Kidnapping For Ransom Becomes An ‘Economic Weapon’ In Cameroon’s Anglophone Regions

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

In the dim light of a WhatsApp video call, Steven sits in a cramped room in Douala, his eyes fixed on the floor. A few months ago, he was a businessman in the Bui Division of the Northwest Region.

Today, he is a man with no capital, no home, and a memory haunted by the “Boys” — the local term for armed separatist fighters.

Steven, who is in his 30s, is a casualty of the “Anglophone Crisis,” a bloody conflict between the Cameroonian government and separatist forces that has simmered since 2017. His crime? The fighters suspected him of collaborating with the military.

At first, Steven believed his abduction was a mistake that would be cleared up in hours. But the atmosphere in the camp shifted when he realized his captors were men he had once shared meals with in his village. They demanded a ransom of FCFA 3 million.

“Each passing moment was hell because the torture was unbearable,” Steven said. “I sold everything I owned. My brothers in other cities had to borrow heavily.

In the end, we handed over FCFA 2 million—money that was supposed to be my business capital. Now, I have to start over in a city where I have nothing.”

Steven’s ordeal is not an isolated incident; it is part of what experts call a decentralized extortion racket that has replaced traditional commerce in the Northwest and Southwest regions.

According to reports, kidnappings for ransom surged by nearly 100 percent in 2023, with at least 450 documented cases. Analysts believe the actual number is much higher, as many families pay in silence to protect their loved ones.

“This is an economic weapon of mass destruction,” said one economic analyst. “By forcing families to liquidate land and life savings, these groups are performing a rapid, forced capital flight. The wealth of the community is being sucked into the machinery of war.”

The consequences extend far beyond individual families. The region’s “Ghost Towns”—mandatory protest days enforced by separatists—already paralyzed markets. Now, the fear of kidnapping has turned once-fertile farmland into “ghost farms.”

Traditionally, the region relied on communal farming and the “Njangi” (informal credit unions) to survive hard times. These safety nets have been systematically dismantled as every spare franc is redirected toward ransom payments.

“I have been taken several times,” said one local resident who requested anonymity. “Each time, the price goes up. Eventually, there is nothing left to give, and that is when people simply leave their homes forever.”

The original political grievances of the Anglophone regions—calls for better representation and judicial reform—have been largely overshadowed by this brutal pursuit of profit. The region is now slipping into a state of structural dependency on external humanitarian aid.

For survivors like Steven and Jude, the physical scars may heal, but the economic ruin is a life sentence. As the “ransom economy” continues to grow, it threatens to leave behind a hollowed-out society where the only thriving industry is the trade of human lives.

NSODA President Implore “Wirfon” To Disagree Without Destroying One Another

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The President-General of the Nso Cultural and Development Association (NSODA), Shey Tadze Adamu Mbiydzela, has call on sons and daughters of Nso land “Wirfon” to “disagree without destroying one another” and to respect centuries-old traditional structures.

**Shey Tadze Adamu Mbiydzela, President-General of the Nso Cultural and Development Association (NSODA)**

Mbiydzela delivered the message in an end-of-year address on Dec. 31, 2025. He announced that 2026 will be observed under the theme “Our Unity, Our Strength, Our Shared Responsibility.”

“Let us disagree without destroying one another,” he said. “Our culture and traditional governance structures are built on respect, dialogue and established customs, not the fleeting passions of online debate.”

He stressed that unity is “the very foundation of our existence as a people” and urged Nso people to reject divisions based on ethnicity, politics, religion or region. Reflecting on 2025, which was designated the Year of Peace and Reconciliation, Mbiydzela said NSODA’s peace and reconciliation initiatives have made gradual progress despite persistent efforts by those seeking to deepen internal divisions.

“Our collective efforts are needed for peace to reign,” he said. “At the individual level, we must support community-based initiatives aimed at healing trauma and rebuilding trust.”

He specifically called on Nso sons and daughters involved in non-state armed groups to embrace peace efforts so families can move freely and carry out their activities in safety and dignity. Mbiydzela urged active participation in community rebuilding, support for victims and dialogue, especially among youth who have been disproportionately affected by conflict and lack of opportunities.

He stressed the need to invest aggressively in education, skills training and entrepreneurship to empower young people and reduce their vulnerability to manipulation and radicalization. The NSODA leader also addressed the anticipated return of the sacred Ngonnso statue from Germany, describing it as “the spiritual homecoming of our mother deity” and “the return of a piece of our soul.”

“It is a moment of profound cultural and spiritual significance for every Nso person,” he said. “NSODA will work tirelessly with traditional authorities and the reception committee to ensure a dignified and culturally appropriate reception.”

Looking ahead to 2026, Mbiydzela said the focus will be on projects that create jobs and opportunities, particularly for women and youth. He called for closer collaboration between municipal councils, the Presidential Plan for the Reconstruction and Development (PPRD), the diaspora, traditional leaders and nongovernmental partners.

“Our strength has always been in our unity,” he said. “I implore all Nso people, both at home and in the diaspora, to put aside our differences and work collectively for the development, security and prosperity of the Nso Kingdom from Nkar to Nseh and Mbokam to Mbiame.”

Mbiydzela acknowledged that 2025 was marked by both resilience and deep scars from the ongoing national socio-political crisis, internal challenges within the paramountcy and the long-awaited repatriation of cultural heritage. “These storms we have weathered have tested the very fabric of our community,” he said, “but they have also projected our collective resilience as our greatest asset.”

He called for continued attention to the security situation, economic hardships and humanitarian needs through honest dialogue, lawful civic participation and transitional justice processes that support truth-telling, victim assistance and reintegration of former conflict actors.

“NSODA strongly advocates for dialogue over discord, support for youth, justice and reintegration so as to bring about genuine peace and reconciliation,” he said.

President Biya Urges Cameroonians To Unite For National Peace

President Paul Biya has called on Cameroonians to come together in defense of national peace, condemning the rise in attacks on authority and violent rhetoric as “unacceptable.”

**Biya Speaking to Cameroonians on December 31, 2025** (Photo Credit: Unity Palace)

In his traditional end-of-year address, Biya emphasized that the nation-building process cannot afford disorder, indiscipline, or impunity. He urged citizens to do their utmost to preserve stability, asserting that the government would exert strong control over relevant sectors to maintain public order.

On regional security, the President reaffirmed the government’s commitment to restore normalcy in the Far North, Northwest, and Southwest regions. He expressed hope in the power of community dialogue and encouraged administrative leaders, traditional rulers, and local figures to dedicate themselves to the peace-building process.

Biya commended the professionalism of defense and security forces for their courageous efforts against terrorism and crime, which pose a threat to the safety of Cameroonians and their property.

In discussing political and economic matters, the President pointed to the successful organization of presidential and regional elections in 2025 as evidence of the country’s democratic vitality. Despite global economic challenges, structural reforms, aided by international partners, have helped maintain macroeconomic stability.

He noted that while the investment budget has risen, measures to curb inflation and boost local production are in place to safeguard the well-being of the population.

Infrastructure development was also a key focus, with Biya highlighting the commissioning of the Nachtigal Dam and new solar power plants in northern regions as crucial steps towards enhancing power supply. He added that significant advancements have been made in the road sector and in providing clean drinking water for urban and rural communities.

Despite these successes, Biya acknowledged the need for ongoing efforts to improve living conditions, asserting that this would be a top priority for the forthcoming government.

Responding to political critics, Biya dismissed claims of governmental inaction as “false,” urging citizens to be wary of those spreading misleading narratives. He reiterated his commitment to transparency regarding the country’s challenges in a complex international landscape.

The President reaffirmed his administration’s focus on the Special Youth Employment Promotion Plan and the empowerment of women, pledging to bridge the gap between youth and experience while combatting injustices tied to ethnicity or culture.

Biya underscored the importance of collective action to foster “living together” and strengthen national unity. He cautioned that rising cultural isolationism and hate speech in the media threaten the core foundations of the nation.

He called upon all Cameroonians, both domestically and abroad, to engage in the noble endeavor of nation-building, upholding the values of equal opportunity and mutual respect.

Afro-Folk Artist Richard Kings, Banla Explore Foundation Of Human Joy In New 12-Song Collaboration

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Acclaimed Afro-folk storyteller Richard Kings and producer-composer Banla have joined forces for a deeply moving 12-song project that explores happiness, love, and emotional truth.

The collaboration, now in production, emerges from a shared vision to create music that resonates across cultures, rooted in authenticity and timeless human experiences. This ambitious body of work delves into happiness not as a fleeting moment, but as a deliberate state shaped by vulnerability, memory, and connection.

Drawing from Afro-folk traditions, contemporary acoustic sounds, and global musical influences, the project reflects the duo’s commitment to crafting songs that heal and uplift. Each of the twelve tracks offers a unique perspective, weaving together melodies and lyrics that celebrate joy, intimacy, and gratitude.

The collaboration began organically, sparked by mutual respect and a desire to create music free from pretense. Over months of songwriting and reflection, Banla and Kings shaped a cohesive collection that feels both intimate and universal. Their work eschews fleeting trends, focusing instead on emotions and stories that endure across time and place. The project’s first single, “C’est Toi,” arrives January 1, setting a tender and hopeful tone for the new year.

Sung with sincerity, the song celebrates the person who embodies home and anchors happiness in everyday life. Its gentle instrumentation and heartfelt lyricism invite listeners into a warm, affirming embrace. On Valentine’s Day, the official music video for “C’est Toi” will debut, amplifying the song’s themes of love and emotional closeness.

The video, designed to mirror the music’s intimacy, will focus on shared moments and vulnerability, prioritizing human connection over spectacle. The remaining tracks will roll out progressively, each exploring happiness through diverse emotional and cultural lenses.

Together, the songs serve as a reminder that joy is not stumbled upon but cultivated and shared. Banla and Kings have created a sonic refuge, inviting listeners into a space where love is gentle, and music speaks to the soul. With this collaboration, the duo establishes a powerful testament to the enduring beauty of human bonds, blending Afro-folk, acoustic, and soul influences into a project that promises to resonate far beyond its release.

RENAPROV FINANCE SA 1996 – 2026: Scaling Growth With Landmark Offering Of 400,000 New Shares To Drive Sustainable Development

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

RENAPROV FINANCE SA, a cornerstone of the Cameroonian microfinance sector since 1996, has officially announced a significant expansion of its shareholding structure. As a central pillar of its Comprehensive Strategic Plan, the institution is issuing 400,000 new shares to the public, inviting fresh investment to fuel its next phase of inclusive and sustainable growth.

This capital opening represents a strategic shift intended to bolster equity while maintaining the highest standards of professional conduct, ethics, and corporate governance. The decision to welcome new shareholders is rooted in a rigorous commitment to the institution’s long-term investment roadmap.

By strengthening its financial base, RENAPROV FINANCE SA intends to refine its ability to offer specialized products and services that meet the precise needs of its diverse client base, existing shareholders, and dedicated members.

This issuance marks a transformative stage in the company’s history, providing the necessary resources to scale operations and enhance its impact across the regional financial landscape. Prospective investors now have the opportunity to join an established player with nearly three decades of market experience.

This move is not merely an increase in capital but a deliberate effort to build a more inclusive ownership model that supports sustainable development goals. Through this expansion, RENAPROV FINANCE SA reinforces its position as a forward-looking leader in microfinance, dedicated to achieving ambitious objectives through collaborative and transparent investment.

Dzekwa Rangers FC Claims 13th Bui Sports Fans Competition Title

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Dzekwa Rangers FC of Jakiri were crowned champions of the 13th edition of the Bui Sports Fans Competition (BSFC) on Sunday, Dec. 28, following a tense penalty shootout victory over Melim United.

***Dzekwa Rangers brandish their 2025 BSFC trophy*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

The final match, which drew a large crowd of passionate supporters ended in a 0-0 deadlock after regulation time. Dzekwa Rangers, the oldest participating team in the tournament’s history, finally secured the elusive trophy, succeeding 2024 champions Nso Boys.

The championship game served as the third meeting between the two rivals during the 2025 campaign, and the familiarity between the squads was evident from the opening whistle.

Both sides employed high-pressure tactics early on, though Melim United appeared more clinical in their build-up play. Melim dominated the opening 20 minutes, creating two clear scoring opportunities that narrowly missed the target.

Dzekwa Rangers eventually found their rhythm, briefly taking command of the match, but the momentum shifted back to Melim United before the halftime whistle. Despite the back-and-forth action, the first half ended goalless.

**Melim United and Dzekwa Rangers fight for supremacy during the finals** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

The second half reflected the first in intensity as both teams maintained high stamina, pushing deep into the final thirds of the pitch. While several strikes came close to opening the scoring, neither side could find the back of the net, leaving the cheering supporters on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.

For the Dzekwa supporters, the victory was an emotional culmination of years of participation. Supporters hailed the Jakiri club for its longevity and determination.

“I am so happy that Dzekwa United have finally won a trophy,” said a supporter. “They have suffered in this competition for a long time, always coming close but falling short. This year, their consistency and resilience finally paid off.”

The atmosphere was starkly different in the Melim United camp. Despite controlling much of the ball, the team was unable to convert their dominance into goals.

**Fans and supporters watched the finals of the 13th edition of the BSFC (**Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

“It was a really bad day because my team played so well,” a Melim supporter said following the shootout. :They dominated on all fronts, and yet nothing good came out of it. We cry today, but we remain incredibly proud of the team’s effort.”

Shortly after the competition came to an end, fans and observers noted that the 2025 edition showcased a level of tactical maturity that rivals professional leagues. “This competition is one of the best so far in Yaounde,” one fan noted. “It is a local competition, but the level of play is high. I think sports authorities need to look at how to elevate this tournament. The playing style was mature and highly disciplined.”

The 13th edition of the BSFC kicked off in September 2025 with a focused four-team lineup. The participating clubs included Melim United, Dzekwa United, Nso Youth FC of Nkolmeseng, and Chitaah FC. With Dzekwa’s victory, the tournament concludes another year of celebrating community spirit through sport.

**Bui Strikers Veteran Match – Rangers vs United** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Before the finals, Bui Strikers Veteran FC of Yaoundé, main organizers of the BSFC played a friendly match featuring their own members. They divided into two teams: Rangers FC and United FC. This match served as a farewell to the current sporting season as they set their sights on 2026.

Morocco 2025: Cameroon, Ivory Coast Vie for Early AFCON Dominance In Group F Clash

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Defending champions Ivory Coast will face five-time winners Cameroon in a blockbuster Group F clash at the 2025 TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations, AFCON on Sunday December 28, with both sides aiming to take command of the group after narrow opening victories.

**Cameroon players celebrate after scoring against Gabon in their opening match of Group F at the ongoing 2025 AFCON** (Photo Credit: CAF)

The match at Stade de Marrakech kicks off at 8 p.m. GMT, pitting the Elephants against the Indomitable Lions in what promises to be a tense, high-stakes battle between two of Africa’s powerhouse teams.

Both nations kicked off their campaigns with hard-fought 1-0 wins on Dec. 24. Manchester United winger Amad Diallo scored the lone goal for Ivory Coast in a dominant but profligate display against Mozambique, breaking the deadlock early in the second half.

Cameroon, meanwhile, edged Gabon thanks to Karl Etta Eyong’s early strike, marking their first AFCON victory over their neighbors and underscoring their trademark resilience in the tournament play.

A victory this Sunday would put the winner in pole position to top the group and advance comfortably to the round of 16, while also delivering an early psychological blow in Morocco’s winter tournament.

These storied rivals have produced classic encounters over the years, often guarded affairs settled by fine margins or individual brilliance. Sports pundits anticipate another tactical showdown, with midfield dominance likely to prove decisive.

Ivory Coast’s solid backline, featuring seasoned defenders, will be tested by Cameroon’s potent attackers, including Premier League talents like Bryan Mbeumo. On the flip side, the Lions’ organized defense must neutralize the Elephants’ speedy wide players and creative flair on the counter.

Cameroon boasts five AFCON crowns, while Ivory Coast have three — including their dramatic home triumph in 2023. This latest meeting adds another layer to a fierce rivalry filled with unforgettable moments.

For the Elephants, success would reinforce their credentials as serious contenders to become the first repeat champions since Egypt in 2010. For Cameroon, it would signal their intent to chase a sixth title and reclaim their spot atop the continental hierarchy.

The Ivory Coast vs. Cameroon rivalry remains neck-and-neck heading into their December 28 clash. While Cameroon leads the all-time head-to-head (10 wins to 8), Ivory Coast has dominated lately, losing just once in their last five meetings. From the iconic 1992 AFCON shootout to modern-day battles, history suggests this next chapter will be just as tight.

Stade de Marrakech is set for a charged atmosphere under the lights, as fans from both camps are expected to create a vibrant backdrop for this marquee matchup. With Ivory Coast carrying momentum from their recent success and Cameroon drawing on their famed knockout pedigree, neutrals can expect a cautious start, intense battles in the middle and a outcome hanging on the slimmest of edges.

This is the sort of epic confrontation that can shape an entire tournament — and neither team will give ground easily.

Cameroon Secures FCFA 51.8Bn Loan To Modernize State-Owned Agro Giant CDC

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Cameroon has secured a loan worth about 51.8 billion CFA francs ($86 million) from Standard Chartered Bank to modernize processing facilities at the state-owned Cameroon Development Corporation, officials said.

**A cross view of the plant to be constructed in CDC**(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

The agreements were signed Dec. 19 in Yaounde by Economy Minister Alamine Ousmane Mey and Nkposong Asuquo, Standard Chartered’s director for African markets. The financing, structured by the bank’s London branch, includes a buyer’s credit of 71.7 million euros guaranteed by France’s BPI France public investment bank and a tied commercial credit of 7.1 million euros.

The funds will support the supply and installation of modern plants for processing palm oil, margarine and rubber at CDC facilities. The 25-month project is being executed by French company Tyllium, with oversight from the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development and the CDC as delegated project owner.

The initiative is part of the CDC’s economic recovery plan and aligns with Cameroon’s National Development Strategy 2020-2030, aimed at structural transformation, job creation, local processing of agricultural products, reduced import dependence and regional growth, particularly in the Southwest Region.

**Minister Ousmane Mey and Nkposong Asuquo exchanging MoU** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

During the occasion, Minister Ousmane Mey described the agreements as the result of effective partnerships guided by President Paul Biya’s vision for Cameroon to emerge as a developed nation by 2035.

“The support aligns with the implementation of the SND30, which targets strong, inclusive and sustainable growth, decent job creation and poverty reduction,” he said, emphasizing balanced territorial development.

Nkposong Asuquo highlighted Standard Chartered’s more than 40-year partnership with Cameroon, noting the bank has provided over 1.5 billion euros in financing for strategic projects in recent years.

“We are proud of the progress Cameroon has made and honored to support its future development,” he said. He added that the CDC project is significant for agricultural advancement, bolstering production and export capabilities.

***Officials posed for a family picture*** *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

A representative of the French Ambassador to Cameroon said the project advances food security by promoting local palm oil production to curb imports and supports exports of finished rubber products for revenue generation.

The CDC General Manager, Franklin Ngoni Njie called the financing another sign of the President’s commitment to rebuilding and modernizing the corporation.

Bruno Schambacher, President of Tyllium, thanked Cameroonian authorities and partners for years of collaborative work to secure the financing, which will fund machinery and equipment for the factories.

The signing follows government efforts earlier in 2025 to clear salary arrears at the CDC, a major employer in the agro-industrial sector.

Dzekwa Rangers, Melim United Set for Historic 2025 BSFC Final

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The stage is set for a historic showdown at the Yaounde Military Stadium as the 2025 Bui Sports Fans Competition (BSFC) reaches its climax. On Dec. 28, Dzekwa Rangers will face Melim United in a final that marks a symbolic changing of the guard for the prestigious annual tournament.

**Dzekwa Rangers (L) and Melim United (R) read to face each other on December 28** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

For the Dzekwa Rangers, this appearance is the culmination a long journey. For some years, the Rangers have been a staple of the BSFC, known more for their persistence and loyal fan base than for championship hardware. Despite years of competitive play, the club has historically struggled to break through into the finals.

This year, however, the narrative shifted. The Rangers displayed a new level of tactical discipline, punching their ticket to the final with a gritty 2-1 victory over Melim United during the sixth day of group stage—a win that solidified their status as the team to beat.

While the Rangers represent veteran persistence, Melim United represents a meteoric rise. Over the last three editions of the BSFC, Melim United has transformed from a participant into a powerhouse.

Their path to the 2025 final has been defined by a “never say die” attitude, overcoming early-season stumbles to emerge as the tournament’s most explosive offensive threat.

Club supporters are hopeful that this is the year the “Melim Obstacle” is finally cleared, bringing a first-ever championship trophy to their cabinet.

The final serves as the “rubber match” of a three-part saga between these two clubs in this year BSFC. Their journey began on Sept. 28 in a defensive 0-0 stalemate. The second meeting was the aforementioned 2-1 Rangers victory, a match so intense it reportedly set attendance records for the preliminary rounds.

“It is poetic that the two teams who kicked off the competition in September are the ones closing it in December,” said a supporter. “It proves that these are, without question, the two most consistent squads in this years competition.”

The BSFC has grown into more than just a competition; it is a cultural touchstone for the Bui community. With both teams seeking their first-ever title, the atmosphere at the Military Stadium is expected to be electric.

Organizers are anticipating a capacity crowd as fans from across the region descend on Yaounde to witness which club will finally etch its name into the annals of Cameroon’s most passionate fan-driven competition. The winner will succeed Nso Boys FC, champions of the 2024 edition.

Ambassador Lamora Calls On Newly Installed Striking Eagles Exco To Keep Focus

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The U.S. Ambassador to Cameroon, H.E Christopher J. Lamora has urged the newly elected executive of the Striking Eagles to remain focused on the qualities that have defined the team’s success. Ambassador Lamora made the remarks on Dec. 20 in Yaounde during an installation ceremony for the team’s new leadership.

**Ambassador Lamora speaking after the friendly match** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

“I told them to keep focused on the things that have made the Striking Eagles a really great organization and a strong football team, and I have total confidence the new board will continue and build on the legacy of the old board,” Ambassador Lamora said.

Prior to the ceremony, the diplomat praised the team’s resilience during a friendly match against SIAC football team of Febe Village. The Striking Eagles trailed 3-0 at halftime before rallying to a 5-3 victory.

**Ambassador Lamora installing the new executive board of the Striking Eagles** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

“I’m really proud of our Embassy team,” Ambassador Lamora said. “They played really, really hard. Our opposing team also played really well. I’m glad that our team won, but at the end of the day, it’s about sportsmanship, teamwork, friendliness, and creating bonds.”

Isa Adamu, who was re-elected President of the Striking Eagles on Aug. 22, said the team will prioritize Embassy values : Respect, Integrity, Community, and Efficiency (RICE). “The new mandate is to see we play more games, get more fun, more competitions, and then create more networking with other organizations,” Isa Adamu said.

**Striking Eagles of the US Embassy Yaounde** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Isa Adamu noted that a key challenge for the new term is the empowerment of Eligible Family Members (EFMs). “We want to coach them to see how they can also become stable,” he said. “We are trying to build great teams together with the old and the new members.”

**SIAC FC of Febe Village, Yaounde** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Isa Adamu stressed that his leadership will be rooted in “teamwork” and the U.S. Embassy’s core values. The executive board with a two year mandate is now looking toward an upcoming General Assembly, which will serve as a focal point for amending the team’s constitution.

Recent Posts

Tile Posts

Posts Thumbnail

List Posts

Categories

Posts Thumbnail

Recent Posts

List Posts

Social Links