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Crackdown On Electricity Fraud Begins March 16 As Government Reports FCFA 60 Billion Loss

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo The government of Cameroon has launched a nationwide crackdown on electricity fraud starting March 16, aiming…

Renaprov

Mutualists Receive Automobile Equipment Won During MASO Act 5 Raffle Draw in 2025

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo Beneficiaries of the Mutual Assistance and Solidarity (MASO) Act 5 raffle draw that took place in…

Sports

Bui Strikers Veteran Hails Grace Wirba’s Mount Cameroon Win, Urges Continued Training

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo Bui Strikers Veterans FC of Yaoundé has congratulated Mary Grace Dzekenyuy Wirba,  winner of the 2026…

Society

MINEPAT Strengthens Staff Vigilance In Public Spending Management

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo The Ministry of the Economy, Planning and Regional Development (MINEPAT), has moved to strengthen the vigilance…

US Embassy Intersection Football Tournament Kicks Off in Cameroon’s Capital

The third edition of the highly anticipated U.S. Intersection Football Tournament has officially kicked off in Yaounde. The competition, which brings together working staff of the embassy, commenced on Saturday, April 20.

The exciting event saw Christopher J. Lamora, Ambassador of the United States to Cameroon, ceremoniously inaugurating the tournament with a symbolic kick-off.

Teams competing during the first playing day (Picture Credit: SMS Pictures)

The opening day witnessed thrilling matches that kept spectators on the edge of their seats. In a display of skill and determination, Community FC emerged victorious by outplaying Efficiency FC with a resounding 4-2 win.

Meanwhile, the match between Respect FC and Integrity culminated in a hard-fought 2-2 draw, showcasing the modest spirit and sportsmanship of the teams.

Stagged at Febe Village playground, the tournament serves as a platform to promote and embody the core values championed by the Ambassador. Through the universal language of football, the event also aims to foster camaraderie, teamwork, and mutual respect among participants and spectators alike.

During the second edition held last year, Pandora FC clinched the championship title by defeating Chancery FC in a thrilling final match, with a score line of 4-2. The intense showdown took place on August 12, 2023.

Following the exhilarating finals, the newly elected executive committee of the Striking Eagles of the US Embassy in Yaounde, was formally installed.

This transition marked a new chapter in the life of the Striking Eagles, as the installed executive promised to continue in the footpath of excellence and dedication in order to further elevate the club to greater heights.

United FC Emerge Champions in Bui Strikers – Nso Veterans Friendship Tournament

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

United FC has been crowned champions of the first edition of the Bui Strikers – Nso Veteran Friendship tournament. United FC, representing Bui Striker Veteran Football Club, defeated Spartans FC from Nso Veteran with a score of 2-1 to clinch the title in the one-month-long tournament.

United FC (Phot Credit Mainimo Etienne)

The month-long tournament was not just about competition but also aimed at fostering unity, love, peace, friendship, and brotherhood between the two veteran clubs.

In a thrilling final match against Spartans FC from Nso Veteran, United FC secured a hard-fought 2-1 win to claim the championship title.

The final showdown was a spectacle of sportsmanship and strategic gameplay. Bui Strikers FC took an early lead, scoring two goals in the first half, setting the stage for an intense battle.

United FC (Blue) battling with Spartans FC (Yellow) (Phot Credit Mainimo Etienne)

In the second half, United FC continued to create scoring opportunities, but Spartans FC managed to score a goal. Despite their efforts to equalize, Spartans FC fell short as United FC maintained a solid defense until the final whistle, securing a 2-1 victory.

In another match to determine the third-place finisher, Rangers FC triumphed over Bulldogs FC, securing their position in the tournament.

After the match, the Presidents of both veteran football clubs commended the fair play spirit displayed throughout the competition. They emphasized the importance of living together in a spirit of love and unity, highlighting it as a value that should be promoted.

Spartans FC (Phot Credit Mainimo Etienne)

The tournament, which kicked off on March 16 with four teams, two representing each veteran club, provided a platform for players to showcase their skills as well as promoting love and unity. During the competition, fans also witnessed exciting football matches filled with passion and sportsmanship.

TPCC, Parents Discuss Ways of Bridging Communication Gap Around Autism Children

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Timely Performance Care Center (TPCC) and parents, alongside guardians, have agreed that bridging the communication gap for children living with autism is important.

Participants during the Workshop (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

This was the focus of a one-day workshop organized by TPCC on Saturday, April 20. The workshop aimed to raise awareness about autism in commemoration of Autism Awareness Month.

Participants at the workshop emphasized the importance of societal acceptance for children living with autism, highlighting the need for parents and families to first accept and treat these children equally.

During an interactive presentation, Betty Nancy Fonyuy, Managing Director of TPCC, delved into the topic of unlocking communication (using code language for children with autism). She stressed the significance of understanding how to communicate effectively with these children, as parents, caretakers, and guardians often feel frustrated due to a lack of guidance.

Betty Nancy Fonyuy leading the conversation (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Fonyuy explained that employing coded language can help reduce anxiety, enhance understanding, and improve engagement. Techniques such as using visuals, gestures, and predictable language can increase a child’s motivation to engage in communication.

While participants acknowledged that code language communication might not be a universal solution for all children with autism, they recognized that many children can benefit from learning more advanced communication skills, such as using Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices or developing spoken language.

Fonyuy highlighted the importance of tailoring the code language to each child’s specific needs, interests, and communication level. She emphasized the need for consistency in using the code language across all environments and rewarding desired behaviors associated with the code language.

Participants unanimously agreed that code language can serve as a powerful tool to enhance communication and social interaction for children with autism. By implementing these strategies consistently and collaboratively, they believe it can empower children with autism to achieve their full potential.

Participants during the Workshop (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Throughout the workshop, participants shared their experiences, with many emphasizing the significance of bridging the communication gap to better understand and guide children living with autism.

In the words of Collete Kana, a workshop participant, “Parents with children with disabilities should not isolate them at home but should send them to school… Love and treat them well because they are exceptional children.”

World Autism Awareness Day is observed internationally on 2 April, encouraging Member States of the United Nations to raise awareness about individuals with autism worldwide.

April is recognized as World Autism Month, with World Autism Day being one of the seven official health-specific UN Days established in 2007.

How To Update Your Prepaid Meter

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

For the past few months, users of ENEO’s prepaid meters have been undergoing updates to their devices. However, the ongoing international initiative to enhance prepaid meters does not apply to all meters.

With approximately 350,000 prepaid meters nationwide scheduled for an upgrade, ENEO aims to transition existing STS edition One standard devices to the newer STS edition Two standard by November 24.

Prepaid information

Failure to complete the update to the STS edition 2 standard by November 24, 2024, will result in prepaid meters using the STS edition 1 standard being unable to accept recharge codes, thus leading to a disruption in electricity supply.

To determine a meter’s eligibility for the update, ENEO advises customers to dial 873 on the recharge interface to check the meter’s status (STS edition 1 or edition 2).

If the display shows 2, 02, or 2-02, customers are instructed to halt the operation as the meter is already in STS edition 2 and does not require any further upgrades or waiting for upgrade tokens from ENEO.

Conversely, if the display shows 01 (HEXING single-phase) or 01 followed by 02 (HEXING three-phase) or 01-02 for INHEMETER, the meter necessitates an upgrade.

Basic Information

Once eligible for the upgrade, customers should anticipate receiving upgrade tokens from ENEO via SMS or WhatsApp in the coming days or weeks.

Additionally, ENEO is developing an application that will enable customers to check their meter’s status and take necessary actions.

An announcement will be made upon the completion of platform testing, while customers will continue to receive upgrade tokens through SMS and WhatsApp for now.

Notably, users of ENEO prepaid meters operating on the STS edition 1 with HEXING or INHEMETER software installed between 2017 and 2021 should be aware of the Token ID (TID) update.

 

To initiate the updating process, customers should follow these steps:

 

  • ENEO will send an SMS containing two free upgrade 02 tokens.
  • Insert the tokens within a maximum interval of two minutes.
  • Insert the 1st token, validate it, and wait for the response indicating acceptance. (When a message 1st  or 23 or PL_1st or PL_2nd is displayed, the first token has been accepted)
  • Insert the 2nd token, validate it, and await the response confirming successful update. (Then, you will receive the response: 24 or ACCEPTED.)
  • Dial 873 to verify if the update was successful. It is crucial to complete the token insertion process within two minutes.

 

For assistance, customers can contact

 

Customers are urged to promptly perform the upgrade operation upon receiving the tokens to avoid meter usage disruptions.

ENEO is individually notifying affected customers via SMS or WhatsApp, providing them with the necessary codes for the meter update.

This measure is implemented to address security and service continuity concerns, with ENEO emphasizing that the update will not impact meter reliability or pricing.

2024’s Top DSLR Cameras for Beginners

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

In today’s digital age, capturing memories with a camera is more popular than ever. While smartphones offer convenient photo options, DSLR cameras provide exceptional image quality and creative control, perfect for those who want to elevate their storytelling.

As a photographer and photojournalist for over a decade, I’ve compiled a list of beginner-friendly DSLR cameras. However, it’s important to acknowledge the rise of mirrorless cameras, which many manufacturers are prioritizing.

DSLRs Offer a wider range of affordable, high-quality lenses. They have a traditional optical viewfinder, which some photographers prefer. However, their bulkier size and potential for mirror slap (vibration) can be drawbacks.

On their part, Mirrorless Cameras are generally lighter and more compact. They offer electronic viewfinders (EVFs) that provide a live preview of your image with adjustments reflected. However, the lens selection for entry-level mirrorless cameras might be more limited, and some users may find the EVF less intuitive.

Despite the mirrorless trend, DSLRs remain a viable option for beginners due to several factors: Amazing Prices: Especially on the used market, DSLRs offer fantastic value. Extensive Lens Selection: DSLRs often have a wider range of compatible lenses, giving you more flexibility in exploring different photographic styles. Lenses are often considered a long-term investment, so a good DSLR paired with a versatile lens can be a cost-effective setup.

Entry-level DSLRs are still a fantastic way to capture high-quality images at a budget-friendly price. However, with the evolving camera landscape, consider exploring mirrorless options alongside DSLRs.

Remember, the best camera is the one that you’ll use consistently and enjoy learning with.

 

Nikon D3500 W/ AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Black

This camera is very easy to use and has helpful guide modes to walk you through settings. It produces good quality photos, especially considering its affordable price tag.

 

Strengths:

Very easy to use with guide modes.

Affordable price.

Good image quality for beginners.

 

Properties:

24.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor.

11 autofocus points.

Full HD (1080p) video at 60 fps.

No touchscreen display.

Limited button customization.

Deals on Amazon at  https://amzn.to/3xU1uFM

 

CANON EOS Rebel SL3 DSLR Camera, Built-in Wi-Fi, Dual Pixel CMOS AF and 3.0 inch Vari-Angle Touch Screen, Body, Black

This Canon is another great option for beginners with a user-friendly interface and helpful shooting modes. It also has a vari-angle touchscreen display that can be helpful for composing shots at different angles.

 

Strengths:

User-friendly interface with helpful shooting modes.

Vari-angle touchscreen display for easy framing.

Compact and lightweight.

 

Properties:

  • Sensor: 24.1MP APS-C CMOS sensor
  • Image Processor: DIGIC 8
  • Autofocus: 9-point phase-detection autofocus system with Dual Pixel CMOS AF
  • Continuous Shooting: Up to 5 fps
  • LCD Screen: 3.0-inch vari-angle touchscreen with 1.04 million dots
  • Video Recording: 4K UHD at 24 fps, Full HD (1080p) and HD (720p)
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi with NFC

Deals on Amazon at: https://amzn.to/49ZXfFL

 

Canon EOS Rebel T6i Digital SLR with EF-S 18-55mm is STM Lens – Wi-Fi Enabled

This Canon offers a vari-angle touchscreen LCD: This allows for comfortable shooting from various angles and intuitive control through the touchscreen interface.
Built-in Wi-Fi with NFC: Easily share photos and videos wirelessly to your smartphone or tablet for instant sharing.

 

Strengths:

Image quality: Great image quality for its class, thanks to the high-resolution sensor and DIGIC 6 processor.

Usability: Easy to use with a vari-angle touchscreen and helpful automatic features.

Connectivity: Built-in Wi-Fi and NFC make sharing a breeze.

 

Properties:

  • Sensor: 24.2 megapixel CMOS (APS-C size)
  • Image Processor: DIGIC 6
  • Autofocus: 19-point all cross-type phase-detection system
  • Continuous Shooting: Up to 5 frames per second (fps)
  • LCD Screen: 3-inch vari-angle touchscreen with 1.04 million dots
  • Video Recording: Full HD (1080p)
  • ISO: 100-12800 (expandable to H:25600)
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi with NFC
  • Battery: LP-E8 rechargeable lithium-ion battery
  • Weight: Approximately 470 grams (body only)

Deals on Amazon at https://amzn.to/3UcO3Z3

 

 

Nikon D5600

This Nikon offers helpful features for beginners like a vari-angle touchscreen and built-in Bluetooth.

Strengths:

Helpful features like vari-angle touchscreen and Bluetooth.

Longer battery life compared to some on this list.

 

Properties:

  • Sensor: 24.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor (DX-format)
  • Image Processor: EXPEED 4
  • ISO: 100 – 25600
  • Autofocus: 39-point Multi-CAM 4800DX autofocus system with nine cross-type points
  • Continuous Shooting: Up to 5 fps
  • LCD Screen: 3.2-inch vari-angle touchscreen with 1.037 million dots
  • Video Recording: Full HD (1080p) up to 60 fps
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth

Deals on Amazon at https://amzn.to/4aXTDWs

 

 

Pentax K-70

This Pentax is a well-built camera with weather-sealed body, which can be a plus if you shoot outdoors a lot. However, it doesn’t have a touchscreen display and may have a steeper learning curve compared to the others on this list.

Strengths:

Well-built camera with weather-sealed body (good for outdoor use).

Large optical viewfinder.

 

Properties:

  • Sensor: 24.24MP APS-C CMOS sensor
  • Image Processor: PRIME MII
  • ISO: 100 – 102400 (for low-light shooting)
  • Autofocus: 11-point SAFOX X phase-detect autofocus system with nine cross-type points
  • Continuous Shooting: Up to 6 fps
  • LCD Screen: 3-inch vari-angle touchscreen with 921,000 dots
  • Video Recording: Full HD (1080p) up to 30 fps
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi

Deals on Amazon at https://amzn.to/4aPJ0ox

Remember: When choosing a camera, consider lens selection: What kind of photography interests you? Choose a system with affordable lenses for your needs. Battery life is also Important and video features: Consider video quality and features if video is important to you.

 

FAO Launches Green Cities Initiative to Boost Urban Resilience, Sustainability

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) of the United Nations has launched the Green Cities Initiative in Cameroon to enhance urban resilience and sustainability.

The launching ceremony took place on Sunday, April 21 in Yaounde, chaired by the Minister of Decentralization and Local Development, Géorges Elanga Obam alongside QU Dongyu, Director-General of FAO. They were accompanied by several government dignitaries.

QU Dongyu, Director-General of FAO speaking during the Launching of Green Cities Initiative in Cameroon(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

During the event, QU Dongyu expressed his satisfaction and commitment to the seven councils in Cameroon that presented letters of intent to join FAO’s Green Cities initiative.

He underlined that this initiative aims to boost the sustainable development of cities by improving access to goods and ecosystems, highlighting that municipalities play a crucial role in enhancing livelihoods and well-being.

He expressed optimism about the potential for the first seven cities in Cameroon to join the FAO Green City Network, stating, “I’m confident that together we can make them greener, healthier, and more sustainable.” He also emphasized the creation of green jobs for the younger generation.

Officials during the launching of the Green Cities Initiative in Cameroon (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

While stressing the importance of ensuring policy coherence at both the national and local levels, along with the necessary investment in mobile land, he said, “You have a crucial role to play in your cities,”.

He added, “together, we can expedite the journey towards becoming the greenest city in Africa, ensuring no one is left behind. Together, we can reimagine and redesign our cities, envisioning them as green, sustainable, and livable.”

Furthermore, he pointed out that there is need to elevate the standards of the economy, embracing the principles of the green economy and comprehensive design. To him, it’s not just about creating more urban sprawl but also preserving the land and diversifying green spaces to enhance natural living and sustainability.

Cross section of Mayors during the launching of the Green Cities Initiative in Cameroon (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

“We should not only focus on food production and tree planting but also view tree planting as part of gardening and horticulture. This approach distinguishes traditional forests from modern practices and represents a transformation in forestry,” he elaborated.

Minister Elanga Obam commended FAO and the Director-General for the admirable initiative, noting especially the Director-General, for the commendable initiative noting that the implementation in seven pilot councils reflects the quality of cooperation in the decentralization and local development sub-sector that is maintain.

The seven councils that have joined the initiative include Yaounde IV, Yaounde V, Yaounde VI, Yaounde VII, Mfou, Yaounde City Council, and the Douala City Council.

FAO, Government Officials and Civil Society Organization pose for a family picture after launching Green Cities Initiative in Cameroon (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Since March 2023, a pilot Green Cities initiative has been ongoing in Cameroon, focusing on projects like pre-collection, composting, and urban agriculture promotion in Yaoundé VI Council.

The initiative aims to enhance the resilience and well-being of urban and peri-urban populations while fostering sustainable urbanization and access to healthy foods. The FAO Green Cities Initiative seeks to implement innovative solutions that promote sustainability, resilience, and improved quality of life in cities.

It aims to facilitate the development of integrated food production and distribution systems that benefit both residents and farmers, contributing to a more sustainable urban environment.

At NSODA AGM, HRH Sehm Mbinglo I Calls For Deep Reflection, Urges Indigenes To Embrace Love

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Fon of Nso, HRH Sehm Mbinglo I, has called on sons and daughters of the land, both within and outside the tribe, to engage in deep reflection while embracing love as the ultimate virtue.

HRH Sehm Mbinglo I made the call on April 20 in Yaounde during the 2024 Annual General Meeting of the Nso Development and Cultural Association, NSODA.

HRH Sehm Mbinglo I, Fon of Nso (Picture Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Speaking to his people through an interpreter, the Fon of Nso among other things emphasized the importance of responsible phone use, cautioning against spreading misinformation and negativity which hinders societal development.

“Let’s all reflect deeply and find ways to come together,” the Fon said. “Love your family, neighbors, and yourself. That’s how we can move forward. Let love lead.”

Furthermore, he said, “I have no problems with other Fons. I am looking at how we are to come together and move forward collectively.”

He urged the community to welcome NSODA, Nso land, and the government, and advised against spreading unverified messages.

Shey Tadze Adamu Mbiydzela, President General of NSODA (Picture Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

“As we are looking forward in returning to the village, as mentioned by you all, we will be planning our cultural week and the Ngonso festival. I won’t be going back alone; all of you will accompany me,” he stated.

Shey Tadze Adamu Mbiydzela, President General of NSODA, on his path stated that, during these challenging times for the land, it is hard to fathom that the Fon of Nso, the Lion, is away from home.

“He’s not just a leader, but a spiritual one,” Mbiydzela said. “He’s supposed to be interceding with our ancestors and gods, as well as cultural stakeholders, on our behalf. His absence is unsettling.”

He added, “There’s no more time for division,” Mbiydzela declared. “When everyone starts talking about peace, love, and unity, those who seek division will be isolated.”

Cross Section of Delegates to the AGM (Picture Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Taatoh Shey Romanus Maisah, President of NsoBati Yaounde, echoed the call for unity. He believes that division stems from external influences and that Nso people can overcome it. “We must leave here united, loving ourselves,” he stated. “I know it’s possible.”

The NSODA Annual General Assembly meeting, held over two days, provided a platform for the sons and daughters of Nso to discuss ways to promote peace, development, and cultural preservation. The agenda included financial reports, project proposals, cultural discussions, traditional dances, and speeches aimed at fostering unity and progress within the community.

AFRODAD, Partners Demands Global Financial Reform To Address Africa’s Debt Crisis

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The African Forum and Network on Debt and Development (AFRODAD) and partners have called for urgent reform of the global financial system, citing a growing debt crisis that threatens Africa’s development.

Calls for Overhauling of Global Financial System

The demand comes amidst the ongoing Spring Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank in Washington DC, themed “Energising Africa: What will it take to accelerate access & Improve Lives?”.

AFRODAD and its partners warn that Africa’s debt crisis is a harsh reality, with nearly half the continent’s countries facing debt distress or high risk.  The continent’s total debt has skyrocketed to US$1.13 trillion in 2024, a staggering 374 percent increase since 2000.

“In 2024, Africa’s total debt stands at US$1.13 trillion, representing a 374 percent increase in public debt from the year 2000 to 2024,” the release read.

This debt burden, the release emphasizes, diverts critical public resources away from essential investments in growth and poverty reduction.  AFRODAD an partners estimates that debt servicing pushed an additional 30 million Africans into extreme poverty between 2021 and 2023.

The report criticizes existing debt relief initiatives like the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) and Multilateral Debt Relief Initiatives (MDRI), the Debt Service Suspension Initiative (DSSI), and the 2021 Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) issuance as inadequate.

AFRODAD an partners argues that these programs create opportunities for further borrowing without addressing the root causes of debt.  Furthermore, beneficiary countries haven’t shown significant development improvements compared to those without debt relief.

They urges a shift towards “structural solutions” to Africa’s debt problems.  The organization points to the slow and bureaucratic G20 Common Framework debt restructuring program, which has negatively impacted credit ratings without delivering sustainable solutions.

AFRODAD and partnering Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) call for a governance reform of the IMF and World Bank to end the “debilitating financial commitments” imposed on African nations.  They advocate for a “bold move” towards solutions that prioritize people and reject irresponsible lending practices.

The release further urged the IMF and World Bank to acknowledge their role in Africa’s debt crisis and embrace reforms that prioritize the continent’s development.

   

 

Victoria United Crowned 2023-2024 Cameroon Football Champion

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Victoria United, alais Opopo, have been crowned champions of the 2023-2024 Cameroonian football season.

They secured the title on April 18 after drawing 2-2 with Stade Renard de Melong on the final day of the Elite One Playoffs in Douala.

Victoria United, Champions of Mtn Elite One 2023/2024 football season

The Limbe-based team only needed a draw or a win to clinch the championship, as their competitors were significantly behind in the standings.

However, Stade Renard had their sights set on the trophy, knowing a victory would secure their first-ever championship title.

Opopo opened the scoring in the 20th minute through Gilbert Dze Ebua. However, Stade Renard equalized shortly before halftime through Victor Ngobara in the 45th minute.

Stade Renard emerged from the locker room with renewed energy and took the lead in the 60th minute thanks to a goal by Debi Ze Manga.

Victoria United FC

With 10 minutes remaining, Victoria United were awarded a penalty. Nathan Doualla stepped up and converted an unstoppable shot under the crossbar, beating goalkeeper Haschou Kerido to level the score at 2-2.

Victoria United finished the Playoffs at the top of the standings with 13 points, securing their first-ever championship title in Cameroon’s top-tier league.

Yaounde Patched Potholes, Degraded Roads Beg For Rehabilitation

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The city of Yaoundé has been grappling with a myriad of challenges, particularly in relation to its road infrastructure. Over time, the city has undergone a noticeable decline, with certain neighborhoods languishing in neglect and disrepair.

This neglect is most evident in areas that have become off-limits for taxis and motorcyclists, who, when willing to venture into these zones, demand exorbitant fares. The pervasive nature of this issue has led residents to reluctantly accept these hardships as a part of their daily lives, despite the significant disruptions it causes to their mobility.

Partial view of Obili-Biyem Assi stretch after a rainy day (Photo Credit:Mainimo Etienne)

One of the most distressing aspects of this situation is the rapid deterioration of the roads, even after attempts were made to patch up the numerous potholes that riddle the city’s streets. What were once temporary fixes have now begged for urgent repair, as the conditions have worsened considerably.

While some efforts are being made to address these issues, the pace of repair work is struggling to keep up with the escalating decay, leaving many areas in a state of disrepair and chaos.

“We are completely devastated by the state of our roads as it has made movement extremely challenging. We are facing hardships due to the rising transportation fares, especially in areas that are difficult to access,” expressed one city resident.

Another city resident added, “I am baffled by the current situation. Several roads seem to have been entirely neglected, and I am hesitant of the reasons behind this. Take, for example, the Obili-Biyem Assi stretch. It has been abandoned and has deteriorated significantly.”

Residents are feeling the brunt of these challenges, with transportation becoming increasingly arduous and expensive. The frustration and disillusionment among the population are palpable, as they witness the roads, they rely on deteriorate before their eyes.

“Looking at the state of the potholes that were previously patched up, it’s disheartening to see them return to their original, deteriorated condition. Some were patched with concrete, while others were hastily filled with stones, mud, and soil sourced from nearby refurbished residences in the quarters. “We are back to square one, and to make matters worse, we find ourselves swimming in mud when it rains,” Martins explained

Partial view of Obili-Biyem Assi stretch after a rainy day (Photo Credit:Mainimo Etienne)

The sorry state of the infrastructure is not only a hindrance to daily commutes but also a stark reminder of the neglect and lack of adequate maintenance that has plagued the city for far too long. As voices of discontent grow louder, there is a collective plea to the authorities to intervene and address the pressing issues that have long been ignored.

The urgency of the situation is underscored by the impassioned calls from residents for immediate action to rectify the crumbling road network. Until tangible improvements are made, the residents of Yaoundé remain in a state of anticipation, yearning for a return to dignified living conditions and smoother journeys through their city.