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Cameroon, Belgium & Italy Signed Financial Agreement To Reconfigure Yaounde Drinking Water Supply System

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo The governments of Cameroon, Belgium, and Italy have entered into a financial agreement and market contracts…

Society

NGO, 1Billion Rising, Stress Prevention, Listening As keys To Recovery From Youth Addiction

By Desmond Mbua The non-governmental organization 1 Billion Rising in Cameroon has launched a strong appeal to confront addiction with…

Sports

The Enduring Charm Of Fireside Storytelling

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo Telling stories around the fireside is an age-old tradition that weaves a rich tapestry of memories,…

Society

Gov’t Equips CONAC, Audit Chamber With Vehicles To Scale Up Anti-Corruption Fight

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo The government of Cameroon through the Ministry of Economy, Planning and Regional Development (MINEPAT) has handed…

Cameroon Film Director, Johnscott Enah Nominated For 2024 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Cameroonian filmmaker and director, Johnscott Enah Akwuondoghoh has been nominated for the 2024 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA).Johnscott Enah was nominated in the category of Best Director for the movie “Half Heaven”. The nominees were announced on Sunday, March 24th, 2024, on all Africa Magic channels.

Johnscott Enah Akwuondoghoh (Image: FILE)

Cameroonian-born Johnscott Enah is in the category with other great talents such as Moses Inwang, Adebayo Tijani, Tope Adebayo, Bb Sasore, C.J Fiery Obasi, Kayode Kasum, and Tolu Ajayi. Johnscott Enah has worked on movies such as “Triangle of Tears,” “Decoded,” “Whispers,” “The African Guest,” “The Fisherman’s Diary,” and “Half Heaven.”

Speaking while unveiling the nominees, Dr. Busola Tejumola, Executive Head of Content and Channels, West Africa, MultiChoice said, “The quality of entries received was simply outstanding, and the jury had their work cut out for them in shortlisting the nominees. This year’s lineup is exceptional, reflecting the diversity and creativity prevalent in African cinema and television, and we can’t wait to celebrate them.”

The voting window is open until April 28th, 2024, and fans have the opportunity to vote for outstanding talent via the website www.africamagic.tv/amvca.

The awards ceremony, celebrating excellence in African film and television, is slated to take place on the 10th and 11th of May 2024 in Lagos, Nigeria, with a live broadcast across all Africa Magic Channels on DStv and GOtv.

Entries took place from January 15 – February 14, 2024. A total of 25 categories are there, with nine categories open to public voting and 16 categories decided by the AMVCA panel of judges and two recognition awards for – Lifetime Achievement and Trailblazer Awards.

This year, the performance awards have undergone streamlining and will fall under the categories of Best Actor or Best Actress in a Leading or Supporting Role, with winners determined by the jury, deviating from the previous audience voting system.

The jury, consisting of experienced filmmakers from across the continent and led by a head juror, will determine the winners in the 16 non-voting categories, while the public will determine the winners in the remaining eight audience voting categories.

The non-voting categories will be decided by the AMVCA panel of judges headed by ace filmmaker, Femi Odugbemi.

Spartans FC Triumph Over Rangers FC, Edge Closer to Top Spot

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Spartans Saturday March 30 thrashed Rangers FC in an intense battle that ended with a score line of 4-3.The victory brought Spartans FC one step closer to securing the top spot in the ongoing Bui Strikers – Nso Veteran friendly tournament after the third day of play.

Spartans FC (yellow) battling with Rangers FC (Red) in the third Day of play (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Throughout the match, both sides showcased their strength and resilience, making it a closely contested affair. It was a pivotal moment in the 43rd minute when Spartans FC capitalized on a defensive error to break the deadlock and take the lead.

After the halftime break, Spartans FC came back refreshed, adding two more goals to their tally, much to the dismay of Rangers FC. However, showing their fighting spirit, Rangers FC regrouped and managed to narrow the gap by scoring two goals.

With the clock ticking down and the game hanging in the balance, Spartans FC sealed their victory with a fourth goal. Despite a late penalty goal from Rangers FC that brought the score to 4-3, Spartans FC held their ground and emerged triumphant.

Bulldogs FC (black) battling with United FC (blue) in the third Day of play (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

In a display of determination and resilience, Spartans FC overcame the challenges posed by Rangers FC and secured a hard-fought 4-3 win, solidifying their position in the tournament and inching closer to the coveted top spot.

In the second match, United FC and Bulldogs played to a 1-1 draw. As the third day of play concluded, United maintained their lead at the top of the standings with five points, closely followed by Spartans FC, also with five points but with a difference in goals.

Bulldogs FC secured the third position with three points, while Rangers find themselves at the bottom of the table with two points. The competition kicked off on March 16.

Former South African President, Jacob Zuma Barred From Upcoming Elections

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The South African Independent Electoral Commission has barred former President Jacob Zuma from participating in the upcoming elections. The ruling, announced during a media briefing on Thursday, March 28, said Jacob Zuma will not be able to take part in the ballot because of his criminal record.

Jacob Zuma, Former South African President (Image: FILE)

As a prospective candidate in the legislative elections set for May 29, Jacob Zuma had faced objections from a rival party, leading to the rejection of his candidacy. While objections were raised against eight candidates vying for parliamentary seats, Zuma’s disqualification stands out as the sole instance of rejection.

The development surrounding Zuma’s candidacy has been a subject of scrutiny and speculation ever since his name surfaced on the list of parliamentary candidates for the new uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) party.

Observers highlighted the constitutional provision that prohibits individuals sentenced to more than 12 months’ imprisonment, without the option of a fine, from holding public office.

This clause directly impacts Zuma, who in July 2021 received a 15-month jail term for contempt of court related to his refusal to testify before a corruption investigation commission that spanned his nearly decade-long presidency.

Despite his brief release on medical parole after serving just two months in prison, Zuma’s political future remains uncertain. Having previously led the ruling African National Congress (ANC) and the nation for almost a decade, Zuma announced in December that he would not be actively involved in campaigning or voting for the party in the May 2024 elections.

The Electoral Commission has granted Zuma until April 2 to challenge his disqualification, allowing for a potential legal recourse in the matter.

We Need to Bounce Back Quickly – Coach PWD

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The coach of PWD FC of Bamenda, Franklin Anumewa, has said, there is an urgent need for the team to bounce back quickly into action. Anumewa made the statement shortly after the team suffered their first defeat in the ongoing Play Offs in Yaounde.

PWD starting lineup against Colombe of Dja and Lobo on the 13th matchday of the 2023/2024 Cameroon Football season (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

PWD FC faced a 3-0 defeat against Astres FC of Douala following their earlier 2-2 draw in the first game against UMS of Loum. Reflecting on the match, Anumewa admitted, “It was a very tough game. Our opponents displayed superior strength and determination. We struggled, particularly in defense.”

Anumewa highlighted the need for a swift recovery, stating, “We must rectify our mistakes and respond promptly in the next match. Marc O’Ojong, an experienced player, has been absent due to injury, which has impacted our performance.”

At the start of the game, PWD, understanding the importance of the match, was eager to regain momentum and move up from the bottom of the standings. However, Astres FC had a well-executed plan that dashed PWD’s hopes.

In the 41st minute, Astres FC’s Bruno Eyock opened the scoring, followed by former Bamboutos FC player Ulrich Pange Lobe doubling the lead three minutes later, making it 2-0 before halftime.

Despite PWD’s efforts to narrow the scoreline after halftime, they were consistently thwarted. In the 77th minute, Constant Arcel Sanga scored the third goal for Astres FC. The Abakwa Boys, struggled to regain motion but due to their shaky defense, they couldn’t.

In their upcoming match, PWD of Bamenda will face Union FC, while Astres will take on Apejes of Mfou. With four points, Astres climbs to second place after day two matches.

Stadium Closures Disrupt Play-Off Matches In Cameroon

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The second day of play in the ongoing Play-Offs witnessed an unprecedented scenario as several stadiums remained closed at the times scheduled for the start of the matches.

On Thursday, March 28, fans were left stranded as various stadiums slated to host matches on the second day of the MTN Elite One and Two Play-offs did not open as expected.

Fans left stranded as stadiums remain closed just hours before the start of the second day of the Play-Offs (Photo Credit: CAMFOOT)

At 2 pm, the designated start time for the matches, the Omnisports Annex stadium in Yaoundé, the Ngoa Ekelle military stadium, the Bepanda Annex stadium in Douala, and the Bamendzi stadium in Bafoussam were closed with no access granted to players, officials, or fans.

According to information from the National Office for Sports Infrastructure and Equipment, ONIES, the Cameroon Football Federation, FECAFOOT, had allegedly not paid the maintenance fees for these stadiums for several days.

However, FECAFOOT claimed they had indeed paid for the stadium upkeep. After reaching an agreement, matches eventually commenced 40 minutes behind schedule.

YOSA Shows Strong Performance In Playoffs, On Track To Success After Day 2

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Yong Sports Academy, YOSA, of Bamenda, is paving their way as the ongoing Play Offs goes underway in Douala. The team has emerged as a standout contender, showcasing remarkable skill and determination on their journey towards victory.

YOSA FC

Their recent performances have been nothing short of stellar, as they have managed to maintain a clean sheet in two consecutive games, showcasing their defensive prowess and tactical acumen.

In a thrilling match against Dynamo FC, YOSA emerged victorious, with team captain Nchindo John Bosco leading the charge with three crucial goals as against two for Dynamo.

After the second day of play, YOSA is leading the pack in the playoffs, with an impressive six points to their name. Their closest competitors, Victoria United, have also displayed a strong performance with two wins in two matches, keeping the competition fierce and exciting.

As the playoff battles continue, other teams such as Coton Sport, Colombe FC, and Stade Renard are also making their mark, vying for a spot at the top of the table.

With each match bringing new challenges and opportunities, the intensity of the competition is palpable, creating a thrilling spectacle for fans and players alike.

YOSA FC (green) battling (Photo Credit: Bakadal)

In the Playoffs Down division, Union FC has emerged as a strong contender, leading the table with six points. Astres FC, AS Fortuna, and Fovu FC are closely behind, each with four points, showcasing the tight competition in this segment of the tournament.

Looking ahead, the stakes are high as teams strive to secure their positions and avoid relegation to Division Two.

With only a limited number of spots available in the top tier, every match becomes crucial, adding to the excitement and drama of the playoffs.

As the competition unfolds, fans can expect more thrilling moments and standout performances from YOSA and the other teams vying for glory in this prestigious tournament.

AS Fortuna Triumphs Over Fauve Azur in Intense Play-Offs Clash

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The second day of play in the ongoing Play-Offs Down tournament began on a positive note for AS Fortuna. Fauve Azur played host to AS Fortuna at the Ngoa Ekele Military stadium in Yaoundé, setting the stage for an intense and exciting match.

Both teams were brimming with anticipation for the showdown, but it was the talented Fortuna striker, Adrien Boris Mfoumou, who quickly left his mark on the game.

AS Fortuna FC

Seizing an opportunity presented by a defensive error, Mfoumou skillfully outmaneuvered the Fauve Azur goalkeeper in the 12th minute, propelling AS Fortuna into an early lead.

Not to be outdone, Kévin Mfede of Fauve Azur showcased his prowess with a spectacular free-kick at the 28th minute, leveling the score to 1-1.

However, Fauve Azur’s moment of celebration was short-lived as Fortuna swiftly regained the lead just two minutes later, courtesy of a well-executed brace from Mfoumou.

As the first half drew to a close, Fortuna maintained their lead, heading into halftime with a score of 2-1.

After the halftime break, Fauve Azur team displayed a newfound sense of determination and creativity, eager to turn the tide of the match.

Their efforts paid off when captain Kantin Ngomeni delivered a magical equalizer in the 58th minute, igniting the spirits of the Fauve supporters.

As the clock ticked down, Boris Mfoumou once again showcased his scoring prowess by completing a hat-trick amidst a chaotic scramble in the penalty box, putting AS Fortuna ahead at 3-2.

Despite Fortuna facing adversity with two players receiving red cards, they managed to maintain their lead until the final whistle.

Following their draw with Bamboutos on the opening day, Fauve Azur now holds two points after two games, while Fortuna stands strong with four points, positioning themselves well on the path to securing their survival in the competition.

Preparations Mount As FENASSCO League ‘A’ Games 2024 Begin On April 2nd

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Preparations for the 2024 National Secondary School Games, dubbed FENASSCO ‘A’ games, have intensified ahead of the kickoff in Limbe, Southwest Region of Cameroon.

The games are scheduled to start on April 2nd and will run through the 9th under the theme “School Games: A Guarantee of Peace and Sustainable Development.” The event is expected to bring together over 2,000 athletes from the ten regions of the country.

2024 FENASCON A Logo

Leading up to the games, the Minister of Secondary Education, Prof. Nalova Lyonga, along with Boniface Bayaola, the Secretary of State in the Ministry of Secondary Education in charge of Teachers’ Training, have held multiple meetings to ensure the success of the 24th edition of the games.

Topics discussed in these preparatory meetings include the key aspects of the event, provisions for athletes, supervisors, and young officials, as well as the travel arrangements for all delegations. The logo and fixtures for the games have also been finalized.

In team sports, the Southwest, West, Center, Littoral, and Adamaoua Regions will compete in Pool A for basketball, while the North, Northwest, South, Extreme North, and East Regions have been placed in Pool B. For female basketball, the Southwest, North, Adamaoua, Far North, and Littoral will be in Pool A, while the West, East, South, Northwest, and Center will be in Pool B.

In male football, the Southwest Region, Littoral, Northwest, Center, and West will be in Pool A, with the North, East, Adamaoua, Far North, and South in Pool B. For female football, the Southwest, Northwest, South, Center, and North will compete in Pool A, while West, East, Littoral, Far North, and Adamaoua Regions will be in Pool B.

In volleyball, the Southwest, Far North, Center, Adamaoua, and Northwest Regions are in Pool A, while the West, East, South, North, and Littoral regions will be in Pool B. In the female category, the Southwest, Northwest, Adamaoua, Littoral, and South are in Pool A, while the Center, East, West, Far North, and North Regions are in Pool B.

Pairings for boys and girls teams in the teacher training colleges, have also been determined. The football matches will be held at the Limbe Centenary Stadium and the Middle Farms Stadium. The 2023 edition of the games took place in the North Region.

At Open Door Day: St. Jean University Institute Introduces Professional English Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science at Etokos Campus

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

St. Jean University Institute has announced that the Professional English Bachelor’s Degree program in Computer Science will become operational starting from the 2024/2025 Academic Year.

The announcement was made during an Open Door Day held on March 27 at the Etokos Campus. This event brought together students from seven schools in the Central Region.

Saint Jean University Students educating visiting secondary students on the products of the institutions (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Speaking during the Open Door Day, Dr. Patrick Thomas, Deputy Director General of the institution said, the establishment want to attract the best students from secondary schools across the national territory.

“We have a marketing staff who are touring Cameroon. To secure a job, you need to possess basic skills and quality training, and Saint Jean University Institute is doing just that. We are calling on students to dive into computer science,” Patrick Thomas said.

Brittney Wabit from Mada International College found her visit inspiring and believes it will guide her in her career path.

“My visit here was actually the best because I learned so many things. I think this is going to help me in my business area because I believe that not only going to shops but can also be done online,” Brittney Wabit said.

Saint Jean University Students educating visiting secondary students on some of their innovations (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

She added, “I also learned that the problem of waste management in Cameroon can be solved by using the production of electric dustbins which I saw here. The app I saw here will help me in my business career because it is a way of orientating us on how to carry out businesses on a certain budget that we have.”

According to Dimitri Nkem, a Level One student, his school focuses on the digital economy, especially developing apps that are necessary to boost the economy of our country.

“This year we have a lot of innovations in our school. For example, we are currently focusing on artificial intelligence and also not only artificial intelligence but also data science since there are a lot of people who are interested in managing data because it’s actually one of our great concerns how to handle the problem of data,” he said.

He further mentioned, “We were presenting to them how they can, for example, write a code for websites, how it is programmed. We are also presenting to them some basic solutions like intelligent dustbins. We told the students that it will not be very easy to learn computer science, but that it is very, very, very, very rewarding. And if they are passionate about it, it’s easy for them to see the returns very, very fast.”

During the occasion, students were guided throughout the campus with explanations on some of the activities the students are engaged in. Saint Jean University Institute has two campuses, namely in Eyang, on the outskirts of Yaounde, and at Etokos, Simbock.

Saint Jean University Students educating visiting secondary students on some of their innovations (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

The Professional Bachelor’s Degree in English is expected to go operational in the next academic year at the Etokos Campus. The Saint Jean Institute is a Private Institution of Higher Education created in 2016. It is directed by Father Jean Hervé, former principal of Vogt College.

The institution offers two cycles; an engineering cycle where engineering diplomas are obtained in computer engineering, telecommunications network engineering, civil engineering, and electrical engineering. The institution also offers a professional Bachelor’s and Master’s cycle in computer science in the field of the digital economy in partnership with the National Higher Polytechnic Institute (University of Yaoundé I).

With more than twelve partners abroad, including the educational supervision technological university of Troyes (UTT), the institute provides double degrees, international mobility, internships during the academic course, practical skills with fablab, laboratories, certifications, and others.

 

At CAMTEL Women’s Day: Stakeholders Examined Ways Of Building A Women-Friendly Digital Economy

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Ways of building a women-friendly digital economy have been explored in a one-day workshop focused on fostering inclusive digital development in Cameroon.

The event, dubbed “CAMTEL Women’s Day,” was held on March 26 in Yaoundé under the theme, “Supporting the Building of a Women-Friendly Digital Economy.”

Participants included government officials, development partners, private sector players, and experts from diverse backgrounds.

Panelist pose for a family picture (Picture Credit: CAMTEL)

Speaking at the event, Judith Yah Sunday, the General Manager of Cameroon Telecommunications (CAMTEL), emphasized the crucial role women play in the country’s development.

However, she stated that despite the opportunities offered through technological advances to promote the well-being of populations, there remain significant challenges for women and girls who do not always reap all the benefits, particularly concerning their empowerment and inclusion.

Nevertheless, she stressed the need for a gender-equal digital development approach, focusing on innovation, digital technologies, and education. She emphasized the importance of raising awareness among women and girls about their rights and civic engagement.

In addition, she said, it has become imperative to establish a digital development approach concerned with gender equality, particularly in terms of innovation, digital technologies, and education.

A participant taking part in discussions (Photo Credit: CAMTEL)

According to the DG, CAMTEL in its capacity as a corporate citizen and the secular arm of the State in the telecommunications sector, is executing the missions assigned to it fully.

These missions, she emphasized, include the advancement of telecommunications infrastructure and services, as well as the promotion of human potential across all genders in various socio-economic and technological processes and advancements.

“In this regard, we are particularly focused on issues related to achieving inclusive development and, specifically, reducing gender disparities.”

Judith Yah Sunday, General Manager of Cameroon Telecommunications (CAMTEL) speaking to the press (Photo Credit: CAMTEL)

While acknowledging Ministries, development partners, and organizations for their efforts in advocating for women’s rights, Judith Yah Sunday commended the courage of women who excel daily in various business sectors, including digital technology, which was previously seen as predominantly male-dominated. “They are making a significant and lasting impact on our country’s journey towards progress,” she remarked.

The event featured panel discussions and presentations, marking another milestone in CAMTEL’s 25th-anniversary celebrations. CAMTEL Women’s Day followed a series of activities such as CAMTEL Digital Day, CAMTEL Decentralization Day, CAMTEL Digital Infrastructure Day, and CAMTEL Youth Day.