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NGO, 1Billion Rising, Stress Prevention, Listening As keys To Recovery From Youth Addiction

By Desmond Mbua The non-governmental organization 1 Billion Rising in Cameroon has launched a strong appeal to confront addiction with…

Sports

The Enduring Charm Of Fireside Storytelling

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo Telling stories around the fireside is an age-old tradition that weaves a rich tapestry of memories,…

Society

Gov’t Equips CONAC, Audit Chamber With Vehicles To Scale Up Anti-Corruption Fight

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo The government of Cameroon through the Ministry of Economy, Planning and Regional Development (MINEPAT) has handed…

Sports

LOYOC Celebrates Impact Of 2025 NAWEWE Sports Jamboree In Bertoua

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo Local Youth Corner (LOYOC) has revealed that the 2025 NAWEWE Sports Jamboree that took place in…

PAD Creates Total Wealth Of FCF 1,365 Billion Each Year

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo 

The Head of the Analysis and Statistics Unit at the Port Authority of Douala, PAD, Atonkoumou Atonkoumou Serge, has stated that the port generates a total wealth of approximately FCFA 1,365 billion annually.

PAD officials presenting during Group conference (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Serges made this announcement during the PAD Group conference on February 23 at the 9th International Exhibition for Enterprises, SMEs, and Partnerships in Yaoundé, PROMOTE 2024, held at the Congress Hall in Yaounde.

Discussing the role and impact of the Port of Douala-Bonabéri on the local and national economy, Serges highlighted that the port not only creates wealth but also significantly contributes to external trade. He mentioned that around 70 percent of the total tonnage of goods traded between Cameroon and its trading partners flows through the port.

Moreover, in 2019, the port generated 166,795 jobs, with salaries and wages indirectly amounting to CFAF 495.2 billion. From 2016 to 2020, PAD’s contribution to local wealth creation averaged 35.1 percent in the city of Douala, with 28 percent coming from indirect players.

In terms of national wealth creation, PAD has contributed an average of 13.5 percent to the national formal economy annually, with 11 percent from indirect players. Regarding employment, PAD contributes 43.1 percent of formal employment in the Douala city and 17.9 percent of national formal employment.

Participants following up discussions during the Group conference (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Serges also mentioned that Customs revenue from the Port of Douala reached CFAF 700 billion out of an annual average of CFAF 821.6 billion between 2018 and 2019. The port’s contribution to customs revenue mobilization includes 25.2 percent to the State’s non-oil revenue and 21.7 percent to the State’s internal revenue. Additionally, direct and extended players pay CFAF 27.2 billion in taxes on production and income annually on average.

It was highlighted that the Port of Douala has reached its saturation point due to draft constraints, hindering the extension or continuation of current traffic because of the growth in maritime traffic. Therefore, establishing a new deep-water port complex closer to the Wouri estuary is deemed necessary in the long term (from 2035 to 2050) to sustain Douala’s status as a major port complex based on its historical significance, tradition, and geographical location.

PAD is envisaging the extension of the Port of Douala by establishing a deep port in the Manoka Island. This expansion is outlined in the Master Plan. An international call for interest has been issued for the development of the site/port. The development of the deep-water seaport is a highly ambitious undertaking that involves addressing numerous technical uncertainties that carry significant economic implications.

2024 Mount Cameroon Race of Hope: Elvis Nsabinla, Adamu Irine Kwaha Crowned Champions In Male & Female Categories

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Elvis Nsabinla and Adamu Irine Kwaha have been crowned champions of the 29th edition of the Mount Cameroon Race of Hope in the male and female categories, respectively.

Elvis Nsabinla crossing the finishing line at the Molyko Stadium in Buea

They emerged as champions following the race that took place in Buea, Southwest Region of Cameroon on February 24.

Elvis Nsabinla from the North West Region finished the race in 4 hours 47 minutes, beating his contender Amadou Abdu from the North West Region a few meters before the finish line.

Adamu Irine Kwaha from the Northwest Region finished the race in 5 hours 36 minutes to win the Senior Women’s Category. She came third last year at the 28th edition of the Mount Cameroon Race of Hope. Both winners bagged home the sum of FCFA 10 million each

Adamu Irine Kwaha crossing the finishing line (Photo Credit: CRTV)

Kenyan athlete, Cheboi William Rutto, was said to have been leading the race but lost track, only to finish in the eight position.

The ceremony was chaired by the Minister of Sports and Physical Education, Prof. Narcisse Mouelle Kombi.

In 2023, Adamu Issa Bouba won the 28th edition of the race in the male category in 4 hours 39 minutes, while Amadou Abdou came second in 4 hours 4 minutes. Elvis Tah finished the race in the third position in 4 hours 46 minutes.

In the female category, Tatah Carine was the overall winner after finishing the race in 5 hours 18 minutes, followed by Kitan Mildred Ntumeka in the second position, completing the race in 5 hours 22 minutes, while Njeyang Syudony Bonwi came in the third position.

I Am Also Committed To Continuously Improving My Basketball Skills – Eileen Leila

Eileen Leila Mbiydzenyuy, a dynamic basketball player says, she is committed in continuously improving her basketball skills. She made the statement recently in an interview granted The Post. In an exclusive interview, she reflected on her participation in the continental basketball championship held in Egypt last year. Eileen took pride in shouldering the responsibility of providing defensive support to her teammates and fostering effective communication on the court. Follow her in the excepts below

Excepts

The Post: Who is Eileen Leila Mbiydzenyuy?

Eileen Leila: My name is Eileen Leila Mbiydzenyuy, and I am 24 years old. I have the privilege of playing for the Bamenda outfit, Overdose Up Station female elite team, where I also hold the position of team captain in the 2023 season. In addition to my basketball career, I am a proud degree holder in English modern letters.

Eileen Leila Mbiydzenyuy in action

What inspired or motivated you to pursue a career in basketball?

I grew up in the vibrant town of Kumbo, where sports, particularly basketball, played a significant role in the lives of the local children. I was always intrigued by the talent and dedication displayed by the athletes, especially my elder sisters, who were part of the esteemed basketball club known as Bees Basket Ball Club in Shisong. Witnessing their passion and skill ignited a deep admiration within me for the sport. I made up my mind to learn and play basketball, and that’s when I started attending practice sessions at the very same club. Our team was fortunate to have exceptional coaches and even received support from visiting foreign coaches who would generously provide us with basketball equipment. This nurturing environment made basketball feel like a second family to me. As the years went by, I actively participated in various competitions, such as the FENASCO A and B Games, University Games, and local club tournaments. I even had the opportunity to represent my town and compete in the U-14 and U-18 games in Yaounde. These experiences further fueled my passion for the game, despite facing occasional setbacks and losses. I learned to focus on the victories and use them as stepping stones towards achieving my goals, ultimately leading me to be a part of the incredible team I am a member of today.

You recently participated in the continental basketball championship in Egypt. Could you share some of the highlights or memorable moments you experienced during the championship in Egypt?

Our remarkable performance as champions of Cameroon granted us the privilege to represent our country in the African Women’s Basketball League, which took place in Egypt. Participating in this prestigious competition was an unforgettable experience, as I had the opportunity to play alongside players whom I had previously only admired from afar, watching their skills showcased on television. The highlight of the tournament was undoubtedly our first victory against the formidable ASPAC team from Benin. It was a moment of validation, confirming that the countless hours of hard work and training we had put in back home in Cameroon had paid off. The sense of accomplishment was overwhelming, and it further motivated me to continue pushing myself to new limits in the sport.

Reflecting on your performance in the championship, how do you evaluate your personal contribution and the overall performance of your team?

The competition in the African Women’s Basketball League was intense, and the coach had the difficult task of making decisions that he believed would benefit the team as a whole. While I may not have been granted as much playing time on the grand stage, I made the most of every opportunity I was given. As the team captain, I took on the responsibility of providing defensive support to my teammates and ensuring effective communication on the court. During challenging moments and defeats, I strived to uplift the team’s morale and remind them of the effort we had put in, encouraging them to stay focused and determined.

Eileen Leila Mbiydzenyuy in action

What personal goals or aspirations did you have for yourself while participating in the championship?

Throughout the duration of the competition, my aspirations went beyond personal achievements. I aimed to showcase my skills and abilities on a larger basketball stage, contributing to my team’s overall success. Additionally, I harbored hopes of attracting the attention of scouts and potentially earning a scholarship opportunity. The prospect of interacting with athletes from different backgrounds excited me, as it presented a chance to expand my knowledge and understanding of the game. Moreover, I looked forward to learning from more experienced players, observing their techniques, and incorporating them into my own style of play.

What future goals or challenges do you have in mind for your basketball career?

Looking ahead, my goals extend beyond the competition itself. While maintaining our team’s status as champions is undoubtedly a priority, I am also committed to continuously improving my basketball skills. I aspire to compete on even bigger stages, both nationally and internationally, and I hold the ambition of securing scholarships that will further support my growth as an athlete and scholar. Let me tell you something, I have succeeded three times in both the practical and theoretical parts of the entrance examination into the National School of Youths and Sports (INJS), but I have never been able to pass the oral section. However, I have not lost hope. My hope and aspirations rest in the hands of God, and I am confident that I will ultimately succeed.

What advice or words of encouragement would you give to individuals who are interested in pursuing a career or getting involved in basketball?

To aspiring basketball players, my advice is to embrace the journey wholeheartedly. Put in the necessary work, both on and off the court, to enhance your skills and knowledge of the game. It is important to persist and never give up, even in the face of defeat or setbacks. Stay focused on your goals, set targets for yourself, and work tirelessly to achieve them. Remember to maintain faith in your abilities and have unwavering trust in God’s plan, for when the time comes for you to ascend the ladder of success, nothing can stand in your way.

Interviewed by Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

PWD Part Ways With Coach Dieudonné Nke

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

PWD FC of Bamenda in the Northwest Region of Cameroon has parted ways with Coach Dieudonné Nke.

Dieudonné Nke, the Coach of Fauve Azur FC, during the 13th matchday of the 2022/2023 Football Season against Apejes of Mfou (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

The information is contained in a communique made public on February 23 and signed by the club’s Secretary General, Abongwa Fozo.

The decision comes on the heels of consecutive defeats that have left the team’s playoff aspirations hanging in the balance.

The communique states that both parties parted ways by mutual consent after frank discussions, citing the need for immediate change in light of recent setbacks.

Dieudonné Nke was appointed as coach of PWD of Bamenda on September 29, 2023. He was appointed after the sacking of Constantin Pep following their 2-0 loss in the finals of the Cup of Cameroon.

For over five months as the head of the technical bench of PWD FC, Dieudonné Nke was in charge of 16 games. He won five games, registered five draws, and recorded six defeats. The team scored 13 goals and conceded 16.

Dieudonné Nke is one of the few Cameroonian coaches with a wealth of coaching experience. He has coached several Elite One clubs including Canon, Fauve Azur, UMS, and Djiko FC.

PROMOTE 2024: SG At Presidency, Ferdinand Ngoh Ngoh Praises Judith Yah Sunday’s Role in CAMTEL’s Transformation

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Minister of State, Secretary General at the Presidency of the Republic of Cameroon, Ferdinand Ngoh Ngoh, has praised CAMTEL’s General Manager, Judith Yah Sunday Epse Achidi, for her dedicated efforts in positioning the company as a leader in digital transformation.

Judith Yah Sunday (Blue) briefing SG Ferdinand Ngoh Ngoh on CAMTEL’s network infrastructure map (Photo Credit: CAMTEL)

Ngoh Ngoh made this statement on February 23 at the Congress Hall in Yaounde during his visit to CAMTEL’s stand at the ongoing 9th International Exhibition for Enterprises, SMEs, and Partnerships in Yaoundé, PROMOTE 2024.

Impressed by the General Manager’s expertise as she presented CAMTEL’s network infrastructure map (National Backbone), Ngoh Ngoh added, “Congratulations to Madam the General Manager, your stand is impressive, and your work is highly appreciated.”

The visit to the CAMTEL stand occurred just two days before the end of PROMOTE 2024. The Secretary General also visited other stands and expressed his satisfaction.

CAMTEL, strategically positioned at the ongoing PROMOTE 2024, has been attracting visitors with its advanced digital communication products and services since the trade fair commenced on January 17.

The telecom giant is among the over 800 enterprises from 30 countries in the sub-region of Africa, Asia, and Europe exhibiting products and services at the multi-sectoral fair taking place in Yaounde. PROMOTE 2024 is placed under the theme: “Private Sector, Evolution, and Structural Transformation of African Economies.”

CAMTEL GM, Judith Yah Sunday and SG Ferdinand Ngoh Ngoh vsisting CAMTEL Stand (Photo Credit: CAMTEL)

Francis Ajumane, a Research Officer at CAMTEL, highlighted that, “Promote 2024 presents a significant opportunity for CAMTEL to introduce and promote itself to the Cameroonian people, Africa, and the global audience.” He added that CAMTEL is showcasing all its products and services, including CAMTEL Business Unit transport, CAMTEL Business Unit Fixed, and CAMTEL Business Unit Mobile.

CAMTEL is taking part in PROMOTE 2024 while celebrating its 25th anniversary. It is worth noting that these products and services have been initiated thanks to the leadership of Judith Yah Sunday, Director General.

Since appointed as CAMTEL GM in 2018, she has implemented numerous changes, particularly focusing on streamlining operations to achieve the organization’s objectives and putting customers at the center.

These initiatives align with the company’s emphasis on Customer Centricity and Change Management, crucial aspects of its strategy. However, CAMTEL remains committed to its vision of becoming the leading digital hub in sub-Saharan Africa by 2030, emphasizing innovation and digital transformation.

Paris 2024 Olympic Quailfiers: Lionesses Held Visiting Super Falcons To 0-0 Tie

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Indomitable Lionesses of Cameroon held the Super Falcons of Nigeria to a 0-0 draw on Friday, February 23 in the third round, first leg qualifiers of the 2024 Olympic Games.

Cameroon and Nigeria in action (Photo Credit: NFF)

Staged at the Reunification Stadium in Douala, Cameroonians came close in the 11th minute, but Chiamaka Nnadozie prevented them from taking the lead.

Nigeria attempted to take the lead in the 27th minute, but the opportunity was wasted. However, Cameroon bounced back 12 minutes later, but a timely save from the Nigerian goalkeeper denied the Lionesses the much-awaited lead.

Coming back from the locker room, both teams pushed hard to break the deadlock. Nevertheless, the Falcons thought they had opened the scoring in the 54th minute, only for substitute Jennifer Echegini’s effort to be ruled out for offside.

In the 64th minute, Echegini set up Oshoala on the edge of the box, but her effort was well saved by the Cameroonian keeper.

The two teams will face each other again on Monday, February 26 in Abuja for the second leg. The winner between the Falcons and Lionesses will face either South Africa or Tanzania in the final qualifying round.

South Africa looks set to progress into the final round after securing a 3-0 away win against Tanzania also played on Friday.

While Cameroon is seeking to qualify for the Olympic Games after their dismal performance in 2012, the Falcons are aiming for their first Olympic qualification since the 2008 games in Beijing.

Cameroon has not appeared in the Olympic Games since the 2012 event, while the Falcons only participated in the 2008 edition. Cameroon denied the Falcons a ticket to the London 2012 games after winning on penalties in the final round of the qualifiers.

 

Lionesses Coach  – Jean-Baptiste Bisseck reaction after the match

“For the second leg, we may not qualify here, but we can go and get it in Nigeria. The most important thing was to contain this team and always be rewarded for our attacking efforts. It didn’t work out today, but we still had plenty of opportunities. We have no regrets and acknowledge that we could have performed better. Qualification is still a long way off, so we must rely on ourselves and give our best efforts to achieve it. In the recent match against Nigeria, five players from the Guinness Super League made their debut with great intensity, which is a positive sign of progress. Building a team with a mix of experienced and younger players is a key focus for long-term success, even if immediate results may not be fully satisfying. Patience is crucial as we wait for all players to mature and reach their potential. Despite facing challenges, I was pleased to witness the dedication of the players in giving their all. The upcoming second leg will be decided by small margins, and we have identified areas to exploit in Nigeria’s defense. Despite not having all attacking options available, we are confident in our abilities. Nigeria may have home advantage in the next game, but we believe that Cameroon is a strong team and not inferior to Nigeria.”

Promote 2024: CAMTEL Stands Out in Selling Its Products, Services to Africa & Global Market

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Cameroon Telecommunications, CAMTEL is glittering and shining through selling its products and services to Cameroon, Africa, and the World as the 9th International Exhibition for Enterprises, SMEs, and Partnerships in Yaoundé, PROMOTE 2024 is under the way in Yaounde.

Visitors visiting CAMTEL Stand at PROMOTE 2024 (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Strategically positioned at the Congress Center, CAMTEL is aiming to further unveil its product to the Cameroon people as well as to Africa and the world. Speaking to the media shortly after the official launch of the trade fair by the Minister of Trade, Luc Magloire Mbarga Atangana, Personal representative of the Prime Minister.

To Eric Benjamin Lamere, Head of Institutional and Digital Communication Division in CAMTEL, “the presence of Camtel in Promote is largely justified because the company is the hub in its segment in Central Africa and Promote is the largest business fair in the sub-region so it ties in with our core business.”

He added, “We offer solutions for mobile through the Blue brand, solutions for fixed through optical fiber, and even solutions for administrations and businesses both public and private through the data center which offer extraordinary capabilities regarding storage and accommodation.”

CAMTEL Officials visiting the stand (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Francis Ajumane, Research Officer at CAMTEL indicated that “Promote 2024 represents a big opportunity for CAMTEL to unveil and sell itself to the Cameroonian people, Africa and the rest of the world. As you can see, we are at PROMOTE with all our products and services. The three components of CAMTEL are Business Unit transport, Business Unit Fixed, and Business Unit Mobile.”

Concerning Business Unit Mobile, Ajumane said, it’s with the flagship product “Blue” that CAMTEL is here to present to Cameroonians and the Public. “Blue came to the market since 2021 and we have the ambition to get the lion’s share of the market. That is why we see PROMOTE as an opportunity to grow our market.”

As far as Business Unit Fixed is concerned, Ajumane pointed out that CAMTEL wants to portray the best optic fiber that they have in the market. “We have also come here to show to the Cameroonian people that we have the best optic fiber network. Trust us and you will not be disappointed,” he said.

Concerning Business Unit Transport, “we are telling the public that CAMTEL is not only a national company but planning to be a hub in the sub-Saharan region by 2035. Our submarines connect not only the continent but the rest of the world,” he said.

CAMTEL Deputy GM visiting the stand (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

After the official launching ceremony by Luc Magloire Mbarga Atangana, the Deputy Director General of CAMTEL, Daniel Desire Olle had a tour of the stand and was brief on some of the things being carried out at PROMOTE.

It is worth noting, that these products and services have been initiated thanks to the leadership of Judith Yah Sunday, Director General. Since coming to CAMTEL in 2018, she has implemented numerous changes, particularly focusing on streamlining operations to achieve the organization’s objectives as well as put customers at the center.

These initiatives are also driving the company around Customer Centricity and Change Management, which are key areas of focus in its strategy. CAMTEL is celebrating its 25th Anniversary.

Over the years, the country’s telecom company, is poised to become the leading digital hub in sub-Saharan Africa, has achieved significant success. CAMTEL remains steadfast in its vision to be an innovative corporate citizen and a leader in digital transformation in sub-Saharan Africa by 2030.

PROMOTE 2024: UK Confidence in Cameroon’s Potential for a Sustainable Future

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The United Kingdom (UK) has stated that the presence of its pavilion at the ongoing 9th International Exhibition for Enterprises, SMEs, and Partnerships in Yaoundé, PROMOTE 2024, demonstrates its confidence in Cameroon’s sustainable future.

HE Barry Lowen speaking during the official opening of the UK Pavilion (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

The statement was made on Monday, February 19 by HE Barry Lowen, British High Commissioner to Cameroon, while officially opening the UK Pavilion at PROMOTE.

During the opening ceremony, the British diplomat stated that this is the third time the UK is participating in PROMOTE and that the theme of a sustainable future will be further explored in a high-level green economy forum to be hosted within the week.

“The UK Pavilion at PROMOTE showcases our commitment to the bilateral partnership and our confidence in Cameroon’s sustainable future. The theme of a sustainable future will also be explored in a high-level green economy forum we will be hosting later in the week,” HE Barry Lowen emphasized.

HE Barry Lowen visiting stands inside the UK pavilion (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

He also highlighted the progress and support for Cameroonian potentials, noting the participation of Cameroonian Women Entrepreneurs in the UK pavilion. He mentioned that 25 of them will be exhibiting within the week, and a seminar will bring together about 100 women business leaders.

HE Lowen expressed hope that the opening of the UK Pavilion would spark conversations leading to more business partnerships benefiting both Cameroon and the UK, showcasing the depth of the partnership between the two countries for the future.

Elias Pungong, President of the UK-Cameroon Chamber of Commerce, expressed his appreciation during his visit to the UK pavilion. He noted that one can truly feel the growth in the trade relationship between the UK and Cameroon, reaching a new level.

“If you walk around, you see world-class UK companies exhibiting their skills. We invite everyone to come, see, and forge partnerships between Cameroonian and UK companies for mutual benefit and a sustainable future. The relationship between the UK and Cameroon is long-standing,” Elias Pungong said.

Officials pose for a family picture after visiting the stands (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Senator Nfon Mukete, who studied in England and has worked closely with many British companies, expressed his delight at the presence of the UK pavilion at PROMOTE and the increasing interest in Cameroon. Despite his various portfolios, he highlighted his special relationship with Great Britain.

“Just two weeks ago, I was part of the delegation that went to the UK for what is called the Green Economy… I believe Britain has the potential to do more creative things in bilateral trade. Apart from our historical ties, there are numerous opportunities for the future, particularly in the area of the green economy. Great Britain is showing great leadership, and you must know that the President of the republic is very keen on the environment, as seen through the country’s engagement in various conferences. It is an area that I am closely observing, and I think Cameroonian businesses should take advantage,” he said.

After opening the pavilion, HE Lowen visited the stands to see how British companies have positioned themselves. The UK has a week-long schedule of activities at PROMOTE, including thematic side events by exhibitors, a symposium, a UK education fair, a business reception, and a Women in Business and Innovation Forum, among others.

CAMTEL Glitters in Strategic Position As PROMOTE 2024 Gathers Momentum

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Cameroon Telecommunications (CAMTEL), a state-owned telecom operator, has strategically positioned itself at the 9th International Exhibition for Enterprises, SMEs, and Partnerships in Yaoundé, PROMOTE 2024.

CAMTEL stand at PROMOTE 2024 (Photo Credit: Mainimo Mengnjo)

The 2024 edition currently going on at the Yaounde Congress Center will run from February 17 to February 25 under the theme, “Private sector, evolution, and structural transformation of our economies.”

As momentum picks up at PROMOTE, the institution aims to further position and promote itself both nationally and internationally through its diverse services. This year, CAMTEL is celebrating its 25th anniversary.

Since taking over the management of CAMTEL in 2018, Judith Yah Sunday has implemented numerous changes within the company, focusing on streamlining operations to achieve objectives and prioritize customer satisfaction.

As CAMTEL is gradually expanding its reach throughout the national territory, the population has appreciated the efforts of the Director General, who is consistently working to ensure that customers’ satisfaction remain at the center of their activities.

Visitors visiting CAMTEL Stand at PROMOTE 2024 (Photo Credit: Mainimo Mengnjo)

However, CAMTEL is working hard to establish meaningful partnerships at PROMOTE 2024 edition which is expected to host high-level discussions and B2B conferences aimed at ensuring the country’s sustainability.

The 9th edition of PROMOTE is anticipated to feature 1,000 exhibitors from 30 countries across sectors such as agriculture, agro-industry, energy, industry, construction, public works, mining, infrastructure, ICT, health, banking and finance, insurance, tourism, crafts, communication, and more.

Beyond being a platform for initiating and cultivating partnerships, the nine-day exhibition offers various activities including multi-sector exhibitions, promotional opportunities, networking sessions, idea exchanges, debates, and productive meetings.

It Is Time To Rescue Cameroon Football And Pave The Path To Success – Fans Cry Out

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The recent performance of the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon has been a subject of intense debate among supporters and fans since they were brutally eliminated from the 2023 AFCON in Cote D’Ivoire. Discussions revolving around the team have dominated local gatherings, whether on the pitch or in social settings, leaving many with unanswered questions.

Cameroon National Team gearing up for the 2017 AFCON in Gabon (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

It is disheartening to witness the decline of the Indomitable Lions, who were once the pride of the continent and even the world. The team has now become a mere shadow of its former self, lacking the fighting spirit that was once its emblem.

It is troubling to note that the Lions have been unable to maintain a clean sheet in most of their recent matches. As a result, Cameroon no longer instills fear in other teams when it comes to football, and even if they do, the expectations surrounding the Lions have consistently been below average. Since 2021, the situation surrounding the national selections has been worrisome. The trajectory appears to be on a downward trend, as Cameroon has failed to qualify for various international competitions.

Major tournaments have ended in turmoil for the national football selections across different categories. The U-17, U-20, and U-23 teams, both in the men’s and women’s categories, have either failed to qualify or been eliminated at the group stage. The representatives of Cameroon in continental competitions have suffered a similar fate, prompting many to question the need for a complete overhaul of the football landscape.

Cameroon National Team gearing up for the 2017 AFCON in Gabon (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Gerald Siad expresses sadness over the current state of affairs and believes it is time to address the situation and find a way forward to revive Cameroon’s football landscape. He emphasizes the need to go back to the drawing board and reassess what is happening. According to him, while countries like Senegal are experiencing success across all categories, Cameroon seems to be stagnant and it is a call for concern.

“I am deeply saddened to witness a remarkable country like Cameroon facing and enduring these challenges. Meanwhile, Senegal is thriving and achieving victories across various categories, while Cameroon has been experiencing consistent losses. It appears that everything has come to a halt. It is imperative to return to the drawing board and thoroughly reassess the factors contributing to this situation,” he expressed.

Football pundit Mohammed criticizes the present FECAFOOT executive, arguing that they have not helped improve the situation. He believes that those in charge of football management in the country should be driven by the spirit of bringing about change through action, rather than mere lip service. Mohammed questions why Cameroon has been eliminated from all international competitions, with qualifying becoming an insurmountable challenge.

Cameroon National Team gearing up for the 2017 AFCON in Gabon (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

“Since the current executive assumed leadership of the country’s football governing body, the trajectory of Cameroonian football has been on a downward slope, leading many of us to question their effectiveness. The prevailing question remains: what exactly is transpiring? Our national team has been eliminated from all international competitions, and it seems that the task of qualifying has become increasingly elusive. It feels as though we are constantly pursuing an unattainable goal,” Mohammed said.

Elias Nsa suggests that a complete overhaul is necessary to address the situation. He advocates for a return to the roots and a focus on youth football as the way forward. Nsa points out that while many countries are actively working to improve their football landscapes, Cameroon appears to be complacent. He urges football stakeholders especially those that have been around sitting on the face to wake up and join the diligent pursuit of success.