CSOs Encouraged to Use Photography for Health Security Advocacy

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

In an effort to enhance access to health security information, some 20 Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) have been encouraged to embrace the use of photography as a powerful tool for advocacy.

This was the focal point of a one-day workshop held on Friday, March 29 in Yaounde. The workshop was organized by Actions for Development and Empowerment (ADE) and Positive-Generation (PG) NGOs.

**Participants during the one-day workshop**

Apart from promoting the use of photography as an advocacy tool to facilitate access to information on health security, the one-day workshop also aimed at inspiring participants to engage in discussions with the government and development partners regarding health security.

Additionally, the workshop sought to enhance the capacity of civil society actors to advocate for improved access to information on health security financing, supporting advocacy and accountability, and engaging in discussions with government and partners on health security.

During the event, experts from the two organizations enlightened participants on the significance of using photography and enhancing their knowledge on health security finance.

Through presentations and interactive discussions, participants also documented field situations related to access to information on health security finances through photography, making information on health security more accessible.

**Officials and participants pose for a family picture**

A call was made to amplify advocacy efforts for improved access to information on health security finances in Cameroon. Despite the efforts made by public authorities to enhance the well-being of the population during challenging times, experts say, health security remains an issue.

However, COVID-19 unraveled limited access to information on health security financing. To this effect, it is therefore important to effect ways to communicate about the actions undertaken by the Government of Cameroon in this area.

The Health Security Finance Accountability project aims to enhance financial accountability for health security by mobilizing local and national resources and ensuring equitable access to vaccines.

This project is being implemented in several Sub-Saharan countries, including Cameroon, Kenya, Malawi, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Senegal, Uganda, and Zimbabwe, under a grant from the Africa Health Budget Network (AHBN), an organization based in Nigeria.

In Cameroon, the project is being executed by the consortium Actions for Development and Empowerment (ADE) and Positive-Generation (PG).

Dr. Yaa Ngamsha: Inspiring Folklore Artist Praying for Peace to Prevail

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Dr. Yaa Victorine Ngamsha, known by her artistic name as Lady Bling VN, is a multifaceted individual who harnesses her artistic talents to advocate for peace and unity in the turbulent regions of the Northwest and Southwest, as well as across Cameroon and the world.

**Dr. Yaa Victorine Ngamsha, aka Lady Bling VN**

As a motivational speaker, she seamlessly weaves her empowering messages into the fabric of her melodious compositions, ensuring that her audience not only enjoys the music but also absorbs the positive affirmations she imparts.

Hailing from Kumbo in the Bui Division of the Northwest Region of Cameroon, Lady Bling’s formative years as a Catholic and her extensive training to become a Reverend Sister for over a decade have deeply influenced her artistry.

Drawing inspiration from her leadership roles in various choirs, she has honed her musical skills and found her calling as a beacon of hope and resilience in the industry.

Lady Bling’s musical influences, including Yaa Adeline Mbenkum, Lady Ponce, and Yemi Alade, have shaped her creative journey as she navigates the studio with a sense of purpose and determination.

For her, the studio is a sacred space where she shares her personal narratives, uplifts those facing adversity, and spreads messages of positivity and perseverance. Her music is an organic expression of her innermost thoughts and emotions, devoid of scripts but filled with heartfelt sincerity.

In her latest album which is the 18^th, Lady Bling pours her heart out about the challenges plaguing her homeland, addressing emotional issues such as violence and the quest for truth and justice.

Through personalized tracks dedicated to birthday celebrations, she showcases her versatility as an artist who can seamlessly blend social commentary with celebratory themes.

Lady Bling’s artistic odyssey has been marked by trials and tribulations, yet her unwavering faith in God and her commitment to pursuing her passions have been guiding lights.

Reflecting on the potential of Cameroon, she advocates for a collective shift in mentality, urging her compatriots to embrace values of respect, humility, and honesty to unlock the nation’s true potential.

As an advocate for peacebuilding through music, Lady Bling emphasizes the pivotal role that musicians play in fostering harmony and understanding within society.

She encourages her peers to steer clear of political entanglements and instead focus on spreading messages of peace and unity, transcending divides and fostering a sense of collective responsibility.

Beyond her musical endeavors, Lady Bling’s diverse portfolio as a motivational speaker, author, movie producer, community builder, and mentor underscores her commitment to empowering others and making a positive impact in her community and beyond.

CAMTEL FENASSCO A Games: Minister Nalova Underscores Significance Of Education, Cultural Activities

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Minister of Secondary Education, Prof. Nalova Lyonga has underscored the importance of education and cultural activities as she bestowed her official blessings kick of the 2024 edition of the National Secondary School Games, known as FENASSCO A Games.

**Minister Nalova Lyonga speaking during the launching ceremony**

The games officially commenced on April 2 in Mokundange, Limbe, in the Southwest Region of Cameroon. This one-week event is being held under the theme, “School Games, Guarantee of Peace and Sustainable Development.”

The games are expected to be a platform for fostering unity, promoting peace, and nurturing the spirit of sustainable growth among the youth.

Minister Nalova was joined by other government ministers, including the Minister of Sports and Physical Education, Prof. Narcisse Mouelle Kombi, the Minister Delegate to the Minister of Justice, Keeper of the Seal, Jean De Dieu Momo, and other dignitaries.

**CAMTEL and its leading brand, Blue present at the kickoff match (Photo Credit: The Observer)**

In her address, the Minister commended the various regions and authorities for their participation in the games, emphasizing that the games present an opportunity to preserve the rich cultural identity and ensure the development of the youth. The Olympic Flame was carried by Paul Efome Ngalle and Sarah Etonde at the Ngeume Stadium.

The opening match featured a female football encounter between the Northwest Region and the Southwest Region, with Prof. Narcisse Mouelle Kombi officiating the kickoff. The match concluded with a 2-0 victory for the Southwest Region over the Northwest Region.

Apart from participating in 11 sporting disciplines, 60 individual athletes, and four Paralympics, students will also have the opportunity to explore the features of Limbe.

**Students taking part in the opening match past**

One of the innovations of the 2024 games is the Minister’s Cup for teachers and staff in the Ministry.

Proudly standing as the official sponsor of this prestigious event is Cameroon’s leading Telecommunications Company, CAMTEL, whose unwavering support underscores their commitment to nurturing talent, promoting sportsmanship, and fostering a sense of national pride among the youth.

Constitutional Council Members Urged To Earn Full Confidence Of Citizens

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

In a significant move towards upholding justice and fostering peace, the Cameroon Congress of Parliament has urged Members of the Constitutional Council to earn the fullest mark of confidence by prioritizing equitable and fair rulings as a cornerstone.

**Constitutional Council Members sitting during the Congress of Parliament** (Photo Credit: National Assembly)

The call was made on April 2 in Yaounde by Hon. Cavaye Yenguie Djibril during the solemn oath-taking of Members of the Constitutional Council on the occasion of the third Congress of Parliament.

The oath-taking ceremony came on the heels of Presidential Decree No. 2024/010 of January 18, 2024, renewing the mandate of the President and some members of the Constitutional Council, and Decree No. 2024/011 of January 18, 2024, appointing two members of the Constitutional Council.

While calling on Members of the Constitution to always earn the fullest mark of confidence, Hon. Cavaye said that the law requires members of the Council to be competent and have moral probity.

**Partial view of Members of Parliament during the congress** (Photo Credit: National Assembly)

“…Needless to remind you of the complex and sensitive nature of constitutional matters, especially as you will be henceforth required to make rulings on the constitutionality of laws, international agreements and treaties, the standing orders of the National Assembly and of the Senate or better still to settle conflicts of jurisdiction over civil and administrative matters, etc. You will, therefore, agree with me that your scope for action is really broad,” Hon. Cavaye said.

He added that, “What is more, presidential and legislative elections are, without disregarding the possibility of holding a referendum, already on the horizon. These are electoral operations that you will be handling in the near future since it is the Constitutional Council that decides whether elections were free and fair. I am fully convinced that you will ably handle the upcoming elections. Each of you has a proven reputation, is a seasoned professional with a wealth of experience in a specific discipline.”

Despite electoral disputes being common in Africa, the Speaker of the National Assembly commended Council Members for properly discharging their functions, contributing to maintaining peace in Cameroon—a prerequisite for harmonious development and the country’s emergence as a thriving economy.

The pioneer members of the Cameroon Constitutional Council were appointed in 2018 by a Presidential Decree. In 2020, the Parliament was convened into a congress following the appointment of the late Prof. Joseph Owona.

**Congress of Parliament and Constitutional members posed for a family picture** (Photo Credit: National Assembly)

Members of the Constitutional Council include Clément Atangana, Arrey Florence Rita, Bonde Emmanuel, Essombe Émile, Paul Nchoji Nkwi, Baskouda Jean Baptiste, Bah Oumarou Sanda, Lekene Donfack Charles Étienne, Ahmadou Tidjani, Adolphe Minkoa She, and Logmo Mbelek Aaron.

According to the Constitution of the Republic of Cameroon, specifically in Article 46, the Constitutional Council has jurisdiction over matters pertaining to the Constitution, rules on the constitutionality of laws, and regulates the functioning of institutions.

The Council ensures the regularity of presidential elections, parliamentary elections, and referendum operations, proclaiming the results thereof. The eleven members are designated for an eventually renewable term of office of six years.

MINSEP, FECAFOOT Engage in New Dispute Over Lions’ Coach Appointment

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Ministry of Sports and Physical Education (MINSEP) and the Cameroon Football Federation (FECAFOOT) have found themselves entangled in a fresh dispute over the appointment of a new national team coach.

**The Indomitable Lions of Cameroon** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

The fresh but cold and silent war erupted following a communique that was seen online, signed by the MINSEP boss, Prof. Narcisse Mouelle Kombi, appointing the technical staff of the Cameroon National Team, the Indomitable Lions.

In reaction, FECAFOOT has issued an official statement distancing itself and expressing great astonishment at this act, which, according to them, runs counter to the terms of Decree N°2014/384 of September 26, 2014, on the organization and functioning of national soccer teams.

These reactions from both MINSEP and FECAFOOT, two entities expected to work hand in hand for the common good of football in the country, have sparked debates as to what is happening.

According to sports pundits, FECAFOOT, as has always been the case, is supposed to propose the name of the coach after rigorous selection to the Ministry of Sports for validation. Pundits say, from every indication, the present situation seems not to have followed the right procedures, prompting or raising many questions.

According to Decree No. 2014/384 of September 26, 2014, on the organization and operation of national football teams in Cameroon, ‘Article 3.(1) states that, “The administrative, sporting, and technical management of national football teams falls under the responsibility of the Cameroonian Football Federation hereafter referred to as FECAFOOT.”

Sub (2) of the same Article states that “The financial management of national football teams is carried out jointly by the State and FECAFOOT on the basis of specific conventions and texts.”

Whether the rules were followed before the appointment of the new coach, there is much to talk about, given that this is not the first time that MINSEP and FECAFOOT have greatly disagreed on several items.

With this fresh battle, there are hopes that FIFA might not step in to say that the government is interfering in football activities. Meanwhile, the release from MINSEP indicates that Belgian Marc Brys is the new head coach of their men’s football team.

The Belgian tactician replaces former coach Rigobert Song, whose contract was not renewed after his two-year contract expired in February 2024. The 61-year-old has coached 15 clubs in his career, in Belgium, the Netherlands, and Saudi Arabia.

Indomitable Lions Technical Team Appointed by MINSEP

Marc Brys (Head coach), / Joachim Mununga (Assistant) / Giannis Xilouris (Assistant), François Omam-Biyick (Assistant coach 1), Ashu Bessong (Assistant coach 2), Dany Nounkeu (Team manager), Christophe Manouvrier (Fitness coach), Alioum Boukar (Goalkeeping coach), Germain Noël Essengue (Team press)

CRC Launches Project To Enhance Flood Resilience In Far North Region

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

A project aimed at reducing the impact of floods and strengthening communities’ resilience in the Far North Region has been launched. The project, dubbed “Anticipatory Action on Floods in Cameroon,” was launched on April 2 in Yaounde by the Cameroon Red Cross (CRC). The project was launched in the presence of the government and partners.

**Officials pose for a family picture after the launching ceremony** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Speaking during the launching ceremony, the National President of CRC, Cecile Akame Mfoumou, underscored the importance of the project, pointing out that it is a new humanitarian approach to managing disasters.

According to her, Cameroon has experienced significant impacts from phenomena linked to climate change, such as flooding that has caused damage to property, destruction of plantations, and the displacement of populations in the Far North Region.

Flooding has also led to the loss of human life, jeopardizing the livelihoods of those affected by the floods and the water-borne diseases that are generally the consequence. All these impacts, according to experts, contribute to increasing the vulnerability of populations already suffering from a range of socio-political problems and a low standard of living.

“We have the protocol of early action against cholera, the protocol of early action against malaria, and for the activity that brought us together today, it is the launch of the development of the protocol of early action against floods. This is so that the victim populations can be protected from the flood and early flooding. This is also so that the victims of the floods can regain their dignity,” Akame Mfoumou said.

Adesh Tripathee, the head of Delegation, Country Cluster Delegation for Cameroon, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, Sao Tome and Principe, mentioned that due to climate change, the flooding pattern is changing and is frequently happening in Cameroon.

“We need to help the community to be better prepared. And for this, using meteorological data, scientific data and evidence, and local knowledge and wisdom, so the local community will be prepared. They will be better trained for,” Adesh Tripathee said.

He added that dealing with climate change is the main reason why many agencies and partners need to come together. Working together will help to make Cameroon safer, protecting residents from flood disasters, which is very important.

On her part, Angele Ndzie Ntsama from the Civil Protection Unit in the Ministry of Territorial Administration (MINAT) said that Civil Protection has four main phases. These include prevention, preparation, response, and recovery.

“We are here in the preparation phase because when we are not prepared, in case of a crisis, we will have difficulties to react. So, it is important for each state, each country, to arm themselves against crises. And I can say that this is the most important thing, to anticipate before the crisis. This is the importance of this activity,” she said.

Besides placing CRC as a major player in anticipatory action on flooding in the Far North of Cameroon, the project also aims to improve the CRC’s operational capacity by using weather forecasts for the Far North region to analyze risks and have more reliable triggers for early action before disasters strike.

Among activities to engage in during the project, which include feasibility and/or scope study of community-based surveillance (CBS), an awareness-raising workshop on shock-responsive social protection will be organized in the three communities in the Far North of Cameroon.

Additionally, there will be skills-building and involvement of volunteers in disaster management in the Far North region, as well as organization of sessions to develop and validate rapid action triggers and listing, prioritization, and validation of early actions, among other activities. The project is being funded by the Italian Government to the tune of FCFA 163,749,862.

3rd African Congress On Digital Railway Innovation To Take Place In Cameroon

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The third edition of the African Congress on Digital Railways is scheduled to take place in the Cameroon. Scheduled to take place from May 28 to May 30, this congress serves as a platform for industry stakeholders to explore and harness the potential of digital technology in the railway sector.

Organized by the Cameroonian railway company, CAMRAIL, in collaboration with the International Union of Railways, UIC, the event aims to promote the adoption of digital solutions to improve various aspects of railway operations.

The congress is coming at a crucial time for CAMRAIL, as the company is embarking on a major project to renovate 560 km of railway tracks on the Douala-Yaoundé and Belabo-Ngaoundéré segments.

This initiative is geared towards enhancing connectivity within the country’s eastern region and facilitating trade with neighboring countries such as Chad and the Central African Republic (CAR).

The funding for this ambitious railway renovation project has been secured through contributions from prominent donors, including the European Investment Bank (EIB), the World Bank, and the French Development Agency (AFD).

CAMRAIL’s commitment to digitalization is evident in its efforts to modernize various aspects of its operations. Moreover, as part of its ongoing modernization drive, CAMRAIL has decided to digitize the maintenance of its infrastructure, much of which dates back to the colonial era.

The UIC emphasizes the importance of digital transformation in the African railway sector to address future challenges effectively.

By leveraging digital technologies, the industry can introduce innovative solutions that enhance both passenger transport and the movement of freight and minerals, potentially helping the continent overcome existing delays in railway transport infrastructure development.

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 43^rd 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.

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