TPCC, Parents Discuss Ways of Bridging Communication Gap Around Autism Children

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Timely Performance Care Center (TPCC) and parents, alongside guardians, have agreed that bridging the communication gap for children living with autism is important.

Participants during the Workshop (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

This was the focus of a one-day workshop organized by TPCC on Saturday, April 20. The workshop aimed to raise awareness about autism in commemoration of Autism Awareness Month.

Participants at the workshop emphasized the importance of societal acceptance for children living with autism, highlighting the need for parents and families to first accept and treat these children equally.

During an interactive presentation, Betty Nancy Fonyuy, Managing Director of TPCC, delved into the topic of unlocking communication (using code language for children with autism). She stressed the significance of understanding how to communicate effectively with these children, as parents, caretakers, and guardians often feel frustrated due to a lack of guidance.

**Betty Nancy Fonyuy leading the conversation** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Fonyuy explained that employing coded language can help reduce anxiety, enhance understanding, and improve engagement. Techniques such as using visuals, gestures, and predictable language can increase a child’s motivation to engage in communication.

While participants acknowledged that code language communication might not be a universal solution for all children with autism, they recognized that many children can benefit from learning more advanced communication skills, such as using Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices or developing spoken language.

Fonyuy highlighted the importance of tailoring the code language to each child’s specific needs, interests, and communication level. She emphasized the need for consistency in using the code language across all environments and rewarding desired behaviors associated with the code language.

Participants unanimously agreed that code language can serve as a powerful tool to enhance communication and social interaction for children with autism. By implementing these strategies consistently and collaboratively, they believe it can empower children with autism to achieve their full potential.

**Participants during the Workshop** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Throughout the workshop, participants shared their experiences, with many emphasizing the significance of bridging the communication gap to better understand and guide children living with autism.

In the words of Collete Kana, a workshop participant, “Parents with children with disabilities should not isolate them at home but should send them to school… Love and treat them well because they are exceptional children.”

World Autism Awareness Day is observed internationally on 2 April, encouraging Member States of the United Nations to raise awareness about individuals with autism worldwide.

April is recognized as World Autism Month, with World Autism Day being one of the seven official health-specific UN Days established in 2007.

How To Update Your Prepaid Meter

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

For the past few months, users of ENEO’s prepaid meters have been undergoing updates to their devices. However, the ongoing international initiative to enhance prepaid meters does not apply to all meters.

With approximately 350,000 prepaid meters nationwide scheduled for an upgrade, ENEO aims to transition existing STS edition One standard devices to the newer STS edition Two standard by November 24.

Failure to complete the update to the STS edition 2 standard by November 24, 2024, will result in prepaid meters using the STS edition 1 standard being unable to accept recharge codes, thus leading to a disruption in electricity supply.

To determine a meter’s eligibility for the update, ENEO advises customers to dial 873 on the recharge interface to check the meter’s status (STS edition 1 or edition 2).

If the display shows 2, 02, or 2-02, customers are instructed to halt the operation as the meter is already in STS edition 2 and does not require any further upgrades or waiting for upgrade tokens from ENEO.

Conversely, if the display shows 01 (HEXING single-phase) or 01 followed by 02 (HEXING three-phase) or 01-02 for INHEMETER, the meter necessitates an upgrade.

Once eligible for the upgrade, customers should anticipate receiving upgrade tokens from ENEO via SMS or WhatsApp in the coming days or weeks.

Additionally, ENEO is developing an application that will enable customers to check their meter’s status and take necessary actions.

An announcement will be made upon the completion of platform testing, while customers will continue to receive upgrade tokens through SMS and WhatsApp for now.

Notably, users of ENEO prepaid meters operating on the STS edition 1 with HEXING or INHEMETER software installed between 2017 and 2021 should be aware of the Token ID (TID) update.

To initiate the updating process, customers should follow these steps:

ENEO will send an SMS containing two free upgrade 02 tokens.
Insert the tokens within a maximum interval of two minutes.
Insert the 1^st token, validate it, and wait for the response indicating acceptance. (When a message 1^st or 23 or PL_1^st or PL_2nd is displayed, the first token has been accepted)
Insert the 2^nd token, validate it, and await the response confirming successful update. (Then, you will receive the response: 24 or ACCEPTED.)
Dial 873 to verify if the update was successful. It is crucial to complete the token insertion process within two minutes.

For assistance, customers can contact

ENEO customer service at 8010,
use LiveChat at https://my.eneocameroon.cm,
send an email to the following address: customer@eneo.cm
or go directly to the nearest ENEO agency.

Customers are urged to promptly perform the upgrade operation upon receiving the tokens to avoid meter usage disruptions.

ENEO is individually notifying affected customers via SMS or WhatsApp, providing them with the necessary codes for the meter update.

This measure is implemented to address security and service continuity concerns, with ENEO emphasizing that the update will not impact meter reliability or pricing.

2024’s Top DSLR Cameras for Beginners

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

In today’s digital age, capturing memories with a camera is more popular than ever. While smartphones offer convenient photo options, DSLR cameras provide exceptional image quality and creative control, perfect for those who want to elevate their storytelling.

As a photographer and photojournalist for over a decade, I’ve compiled a list of beginner-friendly DSLR cameras. However, it’s important to acknowledge the rise of mirrorless cameras, which many manufacturers are prioritizing.

DSLRs Offer a wider range of affordable, high-quality lenses. They have a traditional optical viewfinder, which some photographers prefer. However, their bulkier size and potential for mirror slap (vibration) can be drawbacks.

On their part, Mirrorless Cameras are generally lighter and more compact. They offer electronic viewfinders (EVFs) that provide a live preview of your image with adjustments reflected. However, the lens selection for entry-level mirrorless cameras might be more limited, and some users may find the EVF less intuitive.

Despite the mirrorless trend, DSLRs remain a viable option for beginners due to several factors: Amazing Prices: Especially on the used market, DSLRs offer fantastic value. Extensive Lens Selection: DSLRs often have a wider range of compatible lenses, giving you more flexibility in exploring different photographic styles. Lenses are often considered a long-term investment, so a good DSLR paired with a versatile lens can be a cost-effective setup.

Entry-level DSLRs are still a fantastic way to capture high-quality images at a budget-friendly price. However, with the evolving camera landscape, consider exploring mirrorless options alongside DSLRs.

Remember, the best camera is the one that you’ll use consistently and enjoy learning with.

Nikon D3500 W/ AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Black

This camera is very easy to use and has helpful guide modes to walk you through settings. It produces good quality photos, especially considering its affordable price tag.

Strengths:

Very easy to use with guide modes.

Affordable price.

Good image quality for beginners.

Properties:

24.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor.

11 autofocus points.

Full HD (1080p) video at 60 fps.

No touchscreen display.

Limited button customization.

Deals on Amazon at https://amzn.to/3xU1uFM

CANON EOS Rebel SL3 DSLR Camera, Built-in Wi-Fi, Dual Pixel CMOS AF and 3.0 inch Vari-Angle Touch Screen, Body, Black

This Canon is another great option for beginners with a user-friendly interface and helpful shooting modes. It also has a vari-angle touchscreen display that can be helpful for composing shots at different angles.

Strengths:

User-friendly interface with helpful shooting modes.

Vari-angle touchscreen display for easy framing.

Compact and lightweight.

Properties:

Sensor: 24.1MP APS-C CMOS sensor
Image Processor: DIGIC 8
Autofocus: 9-point phase-detection autofocus system with Dual Pixel CMOS AF
Continuous Shooting: Up to 5 fps
LCD Screen: 3.0-inch vari-angle touchscreen with 1.04 million dots
Video Recording: 4K UHD at 24 fps, Full HD (1080p) and HD (720p)
Connectivity: Wi-Fi with NFC

Deals on Amazon at: https://amzn.to/49ZXfFL

Canon EOS Rebel T6i Digital SLR with EF-S 18-55mm is STM Lens – Wi-Fi Enabled

This Canon offers a vari-angle touchscreen LCD: This allows for comfortable shooting from various angles and intuitive control through the touchscreen interface.
Built-in Wi-Fi with NFC: Easily share photos and videos wirelessly to your smartphone or tablet for instant sharing.

Strengths:

Image quality: Great image quality for its class, thanks to the high-resolution sensor and DIGIC 6 processor.

Usability: Easy to use with a vari-angle touchscreen and helpful automatic features.

Connectivity: Built-in Wi-Fi and NFC make sharing a breeze.

Properties:

Sensor: 24.2 megapixel CMOS (APS-C size)
Image Processor: DIGIC 6
Autofocus: 19-point all cross-type phase-detection system
Continuous Shooting: Up to 5 frames per second (fps)
LCD Screen: 3-inch vari-angle touchscreen with 1.04 million dots
Video Recording: Full HD (1080p)
ISO: 100-12800 (expandable to H:25600)
Connectivity: Wi-Fi with NFC
Battery: LP-E8 rechargeable lithium-ion battery
Weight: Approximately 470 grams (body only)

Deals on Amazon at https://amzn.to/3UcO3Z3

Nikon D5600

This Nikon offers helpful features for beginners like a vari-angle touchscreen and built-in Bluetooth.

Strengths:

Helpful features like vari-angle touchscreen and Bluetooth.

Longer battery life compared to some on this list.

Properties:

Sensor: 24.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor (DX-format)
Image Processor: EXPEED 4
ISO: 100 – 25600
Autofocus: 39-point Multi-CAM 4800DX autofocus system with nine cross-type points
Continuous Shooting: Up to 5 fps
LCD Screen: 3.2-inch vari-angle touchscreen with 1.037 million dots
Video Recording: Full HD (1080p) up to 60 fps
Connectivity: Bluetooth

Deals on Amazon at https://amzn.to/4aXTDWs

Pentax K-70

This Pentax is a well-built camera with weather-sealed body, which can be a plus if you shoot outdoors a lot. However, it doesn’t have a touchscreen display and may have a steeper learning curve compared to the others on this list.

Strengths:

Well-built camera with weather-sealed body (good for outdoor use).

Large optical viewfinder.

Properties:

Sensor: 24.24MP APS-C CMOS sensor
Image Processor: PRIME MII
ISO: 100 – 102400 (for low-light shooting)
Autofocus: 11-point SAFOX X phase-detect autofocus system with nine cross-type points
Continuous Shooting: Up to 6 fps
LCD Screen: 3-inch vari-angle touchscreen with 921,000 dots
Video Recording: Full HD (1080p) up to 30 fps
Connectivity: Wi-Fi

Deals on Amazon at https://amzn.to/4aPJ0ox

Remember: When choosing a camera, consider lens selection: What kind of photography interests you? Choose a system with affordable lenses for your needs. Battery life is also Important and video features: Consider video quality and features if video is important to you.

FAO Launches Green Cities Initiative to Boost Urban Resilience, Sustainability

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) of the United Nations has launched the Green Cities Initiative in Cameroon to enhance urban resilience and sustainability.

The launching ceremony took place on Sunday, April 21 in Yaounde, chaired by the Minister of Decentralization and Local Development, Géorges Elanga Obam alongside QU Dongyu, Director-General of FAO. They were accompanied by several government dignitaries.

**QU Dongyu, Director-General of FAO speaking during the Launching of Green Cities Initiative in Cameroon**(Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

During the event, QU Dongyu expressed his satisfaction and commitment to the seven councils in Cameroon that presented letters of intent to join FAO’s Green Cities initiative.

He underlined that this initiative aims to boost the sustainable development of cities by improving access to goods and ecosystems, highlighting that municipalities play a crucial role in enhancing livelihoods and well-being.

He expressed optimism about the potential for the first seven cities in Cameroon to join the FAO Green City Network, stating, “I’m confident that together we can make them greener, healthier, and more sustainable.” He also emphasized the creation of green jobs for the younger generation.

**Officials during the launching of the Green Cities Initiative in Cameroon** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

While stressing the importance of ensuring policy coherence at both the national and local levels, along with the necessary investment in mobile land, he said, “You have a crucial role to play in your cities,”.

He added, “together, we can expedite the journey towards becoming the greenest city in Africa, ensuring no one is left behind. Together, we can reimagine and redesign our cities, envisioning them as green, sustainable, and livable.”

Furthermore, he pointed out that there is need to elevate the standards of the economy, embracing the principles of the green economy and comprehensive design. To him, it’s not just about creating more urban sprawl but also preserving the land and diversifying green spaces to enhance natural living and sustainability.

**Cross section of Mayors during the launching of the Green Cities Initiative in Cameroon** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

“We should not only focus on food production and tree planting but also view tree planting as part of gardening and horticulture. This approach distinguishes traditional forests from modern practices and represents a transformation in forestry,” he elaborated.

Minister Elanga Obam commended FAO and the Director-General for the admirable initiative, noting especially the Director-General, for the commendable initiative noting that the implementation in seven pilot councils reflects the quality of cooperation in the decentralization and local development sub-sector that is maintain.

The seven councils that have joined the initiative include Yaounde IV, Yaounde V, Yaounde VI, Yaounde VII, Mfou, Yaounde City Council, and the Douala City Council.

**FAO, Government Officials and Civil Society Organization pose for a family picture after launching Green Cities Initiative in Cameroon** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Since March 2023, a pilot Green Cities initiative has been ongoing in Cameroon, focusing on projects like pre-collection, composting, and urban agriculture promotion in Yaoundé VI Council.

The initiative aims to enhance the resilience and well-being of urban and peri-urban populations while fostering sustainable urbanization and access to healthy foods. The FAO Green Cities Initiative seeks to implement innovative solutions that promote sustainability, resilience, and improved quality of life in cities.

It aims to facilitate the development of integrated food production and distribution systems that benefit both residents and farmers, contributing to a more sustainable urban environment.

At NSODA AGM, HRH Sehm Mbinglo I Calls For Deep Reflection, Urges Indigenes To Embrace Love

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Fon of Nso, HRH Sehm Mbinglo I, has called on sons and daughters of the land, both within and outside the tribe, to engage in deep reflection while embracing love as the ultimate virtue.

HRH Sehm Mbinglo I made the call on April 20 in Yaounde during the 2024 Annual General Meeting of the Nso Development and Cultural Association, NSODA.

**HRH Sehm Mbinglo I, Fon of Nso** (Picture Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Speaking to his people through an interpreter, the Fon of Nso among other things emphasized the importance of responsible phone use, cautioning against spreading misinformation and negativity which hinders societal development.

“Let’s all reflect deeply and find ways to come together,” the Fon said. “Love your family, neighbors, and yourself. That’s how we can move forward. Let love lead.”

Furthermore, he said, “I have no problems with other Fons. I am looking at how we are to come together and move forward collectively.”

He urged the community to welcome NSODA, Nso land, and the government, and advised against spreading unverified messages.

**Shey Tadze Adamu Mbiydzela, President General of NSODA** (Picture Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

“As we are looking forward in returning to the village, as mentioned by you all, we will be planning our cultural week and the Ngonso festival. I won’t be going back alone; all of you will accompany me,” he stated.

Shey Tadze Adamu Mbiydzela, President General of NSODA, on his path stated that, during these challenging times for the land, it is hard to fathom that the Fon of Nso, the Lion, is away from home.

“He’s not just a leader, but a spiritual one,” Mbiydzela said. “He’s supposed to be interceding with our ancestors and gods, as well as cultural stakeholders, on our behalf. His absence is unsettling.”

He added, “There’s no more time for division,” Mbiydzela declared. “When everyone starts talking about peace, love, and unity, those who seek division will be isolated.”

**Cross Section of Delegates to the AGM** (Picture Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Taatoh Shey Romanus Maisah, President of NsoBati Yaounde, echoed the call for unity. He believes that division stems from external influences and that Nso people can overcome it. “We must leave here united, loving ourselves,” he stated. “I know it’s possible.”

The NSODA Annual General Assembly meeting, held over two days, provided a platform for the sons and daughters of Nso to discuss ways to promote peace, development, and cultural preservation. The agenda included financial reports, project proposals, cultural discussions, traditional dances, and speeches aimed at fostering unity and progress within the community.

AFRODAD, Partners Demands Global Financial Reform To Address Africa’s Debt Crisis

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The African Forum and Network on Debt and Development (AFRODAD) and partners have called for urgent reform of the global financial system, citing a growing debt crisis that threatens Africa’s development.

**Calls for Overhauling of Global Financial System**

The demand comes amidst the ongoing Spring Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank in Washington DC, themed “Energising Africa: What will it take to accelerate access & Improve Lives?”.

AFRODAD and its partners warn that Africa’s debt crisis is a harsh reality, with nearly half the continent’s countries facing debt distress or high risk. The continent’s total debt has skyrocketed to US$1.13 trillion in 2024, a staggering 374 percent increase since 2000.

“In 2024, Africa’s total debt stands at US$1.13 trillion, representing a 374 percent increase in public debt from the year 2000 to 2024,” the release read.

This debt burden, the release emphasizes, diverts critical public resources away from essential investments in growth and poverty reduction. AFRODAD an partners estimates that debt servicing pushed an additional 30 million Africans into extreme poverty between 2021 and 2023.

The report criticizes existing debt relief initiatives like the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) and Multilateral Debt Relief Initiatives (MDRI), the Debt Service Suspension Initiative (DSSI), and the 2021 Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) issuance as inadequate.

AFRODAD an partners argues that these programs create opportunities for further borrowing without addressing the root causes of debt. Furthermore, beneficiary countries haven’t shown significant development improvements compared to those without debt relief.

They urges a shift towards “structural solutions” to Africa’s debt problems. The organization points to the slow and bureaucratic G20 Common Framework debt restructuring program, which has negatively impacted credit ratings without delivering sustainable solutions.

AFRODAD and partnering Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) call for a governance reform of the IMF and World Bank to end the “debilitating financial commitments” imposed on African nations. They advocate for a “bold move” towards solutions that prioritize people and reject irresponsible lending practices.

The release further urged the IMF and World Bank to acknowledge their role in Africa’s debt crisis and embrace reforms that prioritize the continent’s development.

Victoria United Crowned 2023-2024 Cameroon Football Champion

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Victoria United, alais Opopo, have been crowned champions of the 2023-2024 Cameroonian football season.

They secured the title on April 18 after drawing 2-2 with Stade Renard de Melong on the final day of the Elite One Playoffs in Douala.

**Victoria United, Champions of Mtn Elite One 2023/2024 football season**

The Limbe-based team only needed a draw or a win to clinch the championship, as their competitors were significantly behind in the standings.

However, Stade Renard had their sights set on the trophy, knowing a victory would secure their first-ever championship title.

Opopo opened the scoring in the 20th minute through Gilbert Dze Ebua. However, Stade Renard equalized shortly before halftime through Victor Ngobara in the 45th minute.

Stade Renard emerged from the locker room with renewed energy and took the lead in the 60th minute thanks to a goal by Debi Ze Manga.

With 10 minutes remaining, Victoria United were awarded a penalty. Nathan Doualla stepped up and converted an unstoppable shot under the crossbar, beating goalkeeper Haschou Kerido to level the score at 2-2.

Victoria United finished the Playoffs at the top of the standings with 13 points, securing their first-ever championship title in Cameroon’s top-tier league.

Yaounde Patched Potholes, Degraded Roads Beg For Rehabilitation

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The city of Yaoundé has been grappling with a myriad of challenges, particularly in relation to its road infrastructure. Over time, the city has undergone a noticeable decline, with certain neighborhoods languishing in neglect and disrepair.

This neglect is most evident in areas that have become off-limits for taxis and motorcyclists, who, when willing to venture into these zones, demand exorbitant fares. The pervasive nature of this issue has led residents to reluctantly accept these hardships as a part of their daily lives, despite the significant disruptions it causes to their mobility.

Partial view of Obili-Biyem Assi stretch after a rainy day (Photo Credit:Mainimo Etienne)

One of the most distressing aspects of this situation is the rapid deterioration of the roads, even after attempts were made to patch up the numerous potholes that riddle the city’s streets. What were once temporary fixes have now begged for urgent repair, as the conditions have worsened considerably.

While some efforts are being made to address these issues, the pace of repair work is struggling to keep up with the escalating decay, leaving many areas in a state of disrepair and chaos.

“We are completely devastated by the state of our roads as it has made movement extremely challenging. We are facing hardships due to the rising transportation fares, especially in areas that are difficult to access,” expressed one city resident.

Another city resident added, “I am baffled by the current situation. Several roads seem to have been entirely neglected, and I am hesitant of the reasons behind this. Take, for example, the Obili-Biyem Assi stretch. It has been abandoned and has deteriorated significantly.”

Residents are feeling the brunt of these challenges, with transportation becoming increasingly arduous and expensive. The frustration and disillusionment among the population are palpable, as they witness the roads, they rely on deteriorate before their eyes.

“Looking at the state of the potholes that were previously patched up, it’s disheartening to see them return to their original, deteriorated condition. Some were patched with concrete, while others were hastily filled with stones, mud, and soil sourced from nearby refurbished residences in the quarters. “We are back to square one, and to make matters worse, we find ourselves swimming in mud when it rains,” Martins explained

The sorry state of the infrastructure is not only a hindrance to daily commutes but also a stark reminder of the neglect and lack of adequate maintenance that has plagued the city for far too long. As voices of discontent grow louder, there is a collective plea to the authorities to intervene and address the pressing issues that have long been ignored.

The urgency of the situation is underscored by the impassioned calls from residents for immediate action to rectify the crumbling road network. Until tangible improvements are made, the residents of Yaoundé remain in a state of anticipation, yearning for a return to dignified living conditions and smoother journeys through their city.

Cameroon Bishops Urge Citizens To Massively Register In Electoral List

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Bishops of Cameroon, grouped under the National Episcopal Conference of Cameroon (NECC), have called on Cameroonians to register massively in the electoral registers in good time to be ready for upcoming elections.

The call was made after the just-ended 49th General Assembly of Bishops of Cameroon that took place from April 7 to 13, chaired by His Grace Andrew Fuanya Nkea.

**His Grace Andrew Fuanya Nkea speaking during the conference of Bishops in Yaounde**

In a communique issued after the conference, the Bishops also voiced their concerns regarding the country’s political, social, and economic situations, notably the slow implementation of the law on decentralization, insecurity, high cost of living, the dramatic rise of secularism, among others.

This also includes the desecration of sacred places, homosexuality, and the abusive exploitation of natural and mining resources, all of which undermine the development of citizens. The Bishops, through the chair of the NECC, urged public authorities to do everything in their power to give young people, who are losing confidence and hope, a better future.

“At the same time, he stressed the need for the population to make responsible use of social networks in order to promote truth and social cohesion,” His Grace Nkea said.

He also emphasized the work of the General Assembly on Solidarity, encouraged by Pope Francis, for a profound communion and participation of all the faithful in the mission of the church in the spirit of the Second Vatican Council.

During the conference, several appointments were made, including in the General Secretariat where Bishop Paul Nyanga of the Archdiocese of Douala was appointed as the General Secretary.

**Cross section of Bishops pose for a family picture**

Rev. Fr. James Ndifon of Kumbo was appointed as Deputy Secretary-General. Abbe Lazare Owono of the Diocese of Douala was appointed General Bursar. Abbe Aurelien Lehoun Mbea of the Diocese of Ngaoundere became the National Secretary of the National Secretariat for Catholic Education while the coordinator of the Episcopal Commission for the doctrine of the faith, sub-commission for Biblical Apostolate.

Other appointments were made at the Episcopal Commission for the Lay Apostolate, Caritas Commission-Cameroon, Episcopal Communication for Communication, Episcopal Commission for Justice and Peace, as well as in the Episcopal Commission for evangelization, sub-commission for Migrants and Refugees.

During the conference, reports of the 14 Episcopal Commissions were examined, and a number of decisions were taken, with precise directives given to the heads of the various services.

Throughout the meeting sessions, the Bishops held a meeting with His Eminence, Robert Cardinal Sarah, and also welcomed Christophe Droeven, the new Country Representative for Cameroon and Chad for the Catholic Relief Services (CRS).

Following tradition, the bishops celebrated Mass in the Basilica of Mary, Queen of Apostles, Mvolye, on the 11th anniversary of the election of Pope Francis. The Mass was celebrated by His Grace Jose Avelino Bettencourt. The conference was marked by prayers and Eucharistic celebrations.

SPF Launches Skills & Habilitation Center To Cater For Widows, Orphans

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Sustainable Peace Foundation (SPF) has officially launched the Skills and Habilitation Center aimed at catering to widows and orphans. The center was launched in Yaoundé on April 13.

Speaking during the event, the Founder and CEO of the Foundation, Linda Kekwi Kanjo, described the event as a milestone achievement that will give widows and orphans an opportunity to rebuild their lives.

**Widows, Orphans showcasing their products to visitors** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Talking about the center, Kekwi Kanjo said the initiative was born following various community engagements that revealed a number of causes as to why violence is on the increase.

According to her, trauma, challenges related to diverse health issues, lack of skill development, and human rights abuses, especially on widows, are some of the problems associated with the continuous rise of violence in the communities.

Faced with these threats, Kekwi Kanjo pointed out that the Foundation decided to embark on solving these problems. Knowing that trauma has a high tendency to cause violence, the center has made available trauma healing specialists who are ready to guide and counsel those going through trauma.

Concerning challenges related to diverse health issues, the center has decided to offer free medical campaigns, and for those who are not widows or orphans, it is done at a minimum rate. In skill development, the center is training and assisting them in acquiring skills in diverse fields ranging from tailoring to hairdressing and many others.

However, more than 80 percent of those currently receiving training are widows who have been trained in diverse fields. For widows whose rights have been trampled on, human rights specialists have been made available to support them, even up to the level of courts, to ensure that their rights are reinstated.

**A widow sharing her testimonies to participants** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

According to the Foundation, children, widows, and orphans are at the heart of their activities, but special attention is focused on widows and orphans because they are considered vulnerable.

Rejoice Njieba expressed her appreciation to the Foundation and her sister for giving them the opportunity to go back to school after facing difficulties following the death of their parents.

“I am particularly happy and thankful to the Foundation because they have played a role in my life and in the lives of many others, including my sister. They may not know what they have done for me and my sister, but this is great because it will go a long way to help especially some of us who lost our parents,” said Rejoice Njieba.

Besides testimonies shared by those already in the center, an exhibition of what has been produced, including dresses, beads, handbags, liquid soaps, detergents, and others, was presented to the public.

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