Feast Of Ascension: Christians Enjoined To Be True Ambassadors Of Peace, Reconciliation

By Ingrid Kengne

Faithful Christians of the St. Peter and Paul Parish in Simbock, in Yaoundé XI subdivision, have been called upon to exemplify Christ’s gospel by promoting core values of peace, unity, and reconciliation.

**Christains attending church service on Ascension Thurdays May 9 at St. Peter and Paul Parish in Simbock** (Photo Credit: CRTV Web)

The call was made on May 9 by Reverend Father Louis Ndzana, the Parish Priest, during a memorial mass in line with the celebration of Ascension Thursday. This day commemorates Christians’ belief in Jesus Christ’s bodily ascension to heaven.

In a homily based on John 16:16-20, Reverend Father Ndzana urged Christians to re-examine their relationships with one another as Christ goes to prepare a place for them.

“With the numerous challenges our country already faces, we as Christians need to try to resolve them in our own little ways. We should spread love and be generous to those around us. Let’s emulate Christ by preaching love and making peace wherever we find ourselves,” Father Ndzana reiterated.

The priest added that to accomplish Jesus Christ’s mission, Christians must carry His gospel to the farthest corners of the earth.

“Jesus has completed his work among us and has returned to heaven. Now, he is asking us, his followers, to continue the job he started. That is why he is recommending that Christians go into the world preaching the good news,” the priest added.

Concerning Christ’s ascension to heaven, he explained, “Ascension means that Jesus is returning after his duty of working with the people, preaching, healing… He has gone back to sit at the right hand of his father.”

For many Christians, the Ascension of Christ, celebrated 40 days after Easter, also symbolizes the hope for resurrection after death. As He goes to prepare a place for them, He also sends the Holy Spirit to strengthen them.

“This day symbolizes hope for me as a Christian,” explained Tatiah Clarice. “When he was dying, he promised to return after three days, and he did come back. He has been with me throughout, and today is the day that the Son of Man will go. But when he goes, he is going to send his Holy Spirit that will come and help me. I have hope that he will send it on Pentecost.”

The celebration at the St. Peter and Paul Parish was marked by songs of worship and praise. The congregation joined the choir to raise their voices in thanksgiving.

At the end of the solemn mass, Christians were reminded to participate actively in a nine-day Novena in preparation for the feast of Pentecost, which comes ten days after Ascension Thursday.

Discover Washington DC, Melting Point Of Memorable Monuments & Memorials

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo In Washington DC, USA

When one arrives in Washington DC, capital of the United States of America, the first thing that comes to one’s mind is the nature of the environment. Besides the cleanliness, the beautiful architectural structures doted left and right also forces you to smile deeply in your heart.

The way the city is planned also gives you the impression that a careful study was carried out to ensure that several factors were taken into consideration. However, taking a tour of the city speaks of the several memorable monuments and memorials idolized in memory of great Americans who have in one way of the other contributed to the growth of the nation.

Before identifying these 26 sites which have becomes touristic attractions, one thing too note is the fact that, they are arranged in an educational manner which speaks of the history behind them. Most of these major attractions are located on the National Mall, which extends from the U.S. Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial, with many of them running along Constitution Avenue.

Even though many of the monuments and memorials are open 24-hours a day, 365-days-a-year and you do not need to make reservations, memorials are usually staffed by National Park Service, NPS Rangers who can answer questions at any time.

U.S Capitol Building

**Capitol Building under construction in 2022** (Picture Credit: Delano Williams)

The United States Capitol Building is the first stop. Located in Washington, D.C., at the eastern end of the National Mall on a plateau 88 feet above the level of the Potomac River, the building commands a westward view across the U.S. Capitol Reflecting Pool to the Washington Monument 1.4 miles away and the Lincoln Memorial 2.2 miles away in a straight-line position.

For sure, the Capitol Building is the seat of the Senate and the House of Representatives where they come together to discuss, debate and deliberate national policy; develop consensus; and craft the country’s laws. In addition to its active use by Congress, the U.S. Capitol is a museum of American art and history.

The Washington Monument

The Washington Monument is an obelisk shaped building within the National Mall in Washington, D.C., built in honour George Washington, commander-in-chief of the Continental Army (1775–1784) in the American Revolutionary War and the first President of the United States (1789–1797).

Located almost due east of the Reflecting Pool and the Lincoln Memorial, the monument, made of marble, granite, and bluestone gneiss, is both the world’s tallest predominantly stone structure and the world’s tallest obelisk.

Looking closely, the monument color changes a third of the way up the tower with reason that that the original marble quarry, Thomas Symington’s in Baltimore, was no longer in operation by the time government wanted to continue constriction.

Lincoln Memorial

**Abrahm Lincolm Memorial** (Photo Credit: Delano Williams)

Walking into Abrahm Lincolm Memorial, one iconic point is the position where Martin Luther Jr. stood and made his speech. However, it’s hard to view this stunning work that is dedicated to the memory and achievements of Abraham Lincoln without feeling moved. The structure itself, a neoclassical masterpiece made of white stone and framed by 36 columns, is astonishingly beautiful.

Inside, the statue of Lincoln sitting in contemplation is unforgettable to most visitors memorial features inscriptions of the 16^th President’s Second Inaugural Address and The Gettysburg Address, which is considered by many to be his most famous speech.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial

The memorial is located on a four-acre stretch on the Tidal Basin, with the statue of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. carved into the Stone of Hope, which juts out of two large boulders. A sight to see, the two boulders are made to represent the Mountain of Despair and are split in half to reveal the Stone of Hope.

The text from his legendary “I have a Dream” speech is inscribed into the rock as well other messages he said during his life. Several visitors as well as students visit the place to see the great man.

Jefferson Memorial

The Thomas Jefferson Memorial is located on the bank of the Potomac River Tidal Basin. The Memorial is recognised by it’s dome-shaped roof and circular marble steps. Its design is notably similar to the University of Virginia rotunda, a structure that Jefferson designed.

Inside, Thomas Jefferson statue sits inside and is surrounded by excerpts from the Declaration of Independence, written by Jefferson and other founding fathers.

Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial

**Neil Estern’s sculpture of Franklin Roosevelt and his dog Fala is just part of this large memorial.** (Carol M. Highsmith’s America, Library of Congress, Prints and Photographs Division.)

The Frankline Delano Roosevelt Memorial is located in the West Potomac Park along the tidal basin. The memorial is dedicated to the memory of the 32^nd President, Franklin Delano Roosevelt. This unique memorial features four different outdoor “rooms,” each representing one term of his four in the office from 1933 until he passed away in 1945. This is the first memorial that was built to be wheelchair accessible and is the only presidential monument to include a special memorial to the First Lady. Eleanor is immortalized in bronze, standing next to the United Nations emblem.

Vietnam Veterans Memorial

(Photo Credit: MARTA ESCURRA 10-10-2022 WASHINGTON DC) **VIETNAM VETARANS MEMORIAL UNITED STATES OF AMERICA USA EEUU IVLP GLOBAL MOMENT**

The Vietnam Veterans Memorial is located near Constitution Gardens on the National Mall and honors those members of the United States armed forces who fought, those who lost their lives and those who were missing in action. There are three separate parts to the memorial, a Three Soldiers Statue, the Vietnam Women’s Memorial and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall.

World War II Memorial

The World War II Memorial was built to honor the 16 million military personnel who served during World War II. This memorial on the National Mall features 56 granite columns to represent the unity between 48 states, seven federal territories and the District of Columbia.

Among others, the Khalil-Gibran Memorial, Arsenal, Rush-Bagot, Washington Mini, Daguerre as well as The Portrait Monuments also have symbolic history to tell. Don’t lose a glimpse of their structural arrangement to fit the narratives.

First Published in The Post newspaper in 2022

CAF, UCT Partner To Boost African Football Administration

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the University of Cape Town (UCT) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at promoting knowledge, developing capacity, and strengthening the administrative skills of African football stakeholders.

**Véron Mosengo-Omba (L) and Prof. Dayanand Reddy (R) exchanging MoU** (Photo Credit: CAF)

The MoU was signed on May 8 in Cairo, Egypt, by CAF Secretary General Véron Mosengo-Omba and UCT Council Vice-Chancellor Professor Dayanand Reddy.

The MoU marks a new era in African football, prioritizing education and skills development for administrators managing member associations.

Speaking during the signing ceremony, Mosengo-Omba hailed UCT as a leading global center of learning and expressed CAF’s pride in partnering with such a prestigious institution.

“The agreement reflects CAF’s transformation into one of Africa’s best learning organizations,” Mosengo-Omba said.

He emphasized that the agreement aligns with CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe’s three-year-old pledge to enhance efficiency and professionalism in African football.

“We believe this collaboration will not only train future football leaders but also consolidate the skills and capacity of current role players, thereby fostering the African football landscape,” he added.

Advocate Norman Arendse, UCT Council Chair, stated, “UCT is absolutely delighted to partner with CAF on this critically important project to train and develop African football’s current and future leaders. UCT shares CAF’s vision of developing and sustaining a truly world-class organization built on excellence.”

Prof. Reddy remarked, “The partnership with CAF further underscores UCT’s commitment to collaborative efforts aimed at strengthening capacity and unleashing leadership potential on our continent. We are proud to join hands with CAF in this exciting venture.”

The programs will include a blend of online and on-site modules delivered at the University of Cape Town Graduate School of Business. The program’s key objectives include: Enhancing the skills and expertise of African football stakeholders, building the capacity of role-players within CAF’s 54 member associations, driving innovation and encouraging football executives to develop their strategic acumen and leadership capabilities and contributing to the advancement and sustainability of African football

At Launch of 77th Edition: Red Cross Urges Cameroonians to Aid Vulnerable Populations

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

As the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement approaches its 160th anniversary, officials have urged Cameroonians to cultivate the spirit of volunteerism and help those in need of humanitarian services.

The call was made by officials on May 5 in Yaoundé shortly after the sports walk dedicated to launching the 77th edition. This year’s edition is celebrated under the theme “Keeping Humanity Alive.”

**Red Cross Cameroon and partners during the sport walk** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

This theme according to officials embodies the Red Cross’s dedication to humanitarian service, impacting countless lives, restoring hope, and empowering resilience amidst global crises.

Louise Luma Musonge, representing the National President of the Cameroon Red Cross, explained that the sports walk aimed to connect with the community and promote volunteerism and the Red Cross’s activities.

“It was also an opportunity to promote the activities of volunteers as well as the activities of the Red Cross,” Luma Musonge said.

**Red Cross Cameroon and partners during the sport walk in Yaounde** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

She added that humanity faces numerous challenges, ranging from conflict and disaster around the world, and there is a need for individuals like volunteers to take action and help alleviate suffering.

Adesh Tripathie, from the Central Africa Cluster of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, emphasized the abundance of humanitarian challenges and the global stress humanity is experiencing.

“Now, we need to revive the spirit of humanity within all of us, including Cameroonians, especially as people are in need of humanitarian solutions,” he said, adding, “People need more support in voluntary work, driven by genuine compassion.”

Tripathie reiterated the Red Cross’s commitment to its core principles of neutrality, impartiality, and independence, and called for continued solidarity with those affected by conflict, disaster, and crises, ensuring that the light of humanity continues to shine even in the darkest times.

Celebrations marking the 2024 edition will culminate on May 8 with the official Red Cross and Red Crescent Day. The sport walk toured some major streets of Yaounde including the Mokolo Market Activities include environmental cleaning, sports competitions (particularly races for volunteers), and are taking place across Cameroon.

Globally, some 191 Red Cross Societies and 69 million volunteers, including 75,000 volunteers in Cameroon, are being honored.

May 8th is World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day, a global day to celebrate the unique unity of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. The day commemorates the birth of the movement in the world.

It is a time to celebrate the spirit of humanitarianism and recognize the individuals who make a difference in their communities.

The idea for World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day arose after the First World War, when the 14th International Conference of the Red Cross discussed an “annual action that could take hold in the whole world… that would be a major contribution to peace.”

May 8th was ultimately chosen because it is the anniversary of the birth of the founder of the International Committee of the Red Cross, Henry Dunant.

The first “International Red Cross Day,” as it was originally known, was celebrated on May 8, 1948. The official title of the day changed over time and became known as “World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day” in 1984.

Today, the day serves as an annual opportunity to celebrate our network of Red Cross and Red Crescent volunteers, reaffirm our unwavering commitment to a common humanity, and reflect on our Fundamental Principles.

Mincommerce Inaugurates Odza Golden Wheat Shopping Complex

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Minister of Commerce, Luc Magloire Mbarga Atangana, has inaugurated the Wheat Shopping Complex, located at Odza, Yaounde 4 Subdivision. The shopping complex was inaugurated on May 3.

***Minister Luc Magloire Mbarga Atangana speaking during the inauguration ceremony*** *(Photo Credit: Mincommerce)*

During the inauguration ceremony, Minister Mbarga Atangana commended the Blé d’Or group for their efforts in promoting value chains and supporting the growth of Cameroon’s large distribution ecosystem.

He emphasized the importance of making essential consumer products more readily available to the public, aligning with the government’s ongoing policy to combat rising living costs.

Expressing his vision for the future, Minister Mbarga Atangana encouraged the Golden Wheat Group to expand beyond Yaoundé and establish a presence in other Cameroonian cities.

He highlighted the potential for job creation and economic stimulation through such expansion, addressing the pressing challenge of youth unemployment within the country.

**Minister Luc Magloire Mbarga Atangana cutting the inaugural ribbon** (Photo Credit: Mincommerce)

“It’s time to move further, faster, and stronger,” declared Minister Mbarga Atangana. “Consumer demand is high, and thousands of jobs can be created, contributing to the solution of youth unemployment in our nation.”

Rostant Francis Kueka, Managing Director General of the Blé d’Or group, expressed his commitment to exceeding customer expectations at the Odza Golden Wheat Shopping Complex.

He stressed the high quality of the products offered, with a significant focus on local goods, constituting nearly 45 percentage of the available selection.

Yaoundé CAMASEJ Chapter Urges Resilience On World Press Freedom Day 2024

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Journalists in Yaoundé, under the umbrella of the Cameroon Association of English-speaking Journalists (CAMASEJ) Yaounde Chapter, have been called upon to cultivate resilience in the face of mounting challenges that threaten their ability to fulfill their vital role in society.

***Ndi Eugene Ndi, President of CAMASEJ Yaounde Chapter speaking during the WPFD*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

This was the central message echoed in Yaounde during celebrations marking the 2024 World Press Freedom Day (WPFD), held under the theme “A Press for the Planet: Journalism in the Face of the Environmental Crisis.”

Speaking on May 3rd, Ndi Eugene Ndi, President of CAMASEJ Yaounde Chapter, highlighted how Cameroon is not immune to the devastating impacts of climate change, with increased instances of floods, declining agricultural yields, and heightened food and water insecurity plaguing the nation.

**Panelists during the WPFD celebrated in Yaounde** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Ndi specifically addressed the growing concern of waste management in major cities like Douala and Yaoundé, where overflowing garbage poses a significant threat to both the environment and public health.

“As watchdogs, storytellers, and advocates for change,” Ndi emphasized, “journalists must be at the forefront of the quest for solutions to these environmental challenges.”

He further stressed that press freedom itself faces numerous threats, including censorship, harassment, attacks on media independence, and restrictive laws like the 2014 terrorism legislation. Ndi pointed among other things that journalists in Cameroon often operate in an environment where access to official information is just as challenging as the environmental issues the planet faces.

**Members participating during the WPFD** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

In a keynote address, Eugene Nforngwa drew the attention of media professionals to the urgency of the environmental crisis, urging them to take the lead in reporting on these critical issues.

A panel discussion featuring Elias Ngalame, Leocadia Bongben, and Solomon Tembang showcased their investigative work on environmental issues, along with the challenges they faced. The panelists encouraged journalists to exercise increased prudence when undertaking investigative reporting.

The symbolic planting of an environmentally friendly tree at The Guardian Post Head Office marked the culmination of the day, serving as a modest contribution to safeguarding the planet’s future. Prior to the day, the Chapter participated in a clean-up exercise to demonstrate the importance of keeping the environment clean.

**Ndi Eugene Ndi on behalf of CAMASEJ Yaounde Chapter planting a symbolic tree** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

The 2024 WPFD served as a stark reminder of the critical role journalism and freedom of expression play in addressing the current global environmental crisis. Celebrated annually on May 3rd, WPFD provides an opportunity to reaffirm commitment to the fundamental principle of press freedom.

Meanwhile, according to the 2024 World Press Freedom Index released by Reporters Without Borders (RSF) on May 3rd, press freedom worldwide is under increasing threat from the very entities that should be its guardians: political authorities.

**CAMASEJ Yaounde Chapter members and visitors pose for family picture** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

Cameroon’s ranking of 130th reflects this concerning trend. RSF’s analysis indicates that the political indicator, one of five factors used to compile the ranking, has experienced the sharpest decline, with a global average drop of 7.6 points.

“As more than half the world’s population heads to the polls in 2024, RSF warns of a worrying trend revealed by the 2024 World Press Freedom Index: a decline in the political indicator,” stated Anne Bocandé, RSF editorial director.

She added, “States and other political forces are increasingly failing to protect press freedom. This disenfranchisement often coincides with more hostile actions that undermine the role of journalists, or even instrumentalize the media through campaigns of harassment or disinformation. True journalism stands in stark contrast to such practices.”

30 “Made In Cameroon” Promoters Trained On Packaging, Labeling & Barcodes

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Thirty promoters of “Made in Cameroon” products have acquired valuable skills in packaging, labeling, and barcodes. This knowledge was gained through a training workshop held on April 25 in Yaoundé, chaired by Mirabel Nkemboh Nji, Director of Internal Trade at the Ministry of Trade.

**Mirabel Nkemboh Nji, Director of Internal Trade at the Ministry of Trade opening the workshop** (Photo Credit: MINCOMMERCE)

The Ministry of Trade, in collaboration with GS1 Cameroon, organized the workshop with the objective of equipping promoters with crucial knowledge in packaging, labeling, and barcodes. This initiative aligns with the government’s goals of transforming Cameroon into an emerging nation by 2035.

During the workshop, Nkemboh Nji highlighted the critical importance of Cameroonian products gaining access to local, sub-regional, regional, and international markets. She emphasized that consumer acceptance is the key to achieving this market access.

Nkemboh Nji expressed concern about the limited access faced by Cameroonian SMEs, attributing it largely to inadequate production processes and non-compliance with standards. Proposed solutions included strengthening the capacity of SMEs and fostering economic patriotism.

**Partial view of promoters during the training workshop** *(Photo Credit: MINCOMMERCE)*

Cameroon aspires to become an industrialized nation, with a strategic focus on significantly increasing the private sector’s contribution to economic growth. This strategy places particular emphasis on the development of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs).

Packaging serves as a product’s showcase, playing a pivotal role in influencing consumer purchasing decisions. Effective labeling, on the other hand, is an essential tool for safeguarding public health and deterring fraudulent practices. Barcodes, meanwhile, provide a fast and efficient method for item identification, stock management, and price display.

By equipping promoters with these crucial skills, the Ministry of Trade and GS1 Cameroon are empowering Cameroonian businesses to compete more effectively in the marketplace. This not only benefits the businesses themselves but also contributes to the country’s overall economic development.

5 Top Telephoto Lenses for Capturing Sports Action

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Let’s talk lenses! As a sports photographer, you know your gear is crucial for capturing the peak of athletic action. Whether you’re on the sidelines of a local soccer game or basketball, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to choose the perfect lens, regardless of your budget.

We all crave those iconic sports photographs – the game-winning catch frozen in time, the raw emotion on an athlete’s face. But achieving these feats requires the right tool for the job – a lens specifically designed to tackle the fast-paced world of sports.

The good news? You don’t need a pro’s budget. This guide focuses on mid-range lenses that deliver exceptional reach without breaking the bank. There are options for all major camera systems, so you can find the perfect match for your gear.

Remember, some third-party lenses can work with multiple systems, and many DSLR lenses can be adapted to mirrorless cameras within the same brand. So, ditch the peanut gallery view – with the right lens, you’ll be virtually on the field, capturing every heart-stopping moment.

Canon RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L is USM Super-Telephoto Lens

This is a top-of-the-line L-series lens offering exceptional image quality, weather sealing, and a versatile zoom range.

Specifications:

Focal Length (100-500mm),
Aperture (f/4.5-7.1),
Image Stabilization (Yes),
Minimum Focus Distance (2.95ft).

View at Amazon: https://amzn.to/3QBZEQ6

Reasons to Buy:

Unmatched image quality,
Excellent build quality,
Impressive zoom range,
Outstanding image stabilization.

Reasons to Avoid:

Pricey,
Heaviest lens on this list (4.5 lbs),
Slower aperture at the long end.

Tamron SP 150-600mm F/5-6.3 Di VC USD G2 for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras

It is a budget-friendly option delivering impressive zoom reach and good image quality for the price.

Specifications:

Focal Length (150-600mm),
Aperture (f/5-6.3),
Image Stabilization (Yes),
Minimum Focus Distance (10.5ft).

View at Amazon: https://amzn.to/4bl95f6

Reasons to Buy:

Excellent value for money,
Longest zoom range here,
Lightweight (4.3 lbs) compared to some competitors.

Reasons to Avoid:

Slower aperture throughout the zoom range,
May not be ideal for low-light situations,
Potentially softer image quality compared to premium lenses.

Sony FE 200-600mm F5.6-6.3 G OSS Super Telephoto Zoom Lens (SEL200600G)

It is a well-rounded telephoto zoom for Sony full-frame mirrorless cameras, balancing performance and portability.

Specifications:

Focal Length (200-600mm),
Aperture (f/5.6-6.3),
Image Stabilization (Yes),
Minimum Focus Distance (7.9ft).

View at Amazon: https://amzn.to/3y2xJm3

Reasons to Buy:

Good balance of zoom range,
Aperture, and weight (6.1 lbs),
Excellent image quality for Sony cameras.

Reasons to Avoid:

Pricey,
May not be the most compact option for travel.

Sigma 150-600mm 5-6.3 Contemporary DG OS HSM Lens for Canon

It is a compelling choice for Sony and L-mount mirrorless cameras, offering excellent value and a robust build for sports photography.

Specifications:

Focal Length (150-600mm),
Aperture (f/5-6.3), Image Stabilization (Yes),
Minimum Focus Distance (6.6ft).

View at Amazon: https://amzn.to/3UQslvk

Reasons to Buy:

Excellent value,
Good image quality,
Relatively lightweight (4.6 lbs) for its zoom range,
Weather-sealed construction.

Reasons to Avoid:

Slower aperture at the long end,
May not be the best choice for low-light situations.

AF-S FX NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED Vibration Reduction Zoom Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras

It is a workhorse telephoto lens for Nikon DSLR users, offering a good balance of performance and affordability.

Specifications:

Focal Length (200-500mm),
Aperture (f/5.6),
Image Stabilization (Yes),
Minimum Focus Distance (8.2ft).

View at Amazon: https://amzn.to/4bsHE2L

Reasons to Buy:

Excellent value for Nikon users,
Good image quality,
Relatively lightweight (5.7 lbs) for its zoom range.

Reasons to Avoid:

Limited zoom range compared to some options,
Older design,
May not be the best choice for the latest Nikon mirrorless cameras.

CAMASEJ Yaoundé Chapter Launches WPFD Activities, Urges Journalists to Be Agents of Change

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Cameroon Association of English-Speaking Journalists (CAMASEJ) Yaoundé Chapter has kicked off activities commemorating World Press Freedom Day (WPFD) with a call for journalists to be active participants in environmental change.

**CAMASEJ Yaounde Chapter members cleaning up streets** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Eugene Ndi, Chapter President, urged journalists on May 2nd during the launch ceremony, where members actively participated in cleaning streets within Yaoundé. The 2024 is celebrated under the theme, “A Press for the Planet: Journalism in the Face of the Environmental Crisis.”

“Journalists play a crucial role in advocating for change, and when you advocate for change, you should be part of the change,” Ndi stated. “This year’s WPFD theme focuses on the environment, and there could not have been a better way to launch our activities than what we have done today.”

Recognizing Yaoundé as a city facing significant sanitation challenges, the Chapter President emphasized that journalists advocating for a cleaner city should themselves contribute to the solution through volunteerism.

“We are leading by example, which is why we decided to carry out this clean-up exercise,” he said. “If we are calling on authorities to address the environmental crisis, we should demonstrate that volunteerism is another way to solve it, and that is what we did today.”

The clean-up took place in Yaoundé XI Municipality, specifically along the street from Rond Point Express through Acacia Market to the Sub-Divisional Office’s premises.

On May 3rd, CAMASEJ Yaoundé Chapter will organize a panel discussion exploring the theme and how journalists can leverage the 2024 WPFD theme to write impactful stories and advocate for change. Additionally, a symbolic tree planting ceremony will be held at the headquarters of The Guardian Post, contributing to environmental protection efforts.

Following the recommendation of UNESCO’s General Conference in 1991, the United Nations General Assembly established Press Freedom Day in 1993, observed annually on May 3rd. The inaugural celebration took place in 1994.

**CAMASEJ Yaounde Chapter members pose for a family picture after cleaning exercise** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

The day aims to, ensure freedom of the press and remember and honor journalists who have lost their lives in the line of duty. The day also aimed at reiterating the importance of public access to information and government support in creating a safe environment for journalists to operate as well as celebrating media organizations and journalists for their work in ensuring truth-telling and upholding press freedom at all times.

At 2024 Labour Day: CAMTEL GM Praises Staff, Calls For Renewed Commitment To Vision & Values

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The General Manager of Cameroon Telecommunications, CAMTEL, Judith Yah Sunday épse Achidi, has praised staff and called on them to renew their commitment to the vision and values of the company.

**Judith Yah Sunday épse Achidi, CAMTEL GM speaking during celebrations marking 2024 edition of the Labour Day** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Judith Yah Sunday made the call in Yaounde on May 1 during celebrations marking the 2024 edition of International Labour Day. The 138^th edition in Cameroon was celebrated under the theme, “Constructing social dialogue, vector of decent work and social progress.”

“Allow me to seize this opportunity to salute the hard work and dedication each and every one of you is putting into our company,” she stated. “Be it on the field or in the office, your contribution is invaluable and deserves to be recognized.”

She added, “Together, we have overcome hurdles, made progress, and set excellent standards that CAMTEL can be proud of,” she said while adding that, “You can rest assured that top management is resolved to do its part and honor its commitment.”

***CAMTEL Staff during celebrations marking the 2024 edition of Labour Day*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

She also acknowledged the strides taken by management to ensure a positive work environment, while also addressing the concerning trend of employees disregarding internal rules and displaying a lack of discipline.

“Many are guilty of disregarding our rules and standards. From basic requirements like wearing a badge, which is mandatory, to following the dress code,” she said.

The General Manager stated that, “With some staff increasingly becoming provocative in their dressing, absenteeism is taking root, with some staff hiding behind fancily bed rest restrictions, which will henceforth be thoroughly scrutinized by company doctors. Theft of equipment is on the rise, and severe sanctions will unfortunately be applied to anyone found guilty.”

**CAMTEL GM (middle) Celebrating the day with staffs** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

To address these issues, which she stated were numerous, she said the staff have to make a commitment to cultivate a culture of responsibility and mutual respect in which everyone feels valued and supported in their work. For this to happen, everyone has to adhere to company policy, respect established procedures, and treat colleagues with dignity and courtesy.

“Therefore, dear colleagues, as we take time today to celebrate and reflect, I urge you to renew your commitment to our shared vision, values, and mission,” she emphasized. “Together, we can overcome obstacles, achieve our aspirations, and continue to write CAMTEL’s success story for posterity.”

It’s important to note that the International Labour Day celebrations were preceded by a week of activities, culminating in a match pass along the 20th May Boulevard. This global event, originating in 1890, serves as a day to recognize workers and advocate for social dialogue, decent work conditions, and social progress.

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Table of Contents

Canon RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L is USM Super-Telephoto Lens

Tamron SP 150-600mm F/5-6.3 Di VC USD G2 for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras

Sony FE 200-600mm F5.6-6.3 G OSS Super Telephoto Zoom Lens (SEL200600G)

Sigma 150-600mm 5-6.3 Contemporary DG OS HSM Lens for Canon

AF-S FX NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED Vibration Reduction Zoom Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras