US Embassy Yaounde Intersections Football Tournament: Teams Exemplify Mission Values As Community FC is Crowned Champions Of 2024 Edition

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The core values of the US Embassy in Cameroon were on full display during the thrilling finals of the 2024 Intersections Football Tournament held on July 13^th at the Febe village football stadium in Yaounde. The Community FC (RSO) emerged victorious, exemplifying the spirit of the competition both on and off the field.

***Community FC (RSO), Champions of 2024 edition*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

The final match, presided over by US Ambassador to Cameroon H.E Christopher J. Lamora, saw first-time finalists Community FC face off against Integrity FC (Chancery), who were returning for their second consecutive shot at the title after a narrow defeat in 2023.

The eager teams battled for dominance, and the crowd erupted in cheers as the Community FC capitalized on a defensive error in the 7th minute, taking the lead through Emmanuel Mbinkar Shiylajing. The Integrity FC responded with determination, but the first half concluded with Community FC maintaining a 1-0 advantage.

The second half saw Emmanuel Mbinkar shine once more, scoring two additional goals for the Community FC at the 48^th and 55^th minutes. However, Integrity FC refused to concede defeat. Christian Fondze Kakiyi converted a penalty at the 58th minute, followed by another goal from Anaba Idriss two minutes later, bringing the score to a tense 3-2.

However, Integrity FC pressed on, narrowly missing an equalizer with a disallowed goal for offside position. Despite their valiant efforts, the final whistle was blown by the central referee Njikam Derek, declaring Community FC the champions with a 3-2 victory.

***Ambassador Lamora hands trophy to Community FC (RSO), Champions of 2024 edition*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

Speaking shortly after the game, Ambassador Lamora commended both teams for their excellent sportsmanship throughout the tournament. He acknowledged the close contest in the finals, stating, “Community FC played exceptionally well. Their win reflects well on the entire Embassy community. The other team, Integrity Fc, also played tremendously, and we look forward to next season.”

***Community FC and Integrity FC facing each other*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

He stressed the significance of the core values embodied in the competition. “These values of Respect, Integrity, Community, and Efficiency have been a cornerstone of the embassy since my arrival two and a half years ago,” Ambassador Lamora explained. “They unify us, provide a shared sense of purpose, and strengthen us as a mission.”

The Ambassador further highlighted the multifaceted benefits of sports, including promoting physical fitness, mental well-being, discipline, teamwork, camaraderie, and a sense of community within the embassy.

Isa Adamu, President of the Striking Eagles Soccer Team, expressed his satisfaction with how the mission values have permeated daily life and work ethics. “When we embody respect, integrity, community, and efficiency, everything we do flourishes,” he said. “The Striking Eagles are committed to incorporating these values into our constitution, and they will serve as our team names going forward. They are a guiding principle.”

Looking ahead to the next tournament, Isa Adamu outlined plans to raise the bar. “We aim to start earlier to avoid the rainy season,” he said. “We’re also developing guidelines for player allocation, ensuring everyone knows their team well in advance. This will allow for proper training and preparation.”

Joseph Love, the U.S Embassy Regional Security Officer, RSO echoed the sentiment of community spirit. He remarked, “The team community represents what Cameroon, Yaounde, and the Embassy is all about. It shows how we can come together, win or lose as a team, and ultimately have a great day where everyone displays sportsmanship.”

***Integrity FC (Chancery FC)*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

The Community FC’s Louis Laiyo received the best player award, while Fondze Christian Kakiyi of Integrity FC and Mbinkar Emmanuel Shiylajing of the Community FC were crowned the tournament’s top scorers with 7 goals each. Additionally, the Respect FC was recognized for their exemplary sportsmanship and took the award for fair play.

***Ambassador Lamora salutes Louis Laiyo, Best player of the competition*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

The 2024 Intersections Football Tournament, organized by the US Embassy Yaounde’s Striking Eagles Soccer Team, fostered a spirit of unity among American and Cameroonian participants and spectators for over two months. The Community FC takes the championship title from the 2023 winners, Pandores FC.

Mutualists Turn Out Massively for MASO Act 4 Tombola Draw

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Thousands of mutualists have turned out at the Warda Sports Complex in Yaoundé as the 2024 edition of the Mutual Assistance and Solidarity initiative, (MASO) Act 4 Tombola draw is underway.

***Cross section of mu*****tualists at Warda Sport Complex awaiting MASO Act 4 Tombola draw** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Before the draws, which are expected to take place later today, mutualists have queued up in lines to register as potential winners.

To participate in the draws, mutualists must have completed their annual contributions. Potential winners can expect to win prizes including taxis, tricycles, houses, household utensils, and many more. They are expected to refund it at zero percent interest.

***Cross section of mu*****tualists at Warda Sport Complex queued up in lines to register** **for** **MASO Act 4 Tombola draw** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Quite a number of Cameroonians have already benefited from the solidarity fund, while others are still waiting their turn. It is hoped that thousands more will also benefit from the process once the draws begin later today.

MASO: A Program Fostering Solidarity and Financial Empowerment

MASO is the brainchild of RENAPROV Finance S.A., a microfinance institution established in 1996 to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). With 28 branches across Cameroon, RENAPROV Finance S.A. is a major player in the country’s microfinance sector.

***A mutualist cast her ballot after registering ahead of*** **MASO Act 4 Tombola draw** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

MASO was created with the goal of promoting the African spirit of solidarity, alleviating poverty and unemployment, and empowering individuals to become entrepreneurs and escape the cycle of poverty. Membership requires a weekly contribution of FCFA 500 and a yearly contribution of FCFA 26,000.

MASO membership offers a multitude of benefits, including interest-free financing, housing assistance, and life event support. These comprehensive benefits aim to improve the lives of members and their families, providing a safety net throughout life’s challenges. MASO remains a constant source of support, even in the event of death.

Financial Education and a Brighter Future

Recognizing that financial illiteracy is a significant societal issue, MASO provides opportunities for members to save money and secure their future. Anyone looking to maximize their income and maintain a modest lifestyle can potentially benefit from MASO membership.

***Mutualists register*** **ahead of MASO Act 4 Tombola draw** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

The program encompasses various sub-groups, including: Mutual of Road Transport Professionals of Cameroon, MUPTROC, Mutual of Assistance and Solidarity of Actors of Very Small Business and Small Commerce, MUASAPEPC, Mutual of Information Communication Professionals and Animation, and MUPCIA, Mutual Assistance and Solidarity of Servants of God, MASSED.

MASO membership is open to anyone between the ages of 18 and 65. Notably, the medical and health benefits can extend to up to ten family members.

US Embassy Yaounde Intersections Football Tournament: Community FC, Integrity FC Vow To Exemplify Ambassador’s Core Values In Final

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Integrity FC (Chancery) and Community FC (RSO) will face each other in the finals of the 2024 edition of the United States Embassy Yaounde Intersection Football Tournament on Saturday July 13.

***Ambassador Lamora pose for a family picture with*** ***Community FC (RSO)*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

The finals will take place in Febe village football stadium, Yaounde, and will be presided over by the U.S. Ambassador to Cameroon, H.E. Christopher J. Lamora.

Ahead of the finals, both teams have pledged to continue showcasing and upholding Ambassador Lamora’s Core Values, abbreviated as R.I.C.E.: Respect, Integrity, Community, and Efficiency.

During the competition, the four participating teams have been practicing and wearing jerseys with these values prominently displayed.

***Ambassador Lamora pose for a family picture with*** **Integrity FC (Chancery)** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

On June 22, Integrity FC defeated Respect FC (Pandores) 3-0, while Community FC secured a hard-fought 3-1 victory against Efficiency fc in the second match of that day.

In the third-place match held on Saturday, July 6, Efficiency FC prevailed over Respect FC in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw in regular time.

Before the finals, Christian Fondze Kakiyi of Integrity and Polycarp Chenwei of Efficiency FC lead the goal chart with six goals each. Louis Laiyo of Community FC holds the third position with five goal while Emmanuel Mbinkar Shiylajing of Community FC has four goals to his credit.

***Pandores FC and Chancery FC facing each other in the 2023 finals*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

The winner between the Integrity FC (Chancery) and Community FC (RSO) will succeed Pandores FC, the 2023 champions. The Pandores defeated Chancery 4-2 in the 2023 finals to claim the championship.

Speaking in prelude to the finals, the President of the Striking Eagles, Isa Adamu said, “The Striking Eagles’ exciting 3-month intersection tournament culminates tomorrow! Integrity FC and Community FC will battle it out for the championship at the Febe Village soccer field. Kickoff is at 7:30 am, and our esteemed Ambassador will be gracing the event with their presence.”

he called on all to come “cheer on the teams and celebrate the Mission Cameroon values: Respect, Integrity, Compassion, and Excellence (RICE). For any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out at 699-603-072.”

The Striking Eagles Soccer Team US Embassy Yaounde organized the Intersections Football Tournament 2024, fostering a joyful spirit of unity between American and Cameroonian people, players, and spectators.

The Future of AI in Global Development

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into various facets of global development presents both unprecedented opportunities and significant challenges. From enhancing agricultural productivity through precision farming to optimizing healthcare delivery via diagnostic tools and personalized treatment plans, AI’s potential to drive progress is immense. In the context of infrastructure, AI can facilitate smart city initiatives, improving urban planning, traffic management, and energy efficiency. Public services can be streamlined, making government interactions more efficient and accessible to citizens. However, the ethical implications of AI, particularly concerning data privacy, algorithmic bias, and job displacement, must be carefully considered and addressed. In Cameroon, for instance, the adoption of AI technologies must be approached with a keen understanding of local socio-economic conditions and cultural nuances. Ensuring equitable access to AI-driven benefits, fostering digital literacy, and developing robust regulatory frameworks are crucial steps. The journalistic principles in Cameroon emphasize accuracy, fairness, and independence. Therefore, any reporting on AI’s impact must be grounded in verifiable data, present diverse perspectives from experts, policymakers, and affected communities, and avoid sensationalism. The narrative should highlight both the transformative potential and the inherent risks, promoting informed public discourse. Furthermore, the development of local AI talent and infrastructure is vital for Cameroon to harness AI’s benefits effectively and avoid becoming solely a consumer of foreign technologies. Investments in education, research, and development are essential to build a sustainable AI ecosystem that serves national development goals. The role of international partnerships and knowledge transfer is also critical in accelerating AI adoption and ensuring that developing nations are not left behind in the global AI race. This includes collaborations on ethical AI guidelines, data governance, and capacity building. Ultimately, the successful integration of AI into global development, especially in countries like Cameroon, hinges on a balanced approach that prioritizes human well-being, ethical considerations, and sustainable growth. It requires continuous dialogue among stakeholders, adaptive policy-making, and a commitment to leveraging AI as a tool for inclusive progress. The ongoing discourse around AI’s future must therefore be comprehensive, encompassing technological advancements, societal impacts, and ethical responsibilities, ensuring that AI serves humanity’s best interests.

Yokadouma Women: Beyond Search For ‘Gold’, A Community’s Riches Unearthed

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The journey from Batouri to Yokadouma is a long and arduous one. Crammed into a small car with no legroom, the only sounds breaking the monotony are the rumble of timber trucks and the jarring thuds of the car hitting potholes on the unpaved road.

By 7:30 am, the villagers of Mendounque are up and bustling. Paths leading to the forest teem with people, each with their own reason for venturing into the green expanse. As you cross streams, the symphony of birds filling the air and animals awaken to the start of the day.

***Women of Mendounque village going to the forest*** *(Picture Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

Towering trees stand tall, dominating the landscape each playing a vital role in the forest ecosystem. Beneath their leafy canopy lies another world entirely: the lifeblood of Mendoungue. Vast cocoa plantations blanket the ground, a testament to the villagers’ primary source of income.

From a distance, a group of women can be seen gathering around something hidden under the trees. Despite the early hour, their faces are etched with determination and their focus is unwavering. njangsa, bush mangoes as well as bush pepper is what they are hunting for which they say, it is gold. In her hands, a woman holds njangsa seeds.

These women are just a few of the many Mendoungue villagers and the 12 villages of Yokadouma who have embarked on a unique exploration, seeking ‘gold’ within the forest. They are united under the Or Nature Cooperative, which they credit as a turning point in their lives.

***Women of Mendounque village picking Njangsa fruits*** *(Picture Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

Approaching the women, this reporter inquires about their activities. One of them responds in their native tongue but her words are quickly translated: “We are looking for njangsa seeds that have fallen, although it’s not quite the season yet.”

Lilian Mgbadgiga, the leader of the group further elaborates, her voice filled with passion, “The forest provides everything. It offers resources we haven’t even fully discovered. God created nature for the benefit of all, and everything within it serves a purpose. This is what empowers us, what unites us. The forest provides for us.”

***Njangsa fruits*** *(Picture Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

According to the mother of three, Or Nature was founded with the belief that the ‘gold’ found in the forest is a gift from God, meant for the betterment of the community.

“When we utilize it responsibly, we prosper. Responsible use means exploiting the forest without destroying it. We must protect the trees that God has bestowed upon us,” she emphasizes.

A member of the group, Felicite Langelle president Nisangayina one of the 25 associations under Or Nature highlights the benefits of belonging to a cooperative. “We earn much more by selling together,” she explains. “Individually, we get lower prices. But with combined efforts, the income allows us to significantly improve our lives. We can provide for our families, educate our children, build proper homes, and afford other necessities.”

***Njangsa*** *(Picture Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

She delves into the intricate process of njangsa processing. “Once gathered, the njangsa needs to rot. Then, the seeds are collected and meticulously washed. They are boiled until the outer shell cracks open. After the shells are removed, the seeds are washed again and sorted. During drying, they are turned regularly until completely dry.” The process differs for bush mangoes and bush pepper.

Beyond the financial gains from better market prices, these women acknowledge a significant improvement in their lives. They are now able to undertake projects that were previously impossible when they were selling their produce individually for meager sums.

“With more income, we can achieve substantial progress,” one woman declares.

***Lilian Mgbadgiga, leader of Or Nature Cooperative*** *(Picture Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

This shift in Mendoungue and surrounding villages is partly due to the support of the World Wild Fund for Nature (WWF). According to WWF, a five-year project launched years ago aimed to instill better practices in collection and post-harvest handling of non-timber forest products (NTFPs).

With Mobilizing more for climate, MoMo4C, “Our project focuses on supporting inter-groups in collecting and marketing their products effectively,” explains Estelle Assonwa, a WWF official. “Additionally, the project emphasizes community forest management.”

“We have provided training programs on sustainable harvesting practices, post-harvest handling, and finding partners who can offer them better prices for their products,” she adds.

WWF believes that this training empowers women with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions regarding forest resource management. However, Estelle acknowledges that challenges remain, particularly in terms of market access.

***Cocoa plants*** *(Picture Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

“There’s still a lot of work to be done, especially regarding product commercialization. That’s why WWF is actively seeking local and international partners willing to buy their products at a fair price,” she explains. “We are collaborating with them and other stakeholders like GIZ to connect them with reliable buyers who offer fair and consistent pricing.”

According to experts, the story of the women from Yokadouma is far more than a mere quest for precious forest products as it embodies a profound journey of unity and determination. They add that, this chronicle is a celebration of the strength found in collective action, showcasing how a community can come together to steward their natural resources with care and foresight.

To them, it highlights the indispensable influence of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in fostering such collaboration, providing the essential tools and knowledge needed for these communities to thrive.

Through their efforts, they maintained that women of Mendoungue and its surroundings are not only seeking to unearth gold but are also laying the foundation for sustainable development and a more prosperous future for all.

It is a beacon of hope, demonstrating that with the right support and a shared vision, local communities can indeed effect meaningful change and chart a course towards a brighter tomorrow.

Car Owners Decry ‘Fuel Thefts’ At Pump Stations

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Car owners in Yaounde are expressing growing frustration over suspected fuel theft at some stations. They report filling their tanks but then experiencing significantly lower mileage than expected, leading them to believe they are not receiving the full amount of fuel paid for.

According to Vincent, a taxi driver, the phenomenon is causing significant financial strain. “I don’t know what to say because I don’t understand what these guys are doing,” he said. “They appear to pump fuel, but from all indications, they’re not giving me the full amount from what I see.”

Vincent explained that he has filled up his tank and then been unable to travel the usual distance on that amount of fuel, requiring him to purchase more to finish the day’s work.

“This situation has happened to me on several occasions,” he added. “I always wonder if I’m actually getting the fuel I pay for. I know I am not the only one but it’s like they’re pumping air. Before you know it, you’re running out of fuel after working for just a short while.”

Sebastian, a motorbike rider, shared similar concerns. He said, he avoids certain stations altogether based on past experiences. “I once filled up with 2500 CFA francs and barely went anywhere compared to what I usually achieve with that amount at other stations,” he said. “It’s a rip-off.”

Sebastian’s experience highlights the financial impact of suspected fuel theft, especially for those who rely on their vehicles for daily income. The situation is even more concerning given the current economic hardship.

Some drivers suspect that station attendants might be manipulating pump mechanisms to underdeliver fuel while displaying the full amount on the meter.

The economic consequences of suspected fuel theft extend far beyond individual drivers. According to observers, taxis and ride-sharing services, which rely heavily on fuel efficiency to maintain profitability, could see their operating costs rise significantly.

However, efforts to reach fuel station personnel for comment on these concerns were unsuccessful. They avoided the conversation, stating they were not authorized to speak on the matter.

In the meantime, some car owners have urged others to be vigilant at the pump. They advise paying close attention to the meter and fuel gauge to identify any inconsistencies.

Authorities have also been urged to implement stricter regulations and oversight to ensure fair practices at fuel stations so as to protect consumers from potential fuel theft.

Bill To Extend Term Of Office Of Members Of National Assembly Tabled In Parliament

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Members of the Cameroon National Assembly will soon see their term of office extended by one year if the bill tabled in Parliament is adopted.

***Hon. Cavaye Yeguie Djibril (Middile) chairing deliberations at the National Assmebly*** *(Photo Credit: Etienne Mainimo)*

This is one among the bills (Bill No 2061 / PJL / AN) deposited in Parliament on July 6 in a plenary sitting that was chaired by the Speaker of the National Assembly, Hon. Cavaye Yeguie Djibril.

If adopted, the terms of office of Members of Parliament will be extended from March 10 2025 to March 30, 2026.

The bill is prepared is pursuant to the provisions of article 15(4) of the Cameroon Constitution which stipulates that “In case of a serious crisis, or where the circumstances so warrant, the President of the Republic may, after consultation with the President of the Constitutional Council and Bureau of the National Assembly and Senate, request the National Assembly to decide, by law, to extend or abridge its terms of office.”

However, the extension of the terms of office of the MPs, is motivated by the need to lightened the electoral calendar which provides for four elections in 2025. This includes, the election of Members of the National Assembly and Municipal Councilors, as well as the election of the President of the Republic of Cameroon and Regional Councilors.

As a result, and apart from the election of Regional Councilors, the other elections which are direct ballots require the deployment of substantial human, material and financial resources. Going by this, it s of outmost importance to spread the elections in the year 2025 and 2026 so as to ensure better organization.

***Members of the National Assembly during the June session of Parliament*** *(Photo Credit: National Assembly)*

It is worth noting that the bill alongside other bills were deem admissible at the Chairman’s Conference that was chaired by the Speaker of the National Assembly, before presenting them in a Plenary Sitting on July 6.

Additionally, another bill (Bill N°2060/PJL/AN) to ratify Ordinance N°2024/001 of 20 June 2024 amending and supplementing certain provisions of Law N°2023/019 of 19 December 2023 to lay down the Finance Law of the Republic of Cameroon for the financial year 2024 was also deposited at the National Assembly.

Bill No. 2060 is under scrutiny by the National Assembly’s Finance and Budget Committee, while Bill No. 2061 is being reviewed by the Constitutional Laws Committee. Once scrutinized, both bills will return to the National Assembly for adoption and will subsequently be forwarded to the Senate and the President of the Republic for promulgation into law.

During the Plenary Sitting on July 6, a general debate on the Budget Orientation document took place, with 12 Members of Parliament posing questions to government members. The Minister of Finance, Louis Paul Motaze, addressed all the questions.

Bafoussam Hosts 3rd Edition of NA WE WE Sports Jamboree

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The third edition of the NA WE WE sports jamboree, organized by Cameroon NGO, Local Youth Corner Cameroon (LOYOC), has kicked off in Bafoussam, West Region of Cameroon.

The sports jamboree kicked off on Saturday July 6^th and will run through August 24th under the theme, “Using Sports to Build Inter-Cultural Relationships.” The month-long sports jamboree will bring together youths aged 15-35 from displaced and host communities through sports and recreational activities.

The opening ceremony was presided over by the Secretary-General at the Ministry of Youth and Civic Education, Zachee Robert Théophile Benga, who served as the personal representative of Minister Mounouna Foutsou.

He was accompanied by the resident Canadian High Commissioner to Cameroon, Lorraine Anderson; Inspector General at the West Governor’s office, representing Governor Awa Fonka Augustine; Deputy Resident Head of Mission for UNFPA, Neomi Dalmonte; and officials from PLAN Cameroon, UNDP, GIZ, among others.

Speaking during the occasion, Théophile Benga extended Minister Mounouna Foutsou’s words of appreciation and encouragement to the Executive Director of LOYOC, Christian Achaleke, and his entire team for their significant strides in promoting civic values and moral rearmament.

He also lauded the support of the UN agencies present for their leading actions geared towards youth empowerment and the implementation of the youth development policy.

H.E. Lorraine Anderson on her part said, “It is very important for youths to understand that the Canadian government is always delighted to support them when it comes to using sports as a tool for promoting peace among their various communities and helping them learn how to handle their differences.”

Christian Achaleke stated that the aim of the NA WE WE Sports Jamboree is to create a platform where young people from displaced communities and their host communities can come together, learn from each other, and build long-lasting connections that foster peace and sustainable development. Supporting partners play a pivotal role in achieving this goal.

For Neomi Dalmonte, UNFPA is always enthusiastic about supporting activities aimed at prioritizing young people and promoting social cohesion. These activities can enable Cameroonian youth to live together, advocate for peace free of sexual violence, and gain knowledge about their rights and body protection.

“We urge them to take advantage of the vacation to learn more about sexuality education, play together, and live together in the same place. My message for them is to invest in entertainment activities,” Neomi Dalmonte said.

Key activities such as football, handball, basketball, dancing, health consultations, food donations, GBV sensitization, community dialogue, tree planting, and income-generating trainings will take place during the jamboree.

A colorful display of unity with solidarity meals, health activities, ELECAM encouraging youth civic engagement, and vibrant dance groups will also be present throughout the event.

The NA-WE-WE Sports Jamboree is an annual summer holiday youth-led community initiative that aims to use sports and recreational activities as a vehicle to foster social cohesion, moral, civic, and entrepreneurial rearmament, as well as healthy living, between and among displaced persons and host communities.

This youth-focused (15-35) jamboree adopts an innovative sports approach inspired by global sports for peace and development tools. It focuses on using sports to bring people from different backgrounds together to play, engage in dialogue, and build relationships. It also aims to raise awareness while providing basic amenities to communities and instill core moral, civic, and entrepreneurial values in the athletes and spectators.

The 2^nd edition reached 5,000 displaced persons, mobilized 500 athletes, engaged over 100,000 people physically, and reached over 3 million people through media engagements.

Constitutional Council oath Taking: Cavaye Urges Florence Rita Arrey To Earn Full Confidence By Serving Objectively

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Hon. Cavaye Yeguie Djibril, Speaker of the National Assembly of Cameroon and President of the Bureau of Congress, has urged Florence Rita Arrey, member of the Constitutional Council, to earn the full confidence that has been bestowed upon her by serving objectively.

***Florence Rita Arrey*** *(Photo Credit: National Assembly)*

The call was made on July 2nd in Yaoundé during the 4th Congress of Parliament. Hon. Cavaye chaired the session alongside Marcel Nait Njifenji, President of the Senate, assisted by the Secretary General of the National Assembly, André Noël Essian.

Speaking during the oath-taking ceremony, Hon. Cavaye said that since the Head of State is conferring his confidence on Ms. Arrey, “it simply means that you will have to do everything possible to continue to earn the full mark of confidence.”

***Members of Parliament during the Congress*** *(Photo Credit: National Assembly)*

He added, “Your second appointment speaks volumes about your abilities. You are, indeed, an experienced woman and a seasoned professional with the requisite training as a magistrate.”

Hon. Cavaye further stated that since the inception of the Constitutional Council, Florence Rita Arrey has been the only woman sitting on the Council. “You are, in addition to your brilliant career, a model of the modern Cameroonian woman.”

While pointing out that she is the pride of women who are members of the Government as well as women parliamentarians present in the plenary hall, the President of the Parliamentary Congress called on her to be a worthy ambassador wherever needed.

**Hon. Cavaye Yeguie Djibril, speaking during the Congress** (Photo Credit: National Assembly)

Florence Rita Arrey was appointed by Presidential Decree on January 18, 2024, alongside 10 other members of the council. During the 3rd Congress of Parliament that was dedicated to the oath-taking ceremony, Florence Rita Arrey was unavoidably absent.

According to Article 5 (4) of the Cameroon Constitution and Article 16 of the Standing Orders of the Congress of Parliament, “Before exercising their functions, Members of the Constitutional Council shall take the oath of office in a solemn ceremony before Parliament meeting in Congress.”

***Members of Parliament pose for a family picture*** *(Photo Credit: National Assembly)*

Florence Rita Arrey was first appointed to the council in 2018. Ms. Arrey has held several positions, including those of judge at the Supreme Court of Cameroon, judge at the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda, judge at the United Nations International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals, Director of Judicial Professions at the Ministry of Justice, and lastly, she is still a member of several Cameroonian and International Associations pertaining to the judiciary.

Members of the Cameroon Constitutional Council

Clément Atangana; Président
Bonde Emmanuel
Essombe Émile
Paul Nchoji Nkwi
Baskouda Jean Baptiste
Bah Oumarou Sanda
Lekene Donfack Charles Étienne
Ahmadou Tidjani
Adolphe Minkoa She
Logmo Mbelek Aaron
Florence Rita Arrey

Fight Against Malaria: US Launches FCFA 21Bn ‘SEMBE II’ Project In North Cameroon

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The fight against malaria in Cameroon’s North Region have received a significant boost with the launch of the Systems to End the Malaria Burden through Meaningful Engagement, SEMBE II project.

***Ambassador Lamora speaking during the official lunching ceremony of SEMBE II*** *(Picture Credit: Etienne Mainimo)*

Launched on July 2^nd by U.S. Ambassador Christopher J. Lamora and Cameroon’s Minister of Public Health, Dr. Manaouda Malachie, SEMBE II signifies the U.S. government’s ongoing commitment to supporting Cameroon’s National Malaria Control Program (NMCP) in achieving zero malaria deaths by February 2029.

Speaking during the event, Ambassador Lamora reaffirmed the U.S. government’s commitment to working alongside Cameroon’s National Malaria Control Program (NMCP) to achieve zero malaria deaths by February 2029.

He stressed that SEMBE II is strategically aligned with several key national health plans, including the draft 2024-2028 National Malaria Strategic Plan, the National Community Health Strategy (2021-2025), and the 2016-2027 Health Sector Strategy.

On his part, Minister Malachie welcomed the U.S. government’s support and highlighted the project’s focus on reducing malaria in the North through collaboration with local communities.

He added that this collaborative approach aims to develop sustainable prevention and control strategies, ultimately reducing the burden of malaria and other diseases.

“SEMBE II will strengthen Cameroon’s healthcare system and improve health outcomes,” Minister Malachie said. “This includes increasing access to quality malaria diagnosis, insecticide-treated bed nets, and prevention and treatment services at both healthcare facilities and within communities.”

Presenting the project, Dr. Williams Twashirwa, Chief of Party said, the project will be executed in 15 districts in the North Region, co-implemented with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and a consortium of five organisations.

They include, Jhpiego, Reach Out Cameroon, ROC, Pentecostal Advocates for Socio-Economic Development, PENASED, Center for Infectious Disease Research, CRID and eHealth Africa Foundation. The consortium is led by Jhpiego.

This initiative follows the successful launch of SEMBE I in March 2023, a five-year project focused on the Far North Region. Funded at FCFA 18 billion (USD $30 million), SEMBE I aimed to strengthen local capacity for malaria prevention, control, and elimination.

Malaria remains a major public health concern in Cameroon, with over two million reported cases annually. The rainy season in the North Region sees a surge in malaria transmission, with pregnant women and young children being particularly vulnerable. In 2022, the prevalence rate in the North Region reached 27.1 percent.

Ranked by the World Health Organization (WHO) as one of 11 countries carrying 70 percent of the world’s malaria burden, the government of Cameroon has established ambitious goals for malaria prevention and control within its national action plan.

The project is funded by the U.S. Presidential Malaria Initiative, PMI, through U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). The US government remains a committed partner in supporting Cameroon’s fight against malaria.

According to sources, this new project signifies a continued focus on collaborative efforts and locally-driven solutions to achieve better health outcomes for the Cameroonian people.

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