborate with the government, particularly the Ministry of Sports.

On his part, Gianni Infantino described Issa Hayatou as “an ambassador for football in the world.” He added, “He knew how to take the helm of FIFA in 2015 when our boat was sailing in rough seas, and he steered us back to calm waters, just before I was elected President in 2016. He was a great figure, a great gentleman, a great friend.”

***FECAFOOT President, Samuel Eto’o (middle) with CAF President, Dr. Patrice Motsepe and FIFA President Gianni Infantino***

Infantino further stated, “We always say that football unites people, regardless of their origin. Issa Hayatou, with his remarkable and world-acclaimed work, knew how to contribute to this unity. He surely was an ambassador for Cameroon and an ambassador for football in the world. He was an ambassador of great values such as family and unity, and this is what brings all of us together here today.”

As former President of FECAFOOT, Issa Hayatou served as CAF President for 29 years from 1988 to 2017. He was a FIFA Council member from 1990 to 2017 and a FIFA Vice President. Additionally, he was an International Olympic Committee (IOC) Member from 2001 to 2016, after which he became an IOC Honorary Member.

At 11th Batch Graduation: VTI-GATE Graduating Students Urged To Let Excellence Be Their Trademark

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Graduating students from the Vocational Training Institute of Giddis for Advanced Technology and Entrepreneurship (VTI-GATE) have been urged to let excellence be their trademark as they go out into the field.

***Graduating students posed for family picture*** *(Photo Credit: GMP)*

The call was made on August 10 in Yaoundé by various personalities during the institution’s 11th batch graduation ceremony.

In a keynote address, Rev. Fr. Dr. Cornelius Banah Sama said, “Let the quality of your services and words be your tool of market, and let excellence be your trademark.”

While calling on the graduating students to keep “graduating” every day, Rev. Fr. Dr. Banah Sama said they should graduate from cheap companies and conversations that will not help them realize their dreams in life.

“Graduate from gossips and jealousy, and learn to concentrate on building your personality and your capacities,” he said.

***Graduating students performing a traditional dance*** *(Photo Credit: GMP)*

Besides calling on them to graduate from indecency and cheap appearances that do not portray the person they aspire to become in the future, he also urged them to graduate from cheap and unhealthy relationships that do not honor their bodies as the temple of the Holy Spirit.

“Let us all graduate from corruption, dishonesty, bitterness, anger, and betrayals that are destroying our society and strive to live for a brighter future,” he further stated.

To achieve their goals as they enter society, the students were also urged to be humble but never desperate in their search for a job, nor allow human dignity to be compromised just because they need a job.

He added that they should remain focused, disciplined, and hardworking because there is no greater magic than determination and hard work.

***Parents during the graduation ceremony*** *(Photo Credit: GMP)*

“Idleness should never be part of you because you are a graduate from a vocational institution that promotes entrepreneurship and practical knowledge. Always set your objectives that are smart and can permit you to live a meaningful life,” Rev. Fr. Dr. Banah Sama said.

The Founder and CEO of VTI-GATE, Gilfort Fur Fondzenyuy, challenged them to face challenges with confidence, continue to learn and grow, and always strive for excellence.

“As you step into the world, remember that the skills and knowledge you have gained here are your tools to create a brighter future,” Fru Fondzenyuy said.

While thanking the administration and staff for their diligence throughout the school year, he extended heartfelt gratitude to the parents who have entrusted the school with the education of their children. “Your trust and support are the pillars of our success. Thank you for believing in us.”

The newly appointed director of VTI-GATE, Bruno Berinyuy Lukong, congratulated the students for their hard work, pointing out that the skills they have acquired are the skills they need for a better tomorrow.

To the current students in the school, he said, “I encourage you to tighten your belt and know it is through hard work that comes success, and for sure, you shall reap what you sow. I urge you to follow the footsteps of hard work and determination exhibited by your seniors.”

The graduating students hailed the school for the knowledge they have acquired and promised to face their next step in life with determination. “Now that I am a graduate in Secretarial Duties and Office Administration and Management, I would actually execute my skills and also impact them,” a graduating student said.

Award and scholarships were given to deserving students. Over 42 students graduated from the different departments in the institution.

Meet the Eight Contenders of 2024 BSFC

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

A total of eight teams are poised to compete in the 2024 edition of the Bui Sports Fans Competition (BSFC), which commences on September 1 in Yaoundé. To be held at the Leclerc General High School, the eight teams representing different tribes of Bui Division will vie to succeed last year’s champions, Bui Diaspora FC.

Of the eight teams, five are returning from the previous edition: Dzekwa Rangers, Melim FC, Bui Diaspora, NDECA FC and Mile One Kumbo FC. Two newcomers, Nso Boys FC and Promise Enterprise FC, are joining the competition, while Takijah FC is making a comeback after participating in the 2022 relaunch.

The stakes are high as all teams aspire to lift the coveted trophy. The opening day promises to be exciting as teams strive to establish their dominance.

Bui Diaspora FC, crowned champions last year, is a formidable force to be reckoned with as they aim to defend their title. Having also won the 10th edition in 2016, they seek to become the first team to clinch the trophy three times.

***Teams participating in the 2023 edition of the BSFC*** *(Picture Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

Dzekwa Rangers is another team eager to make a strong comeback. With years of experience under different banners, they are determined to win the trophy. Building on their impressive performance in the last edition, Dzekwa FC aims to continue their upward trajectory.

Perhaps, the team to watch keenly is Mile One who should definitely be out for revenge after being defeated by Bui Diaspora 2-1 in the last edition’s final. Given the present stakes, they are determined to turn the tables in the 2024 competition.

Melim United FC, one of the favorites in the 2023 edition, had their journey cut short in the previous edition. This year, they aim to make a significant impact and leave a lasting impression.

NDECA FC is returning to the competition with high hopes. Their previous attempts to clinch the trophy have fallen short, but their persistence is evident in their return for the 2024 edition. This team is determined to make a strong impact and should be closely monitored.

Takijah FC is returning to the competition after missing out last year. Despite being underdogs in the 2022 relaunch, they reached the semifinals. With gained experience, they are confident of achieving their championship dreams.

The two newcomers, Nso Boys FC and Promise Enterprise FC, should not be underestimated. Composed of players with potential that have participated in the competition, they are aiming to make a strong debut. With limited information about them, their preparations will be crucial in their quest for the trophy.

As the competition approaches, excitement is building. Fans can expect a thrilling display of footballing prowess and fierce rivalry. Beyond the sport, the BSFC is also a platform for identifying and promoting talents, encouraging solidarity, cultural exchange, and community spirit among the people of Bui Division.

With high stakes and even higher expectations, the 2024 BSFC is shaping up to be a memorable event for players and spectators alike. BSFC, Community Sports for Peace and Development.

2024 Eight Participating teams

Dzekwa Rangers,
Melim FC,
Bui Diaspora,
Mile One Kumbo FC
NDECA FC
Takijah FC
Nso Boys FC
Promise Enterprise FC

Holiday Camp Igniting Passion for Football in Youngsters

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The city of Yaoundé awakens to a new day. Golden sunlight, piercing through the morning mist, casts shimmering reflections on countless windows.

A typical Wednesday, yet the city pulses with energy. Above, a blanket of clouds shrouds the sky, promising an uncertain weather pattern. Undeterred, Yaoundé’s residents dive into their daily routines with their eyes instinctively scanning the heavens for any sign of change.

**Kids exhibiting their talents during the Edu Sport Academy camp in Yaounde** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

As the holiday season unfolds, the city streets thrum. A common sight is the abundance of children roaming the streets, possibly preparing for the upcoming academic year. While some have opted to learn a trade or craft, many have found joy in honing their football skills.

With vacant plots transformed into makeshift pitches and local stadiums brimming with young hopefuls, the pursuit of football stardom is deep. Despite the dusty conditions, children in neighborhoods like Accacia in Yaoundé VI are undeterred in their dreams.

***Lovan Elyon Kongnyuy Afoh, a young goalkeeper demonstrating how André Onana keeps his goal safe in Manchester United in England*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

The Edu Sport Academy Holiday Camp is there and has become a haven for many young football enthusiasts. Immersed in an atmosphere of dreams and aspirations, these children are refining their talents under the guidance of experienced coaches.

From mastering dribbling to perfecting their shooting, the camp offers an all-inclusive training treatment that aims to elevate their game. Beyond athletic development, the camp stresses the need for teamwork, discipline, and good sportsmanship.

Inspired by global football icons like Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, André Onana, and Vincent Aboubakar, among others, these young players exhibit a fierce determination to emulate their idols. Their passion and skill are evident on the dusty pitch, where they showcase their abilities with enthusiasm.

Lovan Elyon Kongnyuy Afoh, a young goalkeeper, is particularly inspired by André Onana. Despite his brother’s influence, Kongnyuy Afoh has set his sights on becoming a world-class goalkeeper like Onana diving like him in the pitch.

**Kids demonstrating the spirit of fair play during an encounter at Edu Sport Academy Camp in Yaounde** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

“My brother who is a goalkeeper at Edu Sport Academy inspired me,” he said, adding, “but my eyes are set on becoming like Onana. I love seeing him play,” he said.

Balancing his football aspirations with academics, Kongnyuy Afoh aims to pursue a degree in electrical engineering. His exceptional goalkeeping skills and ball control make him a promising talent.

Paul Banboye Fonyuy, an aspiring player, possesses speed and dribbling ability but still struggling with finishing. His idol is Cristiano Ronaldo, and he is determined to improve his goal-scoring prowess. “I want to be like Cristiano Ronaldo, CR7,” he said. CR7 is a great player and when I score, I behave like him.”

***Lovan Elyon Kongnyuy Afoh, Keeper receives encouragement from his teammate after failing to stop a crucial penalty within the game*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

Another young player dreams of becoming a prolific striker like Vincent Aboubakar or Lionel Messi. He views his participation in the Edu Sport Academy Holiday Camp as a crucial step towards achieving his goals. “Vincent Aboubakar or Lionel Messi are my idols and I wish to become like them, scoring goals and celebrating like them.”

Eve Marie Nyuywir, one of the few girls in the camp, finds comfort playing with the boys and aspires to follow in the footsteps of Ajara Njoya, a Cameroonian women’s football star. “I love to be a great player like Ajara,” she said.

Gabriel Sevidzem Wirndzerem, CEO and Founder of Edu Sport Academy and a coach at the camp, stressed the importance of consistent training. He highlights the progress made by the children in developing fundamental football skills.

***Paul Banboye Fonyuy celebrating his goal in Cristiano Ronaldo like way*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

“The children have learned basic football skills like ball control, kicking, heading, taking penalty kicks, and goalkeeping. A lot has happened since this Holiday Camp began, and I’m happy with the children’s progress, even though constant follow-up is needed,” Wirdzerem said.

Sevedzem Wirdzerem believes such initiatives are essential for nurturing a passion for the sport and instilling valuable life lessons like teamwork and discipline within the children.

A guardian who wished to remain anonymous expresses gratitude for the positive impact the camp has had on their child, emphasizing the importance of socialization and pursuing one’s passions.

“I’m happy that my child has changed a lot since coming here. Socializing like this is important, and letting your child do what they love is the best,” the guardian said.

***A kid celebrating his goal in Cristiano Ronaldo like way*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

In Cameroon, football has become a lucrative pursuit, with parents eager to see their children excel at the highest level. The global reach of the sport, thanks to the achievements of Cameroonian and international stars, has ignited a passion for football among the youth.

While football dominates the scene, other sport disciplines are also gaining popularity as children explore their abilities. As the journey to becoming a professional sports man is challenging, the spirit and determination of these young players are undeniably inspiring.

AFCON 2025 Qualifiers: Cameroon Vs Namibia: Who Will Assist Marc Brys On The Touchline?

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

“With the clock ticking down to Cameroon’s crucial AFCON 2025 qualifier against Namibia in Douala, a growing sense of uncertainty looms over the Indomitable Lions’ camp,” a football fan along the streets of Yaounde said.

The statement is coming as Cameroon prepares to host an AFCON qualifier. The countdown to the match according to the fans is punctuated by a growing gap within the nation’s football governance.

The Indomitable Lions, once a symbol of unity, has for some time now been caught in the crossfire of a bitter dispute between the Ministry of Sports and Physical Education (MINSEP) and the Cameroon Football Federation (FECAFOOT).

The fallout from this power struggle is far-reaching, with the potential to derail Cameroon’s campaign from their different international assignments.

Since last June after the qualifiers of 2026 World Cup against Cape Verte and Angola, the two entities have continued to be in a stalemate, each entrenched in its position. The ensuing uncertainty is casting a blanket over the national team surely leaving head coach Marc Brys in a precarious position.

As the countdown ticks, the threat of two competing coaching staffs looms large as the AFCON qualifiers approach. With no clear resolution in sight as of now, the question of who will assist Brys on the touchline remains unanswered. However, the potential for chaos and disruption within the camp is a real concern, as the nation’s footballing hopes hang in the balance.

The root causes of the MINSEP-FECAFOOT conflict are complex and multifaceted. But the battle for supremacy has created a toxic environment, with accusations and counter-accusations flying between the two parties.

“The impact of this discord extends beyond the national team. The only thing Cameroonians are relying on now as a source of joy should not be shattered,” a sports fan said.

While the focus is currently on the AFCON qualifiers, the long-term consequences of the MINSEP-FECAFOOT feud could be even more devastating if peace is not given a chance.

If the conflict is not resolved, it could lead to a decline in Cameroon’s footballing fortunes, both domestically and internationally. The Cameroonian public has grown increasingly weary of the ongoing saga.

Fans, who have long endured the ups and downs of the national team, are now faced with a new challenge: a dysfunctional football administration. Calls for unity and compromise have fallen on deaf ears, leaving supporters disappointed and frustrated.

As the nation prepares for the clash against Namibia, the hope is that cooler heads will prevail. A compromise should be reached to ensure the Indomitable Lions have the best possible chance of beginning their AFCON campaign in a serene atmosphere. “The future of Cameroonian football depends on it,” as indicated by a football fan.

Ultimately, the resolution of this crisis lies in the hands of the key stakeholders. To Cameroonians, MINSEP and FECAFOOT must put aside their differences and work together for the good of the nation.

“A spirit of cooperation and collaboration is essential to rebuild trust and restore faith in Cameroonian football,” a football analyst said.

Glencore Corruption Scandal: Barrister Akere Says, Cameroonian Investigators Can Summon Company To Obtain Information

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Eminent lawyer and international legal consultant, Barrister Akere Muna, says Cameroonian investigators can easily summon Glencore to provide necessary information concerning the corruption case.

**Barrister Akere Muna** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

Barrister Akere made the statement on her Twitter social media handle recently. She said the National Hydrocarbons Company (SNH) as well as the National Oil Refinery, SONARA, and the Ministry of Finance cannot obtain information from Glencore’s offices in London or New York.

“Cameroonian investigators (CONAC, ANIF, POLICE JUDICIAIRE, TCS) can easily summon Glencore to provide the necessary information, and failure to do so could result in a notification to the US Department of Justice,” Barrister Akere said.

Barrister Akere stated that by pleading guilty and signing the plea agreement, Glencore undertook to cooperate with the Cameroonian investigating authorities (Article 12 of the Agreement).

“…However, according to the agreement, Glencore’s commitments are only valid for three years (article 1 of the agreement). So, from next year, Glencore is no longer obligated to cooperate,” she added.

She indicated that SNH and SONARA can also demand information from Glencore Cameroon and, if they do not cooperate, they can cancel their contracts for fraud. According to her, Glencore has admitted paying bribes to obtain favorable business terms.

“This is fraud. It is clear that the corrupter-in-chief Glencore, as well as the corrupt senior officials at SONARA and SNH, are not fooling anyone. The truth will come out, justice will prevail, and Cameroonians will get their money back. ‘Man no run!’ he said.”

Prior to this statement, Barrister Akere had indicated that individuals involved in the Glencore corruption scandal, considered the biggest of the century, are located within Cameroon.

Her reaction was coming on the heels of a communique issued by SNH welcoming the progress of the proceedings against the perpetrators and the acts of corruption that tarnish its image regarding the Glencore Corruption Scandal.

The communique had indicated that the perpetrators’ appearance in court marks a significant step forward in the search for the truth in this scandalous affair.

“The SNH, which filed a complaint before the Special Criminal Court (TCS) on November 6, 2023, to identify the Cameroonian accomplices of these acts of corruption, is confident that the outcome of the procedure in London will allow the acceleration of investigations at the TCS level,” the communique reads.

However, Barrister Akere had disagreed with the communique, arguing that the core of the corruption took place within Cameroon and that any meaningful resolution must originate domestically.

“The culprits are within Cameroon; the transactions that gave rise to the corruption took place in Cameroon, yet they expect us to believe the solution will come from London. It is clear that action must be taken locally,” he asserted.

Barrister Akere recalled that when she exposed the Glencore corruption scandal over two years ago, SNH claimed that corruption was impossible due to their internal regulations.

“Now, following the UK’s disclosure of the names of former Glencore employees facing charges, we are informed through a communique that a complaint was lodged in September 2023,” he said.

CAMTEL Blue Tech Challenge: Candidates’ Strengthen Ability To Formulate, Put Ideas Into Practice

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Candidates aiming to be finalists in the CAMTEL Blue Tech Challenged launched some months backs are gradually entering a crucial second stage of selection.

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

According to information release on CAMTEL’s official social media page, 50 young people who stood out in the first phase of the competition gathered n Yaounde. On Wednesday, 07 August 2024, they came from a wide range of backgrounds to take part in a mini-training session.

According to information, the mini-training session was aimed at reinforcing what they had learnt so that they could make it through to the second stage of the competition where 30 candidates are expected to be selected.

***Candidates in session*** *(Photo Credit: CAMTEL)*

Besides strengthening the candidates’ ability to formulate and put their ideas into practice, the bootcamp, held in Yaoundé, was specifically aimed at enabling the young people to specify and assert their project ideas, to calibrate their activities and to formulate their business models with ease.

While aming at giving these budding entrepreneurs the tools and instruments they need to run their businesses, the bootcamp was aimed to capitalise on all the pre-selected projects, highlighting the ability of all these young project bearers to succeed with or without financing.

The training consisted of five modules, including how a company works and the skills of the entrepreneur, formulating a business model and business plan, and preparing a pitch.

***Candidates in session with*** *(Photo Credit: CAMTEL)*

The bootcamp for our tech-preneurs ended with the start of the video pitch recordings, which will be published on the competition website, https://lnkd.in/edknqiC9. Votes will then be cast to select the finalists.

Blue tech challenge is an initiative of CAMTEL, supported by its top management, which aims to highlight the best start-ups or youth projects, and contribute in turn to the development of Cameroon’s digital economy and the digital transformation of society.

The competition programmed for youths within the ages of 15 and 35, launched on May 21 is geared towards highlighting know-how of Cameroonians youths in the ICT ecosystems. Besides supporting all initiatives with the high added value and those that bring change, the competition is also aimed at stimulating self-employment to mitigate the effects of youth unemployment in Cameroon.

The target candidates include starts-ups, students and researchers accredited by universities and institutions of higher learning, students of secondary technical establishments and doctorate or pre-doctorate students from research laboratories.

Four award categories have been designated namely, the Blue Star Award, The Blue Academic Innovative Award, the Blue Tech Women Award and the Handi Blue Award.

CRM Demands Gov’t Clarification On Steeve Akam’s Whereabouts

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Cameroon Renaissance Movement (CRM), under the leadership of its national president, Prof. Maurice Kamto, has called on the government to disclose the whereabouts and condition of Steeve Akam, also known as Ramon Cotta.

In a statement released on August 7 via Twitter, Prof. Kamto expressed deep concern over the lack of information since Gabon’s Transitional Government handed Akam over to Cameroonian authorities. He fears that Akam may have suffered a fate similar to Martinez Zogo or is being concealed due to severe torture.

Prof. Kamto stressed that, unfortunately, magistrates, particularly those in the State Prosecutor’s Office, are aware of the abuses occurring within the security services but fail to take action due to career concerns. He argued that magistrates have the authority to visit detention facilities, inspect conditions, and question detainees.

“The CRM demands that the Government throw the light about the fate of Steeve Akam, reassure his family and the public by providing public proof that he is still alive, and that he is not hidden because he is in a pitiful condition due to torture,” he stated.

He further declared, “The CRM strongly condemns all acts of terror that the government is multiplying in the run-up to the upcoming elections in our countries.”

Prof. Kamto noted that CRM members have endured multiple waves of violence, kidnappings, and secret detention since the disputed 2018 elections. He asserted that the party possesses sufficient knowledge of the cruel and inhumane practices prevalent in certain security services to warrant a public alert regarding Steeve Akam’s case.

The CRM party asserted that Gabon’s decision to hand Ramon Cotta over to the Cameroon government under harsh and degrading conditions on the border violated international treaties.

“CRM regrets that the transitional authorities of the Republic of Gabon have agreed to contribute to such an internationally illicit act and insists on the fact that the nationals of our respective countries must be treated with equal humanity and with respect for their fundamental rights and dignity,” Prof. Kamto said.

Meanwhile, a group of lawyers has initiated contact with Cameroonian authorities to locate Ramon Cotta. They have demanded information about his detention to provide legal assistance and ensure a fair trial.

Cyber activist Stève Akam, a vocal critic of the Biya regime, had been actively denouncing the government’s handling of diaspora registration at the Cameroonian Embassy in Gabon. He also regularly condemned the increasing costs of consular services provided by the embassy.

Several NGOs and human rights organizations have called for Akam’s release, accusing Gabon of violating the 1951 Convention for the Protection of Refugees. Observers contend that the arrest and extradition of Ramon Cotta raise serious concerns about human rights and due process.

They said, the UN’s Bangkok Principles on Extradition clearly outline the requirement for judicial procedures and individual rights to be upheld during extradition processes. In Cotta’s case, the absence of a fair judicial hearing before his extradition constitutes a blatant violation of these principles.

Furthermore, Article 3 of the United Nations Convention Against Torture prohibits the expulsion of individuals to countries where they face a high risk of torture. Many observers were deeply disturbed by the images of Cotta’s extradition.

According to information, after fleeing Cameroon in 2009, Ramon Cotta sought refuge in Gabon. On Friday, July 19, 2024, he was kidnapped while trading at Mont-Bouët, Libreville’s largest market. His family had no contact with him for three days until a video surfaced online. Handcuffed and surrounded by Gabonese security forces in Kye-ossi, Cotta was coerced into asking for forgiveness from Paul Biya and the authorities of both Cameroon and Gabon.

The Man Issa Hayatou

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Issa Hayatou, a towering figure in African and global football, was born on August 9, 1946, in Garoua, Cameroon, to a Sultan. His early life was marked by athletic prowess. From 1964 to 1971, he reigned as the national champion in both the 400m and 800m.

Beyond track and field, his sporting talents extended to basketball, where he represented his country, and football, where he played at the university level. His athletic journey culminated in representing Cameroon at the inaugural African Games in Brazzaville in 1965.

Hayatou’s influence, however, transcended the sporting field. His administrative career took off in the 1980s when he assumed the presidency of the Cameroon Football Federation (1986-1988). His leadership quickly extended to the continental stage, as he was elected President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) in 1988. A pivotal moment arrived in 1990 when he joined FIFA’s Executive Committee, ascending to the position of Vice President two years later.

His tenure at FIFA was marked by a series of significant roles. He chaired crucial committees, including those responsible for organizing the World Cup and Confederations Cup. Additionally, he served as President of the Olympic Football Tournaments Committee from 1992 to 2006. Hayatou’s influence within FIFA was undeniable.

A defining chapter of Hayatou’s career was his 29-year presidency of CAF, which ended in 2017. Under his stewardship, African football witnessed unprecedented growth and recognition. The pinnacle of this era was South Africa hosting the FIFA World Cup in 2010, a historic first for the continent.

The turbulent years of 2015-2016 saw Hayatou step into the role of FIFA’s interim president following Sepp Blatter’s suspension amid a bribery scandal. While he challenged Blatter for the FIFA presidency in 2002, he ultimately faced defeat.

Beyond football, Hayatou’s impact extended to the Olympic movement. He was a member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) from 2001 to 2020, contributing significantly to global sports governance.

Issa Hayatou’s legacy is one of a visionary leader who transformed African football and left an enduring mark on the global sports landscape. His contributions to the development and elevation of the sport will be remembered for generations to come.

Football World Mourns Passing of Issa Hayatou

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The global football community is in mourning following the death of former Confederation of African Football (CAF) President, Issa Hayatou. The legendary administrator passed away on August 8 in Paris on the eve of his 78th birthday after a prolonged illness.

Hayatou, who led CAF for an impressive 29 years from 1988 to 2017, was a towering figure in African football. His influence extended beyond the continent as he also served as interim FIFA President from 2015 to 2016 during Sepp Blatter’s suspension.

Tributes have poured in from across the world, recognizing Hayatou’s immense contribution to the growth of African football. CAF President Patrice Motsepe described him as a “great man” whose legacy will forever be cherished.

“CAF and African football will forever be grateful to President Hayatou for his enormous and far-reaching contributions, over many years to the development and growth of football in Africa,” Motsepe said. As a mark of respect, CAF has ordered flags to be flown at half-mast until August 13.

Football icons and leaders have joined in expressing their condolences. FIFA President Gianni Infantino in a message hailed Hayatou as a “passionate sports fan” who dedicated his life to sports administration. Former FIFA President Sepp Blatter described him as a “great fighter for African football and longtime companion.”

The Cameroon Football Federation (FECAFOOT) hailed Issa Hayatou as one of the greatest sports leaders of all time. FECAFOOT President, Samuel Eto’o, expressed his deep sorrow, saying, “Issa Hayatou! A true Indomitable Lion has departed.”

Eto’o further emphasized Hayatou’s enduring legacy: “He leaves behind an immeasurable legacy. A solid foundation upon which to build an African football that commands greater respect and prominence on the global stage.”

The Nigerian Football Federation and the Ghanaian Football Federation both recognized his visionary leadership in advancing African football.

Nigerian President Bola Tinubu added his voice to the chorus of tributes, highlighting Hayatou’s role in developing football in Africa and beyond. Former Football Kenya Federation President Sam Nyamweya credited Hayatou for playing a pivotal role in bringing the World Cup to Africa for the first time in 2010 and for leading Cameroon to become the first African team to reach the World Cup quarter-finals in 1990.

Hayatou’s legacy as a strong, influential leader who shaped the course of African football will undoubtedly continue to inspire generations to come.

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