List Posts

View All
Society

Dr. David Akuro Mbah Honored with Inaugural AABNet Iconic Award

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo Dr. David Akuro Mbah has been honored by the African Animal Breeding Network (AABNet) as the…

Society

Prof. Dze-Ngwa Empowers Miss WEYAS 2026 With Laptop Donation To Boost Community Training

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo Prof. Willibroad Dze-Ngwa, Founding President of the Heritage Higher Institute of Peace and Development Studies (HEHIPEDS),…

Sports

J J. Love Sets Sights On Professional Sporting Career

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo The local courts have become JJ. Love’s office. Most teenagers play sports for social life, but…

Society

Grace Wirba, 2026 Race Of Hope Champion, Presents Trophy To Fon Of Nso

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo Mary Grace Dzekenyuy Wirba, the newly crowned champion of the 2026 Mount Cameroon Race of Hope…

Samuel Eto’o Rallies Dejected Indomitable Lions After AFCON Exit

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Amidst the heavy, suffocating silence of a dampened dressing room at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, the weight of a nation’s dashed expectations hung in the air. FECAFOOT President Samuel Eto’o, a man synonymous with Cameroonian triumph, stood before a heartbroken Indomitable Lions squad and fought back visible tears as he addressed the collective grief of the room.

Samuel Eto’o, President of the Cameroon Football Federation, FECAFOOT during the finals of the Cup of Cameroon (Photo Credit: FECAFOOT)

The scene followed a clinical 2-0 quarterfinal exit at the hands of hosts Morocco on Friday January 9 night—a result that unceremoniously halted Cameroon’s pursuit of a record-extending sixth Africa Cup of Nations title. Yet, instead of offering a standard post-mortem of the defeat, the national icon delivered a stirring and emotional rallying cry.

Urging his dejected players to hold their heads high despite the sting of Brahim Díaz and Ismael Saibari’s decisive goals, Eto’o reframed the night’s failure not as an end, but as a beginning. In a speech that quickly rippled across social media, he challenged the squad to transform their current sorrow into the “first victory” of a relentless, four-year mission to reclaim continental dominance at the 2027 tournament in East Africa.

“Seeing you sad brings tears to my eyes, but I’ll make the effort not to cry, guys,” Eto’o said, according to widely shared footage. “ We saw a man team. I want to tell you to be proud of yourselves and of what you achieved during this competition. Be proud!”

He praised their resilience and conduct, emphasizing the pride felt by millions of Cameroonians. “I tell you all thank you for all your contributions. We won’t settle for less! Yes it’s a sad moment but that’s football. We accept it, let’s stay dignified! No statement.”

The remarks underscored a shift in focus toward the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, scheduled for June to July and co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. That tournament will mark the first time the competition is spread across three East African nations, presenting both opportunities and challenges for Cameroon as it seeks to reclaim continental dominance.

Analysts note that Morocco’s performance highlighted the rising competitiveness in African football, with the Atlas Lions now positioned as strong contenders for their first AFCON title since 1976. For Cameroon, the loss serves as a reminder of the need for tactical evolution and sustained preparation amid a demanding international calendar.

Eto’o’s message resonated beyond the immediate disappointment, rallying the squad and the nation around a shared goal. The Indomitable Lions’ journey in Morocco 2025 may have concluded, but the federation chief’s words injected hope into the post-match atmosphere.

As Cameroon returns home, the emphasis shifts to domestic leagues, international friendlies, and qualifiers. The pain of elimination at the quarterfinal stage lingers, yet Eto’o’s call to transform heartbreak into motivation offers a clear path forward.

With AFCON 2027 on the horizon, analyst say the Indomitable Lions have a defined target. The federation, players, and coaching staff according to fans must channel the sting of defeat into rigorous rebuilding. In a continent where football inspires millions, Cameroon’s storied legacy demands nothing less than a renewed pursuit of glory.

Yaoundé US Embassy Soccer Team, Striking Eagles, Bids Farewell to Ambassador Lamora

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The Striking Eagles, the U.S. Embassy’s soccer team in Yaounde, have paid tribute to the outgoing US Ambassador to Cameroon, H.E Christopher John Lamora for his leadership and community spirit during his four-year tenure in Cameroon.

Striking Eagles FC (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

The emotional match at the Military Stadium pitted the Striking Eagles against the Yaounde II Council team, drawing a lively crowd of dance groups, council officials, embassy staff and well-wishers. Yaounde II Council won the fair-play contest 2-1, with Ambassador Lamora himself taking the field.

Speaking after the match, Ambassador Lamora thanked both teams, especially the Striking Eagles, for making soccer a cornerstone of embassy life.

Ambassador Lamora in Action during a farewell match at the Yaounde Military Stadium  (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

 

“We were here at the Military Stadium in March of 2022, my first weekend in the country, and they welcomed me with a match,” he said. “They’re seeing me out now in 2026 with a match. In those four years, I can’t count the number of times we’ve played on this field, in Febé Village, at the American School, at the embassy or elsewhere — playing hard, playing fair, staying fit and building community. The Striking Eagles are an incredibly important part of our embassy community.”

Ambassador Lamora praised how the team embodied the embassy’s core values — Respect, Integrity, Community and Efficiency (RICE).

Yaounde II Council FC (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

“Every single day they come on the field, every single day they practice, they are showing respect. They are demonstrating integrity. They are making themselves part of the community, including with the teams they’re playing against. And they play as efficiently as they can to get the big wins,” he said. “I think that’s going to last long after I’m gone.”

On his part, Isa Adamu, president of the Striking Eagles, credited Lamora’s approachable leadership for inspiring these principles.

“These values allowed us to organize the football teams internally at the embassy,” Isa said. “We have four teams divided among all local and American employees. That means there is no distinction between an American and a local. It creates the spirit of collaboration and humility coming from the ambassador, who prefers to be called Christophe rather than ‘Ambassador.’”

Ambassador Lamora giving kick off along Mayor Yannick Ayissi    (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Isa added that these values have influenced families and local partners, which is why the team chose to play Yaounde II Council — to encourage them to adopt similar principles in their own workplaces.

In a tribute to Lamora, the Striking Eagles wrote: “As you step off the mound in Yaoundé, we thank you for your exceptional leadership and spirit. You’ve been more than a Chief of Mission; you’ve been our most vocal advocate and a cherished teammate. You understood that our mission is strongest when we play as a unified family. While we are sad to see our ‘Captain’ depart, we are grateful for every inning shared. We wish you nothing but home runs and ‘perfect games’ in your next season!”

Ambassador Lamora, Mayor Yannick Ayissi and John G. Robinson, U.S. Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy in Yaoundé during the farewell match  (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Yaounde II Council Mayor Yannick Martial Ayissi Eloundou called the match a symbol of lasting friendship. “This match is a very good memory,” he said. “It’s an opportunity to express the sincere and solidary friendship between the U.S. ambassador, United States and the Yaounde II Council.”

He noted that the embassy and council had shared both successes and challenges over four years, wishing Lamora success in his future assignments.

A career member of the Senior Foreign Service with nearly three decades of experience in Africa including Cameroon, Ambassador Lamora was nominated by President Joe Biden on April 19, 2021, as ambassador to Cameroon. The Senate confirmed him Dec. 18, 2021, and he was sworn in Feb. 11, 2022.

Ambassador Lamora and Mayor Yannick Ayissi during the farewell match    (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

He served at the U.S. Consulate in Douala, as deputy chief of mission in Ghana (2018–2021), acting deputy assistant secretary of state for Central Africa and African Security Affairs, and chargé d’affaires ad interim in Equatorial Guinea.

His other postings include Greece, the Dominican Republic, Guatemala, the Los Angeles Passport Agency and multiple roles in the Bureau of Consular Affairs in Washington among others.

Striking Eagles brandishing the Embassy’s values on their jerseys    (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

 

Ambassador Lamora speaking during the farewell ceremony (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

 

Dances group animate during the farewell ceremony    (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Yaounde US soccer team and Yaounde II Council battling during the friendly match    (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

 

Yaounde US soccer team and Yaounde II Council battling during the friendly match  (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Roaring Of Lions As Cameroon Meets Morocco In 2025 AFCON Last Eight

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

A heavyweight battle headlines the 2025 AFCON quarter-finals this Friday as Cameroon takes on Morocco at the 69,000 fans Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium. Kick-off on January 9 marks a high-stakes encounter between the Indomitable Lions and the host nation’s Atlas Lions, with both teams vying for continental supremacy in front of a sold-out crowd.

Indomitable Lions training ahead of their clash against Morocco (Photo Credit: FECAFOOT)

The winner of this match will earn a coveted spot in the semi-finals, keeping their aspirations for the continental title alive. Morocco, buoyed by a fervent home crowd, advanced to this stage with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over a resilient Tanzanian team.

The decisive moment arrived in the 63rd minute when forward Brahim Diaz—who has emerged as a standout player—scored his fourth goal of the tournament, currently making him the top scorer.

Under the guidance of Coach Walid Regragui, Morocco has developed a style characterized by dominant possession and a robust defense, although they now face the challenge of missing influential midfielder Azzedine Ounahi, who has been sidelined due to injury.

Cameroon on their path secured their quarter-final spot thanks to a dramatic 2-1 win against South Africa. While the Indomitable Lions were outplayed for significant portions of the match, they showcased the clinical efficiency and resilience that has historically defined their team. Goals from Junior Tchamadeu in the 34th minute and Christian Kofane shortly after halftime were enough to withstand a late rally from Bafana Bafana.

Midfielder Carlos Baleba earned the TotalEnergies Man of the Match award, reflecting the team’s capacity to secure results under pressure. Following the victory, Coach David Pagou commended his players for their positive mindset and collective work ethic.

This clash has been dubbed the ultimate “Battle of the Lions,” as Cameroon’s storied tournament pedigree goes head-to-head with Morocco’s current form and the advantage of playing at home. Historically, Cameroon has dominated this rivalry, particularly in AFCON finals, remaining unbeaten against Morocco with three wins and a draw in four encounters.

Notably, Cameroon eliminated Morocco on home soil during the 1988 semi-finals, a historical feat they aspire to replicate. Nonetheless, Morocco arrives with impressive momentum, having won four of their last five matches while conceding just one goal throughout the tournament.

Indomitable Lions training ahead of their clash against Morocco (Photo Credit: FECAFOOT)

Tactically, the match promises an intriguing contrast of styles. Coach Walid Regragui has consistently deployed a 4-3-3 formation for Morocco, emphasizing high intensity, vertical play, and a compact defensive structure. This setup allows the Atlas Lions to control possession and grants Brahim Diaz creative freedom.

In contrast, David Pagou has adopted a flexible 3-5-1-1 system for Cameroon, effectively balancing defensive solidity with rapid counter-attacking capabilities. This formation relies on the physical strength of the midfield and the composure of the back three to absorb pressure before launching swift, clinical strikes.

With both teams entering the quarter-finals on the momentum of their Round of 16 victories, this match is set to be a tense, high-stakes affair. The Atlas Lions are slight favorites due to their home advantage and recent form, but the Indomitable Lions have demonstrated their unpredictability and resilience.

For the winner, the semi-finals await; for the loser, an early exit will be seen as a national sporting tragedy.

 

AFCON 2025: Indomitable Lions Survive Late Rally To Set Up Blockbuster Quarterfinal With Morocco

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Cameroon’s Indomitable Lions held their nerve against a surging South African side on Sunday, January 4, grinding out a 2-1 victory to book a high-stakes Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) quarterfinal clash against the host nation, Morocco.

Lions celebrate after Kofane Christian second goal for Cameroon during the 16th match against South Africa on January 4 – TotalEnergies AFCON 2025 Morocco

In a match defined by physical intensity and tactical discipline, Cameroon built a commanding lead before weathering a late storm that threatened to force the game into extra time.

The tension was intense from the opening whistle, but the breakthrough arrived in the 34th minute. Following a period of sustained pressure, defender Junior Tchamadeu tried his luck from distance.

His powerful strike took a significant deflection off a South African defender, wrong-footing goalkeeper Ronwen Williams. The ball settled into the corner, sending the Cameroonian bench into a frenzy.

Despite South Africa’s attempts to find an immediate equalizer, Cameroon’s backline held firm, maintaining their 1-0 advantage heading into the interval.

From the locker room, the Indomitable Lions wasted no time asserting dominance in the second half. Just two minutes after the restart, full-back Enzo Nagida delivered a pinpoint, curling cross into the heart of the penalty area. An unmarked Kofane Christian met the delivery with a clinical header, powering the ball past Williams to make it 2-0.

With a comfortable cushion, Cameroon appeared to have the game under control. However, as the clock ticked down, South Africa threw caution to the wind. In the 88th minute, the match took a dramatic turn when substitute Evidence Makgopa exploited a gap in the defense, latching onto a through ball to finish coolly and set up a frantic finale.

Despite five minutes of agonizing stoppage time, Cameroon’s veteran leadership ensured they saw out the result, clinching their place in the final eight.

The victory sets up a “clash of titans” against the Atlas Lions of Morocco. The hosts confirmed their spot earlier in the day with a disciplined 1-0 win over Tanzania. The upcoming quarterfinal will be a true test of Cameroon’s “Grinta” against a Moroccan side backed by a passionate home crowd.

In the streets of Yaoundé, the “Indomitable spirit” was on full display as fans celebrated long into the night.

“This team is fighting for the flag again,” noted one supporter. “They are playing with heart and discipline. After missing the World Cup, we needed this. We believe they can go all the way.”

Another fan added: “The Lion is finally awake. We aren’t afraid of anyone—not even Morocco in their own house.”

The quarterfinal showdown is scheduled for Friday, January 9, at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat. The Round of 16 concludes on Monday, January 5, with two highly anticipated fixtures: Egypt vs. Benin and Nigeria vs. Mozambique.

The 2025 edition of AFCON continues to deliver high-octane drama as 24 nations battle across six Moroccan cities for continental glory.

BSFC 2025, A Celebration Of Talent, Unity, & Resilience

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The 13th edition of the Bui Sports Fans Competition (BSFC) may have come to end, but its echoes of camaraderie, thrilling football, and profound social impact continue to reverberate throughout the Bui community in Yaoundé.

Dzekwa Rangers, Champions of the 2025 edition of BSFC (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

More than just a football tournament, BSFC 2025 stood as a powerful proof to unity, serving as a vital platform for promoting tolerance, social cohesion, and the indispensable value of peace for a community where many are internally displaced.

Organized by the Bui Strikers Veteran Football Club in Yaoundé, the competition masterfully channeled the passionate spirit of sports into a force for community building.

“We envisioned this as more than just games,” a fan said. “For our people here in Yaoundé, it’s a homecoming, a sanctuary of togetherness. While we see room to grow, the 13th edition has truly borne fruit.”

Chitah FC vs Dzekwa United during the 2025 BSFC Edition (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

True to its name, the BSFC is engineered and powered by its fans. From first whistle to final whistle, supporters demonstrated an incredible collective spirit, mobilizing resources through contributions and shared efforts to ensure the tournament’s success and provide meaningful rewards for the teams.

“This competition is a pure reflection of fan power,” remarked one lifelong supporter. “Every trophy, every prize, is funded by fans and supporters. The value isn’t just in the material reward; it’s in the shared pride and the message that no one is forgotten.”

The 2025 edition was distilled into an intense “Champions’ League” format, featuring four elite teams: Dzekwa Rangers, Chitah FC, Melim United, and Nso Youths FC. The round-robin group stage was a showcase of fierce rivalry and nail-biting drama.

Melim United vs Nso Youths FC of Nkolmeseng during the 2025 BSFC (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

The opening day on September 28 set the tone for a defensively fierce tournament, with both matches—Dzekwa Rangers vs. Melim United and Chitah FC vs. Nso Youths—ending in stalemates. The following matches saw momentum shift wildly: a surprise 1-0 victory for Nso Youths over Melim United kept hopes alive, while Dzekwa Rangers displayed their attacking prowess with a decisive 4-1 win over Nso Youths.

As the return leg commenced, the battle for finals qualification intensified. The sixth day delivered pivotal moments: Dzekwa Rangers secured a direct path to the final with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Melim United. Meanwhile, Chitah FC ended Nso Youths’ valiant run with a 3-1 win, setting up a semi-final clash against Melim United.

The semi-final was a dramatic third act between familiar foes. After two previous group-stage draws, Melim United finally broke the deadlock, edging past Chitah FC 1-0 to earn their ticket to the championship match.

Chart illustrates the offensive performance of each team during the round-robin stage

The grand finale, held on December 28, 2025, was a classic encounter of nerves and determination. After 90 minutes of tense, goalless football, the title was decided from the penalty spot. In a heartbreaking twist for Melim United, Dzekwa Rangers emerged victorious, winning 3-1 in the shootout to lift their first BSFC trophy.

For spectators and participants alike, the scores were only part of the story. “So many good things have come from this competition,” reflected a fan. “We’ve seen incredible talent, but more importantly, we’ve reinforced the bonds that hold us together—peace, tolerance, and our shared identity.”

Bar chart illustrating the progression of teams through the final stages of the BSFC 2025 tournament. Chart Legend: (4 = Tournament Champion (Dzekwa Rangers), 3 = Runner-Up (Melim United), 2 = Semi-Finalist (Chitah FC), 1 = Group Stage (Nso Youths FC))

As the cheers from the 13th edition fade, the focus has already shifted forward. The Bui Sports Fans Competition has once again proven its role as a cornerstone of community resilience. Plans are now actively underway, fueled by this year’s success, to make BSFC 2026 an even greater celebration of the unbreakable Bui spirit.

Cross section of fans and supporters watching the finals of the 2025 BSFC edition (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Kidnapping For Ransom Becomes An ‘Economic Weapon’ In Cameroon’s Anglophone Regions

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

In the dim light of a WhatsApp video call, Steven sits in a cramped room in Douala, his eyes fixed on the floor. A few months ago, he was a businessman in the Bui Division of the Northwest Region.

Today, he is a man with no capital, no home, and a memory haunted by the “Boys” — the local term for armed separatist fighters.

Steven, who is in his 30s, is a casualty of the “Anglophone Crisis,” a bloody conflict between the Cameroonian government and separatist forces that has simmered since 2017. His crime? The fighters suspected him of collaborating with the military.

At first, Steven believed his abduction was a mistake that would be cleared up in hours. But the atmosphere in the camp shifted when he realized his captors were men he had once shared meals with in his village. They demanded a ransom of FCFA 3 million.

“Each passing moment was hell because the torture was unbearable,” Steven said. “I sold everything I owned. My brothers in other cities had to borrow heavily.

In the end, we handed over FCFA 2 million—money that was supposed to be my business capital. Now, I have to start over in a city where I have nothing.”

Steven’s ordeal is not an isolated incident; it is part of what experts call a decentralized extortion racket that has replaced traditional commerce in the Northwest and Southwest regions.

According to reports, kidnappings for ransom surged by nearly 100 percent in 2023, with at least 450 documented cases. Analysts believe the actual number is much higher, as many families pay in silence to protect their loved ones.

“This is an economic weapon of mass destruction,” said one economic analyst. “By forcing families to liquidate land and life savings, these groups are performing a rapid, forced capital flight. The wealth of the community is being sucked into the machinery of war.”

The consequences extend far beyond individual families. The region’s “Ghost Towns”—mandatory protest days enforced by separatists—already paralyzed markets. Now, the fear of kidnapping has turned once-fertile farmland into “ghost farms.”

Traditionally, the region relied on communal farming and the “Njangi” (informal credit unions) to survive hard times. These safety nets have been systematically dismantled as every spare franc is redirected toward ransom payments.

“I have been taken several times,” said one local resident who requested anonymity. “Each time, the price goes up. Eventually, there is nothing left to give, and that is when people simply leave their homes forever.”

The original political grievances of the Anglophone regions—calls for better representation and judicial reform—have been largely overshadowed by this brutal pursuit of profit. The region is now slipping into a state of structural dependency on external humanitarian aid.

For survivors like Steven and Jude, the physical scars may heal, but the economic ruin is a life sentence. As the “ransom economy” continues to grow, it threatens to leave behind a hollowed-out society where the only thriving industry is the trade of human lives.

NSODA President Implore “Wirfon” To Disagree Without Destroying One Another

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The President-General of the Nso Cultural and Development Association (NSODA), Shey Tadze Adamu Mbiydzela, has call on sons and daughters of Nso land “Wirfon” to “disagree without destroying one another” and to respect centuries-old traditional structures.

Shey Tadze Adamu Mbiydzela, President-General of the Nso Cultural and Development Association (NSODA)

Mbiydzela delivered the message in an end-of-year address on Dec. 31, 2025. He announced that 2026 will be observed under the theme “Our Unity, Our Strength, Our Shared Responsibility.”

“Let us disagree without destroying one another,” he said. “Our culture and traditional governance structures are built on respect, dialogue and established customs, not the fleeting passions of online debate.”

He stressed that unity is “the very foundation of our existence as a people” and urged Nso people to reject divisions based on ethnicity, politics, religion or region. Reflecting on 2025, which was designated the Year of Peace and Reconciliation, Mbiydzela said NSODA’s peace and reconciliation initiatives have made gradual progress despite persistent efforts by those seeking to deepen internal divisions.

“Our collective efforts are needed for peace to reign,” he said. “At the individual level, we must support community-based initiatives aimed at healing trauma and rebuilding trust.”

He specifically called on Nso sons and daughters involved in non-state armed groups to embrace peace efforts so families can move freely and carry out their activities in safety and dignity. Mbiydzela urged active participation in community rebuilding, support for victims and dialogue, especially among youth who have been disproportionately affected by conflict and lack of opportunities.

He stressed the need to invest aggressively in education, skills training and entrepreneurship to empower young people and reduce their vulnerability to manipulation and radicalization. The NSODA leader also addressed the anticipated return of the sacred Ngonnso statue from Germany, describing it as “the spiritual homecoming of our mother deity” and “the return of a piece of our soul.”

“It is a moment of profound cultural and spiritual significance for every Nso person,” he said. “NSODA will work tirelessly with traditional authorities and the reception committee to ensure a dignified and culturally appropriate reception.”

Looking ahead to 2026, Mbiydzela said the focus will be on projects that create jobs and opportunities, particularly for women and youth. He called for closer collaboration between municipal councils, the Presidential Plan for the Reconstruction and Development (PPRD), the diaspora, traditional leaders and nongovernmental partners.

“Our strength has always been in our unity,” he said. “I implore all Nso people, both at home and in the diaspora, to put aside our differences and work collectively for the development, security and prosperity of the Nso Kingdom from Nkar to Nseh and Mbokam to Mbiame.”

Mbiydzela acknowledged that 2025 was marked by both resilience and deep scars from the ongoing national socio-political crisis, internal challenges within the paramountcy and the long-awaited repatriation of cultural heritage. “These storms we have weathered have tested the very fabric of our community,” he said, “but they have also projected our collective resilience as our greatest asset.”

He called for continued attention to the security situation, economic hardships and humanitarian needs through honest dialogue, lawful civic participation and transitional justice processes that support truth-telling, victim assistance and reintegration of former conflict actors.

“NSODA strongly advocates for dialogue over discord, support for youth, justice and reintegration so as to bring about genuine peace and reconciliation,” he said.

President Biya Urges Cameroonians To Unite For National Peace

President Paul Biya has called on Cameroonians to come together in defense of national peace, condemning the rise in attacks on authority and violent rhetoric as “unacceptable.”

Biya Speaking to Cameroonians on December 31, 2025 (Photo Credit: Unity Palace)

In his traditional end-of-year address, Biya emphasized that the nation-building process cannot afford disorder, indiscipline, or impunity. He urged citizens to do their utmost to preserve stability, asserting that the government would exert strong control over relevant sectors to maintain public order.

On regional security, the President reaffirmed the government’s commitment to restore normalcy in the Far North, Northwest, and Southwest regions. He expressed hope in the power of community dialogue and encouraged administrative leaders, traditional rulers, and local figures to dedicate themselves to the peace-building process.

Biya commended the professionalism of defense and security forces for their courageous efforts against terrorism and crime, which pose a threat to the safety of Cameroonians and their property.

In discussing political and economic matters, the President pointed to the successful organization of presidential and regional elections in 2025 as evidence of the country’s democratic vitality. Despite global economic challenges, structural reforms, aided by international partners, have helped maintain macroeconomic stability.

He noted that while the investment budget has risen, measures to curb inflation and boost local production are in place to safeguard the well-being of the population.

Infrastructure development was also a key focus, with Biya highlighting the commissioning of the Nachtigal Dam and new solar power plants in northern regions as crucial steps towards enhancing power supply. He added that significant advancements have been made in the road sector and in providing clean drinking water for urban and rural communities.

Despite these successes, Biya acknowledged the need for ongoing efforts to improve living conditions, asserting that this would be a top priority for the forthcoming government.

Responding to political critics, Biya dismissed claims of governmental inaction as “false,” urging citizens to be wary of those spreading misleading narratives. He reiterated his commitment to transparency regarding the country’s challenges in a complex international landscape.

The President reaffirmed his administration’s focus on the Special Youth Employment Promotion Plan and the empowerment of women, pledging to bridge the gap between youth and experience while combatting injustices tied to ethnicity or culture.

Biya underscored the importance of collective action to foster “living together” and strengthen national unity. He cautioned that rising cultural isolationism and hate speech in the media threaten the core foundations of the nation.

He called upon all Cameroonians, both domestically and abroad, to engage in the noble endeavor of nation-building, upholding the values of equal opportunity and mutual respect.

Afro-Folk Artist Richard Kings, Banla Explore Foundation Of Human Joy In New 12-Song Collaboration

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Acclaimed Afro-folk storyteller Richard Kings and producer-composer Banla have joined forces for a deeply moving 12-song project that explores happiness, love, and emotional truth.

A still from the music video

The collaboration, now in production, emerges from a shared vision to create music that resonates across cultures, rooted in authenticity and timeless human experiences. This ambitious body of work delves into happiness not as a fleeting moment, but as a deliberate state shaped by vulnerability, memory, and connection.

Drawing from Afro-folk traditions, contemporary acoustic sounds, and global musical influences, the project reflects the duo’s commitment to crafting songs that heal and uplift. Each of the twelve tracks offers a unique perspective, weaving together melodies and lyrics that celebrate joy, intimacy, and gratitude.

The collaboration began organically, sparked by mutual respect and a desire to create music free from pretense. Over months of songwriting and reflection, Banla and Kings shaped a cohesive collection that feels both intimate and universal. Their work eschews fleeting trends, focusing instead on emotions and stories that endure across time and place. The project’s first single, “C’est Toi,” arrives January 1, setting a tender and hopeful tone for the new year.

Sung with sincerity, the song celebrates the person who embodies home and anchors happiness in everyday life. Its gentle instrumentation and heartfelt lyricism invite listeners into a warm, affirming embrace. On Valentine’s Day, the official music video for “C’est Toi” will debut, amplifying the song’s themes of love and emotional closeness.

The video, designed to mirror the music’s intimacy, will focus on shared moments and vulnerability, prioritizing human connection over spectacle. The remaining tracks will roll out progressively, each exploring happiness through diverse emotional and cultural lenses.

Together, the songs serve as a reminder that joy is not stumbled upon but cultivated and shared. Banla and Kings have created a sonic refuge, inviting listeners into a space where love is gentle, and music speaks to the soul. With this collaboration, the duo establishes a powerful testament to the enduring beauty of human bonds, blending Afro-folk, acoustic, and soul influences into a project that promises to resonate far beyond its release.

 

RENAPROV FINANCE SA 1996 – 2026: Scaling Growth With Landmark Offering Of 400,000 New Shares To Drive Sustainable Development

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

RENAPROV FINANCE SA, a cornerstone of the Cameroonian microfinance sector since 1996, has officially announced a significant expansion of its shareholding structure. As a central pillar of its Comprehensive Strategic Plan, the institution is issuing 400,000 new shares to the public, inviting fresh investment to fuel its next phase of inclusive and sustainable growth.

This capital opening represents a strategic shift intended to bolster equity while maintaining the highest standards of professional conduct, ethics, and corporate governance. The decision to welcome new shareholders is rooted in a rigorous commitment to the institution’s long-term investment roadmap.

By strengthening its financial base, RENAPROV FINANCE SA intends to refine its ability to offer specialized products and services that meet the precise needs of its diverse client base, existing shareholders, and dedicated members.

This issuance marks a transformative stage in the company’s history, providing the necessary resources to scale operations and enhance its impact across the regional financial landscape. Prospective investors now have the opportunity to join an established player with nearly three decades of market experience.

This move is not merely an increase in capital but a deliberate effort to build a more inclusive ownership model that supports sustainable development goals. Through this expansion, RENAPROV FINANCE SA reinforces its position as a forward-looking leader in microfinance, dedicated to achieving ambitious objectives through collaborative and transparent investment.