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Minister Fuh Calistus Gentry Hails Staff, Vows To Address Staff Grievances As Ministry Shifts To Major Production

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo Fuh Calistus Gentry, the Interim Minister of Mines, Industry and Technological Development, (MINMIDT), has hailed his…

Entertainment

Virgin Of The Throne: The Long-Awaited Pan-African Epic Poised to Redefine Global Cinema

By Doc Moore In an era where African cinema is steadily claiming its rightful place on the world stage, Virgin…

Entertainment

Crossed Paths: A Cinematic Masterpiece Captivating Global Audiences

By Doc Moore In an era where storytelling must fight to be heard above the noise, Crossed Paths emerges as…

Society

Bangolan Community Storms MINAT, Rejects Senator Fon Chafah In Demand For New Fon

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo Hundreds of natives from Bangolan village in Babessi Subdivision, Ngoketunjia Division in the Northwest Region stormed…

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.

Agenda 2063: AU Launches Second Decade Of Acceleration

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The African Union (AU) has launched the Second 10-Year Implementation Plan of Agenda 2063. The launching ceremony took place on February 17 during the summit of African Heads of States in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia that took place from February 17 and 18.

The implementation plan, also known as the decade of acceleration (2024-2033), is a historic milestone for the African Union, its Member States, and all African citizens. It marks the beginning of the second decade of collective efforts to realize the vision of a prosperous, peaceful, and integrated Africa by 2063.

The Second 10-Year Implementation Plan of Agenda 2063 is a bold and ambitious roadmap for Africa’s transformation. It is a manifestation of the collective will and determination of the African people to shape their destiny. It reaffirms the African dream of unity, dignity, and prosperity for all.

The launch of the plan is a call to action for all stakeholders to join hands and work together to make Agenda 2063 a reality. The success of the plan depends on the ownership, commitment, and participation of all Africans, including governments, regional economic communities, civil society organizations, the private sector, academia, media, and the diaspora.

The plan outlines seven moonshots of how the continent aims to achieve key priorities, goals, and targets in the next 10 years. By 2033, Africa aims to be prosperous, integrated, democratic, peaceful, cultured, people-driven, and influential.

The plan also identifies flagship projects that will have a high impact, such as the African Continental Free Trade Area, the African Passport, the Grand Inga Dam, the Single African Air Transport Market, the African Virtual University, the Pan-African E-Network, and the African Outer Space Strategy. These projects will enhance regional integration, economic diversification, innovation, and competitiveness, as well as social inclusion and cohesion.

Effective coordination, monitoring, and evaluation mechanisms are required to ensure accountability and transparency. The African Union Commission, together with AUDA-NEPAD, will play a leading role in facilitating and supporting the implementation of the plan at all levels.

The African Union has designated the theme for 2023 as the “Year of AfCFTA: Acceleration of the African Continental Free Trade Area Implementation”, aiming to generate greater political commitment and accelerate the effective implementation of the agreement.

By eliminating barriers to trade in Africa, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) aims to lift 30 million people from extreme poverty and another 68 million people from moderate poverty.

Currently, forty-four (44) member states are state parties to the AfCFTA Agreement following the ratification of the instruments establishing the AfCFTA, while fifty-four (54) member states have signed the Agreement.

*** 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟰 𝗣𝗟𝗔𝗬𝗘𝗥 𝗔𝗡𝗡𝗢𝗨𝗡𝗖𝗘𝗠𝗘𝗡𝗧 ***

*** 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟰 𝗣𝗟𝗔𝗬𝗘𝗥 𝗔𝗡𝗡𝗢𝗨𝗡𝗖𝗘𝗠𝗘𝗡𝗧 ***

Embracing Diversity and Unity Through Football

Julius Khingkile’s arrival in Adelaide in 2024 marked a significant milestone in his football career and the journey of South Coast United. Hailing from Cameroon, Julius brought with him a rich tapestry of experiences and skills honed on the football fields of his native country and Dubai.

A formidable presence on the pitch, Julius is renowned for his strength, skill, and versatility, traits that quickly caught the attention of his new teammates at South Coast United. Despite his recent relocation, Julius seamlessly integrated into the playing group, showcasing his exceptional talent during training sessions with his precise touch and fluid movement.

Having dedicated a substantial amount of time to football in Cameroon and Dubai, Julius’s arrival at South Coast United was met with enthusiasm and optimism. The prospect of Julius calling South Coast United home in 2024 filled the team and fans alike with anticipation for the season ahead.

Julius Khingkile’s transition to Adelaide not only represented a new chapter in his football career but also symbolized the convergence of diverse backgrounds and talents within the realm of sports. His journey from Cameroon to Dubai to Adelaide exemplifies the universal language of football that transcends borders and unites individuals from different cultures and experiences.

As Julius embarked on this new chapter with South Coast United, his presence revitalized the team, injecting fresh energy and perspective into their dynamic. His impact on and off the field resonated with fans and teammates, forging connections and fostering a sense of unity within the club.

In welcoming Julius Khingkile to South Coast United, the football community celebrated the spirit of inclusivity, and diversity, and shared passion for the beautiful game. Julius’s journey serves as a testament to the power of sport in bridging gaps, creating opportunities, and fostering a sense of belonging in a global landscape.

Join us in extending a warm welcome to Julius Khingkile and witness the transformative journey of a player whose talent, dedication, and commitment continue to inspire those around him. Welcome Julius with a comment below and be part of his exciting journey with South Coast United.

PROMOTE 2024 Kicks Off In Yaoundé

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The 9th International Exhibition for Enterprises, SMEs, and Partnerships of Yaoundé, PROMOTE 2024, has kicked off in Yaounde.

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

SMEs positioning themselves as Promote gets underway (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

One of the great innovations of the 2024 edition is the addition in its program “Promote 2024 Major Economic Forum.”

The exhibition serves as a melting pot for companies of all sizes, government bodies, regulatory agencies, institutions, and a diverse array of organizations.

Each year, PROMOTE attracts over 1,000 exhibitors from 30 countries across various sectors including agriculture and agro-industry, energy, industry, construction and public works, mining, infrastructure, ICT, health, banking and finance, insurance, tourism, crafts, communication, and more.

Beyond being a platform to initiate and cultivate partnerships, the nine-day exhibition offers a rich tapestry of activities including multi-sector exhibitions, promotional opportunities, networking sessions, exchanges of ideas, engaging debates, and fruitful meetings.

Push For Debt Reforms: Finance, Economic Experts Urge Africa Leaders To Match Unity Speak With Actions

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Finance and economic experts from Africa have urged African leaders to match their unity rhetoric with concrete actions and intensify efforts towards regional integration. They believe that these measures are crucial for the continent’s agency and success in advocating for debt reforms and a complete overhaul of the global financial architecture.

Panelists during the media briefing

This call was made on February 16 during a media briefing held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The briefing brought together notable figures such as Jason Braganza, Executive Director of the African Forum and Network on Debt and Development (AFRODAD); Mavis Owusu-Gyamfi, Vice President of the African Center for Economic Transformation (ACET); Hannah Ryder, CEO of Development Reimagined; and Dr. Patrick Ndzana Olomo, Acting Head of the Economic Policy and Research Division at the Department of Economic Affairs of the African Union Commission.

The media briefing served as a precursor to the upcoming African Union (AU) Summit, where African Heads of States will convene over the weekend.

During the briefing, moderated by Joab Okanda, Senior Advocacy Advisor at Christian Aid, Jason Braganza expressed his regret over the fact that Africa predominantly exports raw commodities and imports finished goods. This structural imbalance perpetuates liquidity shortages and necessitates the need for loans.

“The Continent is largely an exporter of raw commodities and importer of finished goods, and this means we will always be in a liquidity crunch and cash shortfall. This necessitates having to go for loans,” he said.

Braganza emphasized that Africa must adopt a coherent and coordinated approach that highlights the continent’s value in global trade and positions it as a net creditor to the world.

Mavis Owusu-Gyamfi on his part called for a global financial architecture that is responsive to Africa’s current realities and complex challenges. He argued that the current international financial systems were established 80 years ago when most African countries were still under colonial rule, which hindered their industrialization efforts.

“The international financial systems were set up 80 years ago when most African countries were colonised, and the system locked them out of industrialization. Given what Africa has given to the world as a provider of natural resource capital, it is not too much to ask for an increase and a fair share of allocations through public goods such as the International Development Assistance (IDA) and the Special Drawing Rights (SDRs).”

Hannah Ryder emphasized that Africa still heavily relies on support from the rest of the world. “While a lot is being done domestically and new lenders such as China and private sector actors have brought in resources, we have to go back to the 1980s when African governments realised that their aspirations such as infrastructure building would not be met by domestic resources only.”

She cited studies across 13 African countries, conducted by Development Reimagined, which indicated that to achieve the aspirations of Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), these countries would require between USD 100-150 billion annually. However, if they were to rely solely on external finance under the current system, they would quickly exceed their debt sustainability thresholds, as many countries already have. Ryder argued that a comprehensive overhaul of the global financial architecture, initially designed to serve major powers, is necessary to address the needs of Africa and other developing countries.

Dr. Patrick Ndzana Olomo reiterated the importance of Africa’s admission to the G20, as it presents an opportunity to establish comprehensive frameworks within the G20 to combat illicit financial flows, which cause the continent to lose USD 90 billion annually. He emphasized the significance of Africa’s participation in G20 discussions to address strategic issues that serve the interests of the continent.

Nevertheless, these experts stressed the need for African leaders to take decisive actions towards regional integration, debt reform, and a restructuring of the global financial architecture to ensure Africa’s economic empowerment and development.