CAMTEL Launches “Blue Tech Challenge” Competition to Empower Young Tech Talents

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Cameroon Telecommunications, CAMTEL has launched the Blue Tech Challenge Competition geared at identifying and promoting digital excellence among youths in Cameroon.

The Competition was launched on May 21. The identification and promotion of digital excellence will be done through the initiative of universities, high institutions of learning and starts-ups in Cameroon’s digital economy.

The competition programmed for youths within the ages of 15 and 35 is geared towards highlighting know-ho of Cameroonians youths in the ICT ecosystems as well as catalyzing innovative and sustainable solutions that will retained to strengthen the resilience of digital transformation in all sectors.

Besides supporting all initiatives with the high added value and those that bring change, the competition is also aimed at stimulating self-employment to mitigate the effects of youths unemployment in Cameroon.

Being part of CAMTEL’s ongoing efforts to implementing the prescriptions of the Head of State and to contribute to the many initiatives of the government to develop the digital economy, the competition is expected to bring together a wide range of technological topics, aimed at boosting Cameroonian’s digital economy, help to attained the SND 30 objectives and lay a foundation for building a digital industry in Cameroon.

Apart from operating in the information and communication technologies ecosystem, candidates taking part in the competition must propose innovative solutions responding to either the needs of the Cameroonian populations, SND30, CAMTEL or to the need of public administration and regional and local administration.

The target candidates include starts-ups, students and researchers accredited by universities and institutions of higher learning, students of secondary technical establishments and doctorate or pre-doctorate students from research laboratories.

Four award categories have been designated namely, the Blue Star Award, The Blue Academic Innovative Award, the Blue Tech Women Award and the Handi Blue Award.

Applications must be submitted primarily online on the project website via https://bluetechchallenge.camtel.cm/ as well as in paper format and/or in a USB key. In this case, the application file will be presented in a single envelop bearing the wordings, “Call for Expression of Interest for the Blue Tech Challenge.”

Physical files can be submitted as a priority to the CAMTEL headquarters building in Yaounde, Department of Procurement and property, Door No. 905. However, candidate’s resident in the different regions can also submit their applications to CAMTEL Regional Departments and Representatives in the headquarters of their respective regions.

The deadline for the submission of application is June 23, 2024 at 3:30 pm prompt. The Bleu Tech Challenge competition is being launched within the context of celebrations of the 25^th anniversary of the CAMTEL.

Download the national Call for expression of Interest for the BLUE TECH CHALLENGE https://bluetechchallenge.camtel.cm/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/CEI-Blue-Tech-Challenge-EN.pdf

Are you a tech whiz between the ages of 15 and 35? Do you have a brilliant idea to improve Cameroon’s digital landscape? Then shine the light on your ideas by applying for the Blue Tech Challenge here 👉🏼 https://bluetechchallenge.camtel.cm

June Parliamentary Session: Cameroon Gov’t Tables Bill To Regulate National Archives

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The government of Cameroon has tabled a bill to regulate national archives in the country. The Bill No. 2051/PJL/AN tabled before the National Assembly on June 12 is one among the six bills introduced for scrutiny and adoption.

***Hon. Hilarion Etong, Senior Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly chairing the session*** *(Photo Credit: National Assembly)*

The bill 16-page bill divided into seven chapters is aimed at promoting a national archives policy and a national archive system. Besides restoring physical and digital archive, preserving a national archive heritage, the bill also seeks to revitalize digital archives.

Additionally, the bill seeks to professionalize archiving and empower all actors involved in the archives production chain. The Bill among other things is aimed at establishing a mechanism to supervise the management of archives in sectoral ministries, establish a mechanism to finance the National Archives System and strengthen the traceability and security of archives.

The bill also introduces categories of archives and specifies the legal regime applicable to each category. It distinguishes public from private archives.

According to the bill, public archives consist of documents emanating from the conduct of the business of the State, its agencies and regional and local authorities, as well as documents emanating from the activities of bodies governed by private law and entrusted with the management of public services or a public service.

They are unseizable, inalienable, intangible and inviolable. Private archives, for their part, are documents created or received by natural or legal persons under private law, without any public mandate or public service mission. The bill stipulates that private archive of historical interest may be classified as public archives and that the State has a pre-emptive right over any private archival document offered for public sale.

***Cross section of Parliament during the plenary sitting*** *(Photo Credit: National Assembly)*

The bill provides for the control of archives in order to ensure the proper preservation of the national archival heritage. Such control will be carried out by inspectors and controllers of archives, special jurisdiction criminal investigation officers, who will take an oath before the territorially competent High Court for the entire duration of their career.

It establishes a public body responsible for managing the National Archives System, the organization and functioning of which shall be laid down by law. It also creates a special fund to finance the development and modernization of archives. The bill also provides for a dissuasive regime of sanctions, however, with an accompanying compromise procedure.

Its adoption by Parliament will help to modernize the current system by providing it with a more appropriate legal framework. It will also create added value in terms of human resources by revitalizing digital archives, professionalizing archiving and establishing a mechanism for monitoring the management of archives in sectoral ministries.

Another bill tabled in Parliament is authorizing the President of the Republic to ratify the Air Transport Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Cameroon and the Government of Canada, signed on 1 June 2022 in Yaounde.

The new legal instrument will strengthen cooperation between the two countries which have enjoyed friendly relations for more than 50 years. This new legal framework will also pave the way for the consolidation and development of trade opportunities between the Parties’ airlines, which will ultimately reduce transport costs between the two destinations, thereby facilitating the movement of people and goods.

This agreement builds on the Convention on International Civil Aviation, signed in Chicago on 7 December 1944, to which our two countries are parties. Its signature is therefore intended to promote the reciprocal and balanced operation of air services between Cameroon and Canada.

This bill seeking to authorize the President of the Republic to proceed with Cameroon’s accession to the World Intellectual Property Organization Copyright Treaty adopted on in Geneva, Swiss Confederation 20 December 1996 was also table.

Adopted on 20 December 1996, the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) Copyright Treaty entered into force on 6 March 2002. It is a special agreement, within the meaning of the Berne Convention, for the protection of works and the rights of their authors in the digital environment. It aims to develop and protect literary and artistic works in the most effective and uniform manner.

Another bill tabled was the bill seeking to authorize the President of the Republic to proceed with Cameroon’s accession to the International Convention for the Protection of Performers, Producers of Phonograms and Broadcasting Organizations, adopted in Rome, Italy on 26 October 1961.

The bill seeking to authorize the President of the Republic to proceed with Cameroon’s accession to the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) Performances and Phonograms Treaty, adopted in Geneva, Swiss Confederation on 20 December 1996 was also tabled.

The last bill that was tabled is the bill seeking to authorize the president of the Republic to ratify the partnership agreement between the European Union and its Member States, on the one hand, and members of the Organization of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS), on the other hand, signed in Samoa on 16 November 2023.

Ratifying the Samoa Agreement will enable Cameroon to secure financing obtained under the Cotonou Agreement, and to compete with the other States to mobilize new funds for OACP countries. Similarly, it will give a definite advantage to our compatriots seeking to occupy positions in the various joint OACPS-EU institutions at the regional level. Furthermore, this process will deepen the already fruitful partnership between Cameroon and the European Union.

These bills will be reviewed by relevant committees before being voted on by the National Assembly. If adopted, they will then proceed to the Upper House for further consideration. Following approval from both houses, the President will enact it into law.

CAMYOSFOP Partners With Mfoundi Teams To Promote SDGs Through Sports

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Cameroon Youths and Students Forum for Peace (CAMYOSFOP) has joined forces with three teams from Mfoundi’s Third Regional league to promote Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through sports.

**Eugene Ngalim, (second from left) and CEOs of teams pose for a family picture**

The partnership agreement, signed on June 8th in Yaounde, brings together CAMYOSFOP, F. Frank Football Academy, Edu Sports Academy, and Patriot FC.

Eugene Ngalim Nyuydine, Executive President of CAMYOSFOP, praised the partnership, highlighting the participating teams’ seriousness and popularity within the regional league.

“We look forward to their collaboration in assisting communities, addressing humanitarian issues, and promoting peace, gender equality, and positive partnerships,” said Ngalim.

The founder of F. Frank Football Academy, Franklin Fanka Ngalim views the partnership as a valuable opportunity for both the academy and the wider community.

“This partnership aligns perfectly with F. Frank’s long-term goals,” he remarked. “Working with CAMYOSFOP is a fantastic initiative. Partnering to achieve the SDGs is beneficial for everyone involved, including our environment and the young athletes in our academy.”

Gabriel Wirdzerem, CEO of Edu Sport, echoed the importance of collaboration in achieving the SDGs.

“I commend the CEO of CAMYOSFOP for including us in this program,” Wirdzerem said. “There’s no better way to achieve success in any area of society than through partnership.”

The partnership focuses on promoting SDG 5 (gender equality), SDG 16.4.2 (combating small arms and light weapons), and SDG 17 (partnerships for the Goals).

Through this collaborative effort, CAMYOSFOP and the participating teams aim to leverage the power of sports to raise awareness about these critical global objectives.

At June’s Session: Hon. Cavaye Urges Gov’t To Address Health Workers’ Concerns

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The President of Cameroon’s National Assembly, Hon. Cavaye Yeguie Djibril, has urged the government to prioritize addressing the concerns of health workers in the country.

***Hon. Cavaye Yeguie Djibril speaking during the opening ceremony*** *(Photo Credit: National Assembly)*

He made the remarks during the opening ceremony of the second ordinary session of the 2024 Legislative year on June 11th in Yaounde.

“…While urging the government to address the issues and solve the problems of health workers, I want to remind the latter of the importance of respecting their oath by being present at their designated duty posts across the country,” Hon. Cavaye said.

His statement follows the recent return to normalcy within the health sector after a period of worker protests.

“The return to normalcy is undoubtedly the result of successful social dialogue between public health officials and health worker unions,” he said. “It is my hope that this dialogue will continue.”

Hon. Cavaye stressed that accepting deployment to any location within Cameroon is a demonstration of patriotism for health workers.

Regarding Cameroon’s ongoing implementation of universal healthcare, the Speaker highlighted the encouraging results achieved thus far. He reported that pre-enrollment and enrollment statistics currently stand at 3,177,914 and 2,487,853 people, respectively.

These figures encompass children aged 0 to 5 and pregnant women who are now receiving free treatment for both uncomplicated and complicated malaria.

Additionally, prenatal consultations and delivery fees have been significantly reduced to FCFA 6000 (representing 10 percent of previous charges), and the annual cost of dialysis has been lowered to FCFA 16000 (three percent of the previous amount).

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

Hon. Cavaye cautioned Cameroonians against misinformation and manipulation surrounding the universal healthcare program circulating on social media and other platforms.

He stressed the need for the government to adopt a robust communication strategy to keep the public informed and educated about the program’s benefits, implementation process, and goals.

As Cameroon approaches its election period, Hon. Cavaye urged citizens to remain calm and reject any attempts to incite violence.

“Some compatriots, lacking a clear political vision or driven by their ambition for power, have already threatened to foment post-electoral violence or chaos if their opponents win,” he stated.

“I call on our fellow Cameroonians to stay calm and vigilant, and to stand up to any negativity,” he continued. “Those who resort to such anti-republican tactics are simply admitting their weakness and lack of a credible strategy to offer the Cameroonian people.”

The Speaker emphasized Cameroon’s long history of peacefully deepening its democratic culture with the support of its citizens. He highlighted the country’s strong institutions and resilient economy, even amidst global challenges.

Hon. Cavaye acknowledged several recent national achievements, including the election of Philemon Yang as President of the 79^th UN General Assembly, the election of Hon. Hilarion Etong as President of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Francophonie, and the successful hosting of the 30th Africa Regional Assembly Meeting of the Francophonie (APF) in Cameroon.

He also expressed gratitude to President Paul Biya for his support of Cameroonian Muslim pilgrims currently performing Hajj in Saudi Arabia. The pilgrims, in return, he said have pledged their prayers for peace, God’s blessings upon Cameroon, and Allah’s protection for the Head of State and his family.

Shortly after the opening ceremony, some seven members of the National Assembly received medal of honour. The June’s session of Parliament that opened in the two houses of parliament is dedicated to Budget Orientation Debate as well as tabling of bills.

2026 World Cup Qualifiers: Indomitable Lions Captain Aboubakar Vows For Positive Result In Angola

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Cameroon’s captain, Vincent Aboubakar, has declared the team’s determination to achieve a positive outcome in their upcoming match against Angola.

***Vincent Aboubakar during the pre-match press conference in Angola*** *(Photo Credit: FECAFOOT)*

Vincent Aboubakar made the remarks during a pre-match press conference that took place on June 10 in Angola.

“We are in Angola to achieve a positive result,” Aboubakar firmly stated during a pre-match press conference alongside Coach Marc Brys.

Aboubakar added a heartfelt note: “I would like to salute my spiritual father Samuel Eto’o. We will win to please you and all Cameroonians.”

This crucial encounter against Angola’s Palancas Negras takes place on the fourth matchday of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Currently leading Group D, Cameroon seeks to solidify their position at the top.

The match kicks off at 8:00 PM Cameroon time at the November 11 Stadium in Luanda, Angola

2026 World Cup Qualifiers: We Respect Angola But We Are Not Afraid – Marc Brys

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Cameroon’s head coach, Marc Brys, has struck a confident tone ahead of their match against Angola, stressing both respect for their opponents and his team’s determination.

***Marc Brys speaking during the press conference*** *(Photo Credit: FECAFOOT)*

Speaking during a pre-match press conference on June 10 in Angola, Brys said, “We respect Angola, but we are not afraid,”

while acknowledging the challenge of facing a potentially rested Angolan squad, he highlighted his team’s strengths: “We may have less recovery time, but that’s not an excuse. I have a well-rounded group, hungry and intelligent players. We’ll give it our best shot.”

This crucial encounter against Angola’s Palancas Negras marks the fourth matchday of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Currently leading Group D, Cameroon seeks to solidify their position at the top.

The match kicks off at 8:00 PM Cameroon time at the November 11 Stadium in Luanda, Angola.

Cameroon Lawmakers Convene for June Parliamentary Session

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Members of the Lower and Upper House of Parliament will on June 11 take part in the opening sittings of the second ordinary session of the 2024 Legislative year.

***Cross Section of Members of Parliament during the March 2024 Ordinary Session*** *(Photo Credit: National Assembly)*

The Presidents of the National Assembly and Senate, Hon. Cavaye Yeguié Djibril and Senator Marcel Niat Njifenji respectively, will preside over the opening ceremonies.

This session promises to be critical, with a focus on scrutinizing and potentially adopting proposed legislation.

Additionally, parliamentarians will evaluate government performance and will hold discussions on Budgetary Orientation Debate.

The national debt and rising living costs will be central themes of debate expected to be during this session, held midway through the execution of the state budget adopted in November 2023.

The June session is convene following the March session that focused on electing bureaus and general committee members. A total of 180 parliamentarians will convene in the Lower House, while 100 senators will assemble in the Upper House.

Meanwhile in preparation for the opening session on June 11th, National Assembly Secretary General Essian André Noël conducted an inspection visit to the Yaounde Conference Centre on June 10th.

***Essian André Noël, National Assembly Secretary General during inspection visit*** *(Photo Credit: National Assembly)*

Accompanying him were Deputy Secretary General Justice Godwill Okia Mukete and directors from various National Assembly departments.

Following the visit, Justice Okia Mukete assured the media that the National Assembly is fully prepared for the June 2024 session.

Cameroonian Film Industry Mourns Veteran Actor & Filmmaker, Vitalis Otia

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Yaoundé, Cameroon – June 9th, 2024 – A blanket of grief has fallen over the Cameroon Film Industry following the passing of veteran actor and film producer Vitalis Otia. The news of his death, attributed to illness, was announced early on Sunday.

Otia’s illustrious career spanned two decades. He was a charismatic screen presence who captivated audiences and played a pivotal role in the growth and development of Cameroonian cinema, leaving an undeniable mark as a true pioneer.

His filmography boasts over 50 films and popular series, a testament to his versatility and talent. Titles like “4th Generation,” “Hidden Dreams,” “Saving Mbango,” “Daniella the Slave Girl,” “Love Trap,” “Samba,” “Night in the Grass Field,” and “Nightfall” stand as enduring legacies of his impact.

Beyond acting, Otia was a passionate advocate for Cameroonian culture. He founded the Red Feather Award, a platform dedicated to promoting the nation’s vibrant artistic landscape through the power of entertainment.

***eteran Actor and Filmmaker, Vitalis Otia***

His unwavering dedication earned him numerous awards and recognitions. He was lauded for putting Cameroon on the map of international entertainment and inspiring countless aspiring actors and filmmakers.

Otia’s remarkable life transcended the realm of cinema. He was also a professional senior biomedical scientist at the research unit of the University of Yaounde I. This dedication to both science and art highlights his multifaceted talents and intellectual curiosity.

***Veteran Actor and Filmmaker, Vitalis Otia***

Born in the Menchum division of Cameroon’s Northwest Region, Otia’s roots undoubtedly shaped his artistic sensibilities. Colleagues believe his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of actors, filmmakers, and cultural ambassadors. They remember him for reminding everyone of the transformative power of storytelling and the importance of promoting cultural heritage.

Colleagues in the Cameroon Film Industry express a profound sense of loss. His colleagues remember him for his charismatic presence, dedication to his craft, and unwavering belief in the power of Cameroonian storytelling.

“He will be deeply missed,” an actor said.

Indomitable Lions Maintain Unbeaten Run In 2026 World Cup Qualifiers

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Cameroon’s dominant 4-1 victory over Cape Verde in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers have extended their unbeaten run that began in November 2023. Back then, they secured a convincing 3-0 win against Mauritius followed by a 1-1 draw with Libya.

The match, staged at the Ahmadou Ahidjo Stadium on June 8th, saw Cameroon take an early lead in the 13^th minute. Michael Ngandeu rose to the occasion, converting Moumi Ngamaleu’s corner kick for his first goal with the Lions since his return. Vincent Aboubakar, the team captain, doubled the lead just twelve minutes later with another Ngamaleu assist.

Cape Verde responded through Jamiro Monteiro in the 37^th minute, assisted by Bebe. However, Aboubakar wouldn’t be denied his brace, converting a penalty just before halftime to put Cameroon 3-1 up.

The second half saw Cape Verde press for an equalizer, but Nouhou Tolo solidified Cameroon’s lead with a header from yet another Ngandeu corner. Cape Verde nearly pulled one back with a late penalty, but goalkeeper Andre Onana made a crucial save in stoppage time.

This victory highlights Cameroon’s current form despite their recent struggles. While they boast multiple attacking threats, their record before this game showed only two wins in their last nine outings.

Cape Verde, on the other hand, entered the match with a more impressive recent record. They had drawn their opening qualifier against Angola before defeating Eswatini 2-0.

***Vincent Aboubakar and Moumi Ngamaleu celebarting a goal***

They had also lost only one of their last ten matches in regular time, with their sole defeat coming via a penalty shootout to South Africa at the Africa Cup of Nations.

Historically, the matchup between these two teams has been close. Since 2012, Cameroon has only managed one win against Cape Verde in five encounters, with two draws and two losses. This adds context to the significance of Cameroon’s dominant performance in this recent qualifier.

Marc Brys Earns First Win As Cameroon Coach Amidst MINSEP-FECAFOOT

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Belgian manager Marc Brys secured his first victory at the helm of the Cameroon national team, the Indomitable Lions, with a convincing 4-1 win over Cape Verde in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

***Marc Brys, Indomitable Lions’ Coach***

The Lions roared in Yaoundé, netting three goals in the first half and adding one more in the second.

However, Brys’ debut win comes amidst a backdrop of ongoing conflict between the Ministry of Sports and Physical Education (MINSEP) and the Cameroon Football Federation (FECAFOOT).

Since his appointment, the situation has been turbulent. FECAFOOT initially challenged Brys’ selection, as he was appointed by MINSEP with “High Instructions.”

Following a period of disagreement, FECAFOOT eventually accepted Brys as head coach but insisted on appointing their own technical staff to assist him, again citing “High Instructions.”

While the Lions’ victory offers a glimmer of hope, fans remain anxious. Many have urged both parties to resolve their differences before Cameroon faces Angola in the next round of qualifiers.

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