F. Frank Fitness And Sports Coaching Service Goes Operational In Dubai

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

F. Frank Fitness and Sports Coaching Service (FFFASCS) has officially launched its operations in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, (UAE).

FFFASCS went operational on June 1 after obtaining its license from the government. The center is open to providing talents, high-profile players, and athletes from around the world with the professional guidance and training they require.

***Frankline Fanka Ngalim receiving licenses of FFFASCS***

Aiming to elevate the performance of these talents, the center serves as a platform for them to showcase their skills globally. With its headquarters based in the UAE, FFFASCS expands its roots after years of operating as a football academy and foundation in Cameroon.

In Cameroon, the F. Frank Football Academy is dedicated to identifying young, talented Cameroonians and Africans, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, to help them achieve their dreams through football. The academy offers professional training, trials, and placements both nationally and internationally.

For personalized workouts and fitness, services will include strength training, injury prevention training, endurance training, weight loss, fitness preparation for players and athletes recovering from injuries, and fitness rehabilitation. In Elite Sport Coaching, services will focus on passing drills, dribbling, defending, attacking drills, finishing, and goalkeeping.

**A player in F. Frank Football Academy in Cameroon**

Regarding consultancy, FFFASCS offers services in football management, mental and psychological coaching, football and sports stakeholders’ seminars and conferences, as well as football and sports camps and tournaments.

Professional athletes and fitness newcomers alike are encouraged to join the center, as it aims to empower individuals to reach their full potential.

“Our center is committed to providing personalized training programs tailored to your individual needs. Whether you are a professional athlete or just starting your fitness journey, we are here to empower you to reach your full potential,” said Frankline Fanka Ngalim, President, and Founder.

“It’s a tremendous opportunity, and I’m grateful for God bringing us this far. To lead effectively, I must immerse myself in understanding my team better. I also lead by example, working alongside them in the field to correct mistakes together,” he added.

***Officials and*** **Players in F. Frank Football Academy in Cameroon**

At F. Frank Fitness and Sports Coaching Services, Fanka Ngalim stressed the center’s belief in the power of consistent effort towards excellence. “It’s not just about what we do occasionally, but the habits we cultivate daily that determine our success.”

By expanding its operations to Dubai, FFFASCS demonstrating and setting its commitment to becoming a global leader in sports coaching and development.

Minister Ousmane Mey, Outgoing Swiss Ambassador To Cameroon Review Ties

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Minister of the Economy Planning and Regional Development, MINEPAT, Alamine Ousmane Mey, and the outgoing Swiss Ambassador to Cameroon, Martin Strub have discussed relations between the two countries.

**Minister Ousmane May and Ambassador Martin Strub during the audience** (Picture Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

The two personalities held discussions on July 17 in Yaounde in an audience granted him by the Minister Ousmane May as Ambassador Martin Strub came to bid farewell after arriving at the end of his stay in Cameroon.

Speaking shortly after their meeting, Martine Strub said, besides the farewell visit they reviewed some points, especially the joint activities between the two countries especially particular emphasis on vocational training and on small and medium-sized businesses.

**Minister Ousmane May, Ambassador Martin Strub and closed collaborators pose for a family picture after the audience** (Picture Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

He stated that they mentioned different areas such as the Counter-Value Fund areas, where Switzerland and Cameroon had projects in. The area of energy, water and agriculture but also, with a special point of discussion, cooperation between the private sector and Cameroon.

“There is cooperation in the economic field and we mentioned a few points within the framework of the Counter-Value fund in the energy, water, but also agriculture sector. But we also mentioned the possibility and the objective of having more intense cooperation of the private sector with the Cameroon,” Ambassador Strub said.

He added, “I would like to mention here that there are some Swiss companies which are present here in Cameroon for the field of infrastructure such as Simon, with Simon Cam or other companies which are active in developing the port of Kribi with all the infrastructure that is around. So, this cooperation can certainly be intensified for the benefit of both countries.”

Martin Strub was Ambassador extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Cameroon, the Central African Republic and the Republic of Equatorial Guinea, based in Yaoundé. Prior to his appointment as Ambassador to Cameroon, he served in the same capacity in Uruguay and Paraguay from 2017.

**Ambassador Martin Strub speaking after the audience** (Picture Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Born in September 1959, Martin Strub began his diplomatic career at the Swiss embassy in Rome, Italy (1989-1991) as a diplomatic trainee upon completing basic training for newly recruited Swiss diplomats in Bern and Geneva at the Graduate Institute for Advanced International Studies.

With a Masters in law, obtained from the University of Basel, Switzerland, he has held several positions at the Swiss Ministry of Foreign Affairs ranging from First Secretary to Deputy Permanent Representative and Head of Mission.

Between 2014 and 2017, he was Switzerland’s Ambassador to Sudan and Eritrea with residence in Khartoum. Martin Strub has also been Deputy Chief of Mission at the Swiss embassy in New Delhi, India. From 2007 to 2011, he worked at the Swiss embassy in The Hague, Netherlands as Deputy Permanent Representative to the international organisations based in The Hague.

Minister Ousmane Mey, BGFI’s Director General Head Talk Development Strategies

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Minister of Economy, Planning, and Regional Development, MINEPAT, Alamine Ousmane Mey, and Abakal Mahamat, Director General of BGFI Bank, have held discussions centered around development plans in the country.

***Minister Minister Ousmane Mey and Abakal Mahamat during the audience*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

This was the substance of an audience Minister Ousmane Mey granted to Abakal Mahamat on July 16 in Yaounde. The Director General of BGFI Bank was accompanied by Henri-Claude Oyima, an official of the BGFI Bank Group.

Speaking shortly after their hour-long meeting, Abakal Mahamat told reporters that it was important and necessary for him to meet with the Minister to take stock of the situation and to also brief him on what the bank is doing in the south of Cameroon.

***Minister Minister Ousmane Mey, Abakal Mahamat and close collaborators pose for family picture after the audience*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

He added that it was important to meet with the Minister to discuss their performance and strategy, while also seeking valuable advice on the orientations of Cameroon’s strategic development plan.

“In Cameroon, we are building our head office, which will be inaugurated in December to show the involvement of the BGFI Bank Group here in Cameroon,” Abakal Mahamat said.

“We are also looking at the Strategic Development Plan to increase our bank’s network here in Cameroon,” he added.

Abakal Mahamat further stated that the Bank already has a practical presence throughout the national territory, but strengthening their position in the two major cities of Yaounde and Douala is very important.

“We also look at the growth possibilities of our group, both endogenous and external growth. This is why we are here in Yaounde,” he added.

***Abakal Mahamat speaking to the press after the audience*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

BGFIBank Group is a large financial services conglomerate in Central, West and East Africa, with subsidiaries in ten countries including Gabon, Benin, Republic of the Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Madagascar, France and Côte d’Ivoire.

The member institutions serve both individuals and businesses, with emphasis on Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).

15th Edition ICT4Africa Conference: Youths Challenged To Embrace Champion Digital Transformation In Africa

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Youths, women, industry leaders, policymakers, and other stakeholders in the digital world have been challenged to embrace and champion digital transformation across the African continent.

***MINPOSTEL*** ***Minister, ICT4Africa Officials pose for a family picture*** *(Picture Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

The call was made by various authorities during the opening ceremony of the 15^th edition of the ICT4Africa Conference, which kicked off in Yaounde, Cameroon, on July 15.

The five-day conference brings together youths, women, industry leaders, tech enthusiasts, policymakers, and innovators from across the continent under the theme “Digital Transformation: Current Trends, Future Insights.”

***Minette Libom Li Likeng, Minister of Post and Telecommunications, MINPOSTEL*** ***opening the conference*** *(Picture Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

The conference was founded by Professor Victor Mbarika, President and Founder of the ICT University. Six countries, including Cameroon, are participating in the conference.

Speaking during the opening ceremony on July 16, Minette Libom Li Likeng, Minister of Post and Telecommunications, MINPOSTEL commended the initiative of the ICT University. She said the conference will help to showcase what ICT can do in different sectors.

“The impact of the conference will help the African continent to bridge the gap and be actors and to define the way of doing things according to our culture,” she said. “We need to introduce ICT into the heart of all that we are doing because ICT is powerful for boosting all that we are doing.”

***Former Nigerian President, Olusegun Obasanjo speaking during the conference*** *(Picture Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

The Minister added, “This conference has the potential to open our minds to the opportunities available in developing our countries and the continent at large. It will help us meet up with the digitalized world in terms of ranking.”

Former Nigerian President, Olusegun Obasanjo, in a keynote address, also commended the ICT University for its work in digitalization within the African continent.

“Nigeria has been part of this development in Africa during and after my time as president, and we will continue as pillars of the continent, to advocate and bring up young minds on the importance of digitalization of ICT and Artificial intelligence,” Obasanjo said.

**Victor Mbarika, President and Founder of the ICT University** **speaking** *(Picture Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

Victor Mbarika, President and Founder of the ICT University said, “During the ongoing conference, many youths will be showcasing heartwarming innovations to better our country. We also want to look into the funding of these young people in order to foster their growth in the digital sector.”

Emmanuel Pondi, Rector of the ICT University, stated the aim is to make Africa a better place, admired by all. “We want our continent to be an influential place where people will admire us so much. In order to accomplish this dream, we need to carry out development on our ancestral lands and make it a better place through the advancement of technological digitalization,” he said.

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

It is worth noting that the global conference has been hosted by different countries worldwide. This year’s edition marks the introduction of the Youth and Women in Tech Summit, reflecting the conference’s commitment to inclusivity and innovation.

The focus will be on empowering the next generation of tech leaders and promoting gender equality in the tech industry. This aims to inspire and equip young people and women with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the digital age.

The conference will feature keynote speeches, panel discussions, academic presentations, workshops, and networking dinners. A dedicated exhibition area will showcase innovative ICT solutions from startups, established companies, and research institutions.

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

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mutualists Turn Out Massively for MASO Act 4 Tombola Draw

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

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

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

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

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

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

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

MASO: A Program Fostering Solidarity and Financial Empowerment

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

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

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

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

Financial Education and a Brighter Future

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

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

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

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

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

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Future of AI in Global Development

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

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

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Car Owners Decry ‘Fuel Thefts’ At Pump Stations

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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