Youths Acquire Essential Skills For Navigating WordPress

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Youths drawn from Cameroon’s Capital, Yaounde have acquired essential skills in navigating WordPress landscape. This was the substance of a one-day meetup that took place on March 16 in Yaounde.

The meetup was spearheaded by Vitna media Founder and orgainser, Eldad Gaih in collaboration with Smart Sana Technologies and facilitated by digital studios.

During the meetup, youths acquired skills especially in the comprehensive introduction to the world of WordPress website creation.

Eldad Gaih, a WordPress expert guided participants through the fundamentals of building their own website; from setting up a domain and hosting to choosing themes and plugins.

In addition, the meetup delved into the exciting realm of Artificial Intelligence (AI), showcasing how cutting-edge AI tools can elevate the functionality and design of WordPress websites.

For those already familiar with WordPress, the meetup provided an enriching opportunity to expand their skill set. Whether a seasoned user or a curious beginner, the event fostered a valuable learning experience.

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

Beyond the technical expertise, the meetup also nurtured a sense of community. Young WordPress fans from Yaounde connected, shared ideas, and exchanged experiences, forging valuable connections within the local tech scene.

Above all, the WordPress Meetup in Yaounde offered a dynamic platform for young creators to unlock the power of WordPress and take their online presence to the next level. By equipping them with the necessary skills and fostering a collaborative environment, the meetup has empowered a new generation to shape their digital future.

Cameroonians Stirred To Take A Stand Against Stereotypes, Misconceptions About Down Syndrome

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Cameroonians have been encouraged to challenge stereotypes and misconceptions on Down Syndrome, a condition in which a person has an extra chromosome.

The encouragement was made by Betty-Nancy Fonyuy, Manager of Timely Performance Care Center, TPCC on March 21 during the commemoration of the 2024 edition. The annual event was celebrated under the theme, “End the Stereotypes.”

**Teachers and children at TPCC pose in a group photo while holding placards commemorating the World Down Syndrome 2024** (Picture Credit: TPCC)

Speaking to The Post, Fonyuy said Cameroonians should be inclusive in treating everyone with kindness and respect, regardless of ability.

“We, Cameroonians are encouraged to challenge stereotypes or misconceptions while celebrating Down Syndrome. Down syndrome is a genetic condition, not an intellectual disability. People with Down syndrome have a variety of abilities and talents.”

She added, “Besides learning more about Down syndrome, what it means for individuals with the condition, and how to be inclusive, she added that there is a need to spread awareness about Down syndrome by sharing information on social media or talking to friends and family.”

At TPCC, commemoration was in recognition of the day as some of the staff (special educators) went live on Facebook to educate the general public on what Down Syndrome is, its causes, symptoms, and how to manage it.

They also spoke on ways to “End The Stereotypes” in accordance with this year’s theme, while celebrating the amazing strengths of children with Down Syndrome.

Down syndrome is caused by a random error in cell division that results in the presence of an extra copy of chromosome 21. Chromosomes are small “packages” of genes in the body.

Some common physical features of Down syndrome include: a flattened face, especially the bridge of the nose, almond-shaped eyes that slant up, a short neck, small ears as well as a tongue that tends to stick out of the mouth.

Other symptoms include tiny white spots on the iris (colored part) of the eye, small hands and feet, a single line across the palm of the hand (palmar crease), small pinky fingers that sometimes curve toward the thumb, poor muscle tone or loose joints, and shorter in height as children and adults among others.

Every year on March 21, World Down Syndrome Day is observed across the globe. The day is designated to promote awareness about Down syndrome and to assist those who live with the condition.

The United Nations (UN) chose March 21 to represent the uniqueness of Down syndrome caused by triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome. According to the United Nations, the global prevalence of Down Syndrome is estimated to be between 1 in 1,000 and 1 in 1,100 live births.

This chromosomal defect affects between 3,000 and 5,000 infants born each year around the world. It is unknown why this sickness develops, but it has long been a part of the human experience.

Teams Settle For Draws On Day Two Of Bui Strikers-Nso Veterans Friendship Tournament

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Teams participating in the Bui Strikers – Nso Veterans Friendship Tournament on March 23 found themselves evenly matched on the second day, as they settled for draws in a series of closely contested matches.

**United FC currently leading the classification table**

In the first game of the day, United FC and Rangers FC played to a 1-1 tie, courtesy of goals from Abdel Aziz and Mohammadou Tata, respectively. The match was highly contested, as the two teams are friendly rivals from the same club, Bui Strikers Veterans FC.

In the second match of the day, Bulldogs FC and Spartans FC, both representing the same club, ended in a thrilling 3-3 draw in one of the most intense games of the tournament.

After the second day of play, United FC leads the standings with four points, followed by Bulldogs and Rangers FC in the second and third spots with two points each. Spartans FC currently holds the fourth and final position with a single point.

United FC is the only team to have secured a victory since the competition began on March 16. Four players, Hamza Shang and Hyginus Sahka from Rangers FC, have two goals each to their credit, while Idris Tamfu and Abdel Aziz from Bulldogs FC and United FC have also scored two goals each. A total of 18 goals have been scored thus far.

The primary objective of the tournament is to enhance the friendly ties between the two veteran clubs and promote camaraderie among the players.

Each veteran club has entered two teams, with Bui Strikers Veteran FC fielding United FC and Rangers FC, while Nso Veteran FC of Yaounde is represented by Spartans FC and Bulldogs FC.

The first round is set to conclude on March 30, 2024, promising more exciting matches and intense competition ahead.

PWD, UMS Battle To A 2-2 Stalemate In Play-Offs Opener

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The first day of play in the Play Offs Down began on a stalemate for two former champions, PWD of Bamenda and UMS of Loum at the Yaounde Omnisport Stadium.

**PWD (White) and UMS (Green) battling out** (Photo Credit: Joel Litse)

In the first period of the game, PWD of Bamenda exhibited exceptional tactical prowess and seized control of the game from the outset. Febe Fritz Gilles set the tone with a powerful strike early on, testing the reflexes of UMS goalkeeper Steven Tanon, who managed to parry the ball away for a corner, denying PWD an early lead.

In a moment of brilliance, Konrad Nfanseu outwitted the PWD goalkeeper, Kadad Ning, finding the back of the net to put the coastal club in the lead 1-0 in the 22^nd minute. The momentum continued for UMS as Mathias Malep showcased his individual skill with a fascinating solo run in the box, setting up Achille Fokem for a clinical finish, extending UMS’s lead to 2-0 few minutes later.

Despite UMS’s dominance, PWD showed resilience and determination, creating chances to narrow the deficit before halftime. However, Malep’s struggles to convert an opportunity after a solo effort by Fokem.

In the second half, PWD maintained their attacking intent, launching incisive moves into the UMS defense. Their efforts paid off in the 62^nd minute when Terence Ambe Ngufor expertly converted a free kick, breathing new life into the match and reducing the score line for PWD.

With the game finely poised, PWD intensified their offensive pressure, leading to a well-deserved equalizer in the 71^st minute as Eric Abanke capitalized on a sublime pass from Brilant Tanwie to level the score at 2-2.

As the clock ticked down, PWD continued to push forward, probing the UMS defense for a winning goal. However, UMS stood firm, thwarting PWD’s attacks thereby securing a hard-earned point in a 2-2 draw.

Elite One: Colombe FC In Search Of First Title

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Colombe Sportive FC of Dja and Lobo is participating in the playoffs in the Cameroon Elite One Championship for the first time, marking a pivotal moment as the club aims to capture its inaugural title.

Despite a rollercoaster regular season filled with highs and lows, Colombe remains steadfast in its ambition to secure the championship.

Under the leadership of Richard Towa, Colombe has shown significant improvement. The statistics paint a promising picture: out of nine matches played, Colombe has won four times, suffered one defeat, and settled for four draws.

Finishing the initial phase of the championship in 4th place with 26 points, Colombe now stands on the verge of potential glory. The players and coaching staff are determined to leverage both mental strength and physical resilience to achieve their desired goal.

Behind the scenes, the club has spared no effort in providing the necessary financial and material support to propel their pursuit of a maiden league title.

At 89, Senator Niat Njifenji Re-elected Senate President Despite Frail Health

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

89-year-old Senator Marcel Niat Njifenji has been re-elected as the President of the Cameroon Upper House of Parliament. Senator Niat Njifenji was re-elected during a plenary sitting on March 22 in Yaounde.

Marcel Niat Njifenji, President of the Upper House of Parliament, The Senate, during festivities commemorating Cameroon’s National Unity Day on May 20th, 2023. (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

The senator from the West Region of Cameroon, representing the Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM) party, was re-elected for the 11th consecutive time by a comfortable majority.

According to election results, the new president, who was voted in accordance with the law, obtained a total of 91 votes out of 95 against four null ballots. Despite his frail health, Senator Niat Njifenji, who has headed the Senate since its inception in 2013, will continue his mission.

His re-elections come shortly after Cavaye Yiguié Djibril was re-elected as President of the National Assembly for the 32nd time.

Senator Niat Njifenji is expected to celebrate his 90th birthday in October. He was born on October 26, 1934, in Bangangté, West Region of Cameroon. The engineer, who has been a civil servant since 1960, was Director General of ENELCAM, defunct SONEL, and later Minister of Urban Planning before rising to the rank of Vice Prime Minister. He has been President of the Senate since 2013, following the CPDM’s victory in the 2013 senatorial elections.

Senate Elections Happened Under Controversial Circumstances

According to a source close to the Upper House of Parliament, the election of the President of the Senate took place under controversial circumstances.

Report states that only the state media and one trusted private media house were allowed to cover the proceedings that led to the re-election of Senator Marcel Niat Njifenji and other bureau members.

The first Vice President, Senator Aboubakary, scored 95 out of 95 votes, winning the confidence of the senate opposition senators appointed by President Paul Biya.

However, the fact that the media were barred from accessing the hemicycle during the elections raises many questions about the proceedings. Many who spoke to The Post expressed dissatisfaction with the way things are being handled in the country.

Some political pundits have questioned Senator Niat Njifenji’s health, which is deteriorating, and raised concerns about whether he will be able to handle the Upper House as well as fulfill his role as the constitutional successor of the President of the Republic.

Senator Niat Njifenji returned to the country a few weeks ago after last being seen in public since November 2023 during the November session of Parliament.

His prolonged absence had fueled rumors and concerns about the exercise of power at the top of the State, given that he is the second most prominent figure in the State after the President.

Hon. Cavayé Yeguié Djibril Re-Elected Speaker of Cameroon’s National Assembly

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Hon. Cavayé Yéguié Djibril, Member of Parliament representing the Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM) Party from the Mayo-Sava in the Far North Region, has been re-elected as the Speaker of the Cameroon’s National Assembly.

**Hon. Cavayé Yéguié Djibril, salutes MPs after re-election** (Photo Credit: National Assembly)

The senior statesman was re-elected on March 22 during a plenary session chaired by Koa Mfegue Laurentine Mbede, Eldest Member of Parliament.

Out of 156 votes, Hon. Cavayé received a total of 143 votes, with 13 null ballots. Reports indicate that he secured the majority of votes from members of his ruling CPDM party in an election where opposition MPs did not field a candidate. The CPDM party controls more than 160 out of 180 seats in the Lower House of Assembly.

Results board after Elections (Photo Credit: National Assembly)

Born in 1940, Hon. Cavayé will be serving his 32nd year as Speaker of the National Assembly, having taken over from Hon. Lawrence Fonka Shang in 1992.

He has also been a member of the National Assembly for 54 years, starting in 1970 shortly after becoming the quaestor in the National Assembly in 1973.

In 1975, he was appointed to the Central Committee of the ruling party, the Cameroonian National Union (CNU). Additionally, he has been a traditional leader of Mada since 1971.

UNHCR Unveils Multi-Year, Multi-Partner Strategic Plan For Refugee Management

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in Cameroon has unveiled a multi-year and multi-partner strategic plan for 2022-2026 geared towards managing refugees, internally displaced persons, and asylum seekers.

**Olivier Guillaume, UNHCR Multi-Country Office Representative** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

The strategic plan was unveiled on March 20 in Yaounde in a ceremony chaired by the Secretary-General at the Ministry of External Relations, Chinmoun Oumarou (Representative of the Minister).

He was accompanied by the UNHCR Multi-Country Office Representative, Olivier Guillaume, as well as the Resident Coordinator of the United Nations Systems in Cameroon, Siaka Coulibaly, among others.

Speaking during the ceremony, Olivier Guillaume said the strategic plan was drawn up was drawn up such that it can be in line with the government National Development Strategy but also with the United Nations framework for sustainable development in the country.

Indicating that it was difficult to align actions, activities, and objectives with a one-year planning, he mentioned that having a multi-year plan will allow UNHCR to have a short, medium, and long-term vision about managing the situation of refugees.

**Siaka Coulibaly, Resident Coordinator of the United Nations Systems in Cameroon** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

To Chinmoun Oumarou, such an occasion always marks a significant turning point in the joint commitment towards refugees and internally displaced persons in Cameroon.

“Cameroon, it should be highlighted here, has always been a country of assured and proven compassion, a nation known for legendary hospitality extended to those displaced by force. Indeed, both our hearts and borders are open to all those fleeing conflicts and various forms of pressure and persecution, providing them with an opportunity to rebuild their lives,” said Chinmoun Oumarou.

He also noted that, the current conflict situation, which has been ongoing for an extended period, requires an organized and sustainable response from all stakeholders.

“The plan is therefore aimed at strengthening our policies and actions while fostering cooperation among the various stakeholders involved in this process. In this connection, just as pointed out here by the resident representative of UNHCR Cameroon, the plan is based on three fundamental pillars, which are adequate protection, coordination,” he added.

**Chinmoun Oumarou, Secretary-General at the Ministry of External Relations** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Meanwhile, Siaka Coulibaly welcomed the approach taken by the government and its partners to improve refugees’ access to empowerment opportunities through their socio-economic inclusion. According to him, this is the right approach to address operational challenges.

“In line with the recommendations of the Global Compact on Refugees, the United Nations System represented in Cameroon is committed to working collectively to prioritize the inclusion of refugees in its cooperation frameworks for sustainable development goals and also establish a major programmatic framework,” Siaka Coulibaly stated.

The 2022-2026 Multi-Year and Multi-Partners Strategic Plan aims to address protection issues and find solutions that enable refugees and internally displaced persons to care for themselves, contribute to the economy of the country in which they are located, and no longer depend on humanitarian assistance while addressing statelessness issues.

Its achievement is based on three strategic directions and nine priority actions. The three strategic directions include strengthening the protection response, enhancing coordination mechanisms, and seeking solutions.

**Officials and Partners pose for a family picture** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Among the nine priority actions are supporting the development of host communities, promoting social cohesion and environmental management, intensifying efforts to prevent, mitigate, and respond to gender-based violence, ensuring access to registration and civil status documents, expanding economic opportunities, enhancing access to national public services, implementing sustainable solutions, and improving the normative, regulatory, and governance framework.

In order to respond to the needs of the most vulnerable, especially women and children, UNHCR requires over 689 billion US Dollars between 2022-2026. As of the end of 2023, UNHCR had received only around 38 million USD out of the 142.8 million USD needed.

Cameroon is hosting refugees from nine countries, along with facing security challenges in the Far North, Northwest, and Southwest Regions of the country.

Mr. Leo Drops 3rd Musical Album, ‘Good Vibes’

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Leonard Fonyuy Nsobunrika, known as Mr. Leo in the music world, a singer-songwriter from Cameroon, has released his new musical album.

The album, composed of 14 tracks titled “Good Vibes” was presented to the public on March 20 during a press conference held at the Lionz Academy headquarters in Douala. This new album comes three years after dropping his second album.

**Mr. Leo speaking during the release of his third album**

During the album presentation, the urban music singer shared details about this new project, which is set to be released tomorrow, Friday, March 22. With the aim of inspiring music lovers, the 14 tracks narrate the singer’s experiences and life’s ups and downs.

“My inspiration comes randomly in the form of a short melody […] Sometimes, it’s about things that have happened to me and sometimes, things that I have observed,” Mr. Leo said during the press conference.

All the songs on “Good Vibes” are written and performed by the artist, except for the track “Vrais Amis,” which is the work of Freddy Musk and Luigi Seno. The production is handled by Dijay Karl, Fredy Muks, and Slym Harley under the banner of Lionz Muzik, the label he founded in 2018.

The first track, “Fly,” immerses the listener in a positive atmosphere with a sunny rhythm blending afrobeat and pop. “Goodbyes” is a captivating ballad with R&B-blues sounds evoking heartbreak.

“Vrais Amis” delves into the concept of friendship with arrangements by Fredy Muks & Luigi bridging rap and hip-hop. “One Man Down” celebrates resilience with lively traditional percussion.

The tracks “Good Vibration,” “Woso,” and “Saka” are poised to be danceable anthems featuring neo-soul flows and assertive Afropop melodies.

The songs offer a diverse mix of groove, Cameroonian rhythms, and influences from Afro pop, pop, blues, and hip-hop. The album “Good Vibes” follows his previous releases “Love Original” in 2017 and “Lion of Africa” in 2021.

Senate, National Assembly In Suspense As New Bureau Is Awaited

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The political climate in Cameroon is charged with anticipation as the two houses of Parliament gear up for the imminent elections to appoint new bureau members.

**Hon. Cavaye Yeguie Djibril during the opening session of the 2024 Legislative year with other MPs** (Photo Credit: National Assembly)

As the days tick by, the atmosphere of suspense grows thicker, leaving a sense of ambiguity hanging over the impending decision of who will assume the leadership roles and steer the legislative activities in both houses.

The uncertainty surrounding the forthcoming leadership transition intensifies with each passing moment, setting the stage for a crucial juncture in Cameroon’s parliamentary landscape.

The question of whether the incumbent officeholders will retain their positions or new faces will emerge victorious remains unanswered until the upcoming electoral process unfolds.

For many Cameroonians who have closely followed these developments for an extended period, the re-election of the familiar figures would not come as a surprise.

“I am not expecting any new updates from the two Houses of Parliament regarding who will be elected as President. The same familiar faces will likely retain their positions. While I do hope for a change, I am skeptical that anything will actually change,” a concerned citizen said.

If Hon. Cavaye Yeguie Djibril secures the position of President of the Lower House of Parliament in the upcoming election if he stands for the post, the seasoned statesman, born in 1940, will make history as the longest-serving House speaker.

With a parliamentary tenure dating back to 1970, Hon. Cavaye assumed the role of House Speaker in 1992, succeeding Hon. Lawrence Fonka Shang. Should he stand and be elected, the 84-year-old Hon.

Cavaye will embark on his 32^nd term as the Speaker of the National Assembly, surpassing 50 years of service at the Cameroon National Assembly by the end of the current mandate.

In the Upper House of Parliament (The Senate), the competition is expected to unfold between the incumbent, Senator Marcel Niat Njifenji, and any potential newcomers. Senator Niat Njifenji has been a Senator thanks to a Presidential appointment.

He was one of 30 senators who received their seats by presidential appointment; the other 70 senators were indirectly elected.

Having returned to the country to take part in the elections, many Cameroonians still see him as the one to be elected.

Despite the prevailing sentiment, some Cameroonians harbor doubts about the possibility of these seasoned statesmen being replaced.

Only a few Members of Parliament have managed to challenge their positions successfully, and even then, such instances are often seen as mere formalities rather than genuine contests, as noted by political analysts.

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