Logidoo Awarded $50,000 Grant To Develop AI-Powered Logistics Solutions For Africa

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Logidoo, a leading logistics provider in Africa, has been awarded a $50,000 grant from the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) to develop and promote artificial intelligence (AI) solutions for the continent’s logistics sector.

The funding is expected to empower Logidoo to streamline transport operations and simplify transactions, making logistics across Africa more efficient and accessible for everyone.

“We are thrilled to receive this grant and to have the opportunity to leverage AI to reshape logistics in Africa,” said Tasmir Ousmane, CEO of Logidoo. “This funding will allow us to develop innovative AI solutions that will significantly improve efficiency, transparency, and affordability within the African logistics landscape.”

Logidoo’s vision involves establishing a highly efficient network, slashing operational costs and transit times, and boosting customer satisfaction. These improvements will enable businesses to expand and reach new markets across Africa.

The AI focus targets specific areas including intelligent algorithms to optimize delivery routes, reduce travel times and fuel consumption, predictive maintenance to prevent costly breakdowns, and AI-powered tools to automate tasks and make processes easier, ensuring shipments move swiftly.

With these transformative AI solutions, Logidoo has set ambitious targets. They aim to reduce delivery times by 20%, decrease operational costs by 15%, and achieve a 95% on-time delivery rate.

Additionally, Logidoo plans to expand its service coverage to 10 new African countries within the next two years and grow its customer base by 50% through improved service offerings. AI will also simplify package handling by allowing customers to photograph packages for instant volume calculation, ensuring they choose the most efficient and cost-effective shipping options.

These innovations will impact Africa, providing faster, more affordable, and transparent transportation solutions. Logidoo’s advancements will make logistics services more accessible, empowering businesses of all sizes and contributing significantly to the continent’s economic growth.

“AI-powered solutions will not only streamline our operations but also drive sustained growth and development across African economies,” added Ousmane. “Our vision goes beyond immediate gains. We believe that AI-powered logistics solutions are key to unlocking the full potential of African economies”

Logidoo believes collaboration is key to accelerating innovation and is open to partnerships to co-develop these solutions, allowing the company to leverage diverse expertise and resources.

MASO, Championing Spirit Of Solidarity Across Africa

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Africa, is a land of vibrant diversity and immense resources. Blessed with these resources, Africa also faces challenges like poverty, unemployment, and conflict.

While these issues are not unique to Africa, the continent’s potential is undeniable. Yet, amidst these difficulties lies immense potential. To unlock this potential, the spirit of solidarity must take root.

Empowering Entrepreneurs, Unlocking Potential

Many experts believe that fostering a spirit of solidarity and entrepreneurship is key to unlocking Africa’s potential. This is the very foundation upon which the Mutual Assistance and Solidarity initiative, MASO, established by RENAPROV Financial SA, is built.

MASO embodies the enduring spirit of African solidarity. It recognizes the challenges faced by individuals and communities and empowers them to become the architects of their own destinies. For four years, MASO has been a catalyst for positive change in Cameroon.

Countless individuals have used the program’s tools and resources to break free from the cycle of poverty and establish thriving businesses. MASO fosters a culture of entrepreneurship, equipping participants with the skills and support necessary to achieve their dreams.

Fostering a Culture of Shared Success

By promoting entrepreneurship and providing practical support, MASO aims to break the cycle of poverty and illuminate a path towards a brighter future, not just for individuals, but for all of Cameroon and Africa.

A MASO mutualist aptly captures the initiative’s essence: “This isn’t just about individual achievement; it’s about harnessing the collective power of the African spirit to create a brighter future for all.”

Real People, Real Results

The true impact of MASO lies in the stories of its members. Agwe Tayong, a beneficiary, expresses his gratitude: “MASO is a Godsend for those struggling with poverty.

It truly works, as long as you are committed.” His experience serves as a proof to MASO’s effectiveness, inspiring others to persevere and believe in the possibility of a better life.

MASO Act 4: A Catalyst for Growth

With MASO Act 4 on the horizon, the excitement is palpable. This upcoming event promises to be a pivotal moment for members, offering opportunities to win life-changing products that will propel their entrepreneurial journeys.

This is the embodiment of the spirit of solidarity – a community working together to empower its members and build a brighter future.

However, MASO offers a compelling opportunity for those seeking to break free from poverty and become self-sufficient entrepreneurs. Membership is accessible, requiring a weekly contribution of FCFA 500 and a yearly contribution of FCFA 26,000.

MASO is a proof to the power of collective action. By joining forces and supporting one another, Africans can overcome challenges, cultivate a thriving entrepreneurial landscape, and create a more prosperous future for the continent.

Fake Certificates, A Cancerous Tumor On Cameroon’s Education System

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The recent publication of over 1300 fake certificates discovered during Cameroonian Defense Force recruitment have not only sent shockwaves through the nation but have raise questions with questions blowing in the wind. This wasn’t an isolated incident; the number has grown steadily, swelling from 929 in 2022.

While some expressed surprise, many others saw it as a symptom of a much larger, chronic illness plaguing the education system: the rampant use of fraudulent documents. This isn’t a new problem. For years, fake certificates have cast a long shadow over various sectors healthcare, finance, and more.

While many put the guilt on technology, as a double-edged sword, which has facilitated the creation and distribution of these deceptive documents, some say inflated grades transform into entirely fabricated diplomas, creating a landscape where unqualified individuals game the system, often with seemingly authentic-looking certificates.

The blame game points towards the fierce competition for jobs and opportunities as desperate individuals’ resort to this deception to stand out or qualify for positions they wouldn’t otherwise obtain.

Marable, a concerned citizen, laments, “Technology should be a force for good, but it’s causing harm. These fake certificates are so convincing; only rigorous authentication exposes them.”

Janet’s experience paints a bleaker picture. “The worst part? Some with fake certificates get away with it. Authorities supposedly fighting are the very ones enabling it! I know someone who somehow transitioned from a basic FSLC to an Advanced Level certificate – fictitious credentials used to secure a visa!”

This cynicism isn’t unfounded. Many Cameroonians suspect government officials, while publicly condemning the practice, might hold knowledge of where these documents are fabricated. The reputational damage to the education sector is immense, casting doubt on the legitimacy of all issued certificates.

However, there’s a glimmer of hope. Experts believe that while technology can be a villain, it can also be the hero. Automation of verification systems adds an extra layer of security, while blockchain technology offers a platform for secure credentialing, minimizing the chances of fraud. Employers empowered by such technology can maintain the integrity of their recruitment processes and weed out counterfeit certificates.

Curbing this problem demands a multi-pronged approach. Employers and individuals need to be vigilant, but strong regulations are crucial. As one expert suggests, “Regulatory bodies and the government must establish a framework with harsh penalties for producing and possessing fake certificates.”

Collaboration between government, employers, law enforcement, and workplace development agencies is vital to enforce these regulations and ensure fairness in the job market.

However, the fight doesn’t end there. Experts further say, everybody must address the root causes that incentivize this deception. To them, an education system that prioritizes rote learning over critical thinking and undervalues vocational skills creates a breeding ground for desperation. A curriculum that fosters creativity, problem-solving, and adaptability will empower future generations to succeed on their own merits, rendering fake certificates obsolete.

Eradicating fake certificates is a marathon, not a sprint. Even though this is a global issue, by harnessing technology, strengthening regulations, and fostering a culture of meritocracy, Cameroon can excise this cancerous tumor and ensure a brighter future for its education system. Only then can true talent and hard work flourish, propelling the nation towards a more just and prosperous future.

Friendly Match: Bui Strikers Veterans, Kilum Bees FC Split Points In 2-2 Draw

Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Bui Strikers Veteran Football Club, (BSVFC) Yaoundé and Kilum Bees of Oku have played a 2-2 draw in a friendly encounter.

***Bui Strikers Veteran (Blue) and Kilum Bees (Orange) facing each other*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

Staged on Saturday, June 29th, in Mbankomo, outskirts of Yaoundé, both teams displayed their dominance over each other as they vied for victory.

BSVFC took an early lead thanks to a mix-up between the Kilum Bees goalkeeper and defense line. The veteran club continued their domination but narrowly missed increasing their lead at the 16^th minute.

Kilum Bees seized control at the 21^st minute, attempting to equalize. However, BSVFC extended their lead in the 35^th minute. The first half ended with the veterans leading 2-0.

After the break, Kilum Bees mounted pressure, but their efforts initially yielded no fruit. However, in the 63^rd minute, they capitalized on a free kick to break through the BSVFC defense and reduce the score line to 2-1.

Fueled by the hope of equalizing, the Bees from Oku continued to press. A defensive lapse by BSVFC made things easier and allowed them to level the score at 2-2.

Realizing the momentum have shifted, the Veterans changed their tactics and nearly regained the lead on two occasions but were denied. The match ultimately ended in a 2-2 draw. Notably, the veterans were defeated during the first leg hosted by Kilum Bees.

***Bui Strikers Veteran FC of Yaounde*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

Speaking after the match, the President of BSVFC, Hyginus Sahka, praised the positive atmosphere that characterized the friendly game. He emphasized that the main objective was to promote unity and togetherness.

“I’m truly happy as President because the friendly game was played in a calm and friendly atmosphere,” Sahka said. “We’ve had some minor disagreements in the past, but today was a blessed day that God made for us to come together, seek reconciliation, and mark the beginning of great things to come.”

***Kilum Bees FC of Oku*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

On his part, Albert Ndikwa, President of Kilum Bees, acknowledged Bui Strikers’ strong performance. While acknowledging the draw, he emphasized the age difference between the two teams, crediting Bui Strikers’ resilience.

“I believe everyone from Bui Division should be proud that we played a friendly match today,” Ndikwa said. “It’s important to remember that it’s been 13 years since we participated in the Bui Sports Fans Competition. This friendly match reignites hope for our return to the competition.”

***Bui Strikers Veteran (Blue) and Kilum Bees (Orange) encouraging each other before the start of the game*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

He applauded the reconciliatory spirit displayed by the President of Bui Strikers Veteran FC and suggested that this friendly match is a prelude to their participation in the upcoming competition.

I Am Happy Because MASO Has Made Me A Complete Person – Smith Agwe Tayong

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

“I am happy because MASO has made me a complete person.” These are the words of Smith Agwe Tayong, one of the mutualists that have benefited from the Mutual Assistance and Solidarity, MASO.

In an interview over the weekend, Agwe Tayong, a proud taxi owner in Yaoundé, expressed his gratitude for MASO’s role in his success.

“I received a taxi through the MASO Act 1 Tombola draw during the first edition,” he explained. “I was one of the winners, and today I’ve finished paying it back, completely interest-free.”

Owning a taxi in Yaoundé was once a distant dream for Agwe Tayong, who had faced challenges working for other taxi owners. However, upon learning about MASO, joined and began contributing FCFA 100 daily. Through the Tombola draw during the first edition, he became a lucky winner of a taxi.

“MASO is a godsend for those struggling with poverty,” Agwe Tayong said. “I truly appreciate the initiative by the RENAPROV authorities. It really works, as long as you are committed.”

He recounted a time when he faced difficulties due to engine problems with his taxi. He contacted MASO, and they promptly assisted him, even purchasing a new engine to ensure he could continue working.

As a proud taxi owner and entrepreneur, Agwe Tayong can now provide for his family. He can comfortably manage his children’s education, save money, and even pay his rent.

Believing in MASO’s effectiveness, he encourages those who haven’t won yet to persevere. “God’s hands are not too short to reach them,” he assures them. “With faith and commitment, you will benefit just like me. For those who haven’t joined yet, don’t waste any time – MASO is real.”

Agwe Tayong is just one out of the many mutualists that have benefited from the initiative. Some have benefited well-constructed furnished houses, households’ materials, electronics and many others.

MASO is a 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 actor in the country’s microfinance sector.

MASO was created with the goal of promoting the African spirit of Solidarity, alleviating poverty and unemployment, and empowering individuals to become entrepreneurs as well as help them come out of the vicious circle of poverty. Membership requires a weekly contribution of FCFA 500 and a yearly contribution of FCFA 26,000.

MASO membership comes with a multitude of benefits, including: Interest-free financing, housing assistance as well as life event support. These comprehensive benefits aim to improve the lives of members and their families, offering a safety net throughout life’s challenges. MASO remains a constant source of support, even in the face of death.

Recognizing that financial ignorance 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.

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.

Journalists Sharpen Skills In Responsible Reporting, Safety

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Some 30 journalists drawn from six regions of Cameroon have refined and sharpened their skills on responsible reporting and safety.

***Elizabeth Bryant, facilitator speaking during the workshop*** *(Picture Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

This was the substance of a two-day workshop organized between June 24 and 25 in Yaounde by the United States Embassy in Cameroon.

The workshop was led by Paris-based American journalists Linda Hervieur and Elizabeth Bryant, with assistance from veteran Cameroonian journalist Prof. Daniel Anicet Noah.

**Linda Hervieur, facilitator speaking during the workshop** *(Picture Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

The interactive sessions focused on responsible reporting practices, staying safe in the field, and combating disinformation in the digital age. Participants and facilitators engaged in discussions and shared experiences on these critical topics.

Veteran Cameroonian journalist Prof. Daniel Anicet Noah speaking during the workshop *(Picture Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

In combating disinformation and ensuring fairness, the importance of verifying information before sharing was a key takeaway. Journalists learned to identify reliable sources and ask insightful questions to ensure balanced and fair reporting.

The workshop stressed the importance of prioritizing safety. Journalists were encouraged to assess risks, know their limits, and persevere in their endeavors.

***Participants during the workshop*** *(Picture Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

The session also covered staying safe in dangerous situations, with practical reporting tips and multi-media fact-checking techniques to identify false information and deepfakes using open-source tools.

The workshop delved into online safety, the unique challenges faced by women journalists, responsible social media usage, identifying reliable sources, and ensuring journalist safety in the specific context of Cameroon.

Additionally, the workshop emphasized the core principles of journalism remaining constant despite technological advancements.

Opening the workshop, Sene Bamba, Professional Associate of Public Diplomacy at the U.S. Embassy, highlighted the importance of responsible reporting and journalist safety as cornerstones of U.S. foreign policy.

***US Embassy officials, Facilitators and journalists pose for a family picture*** *(Picture Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

“We firmly believe that a free and vibrant press is essential for any democracy,” Bamba stated, acknowledging the global threats to press freedom and independent media.

“The safety of journalists is paramount to the U.S. mission in Cameroon,” Bamba emphasized. “All journalists deserve to work free from physical, psychological violence, or any form of obstruction.”

CAMTEL, MPs Discuss Ways of Strengthening Digital Legal Framework

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Cameroon Telecommunication, CAMTEL experts and Members of Parliament, MPs have discussed strategies for reinforcing the national digital legal framework.

This was the subject of discussions that took place on June 25 in Yaounde during the commemoration of the CAMTEL Parliamentarians’ Day held under the theme, “Digital Industry Legislation for the structural transformation of Cameroon’s Economy.”

***Judith Yah Sunday Epse Achidi, Director General of CAMTEL*** *(Photo Credit: Etienne Mainimo)*

Speaking during the event, Judith Yah Sunday Epse Achidi, Director General of CAMTEL, stressed the crucial role of digital technology in today’s globalized world. She highlighted its potential to propel economic growth, productivity, and competitiveness across various sectors.

Judith Yah Sunday underscored the alignment of the National Development Strategy 2020-2030 (SND30) with this vision, positioning the digital sector as a cornerstone for Cameroon’s economic transformation.

***Participants during CAMTEL’ Parliamentarians’ Day*** *(Photo Credit: Etienne Mainimo)*

Despite its advantages, Judith Yah Sunday stated that the digital sector faces challenges that necessitate strategic interventions. She pinpointed data security, privacy concerns, and digital infrastructure management as key areas requiring a robust legal framework.

“These challenges, which include data security, respect for privacy, digital infrastructure management, and others, call for a strengthening of the digital legal framework,” she said.

She also stressed the urgency for regulations governing data collection, processing, and use in cyberspace, particularly in light of growing international and national anxieties surrounding data breaches. Judith Yah Sunday advocated for a balanced approach that fosters technological advancements, such as artificial intelligence, while upholding ethical and social considerations.

***Hon. Julien Bara, President REPATIC speaking during CAMTEL Parliamentarians’ Day*** *(Photo Credit: Etienne Mainimo)*

“This should also ensure a balance between the development of new technologies, such as artificial intelligence, and ethical and social considerations,” she added.

While effective management of digital infrastructures is essential to ensure the resilience and security of our economy and society as a whole, she said digital infrastructures, including telecommunications and critical IT systems, must be regulated in such a way as to guarantee their availability, integrity, and security in the face of cyber threats and malicious attacks.

On his part, Hon. Julien Bara, President of the Network of Parliamentarians in charge of Telecommunications and Information and Communication Technologies (REPATIC), acknowledged CAMTEL’s pivotal role in digital innovation and the need for updated legislation to keep pace with emerging technologies.

Hon Peters Njume Ambang, MP and REPATIC member, reiterated Parliament’s commitment to supporting the Director General’s great vision by enacting laws that enhance Cameroon’s digital competitiveness on a global scale.

***CAMTEL Officials, MPs and partners pose for a family picture*** *(Photo Credit: Etienne Mainimo)*

Olufemi Arosanyin, Chief Executive Officer of IHS Towers, commended the Director General’s efforts and emphasized the critical role of infrastructure as the foundation of every nation’s digital economy. “Infrastructure is the foundation and heartbeat of digital economy in every country.”

The event featured presentations, roundtable discussions, and analyses focused on fostering digital technology development within the framework of the SND30. Discussions also centered on legislative considerations, challenges, the role of Parliamentarians, international experiences with digital governance, and Cameroon’s legal framework for digital infrastructure management.

CAMTEL Parliamentarians’ Day serves as another milestone in a series of events organized by the company over the past few months. The day was held as part of the company’s 25th-anniversary celebrations. Over the past few months, CAMTEL has organized a series of events focused on the role of digital technologies and ICTs in achieving Cameroon’s economic development goals.

This includes, CAMTEL Digital Day, CAMTEL Decentralization Day, CAMTEL Digital Infrastructure Day, CAMTEL Youth Day, CAMTEL Women’s Day, CAMTEL Diplomacy and Regional Integration Day, and CAMTEL Business Day and CAMTEL Digital Sovereignty Day among others.

Integrity FC, Community FC Qualifies For Ambassador Lamora’s Cup Final

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Integrity FC, otherwise called Chancery FC and Community FC, also called RSO FC (Regional Security Office) have punched their tickets to the finals of the 2024 Ambassador Christopher J. Lamora’s Cup.

***Integrity FC vs Respect FC*** *(Photo Credit: Etienne Mainimo)*

The two teams qualified during the semi-final matches of the Intersections football tournament organised by the Striking Eagles Soccer Team of the United States Embassy in Yaounde Cameroon.

Both teams secured their tickets following their dominant victories in their matches played on Saturday June 22^nd at the Febe village football stadium in Yaounde.

In the first semi-final match of the day, Integrity FC showed their strength by defeating Respect FC (Pandores) 3-0 to earn a spot in the finals. After leading in the first half, Integrity FC doubled their tally in the second half that was highly competitive watched by Cup Donor Ambassador Christopher J. Lamora.

**Community FC vs Efficiency** (Photo Credit: Etienne Mainimo)

Two of their goals were scored in the second period of the game by Christian Fondze Kakiyi and Anaba Idriss. The Integrity third goal came in through the legendary Augustine Akuchu. The man of the match was the midfielder Anaba Idris.

In the second game, the Community FC continued their impressive run with a hard-fought 3-1 over Efficiency FC. The Efficiency FC surprised everyone by grabbing an early lead with a goal from Polycarp Chenwie.

Community FC bounced back with a non-disputed goal from Teghen Kimbeng (Man of the Match) to make it 1-1 before the end of the first period of the game. Towards the end of first half, Community FC and Efficiency FC mounted pressure on both sides but couldn’t increase the tally.

The second half saw both teams pressing for a winner, but it was Community FC who emerged victorious. The captain Ivo Ajebe converted a penalty. Louis Laiyo alias “The Legend” put the game to bed with a dazzling solo effort, dribbling past defenders and the goalkeeper Ngah Bilogue Xavier to seal the win.

The Community FC plays maker Teghen Kimbeng received Man of the Match honors for his outstanding performances. At the sound of the final whistle, it was Community FC that had earned a ticket to the finals after 3-1 score line.

Speaking shortly after the matches, the H.E. Lamora, commended both teams for their outstanding displays. He emphasized the importance of the tournament beyond competition stating that “These matches are about sportsmanship and exercises, but also about building inclusive community life and boosting morale for the players and the fans. I’m honored to be a part of it.”

***Ambassador Lamora congratulating Teghen Kimbeng, Man of the Match*** *(Photo Credit: Etienne Mainimo)*

Talking about the peculiarity of this year’s edition of the Ambassador’s Cup, H.E. Lamora expressed his excitement as he has been very moved by the fact that the teams have been playing for about 2 months using the core values of the embassy values of Diplomacy, RICE during the competition.

“These values we are trying to embody at the US Embassy Yaounde Mission are, Respect, Integrity, Community and Efficiency. The Striking Eagles this year 2024 decided that the four teams in Intersection Tournament have to use RICE as the names of the teams,” the Ambassador said.

He added that, “It’s been great over the past few weeks and months to watch them play, practicing and wearing jerseys with these values on them and we are living these values as they are playing their matches.”

***Ambassador Lamora congratulating Anaba Idriss***, ***Man of the Match*** *(Photo Credit: SMS Pictures)*

The Integrity FC’S Captain, Shufai Ndzefoncho acknowledged the unpredictability of football, stating, “There are no small teams in this competition. Anything is possible in every game. We’ll give it our all to win the finals.”

The Community FC’s first coach and manager, Ansambom Cyprain Boh, on his part acknowledged the challenges faced en route to the finals but vowed to maintain their clean sheet record and emerge victorious against Integrity FC.

With the final slated for Saturday June 29th, the teams are promising to play beautiful football, aiming to lift the coveted 2024 trophy. The competition is organized by the Striking Eagles of U.S. Embassy.

Blue Tech Challenge Deadline Extended to July 15th!

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The deadline for submitting projects to the Blue Tech Challenge competition has been postponed to July 15, 2024. This information was announced in a communique made public by Cameroon Telecommunications (CAMTEL) management on June 23rd.

Originally, the submission deadline was set for Sunday, June 23, 2024, at 3:30 PM sharp. With this extension, prospective candidates now have 22 additional days to submit their projects.

Launched on May 21st, the Blue Tech Challenge aims to identify and promote digital excellence through initiatives from universities, higher learning institutions, and startups in Cameroon’s digital economy.

The competition programmed for youths within the ages of 15 and 35 is geared towards highlighting know-ho of Cameroonians youths in the ICT ecosystems as well as catalyzing innovative and sustainable solutions that will retained to strengthen the resilience of digital transformation in all sectors.

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 youths unemployment in Cameroon.

Being part of CAMTEL’s ongoing efforts to implementing the prescriptions of the Head of State and to contribute to the many initiatives of the government to develop the digital economy, the competition is expected to bring together a wide range of technological topics, aimed at boosting Cameroonian’s digital economy, help to attained the SND 30 objectives and lay a foundation for building a digital industry in Cameroon.

Apart from operating in the information and communication technologies ecosystem, candidates taking part in the competition must propose innovative solutions responding to either the needs of the Cameroonian populations, SND30, CAMTEL or to the need of public administration and regional and local administration.

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.

Applications must be submitted primarily online on the project website via https://bluetechchallenge.camtel.cm/ as well as in paper format and/or in a USB key. In this case, the application file will be presented in a single envelop bearing the wordings, “Call for Expression of Interest for the Blue Tech Challenge.”

Physical files can be submitted as a priority to the CAMTEL headquarters building in Yaounde, Department of Procurement and property, Door No. 905. However, candidate’s resident in the different regions can also submit their applications to CAMTEL Regional Departments and Representatives in the headquarters of their respective regions.

The deadline for the submission of application is June 23, 2024 at 3:30 pm prompt. The Bleu Tech Challenge competition is being launched within the context of celebrations of the 25^th anniversary of the CAMTEL.

Download the national Call for expression of Interest for the BLUE TECH CHALLENGE https://bluetechchallenge.camtel.cm/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/CEI-Blue-Tech-Challenge-EN.pdf

Are you a tech whiz between the ages of 15 and 35? Do you have a brilliant idea to improve Cameroon’s digital landscape? Then shine the light on your ideas by applying for the Blue Tech Challenge here 👉🏼 https://bluetechchallenge.camtel.cm

Congo Basin Forests: World’s Largest Carbon Sink Faces Alarming Threat

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Central Africa’s vast wilderness, crucial for global climate and local communities, suffers from deforestation and lack of resources.

The Congo Basin, a region encompassing rainforests across six Central African countries, is under siege. Research centers have warn of an alarming rate of deforestation threatening this critical ecosystem, dubbed the world’s largest carbon sink.

“This is a global issue,” said Richard Eba’a Atyi, Regional Coordinator for Central Africa at CIFOR-ICRAF, during a recent forum in Bonn, Germany. “The Congo Basin is a major source of rainfall in the Sahel region. A huge proportion of the world’s ecosystem services come from this region.”

The Congo Basin forests are vital not just for the planet’s health but also for the well-being of millions who rely on its resources.

“It’s not conservation for conservation’s sake, but for the benefit of the local communities and Indigenous Peoples who live there and their livelihoods,” said Dr. Aurelie Flore Koumba Pambo, Facilitator at the Congo Basin Forest Partnership (CBFP). “If these forests stand today, it is because people are taking care of them.”

The urgency is clear. According to a forthcoming report by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), the Congo Basin absorbs an astounding 40 gigatons of carbon annually, offsetting a significant portion of global human emissions.

However, this vital resource is shrinking. Experts warn that unless immediate action is taken, the basin’s forests could lose 27 percent of their cover by 2050. Unsustainable logging and mining are major culprits, often operating illegally.

A key challenge lies in understanding the complex dynamics of the Congo Basin. “Science is needed to inform decision-making,” stressed Eba’a Atyi.

Furthermore, the region is severely underfunded for conservation efforts. Over the past decade, Central Africa received a mere 11.5 percent of global funding allocated to tropical forest conservation.

The Congo Basin stands at a crossroads. Protecting this irreplaceable ecosystem requires a multi-pronged approach: tackling the root causes of deforestation, securing adequate funding, and ensuring the well-being of local communities who are the basin’s stewards.

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