BSFC Inspiring Ball Boys, Girls To Dream Of Football Stardom

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Bui Sports Fans Competition (BSFC) is proving to be more than just a sporting event. Held in Yaoundé, the competition is fostering solidarity and serving as a source of inspiration and motivation for young ball boys and girls who dream of becoming professional footballers.

***Ball boys and girls pose for a family picture*** *(Picture Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

Just three days into the ongoing BSFC, the atmosphere is great, thanks in part to the craving of the ball boys and girls. Despite their young age, their passion for the game is evident.

Many of the young boys and girls participating as ball boys and girls are becoming increasingly excited and inspired to become footballers after witnessing the skills of their senior players on the field.

***Ball boys and girls entrying into the field for the opening ceremony*** *(Picture Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

For some of them, simply being present and feeling the excitement is enough to keep them motivated as they aspire to be like their senior players.

“I am happy standing here as a ball boy,” one boy said. “One day, I will love to play like them.”

Like this boy, many of the participants have been eagerly anticipating each playing day since the competition began, urging their parents to bring them to the field.

Beyond the inspiration, the BSFC is also providing a valuable platform for young people to develop their skills and learn important life lessons. By participating as ball boys and girls, they are gaining valuable experience in a professional sporting environment, learning the importance of teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship.

***Ball boys and girls with match officials*** *(Picture Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

Moreover, the competition is fostering a sense of community and camaraderie among the ball boys and girls. As they interact with each other and share their passion for football, they are building lasting friendships and creating a supportive network.

BSFC Day 3: Nso Boys FC, NDECA FC Secure Crucial Wins

By etienne Mainimo Megnjo

The third day of the ongoing Bui Sports Fans Competition (BSFC) on September 22 featured thrilling matches at the Lycée Général-Leclerc Stadium in Yaoundé.

Both NDECA FC and Nso Boys FC claimed important victories, keeping their hopes alive in respect to qualifying for the next phase of the competition.

***Fans cheering their teams to victory*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

NDECA FC Overcomes Takijah FC in a Tense Match

In the opening match of the day, NDECA FC faced Takijah FC in a must-win encounter for both teams. After suffering defeats in their previous matches, both sides were determined to stay in the competition. Given the stakes, both teams had to step up to secure their future in the competition.

***NDECA FC*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

The match started with an intense display of skill and determination from both teams. However, it was Takijah FC that took an early lead through Achielles in the 10th minute, but NDECA quickly responded with a goal from Ferdinand Nyuyki who struck a thunderous shot from outside the 18-meter box to equalize two minutes after.

***NDECA FC and Takijah FC battling for victory*** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

At the 25th minute, Takijah again proved their supremacy when Muhamadu Umaru secured another goal, putting his team in a 2-1 lead. Despite NDECA’s efforts to balance the scoreline, the first half ended with Takijah FC leading.

***Takijah FC*** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

The second half saw a more evenly contested affair, with both teams creating chances. NDECA eventually equalized in the 53rd minute through Leonard Lobie. Ten minutes after, Ferdinand Nyuyki pushed forward and hammered the winning goal for NDECA FC, putting his team in a 3-2 lead.

As the minutes died down, Takijah created many chances to balance the scoreline, but their dreams were shattered as NDECA secured their victory, putting them in a strong position to qualify for the next round. As a result of their second consecutive defeat, Takijah FC is out of the competition but still has to play their last group match against Nso Boys FC.

Husseni’s Late Goal Secures Nso Boys FC Victory Over Promise FC

In the second match of the day, Nso Boys FC faced Promise Enterprise FC in a highly contested encounter. Both teams had won their opening matches and were eager to continue their winning streak.

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

The match started with Nso Boys pressing forward, but it was Promise Enterprise who capitalized on a defensive error to take the lead. Nsamelu converted a penalty in the 25th minute, and Louis Berka doubled the advantage just two minutes later.

***Promise Enterprise and Nso Boys FC battling for supremacy*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

However, Nso Boys fought back, with Abdel Fomonyuy pulling one goal back in the 35th minute as the first half ended with Promise Enterprise holding a 2-1 lead.

The second half saw both teams continue to battle fiercely. Fanka Hakimi, who had come on as a substitute, leveled the score in the 58th minute with a well-taken dribble. Despite the inclement weather, the match remained highly entertaining, with both teams creating chances.

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

At extra time, it was Nso Boys who snatched the victory in the dying moments. Huseni Nyuykighan headed home from a corner kick to seal a 3-2 win for his side.

The victory propelled Nso Boys to the top of Pool A with six points, following their 1-0 win over NDECA FC in the first round. Promise Enterprise FC occupies second place with three points, while NDECA FC and Takijah are still searching for their first win.

BSFC 2024: Day three Preview: The Countdown Begins As Teams Seek Their Destiny

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Teams will begin seeking their destiny in the competition when the third day of play in the ongoing Bui Sports Fans Competition (BSFC) gets underway in Yaoundé.

This stage of the competition is crucial as teams strive to secure their positions and advance to the next round. The matches promise to be intense, with each team aware that any mistake could be costly.

Takijah FC vs NDECA FC

This is one of the two matches scheduled for Sunday, September 22, in Yaoundé. The clash between Takijah FC and NDECA FC will be their first encounter in the BSFC, adding an element of unpredictability to the match.

Takijah FC, having participated in the previous editions of the competition, will be looking to bounce back after a disappointing 0-3 defeat to Promise Enterprise FC in their opening match.

The team understands that another loss would likely end their campaign, so they are determined to put up a strong performance. A victory in this match is crucial for Takijah FC to keep their hopes alive for advancing to the second round. They will rely on their youthful and energetic players to outmaneuver their opponents and secure a much-needed win.

On the other hand, NDECA FC also faced a setback in their first match, losing 0-1 to Nso Boys FC. Despite this, they are coming into the game with renewed determination and a clear understanding of the stakes.

NDECA FC will need to leverage their resilience and experience to overcome Takijah FC. Both teams are aware that a draw might not be enough, so they will be pushing hard for a win to improve their chances of progressing in the competition.

Promise Enterprise FC vs Nso Boys FC

The match between Promise Enterprise FC and Nso Boys FC is expected to be a highlight of the third day of play in the BSFC. Both teams secured victories in their opening matches, setting the stage for a thrilling encounter.

Promise Enterprise FC, newcomers to the competition, made a strong impression with their initial victory. They are eager to continue their winning streak and secure a place in the next round.

A win in this match would take them to six points, virtually guaranteeing their progression. The team will be looking to build on their momentum and deliver another impressive performance. Supporters can expect an exciting match that will keep them on the edge of their seats.

Another newcomer Nso Boys FC, also victorious in their first match, will be equally motivated to secure another win and ensure their place in the next round. The team is aware that Promise Enterprise FC will be a formidable opponent, but they are prepared to rise to the challenge.

Both teams have shown great potential and skill, making this match one to watch. A draw would still leave both teams in a strong position, but a win would provide a significant boost to their confidence and standing in the competition.

From every indication, the competition is heating up, and as the teams take to the field, fans can look forward to a day of high-stakes football with plenty of drama and excitement. Each team will be giving their all, knowing that their performance on this day could define their journey in the BSFC.

Colleagues, Friends Bid Farewell To Humphrey Beng, The Voice Desk Editor

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Colleagues and friends have bid farewell to The Voice Desk Editor, Humphrey Beng Fang, who died on September 2nd in Yaoundé.

***Mortal remains of Humphrey taken from the Mortuary in Yaounde*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

On September 20th, during the corpse removal, hundreds gathered to pay their last respects to “Hummy,” as he was fondly called. At the Muna’s Foundation, colleagues and friends also gathered in an emotional moment, sharing heartfelt tributes to Humphrey.

In a message delivered from 1 Kings 2:2, the Man of God called on the family to be strong. He reminded everyone that death is the road that everyone will use, which is why everyone needs to be ready.

“No matter how afraid you are of death, it will come your way. You just need to revisit your personal relationship with God and give your life to Jesus Christ,” the Man of God said.

***Humphrey Beng, The Voice Desk Editor***

In an emotional farewell word, the representative of the family described Humphrey as a son who was quite different and unique in his way.

“Humphrey developed a zeal and passion for journalism from childhood when he started reading newspapers to his friends and elders and also listening to the radio,” the representative of the family said.

The Toghu Association for Culture (TAM) on their part said as Communication Director, Hummy was a dynamic young leader and a driving force behind many of the association’s activities.

“He had humility and an innate ability to bring people together. The legacy he is leaving behind is that of passion and service,” TAM said.

To Jude Viban, President of the Cameroon Association of English Journalists (CAMASEJ), Humphrey was a journalist who embraced journalism with passion and a strong flair. Other speakers took turns to speak of the young, talented journalist who is leaving this world at his prime.

***Colleagues and friends pays tribute to Humphrey Beng*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

Humphrey Beng Fang was born on June 15, 1996, in Bukulang, Weh village, Fungom Subdivision, Menchum Division in the Northwest of Cameroon. After his Advanced Level, Humphrey proceeded to the University of Yaoundé I.

After his degree, he joined The Voice newspaper. He contributed to The Rambler, The Post, and The Weh Messenger newspapers, among others. He was the Communication Director of TAM and Desk Editor of The Voice newspaper.

Humphrey Beng Fang breathed his last on September 2nd. He will be buried in his native village. May his soul Rest In Peace.

Interim Mine Minister, Prof. Calistus Fuh Launches Negotiations For Mining Conventions

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Prof. Calistus Gentry Fuh, the interim Minister of Mines, Industries, and Technological Development (MINMIDT), has initiated negotiations for mining conventions (agreements) between the State of Cameroon and several mining companies.

***Prof. Calistus Gentry Fuh, interim Minister of Mines, Industries, and Technological Development (MINMIDT) speaking*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

The launching ceremony took place on Thursday, September 19, in Ebolowa, South Region. Minister Fuh was accompanied by the Governor of the South Region, along with director generals of mining companies and local authorities.

The negotiations involve the State of Cameroon and the companies CAMINA S.A, CAMINEX S.A, and Oriole Cameroon 2 Sarl. These companies are seeking to exploit the Ngovayang, Ntem, and Djoum III iron deposits in the Southern region and the Bibémi gold deposit in the Northern region.

Speaking after the launch, Minister Fuh described the event as a “historic moment,” given that Cameroon is showcasing the continent’s largest iron ore corridor in the African continent. He added that Cameroon is embarking on another “crucial phase” in the procedure that will enable her mining deposits to be exploited.

***Director Generals of Mining Companies*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

“We have chosen Ebolowa because of the six projects that are found in Cameroon, five of which are located in the South Region,” he said adding, “Today, we are adding three new mining projects in the iron ore sector, all of which are also in the South Region,” he said.

While emphasizing that the country’s first gold mine is located in the North, the Minister stated that mining in the North is conducted according to industry standards reason why there is need to ensure that the sector in the East Region is also well-regulated and professional.

According to the Minister, citizen education will continue to ensure that Cameroon develops an industrial mining sector that is environmentally friendly and does not exploit children.

***Officials during the meeting*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

“Today, Cameroon has taken a significant step towards completing its dominance in innovations…There is no other African country with such a regional corporation in mining infrastructure,” he said. “Mining has come to stay; Cameroonians should get used to it.”

Meanwhile, the different directors of the mining companies present during the lunching ceremony expressed their gratitude to the government, noting their excitement to work with both the government and local communities to ensure that “everyone benefits.”

Martin Rosser, CEO of Oriole Cameroon 2 Sarl, said he was drawn to Cameroon by the government’s strong commitment to developing a significant and valuable mining industry.

“The country has excellent geology,” he stated. “I am delighted to be here and for my company to be in Cameroon, focusing on the gold sector, which is a very important opportunity for the country. We believe that the geology is highly promising for many gold mines, and we already have evidence from our first project of a world-class gold deposit.”

It’s worth noting that research conducted by the companies led to the identification of deposits suitable for industrial exploitation. They subsequently submitted applications to MINMIDT for exploitation permits, along with feasibility studies and draft mining agreements.

***Minister Calistus Gentry Fuh, DGs of Mining Companies and local authorities pose for a family picture*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

The negotiations launched by Minister Fuh will proceed in several stages, including internal consultation, examination of the State’s counter-proposal, and obtaining the prior consent of local communities. This process will ultimately result in the drafting of consensual mining agreements that will be subject to broader consultation with sectoral administrations.

Among other things, the internal consultation will involve a residential workshop between MINMIDT and SONAMINES. This workshop will examine the compliance of the draft agreements with Law no. 2023/014 of 19 December 2023 on the Mining Code, identify the State’s key positions, and develop the State’s counter-proposal to be sent to the mining companies concerned.

This consultation will also raise awareness among all stakeholders about the progress of the mining projects, identify the real needs of the local population in terms of social projects, and address any concerns from the local community.

***Minister Calistus Gentry Fuh speaking*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

Additionally, local communities will designate representatives of the local population to participate in inter-ministerial consultations, ensuring that their grievances are effectively considered in the draft agreements.

The consultations will also raise awareness among the concerned Councils about the special local capacity development account, which will be used to implement local content.

In terms of economic benefits, the Government anticipates reducing unemployment through the creation of direct and indirect jobs, infrastructural development, a significant contribution to the tax base, as well as development of the project area and its surrounding towns among others.

Regarding environmental and social issues, the Government aims for the deployment of these projects to be in harmony with relevant social, cultural, and environmental values and standards. This involves using modern techniques and technologies that respect human health and the environment.

BSFC Day 2 Match Preview: Group B Matches – Remixed of Last year Matches

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The second day of the 2024 Bui Sport Fans Competition promises to be a electrifying affair as Group B teams take center stage this Sunday September 15. As a rematch of the previous year’s exciting finals, the competition is set to ignite with intense rivalry and high stakes.

Diaspora FC vs. Mile One Kumbo FC: A Clash of Titans

The day’s marquee match will pit the reigning champions, Bui Diaspora FC, against their formidable rivals, Mile One Kumbo FC. This encounter is a direct replay of the 2023 finals, where Bui Diaspora emerged victorious in a thrilling encounter.

Bui Diaspora, the experienced campaigners with two titles under their belt, are determined to maintain their dominance. Their blend of experience and skill makes them a formidable force to be reckoned with. However, Mile One Kumbo FC will be eager to avenge their previous defeat and reclaim the title.

The match is expected to be a tightly contested affair, with both teams boasting talented players and a strong desire to win. The outcome of this clash will undoubtedly set the tone for the rest of the competition.

Melim United FC vs. Dzekwa United FC: A Battle of Redemption

The second match of the day will see Melim United FC square off against Dzekwa United FC. These two teams have a history of competitive encounters, with Dzekwa United emerging victorious in their last meeting.

Melim United, eager to make amends for their early exit from the previous tournament, will be determined to start this edition on a positive note. Their focus and determination will be tested against a seasoned Dzekwa United side.

Dzekwa United, as one of the most consistent teams in the competition’s history, will be aiming to end their trophy drought by kick starting their campaign on a good move. Their experience and pedigree make them a strong contender, but they will need to be at their best to overcome Melim United’s challenge.

A Day of Football Spectacle

Both matches on Sunday promise to be exciting and competitive affairs. The passionate fans in attendance can expect to witness high-quality football, tactical battles, and moments of brilliance. As the competition heats up, the stakes will only get higher, and every match will have a significant impact on the final outcome.

The Bui Sport Fans Competition continues to be a platform for talented players to showcase their skills and for fans to enjoy thrilling football matches. The second day of play is sure to be a memorable one, with plenty of drama and excitement on the cards as you take the rendezvous at the Lycee General Leclerc Stadium in Yaounde.

CAMTEL Showcases Prowess To Nigerian Army Logistics Staffs, Students

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The leading telecommunications provider in Cameroon, Cameroon Telecommunications (CAMTEL) has showcased its prowess to the visiting staff and students of the Nigerian Army College of Logistics and Management. The delegation from Nigeria visited CAMTEL on September 12.

***CAMTEL officials, staffs and students of Nigerian Army College of Logistics and Management pose for a family picture*** *(Picture Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

The visit To Cameroon, involving 29 staff and students, is part of the cooperation ties between Cameroon and Nigeria. The visit is centered around the theme, “Enhancing National Security through Regional Cooperation for Socio-Economic Development.”

During their visit to CAMTEL, the telecommunication company explored its role in strengthening regional security and promoting digital development.

Francis Ottou, Technical Adviser No. I at CAMTEL (Personal Representative of the General Manager), stressed the importance of collaboration between defense and telecommunications sectors in today’s world of rapidly evolving threats.

***Francis Ottou (Right) handing gift to Brigadier General JIB Manjang (Left)*** (Picture Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

While highlighted the growing importance of cybersecurity and its potential to destabilize entire nations, he said CAMTEL, as the leading telecommunications provider in Cameroon, plays a crucial role in safeguarding its infrastructure and protecting data.

“CAMTEL, as the pillar of telecommunications in Cameroon, plays a central role in this new invisible war,” he said. “We are committed to securing our infrastructure and protecting data, aware that every flaw in our network can become a tool in the hands of opposing forces.”

Ottou also stressed that CAMTEL is not only a key player in the digital economy but also a vital contributor to Cameroon’s resilience. Through significant structural reforms, CAMTEL aims to consolidate its position as the undisputed leader in telecommunications in Cameroon and in Africa.

***Cross Section of military students from the Nigerian Army College of Logistics and Management*** *(Picture Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

“CAMTEL, is not only a key player in the digital economy, but also a vector of resilience for Cameroonians, he said. “We have undertaken a profound transformation, marked by bold structural reforms, with the goal of consolidating our position as the undisputed leader in telecommunications in Cameroon,”

According to Ottou, “CAMTEL’s mission does not stop at providing access to telecommunications services: it extends to creating innovative solutions to guarantee the security and digital sovereignty of our nation.”

On his part, Brigadier General JIB Manjang, Deputy Commandant and Director of Studies at the Nigerian Army College of Logistics and Management who doubled as the team leader, stressed the importance of strengthening the relationship between Cameroon and Nigeria.

“We are more of brothers than countries separated by boundaries. We have a lot of cooperation in different areas and we also had and still having challenges common to both countries,” he said.

***Brigadier General JIB Manjang (Left) handing gift to Francis Ottou (Right)*** *(Picture Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

Stating the necessity of strengthening the relationship between Cameroon and Nigeria to effectively address the challenges faced by both countries.

“One of the things that give actors the leverage to do what they do is ICT. This is where CAMTEL comes in. It depends on us to see how to put our heads together, strategize to fight them,” Brigadier General JIB Manjang

According to the team leader, the visit to Cameroon will provide an opportunity for the Nigerian delegation to gain insights into the strategic environment in the region and Africa. It will also allow them to engage in practical activities, interact with the local environment, and broaden their understanding.

CAMTEL used the occasion to showcased its infrastructure and demonstrated how it supports the military in safeguarding its territory. The company also highlighted its collaborations with other countries to enhance digitalization and its aspirations to become a regional hub in Sub-Saharan Africa by 2030.

Edu Sports Academy Intensifies Training Ahead of Mfoundi Divisional Finals

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Edu Sports Academy is ramping up their training sessions in preparation for the upcoming Mfoundi Divisional football finals. The team is aiming to put in their best performance when the finals take place.

As part of their preparations, Edu Sports on Wednesday September 11 defeated Les DEHORS FC, a selected group of players from the first and second divisions in a friendly match played in the Accacia neighborhood. The score was 6-3 in favor of Edu Sport.

***Edu Sports Academy vs Les DEHORS FC*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

Speaking shortly after the game, Edu Sports coach, Gabriel Sevidzem Wirndzerem said that the team’s preparations are going well, with players attending regular training sessions.

“We are training three times a week”, he said adding that “We are focusing on improving our finishing, attacking from the wings, and defending as a unit.”

***Edu Sports Academy*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

Wirndzerem added that the team is trying to implement what they are learning in training during friendly matches. While some aspects have been successful, he stated that others still need work to ensure that the team is fully prepared for the finals.

The coach indicated that more friendly matches are planned to help the team maintain their competitive form and make necessary adjustments.

Edu Sports Academy, who qualified for the finals for the second consecutive time, will face Boums FC in the decisive match. The final of the Mfoundi Divisional Football League is scheduled to take place in the coming days.

Mayor Tamba Agustin Denounces Political Manipulation, Threatens Legal Action Over Property Seizure

Agustin

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Mayor of Yaoundé VII, who is also the President of the United Council and Cities of Cameroon, Augustin Tamba has denounced what he calls political manipulation behind the seizure of his property.

***Mayor Tamba Augustin speaking during the press conference*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

Speaking at a press conference on September 3 in Yaoundé, he criticized the Debt Recovery Corporation (SRC) for putting some of his properties up for auction, claiming it was a deliberate attempt to damage his reputation.

Mayor Tamba admitted that he and his partners had been involved in financial dealings with the SRC and the defunct Société Camerounaise de Banque.

“For the past few days, a press release from SRC S.A announcing a public auction of personal effects and movable property belonging to Augustin Tamba has been widely circulated on social media by certain whistleblowers,” he said.

Mayor Tamba explained that he and the targeted groups owed millions of FCFA to the two institutions due to two loan agreements signed over 35 and 17 years ago, respectively. He said the first loan was for FCFA 100 million, while the second was a FCFA 150 million loan. Despite applying for FCFA 600 million, Tamba and his partners received the smaller amount to finance a one billion business venture.

Regarding the 100 million FCFA loan, Tamba said he had repaid the entire amount, even though his partners were unable to service their portion of the debt. Tamba further explained that he held a 25% stake in the business, while another shareholder had a 30% stake and a land title as collateral.

“I would like to remind everyone that the entire sum has been paid to date,” he said. “I no longer owe this company. I assume my past as a businessman and understand the dynamics of working with banks. It’s not a one-stop shop.”

Concerning the FCFA 150 million debt, Tamba said he recently made a payment of FCFA 25 million to the bank and requested an extension until the end of December 2024. However, the bank refused his request, insisting on a September 20 deadline. Tamba questioned why his properties were put up for auction before the deadline and why other members of the team who borrowed the money were not being pursued.

Mayor Tamba said he and the Société Camerounaise de Banque had entered into a loan agreement for 600 million FCFA approximately 17 years ago. The funds were intended to finance a business operation of about one billion FCFA.

“To date, we have not yet reached the agreed date for the next payment, which is September 20, 2024,” he said. “Unfortunately, I have received the constraints and, faced with these constraints, I have reacted and told them that I am going to pay them.”

Tamba expressed shock that the financial institution was attempting to seize his properties despite the existence of collateral. He also criticized the bank for not applying the same pressure to other partners in the deal.

Mayor Tamba accused individuals of using social media to tarnish his image. “There are things that I am hearing in the political circles as a result of this mess which is not pleasing to me,” he said.

“This is not normal. We want to get to the bottom of it. I have a mandate given to me by a people and cannot accept my image to be dragged in the mud. I am taking legal action.”

Between August 29 and 31, the debt recovery body issued a notice stating that Tamba’s property, including furniture, household appliances, decorations, and vehicles, and others would be auctioned to recover the money he owed. The news has been trending on social media.

African Leaders Make A $1.3 Trillion Case To Avert Climate Dangers

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

As the curtain comes down on the 10th Special Session of the African Ministerial Conference on the Environment (AMCEN) in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, another chapter begins. Just around the corner is the COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, in November where the consolidated views from AMCEN will be presented with ambitious expectations, represented by the African Group of Negotiators (AGN).

African leaders at the Presidential Day Program at the African Climate summit

At the heart of the Abidjan meeting is a push for more climate finance flows to Africa through sustainable channels that won’t load African economies with more debts. The end goal is to strengthen the continent’s adaptation and mitigation defence systems against climate change and allow the countries to achieve a just transition. This perspective mirrors that of Ministers from the 45 least developed countries (LDCs) who gathered in Lilongwe, Malawi, last week.

“Finance COP”

COP29 is aptly referred to as the “Finance COP.” Nothing short of ambitious financial outcomes is expected.

African Ministers under AMCEN declared that a New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) on climate finance should be adopted, one that would require rich nations to mobilise a quantum of no less than $1.3 trillion per year for developing nations. NCQG is a new financial target from the year 2025 onwards that developed countries, who are the biggest contributors to climate change, must avail to developing countries, replacing the previous commitment of $100 billion per year that they pledged in 2009 but failed to deliver on time.

Meanwhile, the LDCs, under the Lilongwe Declaration on Climate Change 2024, want the new climate finance goal to be science-based and reflective of the developing countries’ actual climate needs through increased public finance, predominantly delivered as grants. The LDC Ministers put the finance needed by their countries to implement their current climate goals to be at least $1 trillion. Also, they hold that only concessional finance should be included as climate finance and must be easily accessible.

Grants and concessional finance are crucial, in particular for adaptation and loss and damage, given that it is the rich nations that have historically caused the unsustainable build-up of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, stoking global warming to dangerous levels.

It is COP29’s role to deliver a financing deal geared towards achieving the goals set in previous COPs—Glasgow, Sharm el-Sheikh and Dubai, AMCEN Ministers note.It should also be responsive to the evolving needs of the respective countries’ climate action plans, including their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and National Adaptation Plans (NAPs), while reflecting the global stocktake outcomes and latest scientific and technological advancements.

To avoid missteps associated with previous pledges, the AMCEN and the LDC Ministers are calling for the new finance goal to contain predictable, time-bound and reliable financial commitments from each of the developed countries.

Both groups have made it clear that the new finance goal must be delivered by developed countries jointly, in a fair and equitable manner. They have continually signalled the importance of burden-sharing arrangements among these countries to increase scale of finance and ascertain delivery of commitments.

Global finance reforms

Developing countries face a crippling debt crisis worsened by increasing climate impacts. The Ministers from both groups are asking the international financial institutions (IFIs) and multilateral development banks (MDBs) to reform their funding approach towards less developed nations. They should be more responsive to Africa’s needs, review their finance terms, and be more open to debt restructuring and relief on need basis, in what would unlock climate and development finance without pushing these countries deeper into unsustainable debt.

The Ministers have reiterated that climate finance should be given in form grants and not loans which have worsened the debt situation.

Activate loss and damage fund

AMCEN and LDC Ministers want the Loss and Damage Fund to be urgently operationalised and capitalised, as well as the Santiago Network meant to connect vulnerable countries with global providers of technical assistance, knowledge and resources needed to address climate risks. The LDC ministers, in particular, want the fund to be set up with modalities that enable rapid, simple and direct budget support to governments through national treasuries and ministries of finance, as well as to enable direct access for national and subnational entities. The African Ministers have called for the reconsideration of the decision to host the Santiago Network in Geneva rather than Nairobi. The LDC Ministers are pushing for the inclusion of a sub-goal on loss and damage in the NCQG.

Adaptation efforts

Similarly, the Ministers are asking for Global Goal on Adaptation (GGA) to be fully operationalised and ensure adequate adaptation response to protect people, livelihoods and ecosystems from natural disasters, with a special focus on finance, capacity building and technology transfer. The amount of adaptation finance needed is about $360 billion annually, compared to about $18 billion that was available in 2019.

COP29, according to AMCEN leaders, should send the right policy signals on operationalising common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities (CBDR&RC), which acknowledges the different abilities and share of responsibilities of each country in addressing climate change. Additionally, the just transition framework should reflect the priorities of Africa, in particular green industrialisation, sustainable use and value addition of natural resources, as well as addressing energy poverty and clean cooking needs.

Reactions

Evans Njewa, Chair of the Least Developed Countries Group

“We want COP29 to deliver a bold commitment to address climate change. This is not just about promises; it’s about providing the resources needed to protect the lives and livelihoods of millions on the frontlines of the climate crisis. The LDCs are calling for an ambitious New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) on climate finance that reflects the actual financial needs of developing countries, ensuring they can implement their NDCs, adapt to climate impacts, and address loss and damage.”

Amos Wemanya, Greenpeace Africa Responsive Lead

“COP29 presents African governments and African Group of Negotiators (AGN) on climate change an opportunity to present a strong case for debt free, public and adequate climate finance to meet the needs of communities on the front line of the crisis.

This is not time for African governments to gamble with carbon offsets and private finance as climate finance. We have been here before and all these have proved to be dangerous distractions to finding real solutions to the climate challenges on our continent.

Rich countries should make polluters, especially the fossil industry pay for the losses and damages caused to our communities. Africa needs climate finance to invest in renewable energy, ecosystem protection, land restoration and food sovereignty.

At COP29, wealthy countries must provide leadership in providing the scale of climate finance required to tackle the climate crisis and restore trust in the multilateral system.”

Iskander Erzini Vernoit, Director, Imal Initiative for Climate and Development

“The African Ministerial reconfirms the position of the African Negotiators, to call for USD 1.3 trillion per year in the new goal for climate finance, which aligns with the best available needs assessment literature. Moreover, crucially, it stipulates that this should be mainly in the form of grants and concessional finance, and points to a need for the NCQG to specify a clear share for public grant finance. The onus is now clearly on developed countries to come to Baku ready to provide the finance necessary to help the world to fulfil the Paris Agreement, or their commitment to the Paris Agreement will be in doubt.

African countries, as AMCEN notes, are already spending significant percentages of their GDP per year on climate change, despite not having caused this crisis, and so it is only right that the developed countries who are responsible for this crisis do the same.”

Yared Abera Deme, Climate Diplomacy Associate at World Resources Institute, Africa

“Both the Africa Group and the Least Developed Countries (LDC) group have made a decisive call on their declarations for a climate finance goal of no less than USD 1 trillion annually. This proposal reflects the urgent and evolving needs of our countries to adapt to climate impacts, address loss and damage, and transition to low-carbon economies. Ensuring that this finance is delivered primarily through grants and concessional finance is essential to avoiding further debt burdens on African/vulnerable countries. If COP29 delivers on this ambition, it will not only provide critical support for the most affected regions but also reaffirm the strength and relevance of multilateralism in addressing global challenges. Reaching a consensus on this figure would send a powerful signal that the international community remains committed to cooperation, equity, and shared responsibility in the fight against climate change.”

Julius Mbatia, Climate Finance Expert

“The global financial architecture has not benefited developing countries as its functioning and arrangements fall short of developing countries’ needs and realities. AMCEN’s resolve to pursue a system that is more responsive to Africa’s and developing countries’ needs in negotiations relating to the reform of the financial architecture is laudable.

Whilst Africa remains a climate hotspot experiencing ruinous climate impacts, it holds immense natural and human capital that signify economic transformation potential if the right finance and economic tools are made available. However, the current system barely works for the continent. The determination of the new climate finance goal in COP29 must settle Africa’s struggle with debt, high cost of capital, expensive technologies, and inadequate finance to address climate change.

Climate finance should be new and additional as the climate crisis imposes an additional burden to already constrained and struggling African countries.”

Joab Okanda, Climate and Energy policy expert

“Grants based adaptation finance provided at scale that reflects the greater needs assessment, including by UNEP, and increasing costs of adaptation and loss damage is the lifeline for Africa and the lens through which African countries can build trust with their developed countries counterparts. As AMCEN concludes and we head to Baku in November, we must not fail communities on the frontline of the climate crisis by repeating the deliberate mistakes of the $100billion goal by 2020 which was not only met but also failed to meet the 50:50 balance between adaptation and mitigation. Baku must ensure that finance for adaptation is scaled to at least $360 billion annually in grants equivalent. It is the only way that countries in Africa can adapt to changing climate and build resilient communities.”

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