André Onana Excited After Captaining Manchester United In Pre-Season Match

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Cameroonian International André Onana says it’s a huge honor to captain Manchester United FC. He made the statement shortly after Manchester United defeated Glasgow Rangers 2-0 on Saturday, July 20, as part of their pre-season preparations.

***Andre Onana during Manchester United FC vs Glasgow Rangers FC match*** *(File Picture)*

“It’s huge to be captain of Manchester United. It’s also great to play with young players because we were in their shoes many years ago. We try to help them as our elders did in the past,” Onana said.

Brazilian captain Casemiro was replaced in the starting lineup after 46 minutes. And throughout the second half, it was Cameroon international André Onana who captained the Red Devils.

Onana also expressed excitement about Manchester United’s new signing, Leny Yoro, after his impressive first appearance for the club in pre-season.

“If you want to be a Manchester United player, you must have quality, and he’s already shown himself in the first half. He’s a young, talented player, good on the ball, so we’re going to enjoy him this season,” he said.

He added, “We’re here to help him. We’re going to give him time; we know he’s going to be alright, and we have very good scouts here, so if they brought him in, that means he’s got a lot of quality.”

Regarding the changes to Erik ten Hag’s backroom staff, Onana said, “I think it’s very positive for the whole club. It’s about all of us because we win and lose together. The club decided to make a lot of changes, so as players, we just have to follow the decision.”

He concluded, “We’re going to America next week to prepare for the Premier League. It’s a tough league, the best league in the world, so we’ll be ready for the new season. Last season, I don’t want to talk about it [laughs], so this season, it’s going to be nice.”

SIARC 2024: This Year, We Expect To Attract At Least 15 000 Visitors – Minister Achille Bassilekin III

Anna Ndifon Ting, Daisy Martina, Maurine Akum & Finels Mbabo (ASMAC Journalism Students on Internship at The Post)

The Minister of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises, Social Economy and Handicrafts (MINPMEESA), Achille Bassilekin III, has said that approximately 15,000 visitors are expected to attend the 2024 edition of the International Craft Fair of Cameroon (SIARC), which kicks off on July 22.

***Minister Bassilekin III speaking during the press conference***

Minister Bassilekin III made the statement on July 19 during a press conference aimed at outlining Cameroon’s preparedness for the Craft Fair.

“This year, we expect to attract at least 15,000 visitors,” said Achille Bassilekin III, expressing hope for a higher turnout than the previous edition held in 2021. The event will run from July 22 to 31, 2024, at the Esplanade of the National Museum.

Inspired by the National Development Strategy 2020-2030 (NDS30), the 8th International Craft Fair of Cameroon will be celebrated under the theme “Digital Technology: A Tool for the Craft Industry’s Sustainable Development and Craft People’s Global Inclusion.”

Tunisia has been chosen as the guest of honor to enable Cameroon to learn from its expertise in craft creativity and ability to adapt to technological changes. Special delegations will also arrive from Burkina Faso and Congo.

Speaking further, Minister Bassilekin III stated that SIARC is a platform for information sharing, training, and exchanging best practices on the progress, reforms, and public policies implemented to promote the development of the craft ecosystem at both national and international levels.

“The handicraft sector, which the government aims to make competitive and efficient, cannot remain on the sidelines of this global dynamic,” he said. “It will also be an opportunity for craftspeople to make good deals during special purchasing operations for the handicraft products on display.”

For ten days, craftsmen from Cameroon and beyond will showcase their craftsmanship in 510 stands at the National Museum. Craft operators, government officials, businessmen, ICT experts, and journalists will participate in capacity-building workshops. They will also organize conferences and debates to discuss the role of digital technology in the craft industry and its future direction. Craft products from different regions will also be exhibited.

Given that digitalization plays a key role in the economic growth of nations, Minister Bassilekin III noted that MINPMEESA has embarked on modernizing production tools, manufacturing processes, and ultimately product modeling and physical aspects.

He said numerous technological innovations have been implemented to improve the craft industry and advance its technological integration, including the provision of infrastructure. He added that handicraft villages have been established in all regions of the country, with Foumban, Mbalmayo, and the Yaoundé International Handicraft Center standing out due to their high-quality information technology equipment in the process of being connected to fiber optics.

While the Ministry has begun offering capacity-building courses in computer skills and plans to expand these efforts through future collaborations with training institutions, an online marketing and exhibition platform has been created at the Yaoundé International Handicraft Center, among other initiatives.

King Luca Joins Akumba Music

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Akumba Music has signed a promising new talent, Sah Muhamed Umaru, known by artistic name as King Luca.

The 21-year-old nursing student from Nso tribe in the Northwest Region of Cameroon has inked a seven-year deal that covers artiste development, music production, distribution, and image management.

King Luca caught the attention of Akumba Music with a standout verse on Elisha K’s “Joana” Open Verse Challenge.

His captivating performance led the label to feature him on the remix, which will be included in Elisha K’s upcoming EP, “Days of Elisha Epistle II.”

Akumba Music was impressed by King Luca’s originality, lyrical skills, and delivery. The label believes he has the potential to become a major star and is excited to nurture his talent.

Fans are looking forward to hearing King Luca when the “Joana Remix” drops as part of the “Days of Elisha Epistle II” EP.

Salatiel Unveils New Album, “Family Man”

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Cameroonian singer and producer Salatiel Livenja Bessong, known by his artistic name Highman General, has released a new album, “Family Man.” This is Salatiel’s second studio album, following his debut, “Africa Represented,” released on February 26, 2021.

***Salatiel Livenja Bessong, aka Highman General***

The 2021 album included a remix of Beyoncé’s “Water,” featuring Salatiel and Pharrell Williams. The new 11-track album highlights collaborations with MIMIE and Charlotte Dipanda on track 6, “Closer,” and LOCKO on track 11, “First Lady.” “Family Man” is currently available exclusively on Boomplay.

Born in 1987, Salatiel is the CEO of Alpha Better Records. He began his career in 2014, the same year the label was founded. He has produced hit songs for artists such as Mr. Leo, Daphne, Askia, and Blaise B.

Salatiel was named the best producer at the Urban Jamz Awards in 2018 and received six nominations in 2019 for Best Music Video Performance, Best Music Producer, Best Afrobeat/Pop Song, Best Collabo, Best Male Artist, and Artist of the Year. His single “Fab Kolo” won the MTN Cameroon Make the Contest competition.

In July 2019, he announced the release of his first international album, “Africa Represented,” on major streaming platforms. The album earned him a nomination at the AFRIMMA Awards 2019.

A singer, songwriter, and producer from Batibo in the Northwest Region of Cameroon, Salatiel’s music genres include Afro-pop, Afrobeats, and hip hop. He is proficient in vocals, guitar, and piano.

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.

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