Tzy Panchak’s Latest Album “GOD’s PEOPLE” Sparks Enthusiasm

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Cameroonian singer Etah Tambe Nyenti, also known as Tzy Panchak, has set the music scene ablaze with his latest album, “GOD’s PEOPLE,” featuring captivating melodies and powerful lyrics.

Tzy Panchak’s fourth studio project, recently released, consists of nine tracks. Speaking to News-Lens, fans of Tzy Panchak expressed their happiness with tracks like “Only You” and “Moves,” which evoke strong emotions.

**Etah Tambe Nyenti, aka Tzy Panchak** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

“I like his latest album because the songs have very meaningful lyrics. The message is wonderful, especially the track ‘God is Love,'” a fan shared, while another praised the collaboration with Tenor in the track “Never Fall.”

“As you can see, I am enjoying the album. The songs are very nice,” another fan added.

After savoring fans with “Love & War” album in 2022 and parting ways with Blu Nation Recording, Tzy Panchak, under his own record label Greatness Music, collaborates with artists such as Blanche Bailly, Raizy, Tenor, Krys M, MiNk’s, Innoss’B, Cleo Grae, and Abztrumental to give the album the grandeur it deserves.

The singer aims to establish his legacy under his newly created record label, Greatness Music, with the release of “God’s People.”

Tzy Panchak, a Cameroonian artist, found his inspiration for music while studying at university in Calabar, Nigeria, where he fell in love with the Nigerian sound.

However, he is determined to be recognized as a Cameroonian musician and to support other young artists from his country. Etah Tambe Nyenti is not only an artist but also a performer, vocal coach, and songwriter.

U.S Ambassador Inaugurates Center For Transformative Education in Ngaoundere

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The United States Ambassador to Cameroon, H.E Christopher J. Lamora has inaugurated the Center for Transformative Education at the University of Ngaoundéré in the Adamawa Region.

***H.E. Christopher J. Lamora (3rd from Left) cutting the inaugural ribbon*** *(Photo Credit: US Embassy Yaounde)*

The inauguration ceremony took place on March 11. H.E Lamora was accompanied by Prof. Abdoulmoumini Mamoudou, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ngaoundéré, alongside many other dignitaries.

In a keynote speech, the U.S. diplomat said that the occasion marked the culmination of several years of collaborative efforts between Cameroonians and Americans. He added that the center will provide an opportunity for teachers, lecturers, professionals, and students to engage in constructive discussions, pushing each other to challenge the status quo and improve educational outcomes for future generations.

“This occasion marks the culmination of several years of collaborative efforts between Cameroonians and Americans. The work that we do together has tremendous potential to transform societies, and today we are witnessing the beginning of the far-reaching effects that I am confident will result from the creation of this Center,” H.E Lamora said.

H.E. Christopher J. Lamora speaking to the press (Photo Credit: US Embassy Yaounde)

He added, “This marks the beginning of transformative education pedagogy, where teachers, lecturers, professionals, and students will engage in constructive discussions, pushing each other to challenge the status quo and improve educational outcomes for future generations.”

Highlighting the partnership between the University of Ngaoundéré and Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana, he said that both institutions share an unwavering commitment to education and professional development.

“This is why we were pleased to award Ball State University a U.S. government grant of CFA 15 million ($25,000) to organize a series of seminars on innovative pedagogic approaches in support of the Center for Transformative Education,” he added.

While admitting that several lecturers and students at the University of Ngaoundéré have benefited from exchange programs in a variety of fields, he expressed his optimism that this partnership will grow and expand for the mutual benefit of Cameroonian and American students and scholars.

Besides remunerating some of the teachers of the institutions who have benefited from the US Exchange programs, the Ambassador indicated that partnerships between American and Cameroonian universities, such as that between the University of Ngaoundéré and Ball State, further foster knowledge-sharing and strengthen academic ties.

“We at the U.S. Embassy also seek to empower students and faculty by providing access to free digital library resources, ensuring they have the information they need to successfully conduct their work. Furthermore, we invest in the future of Cameroon by supporting projects that empower young people across the nation and develop their leadership skills,” he said.

**H.E. Christopher J. Lamora and officials pose for a family picture** (Photo Credit: US Embassy Yaounde)

According to Ambassador Lamora, these engagements embody the U.S. commitment to investing in Cameroon’s vast human capital and its institutions. “I have focused a lot on educational and leadership development. But the U.S. partnership with Cameroon also extends to other priority areas, such as addressing immediate humanitarian needs,” he stated.

The Center for Transformative Education is a partnership between the University of Ngaoundéré and Ball State University in the United States. The Center’s goal is to reinforce pedagogic competence among professors, increase curriculum quality, and promote transformative pedagogy, student engagement, leadership, and effective evaluation of students and instructors. In addition to donating 10 computers, the U.S. Embassy supported the Center with over 15 million CFA to implement pedagogic workshops.

Victoria United Faces Uncertain Playoff Fate As Chamber Of Arbitration And Conciliation Makes Ruling

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The fate of Victoria United of Limbe, alias Opopo, participating in the 2023/2024 playoffs, is hanging in the balance following the ruling of the Chamber of Arbitration and Conciliation of the Cameroon National Olympic and Sports Committee, CNOSC.

Sources say the ruling made on March 12, Victoria United lost a match they had won on a green carpet. The winning of the match had taken them to the top four with the likelihood that they will be participating in the playoffs.

**Victoria United during the 2023/2024 football season in Cameroon** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

On matchday 15 of Elite One championship, Victoria United and Avion du Nkam played out a 1-1 draw. Opopo because of cases of irregularities appealed to FECAFOOT’s judicial bodies and won the case. The green-carpet victory propelled Opopo into the playoffs.

However, after referring the matter to the Chamber of Arbitration and Conciliation, Avion du Nkam won the match, confirming the score as 1-0. The loss of two points consequently relegates Victoria United to fifth place, synonymous with the Play-offs Down.

If Opopo disagrees with the ruling, the team has another option to appeal before TAS, which will decide as the last resort. Assuming everything being equal, Victoria United will be participating in the Play Down, which involves 11 teams. In the meantime, several other cases are pending in the Chamber of Arbitration and Conciliation.

The cases of Fauve Azur vs FECAFOOT, Yong Sport vs FECAFOOT/Victoria United, UMS vs FECAFOOT/Victoria United, and UMS vs FECAFOOT/Apejes. Verdicts for these cases are expected to be passed on March 13.

All applying clubs, namely Fauve Azur, Yong Sport, and UMS, are challenging some decisions made at the end of the championship by the FECAFOOT judicial bodies.

SYNAFOC Calls For Postponement Of Playoffs

The National Union of Cameroonian Footballers, better known as SYNAFOC, has called on FECAFOOT to postpone the playoffs scheduled to begin in the coming days.

In a press release signed by Daniel Blaise Ngo, Secretary-General, regarding the 93 players (Elite One & Two) who are suspected of fraudulently using their identities, SYNAFOC strongly condemned the practice of identity fraud among players.

Among other questions raised, SYNAFOC questioned why such serious accusations against the players are made public in this manner, even though the clubs employing them have been given a 48-hour period to provide evidence justifying the identities presented in license application files. SYNAFOC stated that identity fraud cannot be solely attributed to the players, who are often the victims in such situations.

Considering the gravity of the situation (15 out of 19 Elite One Clubs are implicated), the Union of footballers proposed that the playoffs be postponed for at least ten days. This would allow for a thorough investigation into the matter, which may involve not only the players but also other known and identifiable stakeholders organizing the fraud. The players could potentially be mere scapegoats in a larger fraudulent scheme.

The Union further suggested the creation of a joint commission of inquiry comprising representatives from players, clubs, and legal professionals to ascertain responsibilities and ensure that all parties involved are held accountable. This would help identify and eliminate the individuals perpetuating this fraud and safeguard the integrity of the sport.

93 Players Identified To Have Double Identification

On March 11, FECAFOOT announced the temporary suspension of 93 players from Elite One and Two teams due to age fraud. Among those suspended was Wilfried Nathan Douala, who had been highlighted as the youngest player during the 34^th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations, AFCON.

The suspended players had been selected for the upcoming play-offs of the country’s premier championship, MTN Elite One, which are set to begin on Friday. FECAFOOT stated that these players would not be allowed to participate in the competition unless they could provide valid explanations for their dual identities.

This development has implicated players from 12 out of the 16 clubs participating in the play-offs, shedding light on the long-standing issue of age fraud that has plagued the football landscape in Cameroon.

Bui Strikers Veterans FC Thrashed Nso Veteran FC In Friendly

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Bui Strikers Veteran FC of Yaounde showcased an impressive performance as they secured a resounding 6-0 victory over visiting Nso Veteran FC from Douala in a friendly encounter.

The match, which took place on March 9 in Yaounde, highlighted the skill and teamwork of the seasoned Bui Strikers Veterans in a display of sportsmanship and excitement.

**Bui Strikers Veteran FC Yaounde** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

The game kicked off with both teams displaying early attacking intent, with Bui Strikers’ Etienne Kuwong opening the scoring in the 22nd minute of the first half.

Despite several missed opportunities in the initial stages of the game, Bui Strikers managed to take the lead. The Bui Strikers Veteran goalkeeper made a crucial save from a penalty that could have altered the course of the match.

The home team continued their dominance as Kuwong Etienne netted a second goal, followed by Ebeneza Nyuywir’s brace and Terence Awira adding to the tally to make it five goals in the first half.

**Nso Veteran FC Douala** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Through strategic substitutions and effective gameplay, Bui Strikers capitalized on their opportunities and displayed a strong offensive performance.

In the second half, Nso Veteran FC regrouped and aimed to stage a comeback by controlling possession and applying pressure on their opponents. Despite their efforts, the vigilant defense of Bui Strikers Veteran thwarted most of their attacking moves.

As Nso Veteran FC pushed for a goal to narrow the deficit, Bui Strikers remained resilient, with Aruna Banfogha scoring the only goal of the second half.

The final whistle confirmed Bui Strikers as the victors of the match with a comprehensive 6-0 win, showcasing their skill, teamwork, and determination on the field.

Speaking after the game, Jude Verdzefe, President of Nso Veteran FC Douala, said he is not disappointed because it was all about sports and entertainment.

**Bui Strikers Veteran FC and Nso Veteran FC battling for victory** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

“I am not disappointed because this is all about sports and entertainment. We are happy because it was an exciting match, and nobody was injured. Entertainment, friendship, and socializing were all evident during the match. We are happy regardless of the result,” he said.

To John Kerman, a member of Bui Strikers Veterans, “It was a very tough game. We want to thank the coaching team for their tactical dispositions. There was a tactical plan, and we dominated the game in the first half, giving them a hard time. In the second half, it was a balanced game. We fought well, and we emerged victorious.”

“I believe the opponents underestimated us. They relied on their first-leg win in Douala, but they were unaware that we had our own strategy. They caught us off guard in Douala, and today was an opportunity to rectify the mistake we made that day, which we did in a commendable manner.”

Hyginus Sahka Mbah, President of Bui Strikers, on his part expressed his satisfaction with the quality of play during the encounter pointing out that it was deserved victory.

**Bui Strikers Veteran FC celebrating a goal** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

“I am very satisfied with the score line. It wasn’t easy back in Douala. We were surprised when we visited last year and suffered a 5-1 defeat. We worked hard for the scores today, and I believe we deserved it. The camaraderie we displayed is crucial, especially considering their visit here,” he said.

Regarding the team from Douala, he mentioned that they played well, but this time, luck favored Bui Strikers.

“We outperformed them in every aspect, but they are a strong team. They defeated us 5-1 in the first leg in Douala, but this time, we rectified our mistakes. Since the games we played last year, we have not lost except for the match in Douala. We strive for success consistently.”

During the first leg in Douala last year, Bui Strikers Veterans suffered a 5-1 defeat.

At 2024 Women’s Day: MINEPAT Emphasizes Women’s Contribution To Strengthening Import Substitution Strategy

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Members of Women’s Association at the Ministry of Economy, Planning, and Land Planning, MINEPAT, better known as ASFEM, have stated that women have a significant role to play in the import substitution strategy.

**Minister Ousmane Mey and MINEPAT Women pose for a family picture**

The statement was made on March 8 during celebrations marking the 2024 edition of International Women’s Day. The event took place after a march past at the 20th of May Boulevard chaired by Chantal Biya.

The event was chaired by MINEPAT Minister, Alamine Ousmane Mey, accompanied by the Secretary-General, Inspector General of Evaluation of Service Performance, Jael Christine Mbamband, who also serves as the President of the Organizing Committee of International Women’s Day 2024 at MINEPAT, among others.

Speaking to the media, Christine Mbamband said that the theme of the thirty-ninth International Women’s Day – “Investing In Women, Accelerating The Pace” – is rooted in the delays observed in progress towards reducing gender inequality, with a strong trend towards the feminization of poverty.

She added, “MINEPAT promotes the integration of the gender approach into planning, programming, and budgeting tools, encourages sectoral administrations to systematically take account of the approach when drawing up their budgets, and implements specific programs for women. As the minister said, we have the project, and the project is seeking funding from the World Bank.”

As part of our day, Christine Mbamband said that several activities were carried out, with two activities supported by the Ministry for Women and the Family. Apart from the stand at the exhibition held at the national museum, which attracted just over seventy visitors, a workshop was organized on making household products, namely liquid soap and bleach, to enable women to contribute to household expenses by making their own soap, among other things.

According to Ripa Kaguere, Inspector No. 1 in charge of Evaluation of Service Performance (IEPS), to achieve all the objectives of our national strategy, especially the one to enhance import substitution, “we know that women can play a major role. Women are the wives, sisters, and many others, and they are at the beginning and end of the value chain. By encouraging and stating that women can do it, we work alongside men, who are our main partners. We can move forward with the vision of the head of state and accelerate the pace to make the strategy a reality.”

As 2024 Women’s Day Nears: Unhappy, Sorrowful & Abusive Experiences Sails Through CAR Refugee Women Minds

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

At a time when everyone is supposed to celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women and call for action to accelerate gender parity, not all women are able to partake in these celebrations.

One such emotional case can be found among the Central African Republic (CAR) refugee women at Gado Badzere, a village located in the Lom and Djérem Division of the East Region of Cameroon.

**Gado Badzere Refugee Camp in the Lom and Djérem Division of the East Region of Cameroon** (Photo Credit: Etienne Mainimo)

Sitting under the shade of a towering tree amidst the relentless heat of the sun, a group of women sit with heads bowed in contemplation. From enduring the brutal killings of their loved ones to the harrowing journey that led them to Cameroon as they narrates, the plight of these women seemingly goes largely unnoticed.

The mental and emotional well-being of these women is profoundly affected by a haunting array of unhappy, sorrowful, and abusive experiences. The memories that linger are numerous surely casting a dark shadow over their daily lives. Their eyes speaks and the weight of these experiences are manifesting in various ways.

Thoughts of the unknown future surely weighs heavy on their minds as they consider the paths that lie ahead for themselves and their cherished children. Through shared silence and shared shade, they find solace in each other’s company, drawing strength from their collective resilience and unwavering commitment to shaping a brighter tomorrow for their families.

Some of these women have endured prolonged periods without access to food, their dry and cracked lips serving as a touching indication of the hardships they are enduring. The burden of their challenging experiences is visibly etched on their faces, serving as a powerful reminder of the immense resilience and inner strength needed to persevere through such formidable adversities.

Rahamatou Bidem remembers the horrors of being forced into marriage at the age of 13. Her father explained that it was their culture, but her supposed husband was a 60-year-old man, 47 years her senior. Rahamatou Bidem remarried but was again forced to flee from the Central African Republic when she found herself caught between two faiths.

“When the conflict started, I was caught in the middle since my father is a Muslim and my mother is a Christian. I was afraid and took my children and ran away,” she narrated. Her experiences and daily struggles make her think of Women’s Day as distance realities. Rather, she is more concern of putting food on the table for her six children and 24 grand-children.

For Zilanga, the significance of celebrating Women’s Day is overshadowed by the traumatic memory of the day she and her daughter were assaulted by Seleka Rebels in their home during the conflict. This horrifying experience remains her worst nightmare, especially as her daughter continues to face sexual violence, even in the refugee camp, leaving them both deeply affected by the trauma.

“When the conflict broke out, the Seleka Rebels came to my house. They raped me and my child. My child was 14 years old, and she started behaving in a certain way due to the trauma…The violence and abusive experience emitted on my child and me are still there and fresh and celebrating women’s day is not important,” she said.

Djawara Djoumani is a woman who witnessed the tragic deaths of her husband and three children in front of her. Her only surviving daughter, currently in Form Four in the Francophone section, is residing with her. According to Djawara, her primary concern is to find a new place to settle, with no intention of returning to the Central African Republic.

Facing challenges in securing a proper meal, Djawara Djoumani take a deep breath and expressed, “Due to the prevalent issue of rape, I made the decision this year to refrain from going to the forest for farming. There are individuals who lurk, anticipating your presence at the farm, ready to engage in such heinous acts. Given my age, do you think I could resist if such a situation were to occur?”

Chief Azia Transforms Adversity Into Possibility For Over 26,000 CAR Refugees

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

It has been a long and sunny day at Gado-Badzere, a vibrant village situated in the Lom and Djérem Division in the East Region of Cameroon. The village serves as a sanctuary for approximately 26,000 Central African Republic (CAR) refugees, all residing on a sprawling 60-hectare expanse of land.

**Chief Martin Sodea Azia of Gado-Badzere village** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Throughout the day, the village has been busy with a multitude of activities, ranging from educational quests to bustling market transactions and diligent agricultural work. As the golden ball of the sun begins its descent, typically around 6 pm, the women of the village make their way back from the fertile fields, while the energetic children hurry to fetch water for their families.

The entire community springs to life with the onset of evening responsibilities, as the sounds of animated conversations in languages such as French, English, Fulfulde, and various local dialects echo through the air.

In the backdrop, one can spot a camp sheltering not only the 26,000 refugees from CAR but also a significant number of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), underscoring the resilience and unity of this diverse and interconnected community. A closer look reveals the hardships these individuals have faced, yet their stay in Gado-Badzere has provided them with hope and a chance to contemplate their future.

Leading the charge towards integrating these people and bringing smiles to their faces is Chief Martin Sodea Azia, traditional village head of Gado-Badzere. Alongside the village locals, Chief Azia has facilitated a peaceful stay for the refugees in the village.

**Chief Martin Sodea Azia of Gado-Badzere village (L) discussing with some refugees** (Photo Credit: Etienne Mainimo)

Beyond Chief Azia’s hospitality, he actively supports the seamless integration of refugees into the local community. With unwavering determination, he ensures that displaced families find sustainable livelihoods by allocating arable land and providing educational opportunities for their children.”

“In the beginning, it wasn’t easy,” Chief Azia said, indicating that, “Together with the population and the authorities, we welcomed them and opened our doors, showed them where they should settle, and the UNHCR constructed tents.”

Chief Azia also mentioned that amidst the trauma of war, children arrived the village alone, women who had lost their husbands, men who had lost their wives and children, all seeking refuge were all accepted with open arms.

“What we eat, we ate together and lived together. All of that was under my command and guidance. Each time there is a problem, they would refer it to me, and through the different services, the committee that we put in place worked tirelessly for peace to prevail,” Chief Azia stated.

With some members having married individuals from the village and many locals having also married into their community, forming bonds and families, Chief Azia expressed his heartfelt sentiments, “It is very difficult and heartbreaking to see them leave.”

He continued, “At the hospital, they share the same bed, and in school, our children attend classes together, play together, work on the farm together, and even frequent the same markets. It is truly painful to bid them farewell, but we earnestly pray to God for peace to be restored in their homeland, so that our beloved brothers and sisters can return and resume their lives in tranquility.”

Djawara Djoumani, a mother who has been in the camp for four years after losing her husband and three children in the CAR crisis, praised the support received in Cameroon especially at Gado-Badzere, though recent months have brought challenges in accessing food and healthcare.

Ndoti-Djo Ismail, another long-term refugee, highlighted the effective problem-solving approach under the current chief, with a committee comprising both natives and refugees promoting peaceful coexistence and collaboration with partners.

***Partial view of farmland being cultivated by refugees in Gado-Badzere village*** *(Photo Credit: Etienne Mainimo)*

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has praised Chief Azia’s innovative approach as a beacon of hope for refugees living in Gado-Badzere village. According to UNHCR, Chief Azia’s ground-breaking efforts have not only provided much-needed support but have also stirred positive change in the lives of those seeking refuge.

Some refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) have chosen to return to their homes voluntarily, despite facing uncertainty. However, there are others who have opted to remain in Cameroon, citing pockets of insecurity and the fact that their property had been destroyed.

Cameroon is facing multiple humanitarian crises, impacting over 1.5 million people who have been forced to leave their homes, along with 600,000 individuals who have returned after being displaced internally. This includes around 500,000 refugees and asylum seekers, mainly from the Central African Republic and Nigeria.

Furthermore, more than one million internally displaced persons are struggling in the North West and South West Regions due to conflicts and other challenges. Factors such as non-state armed groups, severe weather conditions, and limited resources caused by climate change in the Far North region have worsen the situation for those affected by Boko Haram insurgence.

Elders MP Calls for Self-Introspection, Restoration Of National Assembly’s Image

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Eldest Member of Parliament, Hon. Laurentine Mbede Koa Mfegue, has urged Cameroonian Members of Parliament, MPs in the Lower House of Parliament to engage in deep self-introspection as the current 10^th Legislature will conclude in 2025.

**Hon. Laurentine Mbede Koa Mfegue speaking during the March 2024 opening session** (Photo Credit: National Assembly)

During the opening of the first Ordinary Session of the 2024 Legislative year of the National Assembly on March 5, Hon. Koa Mfegue raised important questions regarding the achievements of MPs elected in 2020, with less than 12 months remaining to the end of their mandate.

She emphasized the need for MPs to reflect on their track record and questioned if they have truly lived up to the confidence placed in them by Cameroonians.

“…Exception does not prove the rule. As Members of the National Assembly, we habitually call the attention of others to issues, but we have never taken time to do a self-introspection or look at our track record. While I do not, as Eldest Member of the National Assembly, seek to moralise, I would like to urge us to take some time off today and do a self-introspection,” Hon. Koa Mfegue said.

She added, “In retrospect, the time spent in this House Chamber warrants me to ponder on the following: what did we do during the past 48 months of our tenure? Have we really lived up to the confidence bestowed on us by Cameroonians? I may be mistaken, but our general appraisal would be: could do better.”

Hon. Cavayé Yeguié Djibril (Former House Speaker) seated during the opening session *(Photo Credit: National Assembly)*

While acknowledging that not everyone is to be blamed, Hon. Koa Mfegue highlighted unhealthy practices among MPs, such as intrigues, demeaning others out of envy, spreading slander on social media platforms, engaging in power struggles, pursuing personal gain, and obsessively chasing after money.

She raised the issue of corruption which continues to plague the public service, power outages recurrent due to acute power shortage problems and water-borne diseases are increasingly propagated because of inadequate water supply.

“…We are credited with the passing of bills which I believe are good bills. We ensured Government oversight through relevant verbal questions. Our parliamentary networks have examined serious and important issues. But, did we bother to raise concerns on the issues I just mentioned in the past 48 months even though they affect the daily lives of our constituents?” she questioned.

She asked again, “Have we really served to satisfy the aspirations of our constituents, the very aspirations we are expected to articulate in this House Chamber? Did we actually go the extra mile to contact appropriate public authorities to have the aspirations of our constituents satisfied? But who would dare to stop a group of elected representatives from knocking at the door of such public authorities to enquire about a situation in order to spur action?”

Talking about secondary education, she lamented the state of the sector, likening it to a sinking ship where educators are abandoning classrooms and increasingly taking to the streets to make demands that, unfortunately, have largely gone unmet despite clear directives from the highest authority.

**Members of Parliament seated during the opening session** (Photo Credit: National Assembly)

She also observed that violence and drug abuse have become pervasive in school environments, while university campuses suffer from a lack of discipline and rigor, amidst an atmosphere of general laxity.

While she acknowledged the government’s efforts in managing the current economic challenges, she commended the Ministry of Trade for its measures to address inflation, reduce the cost of living, and alleviate food shortages in the country.

Looking ahead, Hon. Koa Mfegue called on MPs to work towards restoring the good reputation of the House Chamber within the remaining 12 months of their term. She emphasized the necessity of achieving this goal, ensuring that both outgoing members and incoming representatives take pride in contributing to a viable, stable, and reputable institution.

Additionally, she encouraged the staff of the National Assembly to maintain high standards of restraint, efficiency, discipline, professionalism, and moral integrity in serving the nation’s supreme interests. She also expressed condemnation for the attack that occurred in Nkambe during the National Youth Day celebrations on February 11.

Even though bills are expected to be tabled during the session, the March sessions of parliament are primarily devoted to the election of the Bureau of the National Assembly.

After Rigobert Song’s Departure: What Qualities Should Cameroonians Seek In A Coach?

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

When the news broke that Rigobert Song Bahanag’s contract would not be renewed by the Cameroonian government, it triggered a wave of discussions and debates among football enthusiasts across the nation.

Cameroon’s football team coach, Rigobert Song, observes as Cameroon takes on Namibia in an AFCON qualifying football match between Cameroon and Namibia at the Ahmadou Ahidjo Stadium in Yaounde, Cameroon on March 24, 2023 *(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)*

The announcement left many divided. while some passionately advocated for Song to be afforded more time to implement his strategic vision for the team, others felt it was time for a fresh approach, citing a lack of significant progress under his tenure.

In fact, the once-unified fan base found itself grappling with conflicting emotions as they reflected on the departure of a man who was once hailed as a hero on the day of his appointment.

“We are happy that a national especially Song has been appointed as head coach of the Indomitable Lions. He knows the den and will bring us victory,” some fans said during his appointed in February 2022.

However, with Rigobert Song’s tenure as the coach of the Indomitable Lions officially concluded, attention has swiftly turned towards the search for a new helmsman to guide the national team towards greater heights.

The burning question that now occupies the minds of football fans and analysts alike is: what are the essential qualities that the Cameroonian football authorities should prioritize in their quest for a new coach who can elevate the team’s performance on the global stage?

Truth be told, opinions on this matter vary significantly, reflecting the diverse perspectives within the football community. However, with crucial qualifiers for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and the 2026 FIFA World Cup looming on the horizon, there is an urgent need for a decisive decision to be made.

Recent performances by the Lions underscore the pressing need for a coach who not only possesses tactical acumen but also embodies integrity and charisma, qualities that can galvanize the team and inspire them to achieve their full potential. According to fans, the Lions must assert their rightful position in the African football landscape.

As expectations soar and aspirations reach new heights, the incoming coach must possess the acumen to orchestrate a turnaround in the fortunes of the Lions. The new coach must command the respect of the players, instill a culture of discipline and professionalism within the squad, and foster a sense of unity and purpose.

Player selection must be based on merit, commitment, and a readiness to don the national colors with pride and passion. Moreover, the new coach must present a comprehensive and compelling roadmap for success, be it in the short or long term. He must be granted the autonomy to execute their plans while being held accountable for achieving set objectives.

In this pivotal moment for Cameroonian football, the appointment of the right coach could mark the beginning of a new chapter filled with promise and potential. As the search for a new leader gains momentum, the nation eagerly anticipates the emergence of a figure who can lead the Indomitable Lions to glory on the global stage.

PAID Inaugurates General Secretariate, Celebrates 60th Anniversary

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Pan African Institute for Development, PAID, has inaugurated its general assembly in Yaounde. The event, which took place in Yaounde on February 28, was chaired by Alamine Ousmane Mey, Minister of Economy, Planning, and Regional Development, accompanied by Prof. Emmanuel Kamdem, Secretary General and various dignitaries.

**Minister Ousmane Mey cutting the Inauguration ribbon** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

The event which coinciding with the celebrations of the 60th anniversary of the institution, also witnessed the official installation of Fatumata Djau Balde, President of the Board of Directors of the institution, who also serves as the Minister of Agriculture in the Republic of Guinea Bissau. The 60th anniversary is being celebrated under the theme, “Innovation and the originality of African scientific method.”

Saluting the institution for supporting the development process on the continent, Minister Ousmane Mey who also doubles as PAID Supervisory Authority in Cameroon stated that it is an instrumental in training, capacity building, research development, and promoting social and economic development in the countries.

He added, “Today we want to believe that the combination of the installation of the chairperson as well as the commissioning of the new headquarters of the Secretary-General will provide greater opportunities and better conditions for the training of those who will be trained in this important institution.”

According to the Minister, the institution is helping the continent accelerate its development. “We should keep in mind that one of the pillars of the National Development Strategy, SND30, is about human capital development and economic insertion. When you think of human capital, you think of training. When you think of training, you have institutions like this Pan African Development Institution that are helping Cameroon promote the great insertion of our youths.”

**Officials during the inauguration ceremony** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Expressing hope that the institution will continue training, collaborating, and integrating at the continental level, the Minister said, “this is a Pan African Institution. Considering the African Continental Free Trade Area, we are looking ahead with great hope and expectations, as well as challenges. We are also confident that the institution is in good hands and that the future is bright.”

Regarding the inauguration of the headquarters, Fatumata Djau Balde said, it will help the institution promote and exercise its functions, given that the institution is dedicated to the development of countries. In terms of economic development, she said, those who will be trained and enhance their capacities will enter the market with the expertise to bring about change in their respective countries.

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

Concerning the activities of the anniversary, discussions are focused on analyzing PAID’s activities over the past 60 years, and also reflecting on the next orientation the association shall undertake to address the challenges of concerted, decent, and sustainable development in Africa, with a focus on innovative methods of training and research.

Established in 1964, PAID has five regional offices and aims to promote action-oriented research and people-centered development. It also aims to enhance the capacity of individuals and institutions through the development of business and management skills in an effort to create employment and reduce poverty.

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