Female Journalists Urge To Overcome Challenges, Work Hard Towards Success

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Female journalists in Cameroon have been encouraged to not only confront the numerous challenges they encounter in the industry but also to view hard work as a crucial tool for achieving success.

**Participants during the workshop** (Photo Credit: US Embassy Yaounde)

The call was made on March 19 in Yaounde during a thought-provoking workshop organized by the US Embassy in Yaounde.

This event was a significant part of the Women’s History Month observance, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and celebrating the achievements of women in various fields.

The engaging workshop titled “Being a Female Journalist in Cameroon” brought together a diverse group of media professionals, student journalists, and representatives from various government ministries.

During the discussions, participants highlighted the obstacles faced by female journalists in Cameroon, which range from gender discrimination and stereotypical treatment in media outlets to instances of sexual harassment.

Despite acknowledging the tough challenges that come with being a female journalist in Cameroon, the participants urged each other to transcend these barriers and make a positive impact on the media landscape. Many emphasized that continuous learning and unwavering dedication are key elements for achieving success in this field.

Among the presentations was an assessment of the challenges faced by female journalists in Cameroon, a research topic that was carried out by Bizel-Bi Mofor Ticha in the two Anglophone Regions in 2018.

Additionally, there was a compelling presentation that showcased the profiles of some influential women in the US media, including renowned figures such as Oprah Winfrey, Ellen DeGeneres, Robin Roberts, Cristina Saralegui, Shonda Rhimes, Ana Kasparian, Rosalyn Durant, Angie Martinez, and the late Eunice Johnson.

Women’s History Month serves as an annual tribute to commemorate the invaluable contributions of women to historical events and contemporary society.

Celebrated in March in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia to coincide with International Women’s Day on March 8, this observance takes place in October in Canada, aligning with the celebration of Persons Day on October 18.

The roots of Women’s History Month in the United States can be traced back to the inception of the first International Women’s Day in 1911, marking a significant milestone in recognizing and honoring the achievements of women globally.

2024 Ramadan: Muslim Faithful Urged to Remain Steadfast in Prayer during Fasting

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Muslims faithfuls have been called upon to be steadfast in praying as they observe the holy fasting month of Ramadan. The call was made over the weekend by Muslims leaders.

**Muslims praying during fasting** (Picture Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Speaking to the Muslims leaders via a telephone call, they all acknowledge the importance of fasting indicating that apart from teaching self-control, reinforces one’s faith and piety, helps one become more mindful of God and His blessings, fasting is also a means of seeking forgiveness of sins, and is a reminder of the plight of those who do not have adequate food, water, and shelter.

“This month is a month of mercy. The best charity is done during month of Ramadan. You must pray more than all other time and read the Koran all the time as well as visit the sick, prison yard and elders among other things, Sheihk Dan Zubair said.

He added, “During this blessed month of fasting, it is a time for worship, and Muslims fast not only to remind themselves of those who are less fortunate than them, but to also get closer to Allah by acts of remembrance by His guidance.”

To Sheihk Mohammed Ntangdzenyuy, President Jurist of Islam in Bui (JIB), Muslims should keep their trust in Allah as they fast. He also urged them to continue to pray for peace to reign in Cameroon especially in the Anglophone regions and elsewhere in the world.

Other than fasting with no food or water throughout the day from sunrise until sunset for the entire month, Sheihk Mohammed said, they need to offer to do more good deeds night prayers on top of the obligatory 5 Salat (prayers), reading and reciting the Quran from beginning to end, giving more in the way of charity to the poor and needy, offering iftar meals to neighbours and attend the Masjid (Mosque) every night for Taraweeh prayers.

While feeling God in all what they are doing, the Muslim leader also remarked that the fasting is going on with preparations for people who want to go for pilgrimage to the Holy Land.

Ramadan is the ninth month in the Islamic calendar, which is based on the lunar cycle or phases of the moon. Healthy adult Muslims are required to fast in the daylight hours of Ramadan, which involves abstaining from eating, drinking, immoral acts and getting angry.

Ramadan is the month in which the Qur’an, the holy book of Islam, was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and his family) through the angel Jibreel (Gabriel) in A.D. 610. The timing of revelation is given special significance and is known as ‘Laylatul Qadr’ or the Night of Power.

Fasting is expected to end on Tuesday, April 9, 2024 with the feast of the Ramadan.

U.S. Government Launches FCFA 18 Billion Project to Combat Malaria in Cameroon’s Far North Region

The U.S. government, through the U.S. Global Malaria Coordinator Dr. David Walton, has launched an FCFA 18 billion project aimed at fighting malaria in the Far North Region of Cameroon.

The project, known as the System to End the Malaria Burden Through Meaningful Engagement (SEMBE I) project, was launched in Yaounde on March 13.

**Dr. David Walton, U.S. Global Malaria Coordinator speaking during the launching ceremony** (Photo Credit: US Embassy Yaounde)

Dr. David Walton was accompanied by Dr. Manaouda Malachie, Cameroon Minister of Public Health, President of the Far North Regional Council, Daniel Kalbassou, Dr. Hamadou Bava, Regional Delegate for Health, the Board Chair of the Association Camerounaise pour le Marketing Social (ACMS), Dr. Francoise Nissack, as well as malaria partners and local Cameroonian health sector associations.

Speaking at the launching ceremony, Dr. Walton stressed the U.S. government’s commitment to transferring greater leadership, decision-making, and implementation of malaria programming from international institutions to local Cameroonian partners.

He stated, “Understanding that local communities know best the challenges they face fighting malaria and what they need to beat the disease, we aim for PMI programs to be guided by Cameroonian organizations and rooted in local priorities. We firmly believe that providing direct funding to local organizations will contribute to more sustainable, effective, and equitable malaria services and stronger health systems in Cameroon.”

SEMBE I is a five-year project amounting to CFA 18 billion (USD $30 million) subject to the availability of funds by the U.S. government that will be implemented by the ACMS. This is the first malaria project led by a local Cameroonian association that the U.S. President’s Malaria Initiative (PMI) has awarded.

**Officials during the launching ceremony** (Photo Credit: US Embassy Yaounde)

Malaria is the most widespread endemic disease in Cameroon, responsible for over two million reported cases annually and causing substantial absenteeism from school and work. The Far North Region is one of Cameroon’s most populous, with over four million people representing 18 percent of the country’s total population.

Malaria transmission in this region is seasonal, with the highest incidence recorded during the rainy season. The populations most vulnerable to malaria are pregnant women and young children. In 2022, malaria prevalence in children 6-59 months was 27 percent.

The U.S. President’s Malaria Initiative is dedicated to working with the Ministry of Public Health to promote local solutions to fight malaria in Cameroon. The U.S. government remains committed to its collaboration with Cameroon to improve health outcomes for the people. For more information on USAID’s activities in Cameroon.

PMI is led by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and implemented together with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The SEMBE I project seeks to reduce malaria-related morbidity and mortality by strengthening the capacity of the National Malaria Control Program and other local entities to lead the prevention, control, and elimination of malaria in the Far North Region of Cameroon.

U.S. Global Malaria Coordinator Strengthens Support in Cameroon’s Fight Against Malaria

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The U.S. Global Malaria Coordinator, Dr. David Walton, has underscored the U.S. Government’s continued support in the fight against malaria.

The U.S. Government’s continued support in the fight against malaria was emphasized during an official visit made by Dr. Walton to Cameroon from March 5 to 14.

**Dr. David Walton and PM, Chief Dr. Joseph Dion Ngute after their meeting** (Photo Credit: US Embassy Yaounde)

Besides underscoring the U.S. Government’s continued support in the fight against malaria, Dr. Walton also gained a deeper understanding of Cameroon’s efforts to end malaria.

The U.S. Global Malaria Coordinator was joined on his visit by Dr. Meera Venkatesan, Agency Lead for the U.S. President’s Malaria Initiative (PMI) at the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID).

During his ten-day stay in Cameroon, Dr. Walton held strategic meetings with government officials, the National Malaria Control Program (NMCP), and visited health facilities to observe the malaria vaccination process.

Dr. Walton met with the Prime Minister, Joseph Dion Ngute, and the Minister of External Relations, H.E. Mbela Mbela LeJeune. He attended high-level meetings with the Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, and Ministers of Health from “High Burden to High Impact” countries, representing the countries with the highest malaria burden committed to reducing that burden through an intensified approach.

These meetings introduced the malaria vaccine and included the 25^th convening of the WHO Malaria Policy Advisory Group (MPAG) and the malaria vaccine’s introduction. In addition to meeting with the National Malaria Control Program (NMCP) and PMI-funded partners, he also met with the Executive Board of the Global Fund for AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria Country Coordinating Mechanism (CCM) to discuss cross-sector health programs related to malaria.

**Dr. David Walton and Cameroon Minister of Public Heath, Dr. Manaouda Malachie pose with officials in the Far North Region** (Photo Credit: US Embassy Yaounde)

To better understand Cameroon’s research capacities, Dr. Walton visited the Center for Research in Infectious Diseases (CRID), which conducts cutting-edge entomological research on vector-borne diseases like malaria. He also participated in a meeting with the Parliamentary Health Caucus to discuss domestic resource mobilization efforts in the fight against malaria.

Among other activities, he launched the System to End the Malaria Burden Through Meaningful Engagement (SEMBE I) project with the participation of Minister of Public Health Dr. Manaouda Malachie, malaria partners, and local associations. SEMBE I is a CFA 18 billion (USD $30 million) project funded by PMI and implemented by the Association Camerounaise pour le Marketing Social (ACMS).

This project aims to reduce malaria-related morbidity and mortality by enhancing the capacity of the National Malaria Control Program and other local entities to lead the prevention, control, and elimination of malaria in the Far North Region of Cameroon.

In the Far North Region, he met with Governor Midjiyawa Bakary, and together with Dr. Manaouda Malachie, Dr. Walton visited the Mokolo integrated health center and immunization unit, where the new malaria vaccine is now part of the routine immunization package in Cameroon for children aged six months.

Dr. Walton expressed hope that the new malaria vaccine, made available to Cameroon with support from the U.S. government, would help eradicate malaria and provide children with a better chance at a malaria-free life.

Cameroonian Singer, Weiser Releases Third Album, ‘Hustle & Flow’

Cameroonian artist Ngwa Bruce Armel, better known by his stage name Weiser, is a multi-talented artist hailing from the Cameroonian diaspora has unveiled his highly anticipated third musical album, “Hustle and Flow.” The new album was released on March 15.

The twelve-track project showcases Weiser’s versatility and artistry, offering a rich tapestry of songs that aim to motivate, uplift, express love, care, and delve into the complexities of heartbreak.

“Hustle & Flow” serves as a musical journey that not only entertains but also inspires listeners to persevere in the face of challenges and strive for success.

A standout feature of the album is Weiser’s collaboration with the renowned Cameroonian rapper, singer, and songwriter Skiezy Ayenkea on the tracks “Partir” and “Papa.”

Together, they bring a unique blend of storytelling and emotion, delivering a message that resonates with audiences and encourages them to prioritize self-care and walk away from toxic relationships.

The linguistic diversity of the album adds another layer of richness, with tracks incorporating English, Pidgin, and French languages. This multilingual approach enhances the album’s global appeal and underscores Weiser’s ability to connect with a diverse audience.

Behind the scenes, “Hustle and Flow” benefits from the creative input of three talented producers. Mender’s touch is evident in tracks 3, 6, 7, 10, 11, and DEA The Busker’s production shines on tracks 4, 5, 8, and 12. Kumi’s contributions to tracks 1, 2, and 9 round out the album’s dynamic soundscape, showcasing a range of musical styles and influences.

The track list is thoughtfully curated, with two distinct sections offering contrasting yet complementary vibes. The “HUSTLE” segment features energetic tracks like “Hustle,” “Never Give Up,” “Man Get to Hustle,” “Fall,” “Waka Waka,” and “Official,” driving home themes of ambition, perseverance, and hard work.

On the other hand, the “FLOW” section presents a more introspective side with titles such as “Far Away,” “Partir,” “Flex,” “Party,” “Anybody,” and “Papa,” inviting listeners to reflect on personal experiences and emotions.

Wrapping up the year 2023, Weiser left a lasting impression with the release of the inspirational single “Brother’s Love.”

This heartfelt track emphasizes the importance of love, care, and peace, especially during challenging times, and serves as a reminder to extend compassion to those in need, particularly in regions facing turmoil and conflict.

United FC Secures First Victory Against Spartan FC in Bui Strikers – Nso Veterans Friendship Tournament

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

United FC of Bui Strikers has secured its first victory as the Bui Strikers Veteran Yaounde and Nso Veteran Yaounde Friendship Tournament kicks off.

The opening day of play took place at the Emma Basil football arena in the Cite Verte Neighbourhood on March 16 with two matches on the schedule. Both teams showcased their veteran skills in a highly anticipated encounter, with United FC taking the lead at the 25^th minute of the first half.

**Spartans FC (Yellow) verses United FC (Blue)**

Just two minutes before regular time, Spartan FC equalized, leaving both sides tied at 1-1 going into the break. As the second half commenced, both teams returned to the field with the aim of seizing the lead.

However, it was United FC that managed to score their second goal at the 60^th minute mark. Despite efforts from the Spartans to level the score and secure their first victory, their attempts proved futile as the final score favored United, granting them the victory of the day.

Meanwhile in the first match of the friendship tournament, Rangers FC and Bulldogs FC played out a thrilling 4-4 draw. The Bulldogs initially held a convincing 3-1 lead, but Rangers FC mounted a comeback to secure the draw.

**Rangers FC (Red) verses Bulldogs (Black)**

It should be noted that both matches were a display of veteran skills and determination. A total of 11 goals was scored during the first day.

The next matchday is set for March 23, featuring two matches on the agenda. Rangers FC will square off against United FC, while Bulldogs will take on Spartans FC.

The tournament aims to strengthen the friendly ties between the two veteran clubs and foster camaraderie.

Each veteran club has fielded two teams, with Bui Strikers Veteran FC presenting United FC and Rangers FC, while Nso Veteran FC of Yaounde showcasing Spartans FC and Bulldogs FC.

The first round is scheduled to conclude on March 30, 2024.

Valorizing Youth Football: A Solution To Cameroon Football & A Tool Against Age Cheating

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The other day, a multitude of football fans gathered around a small, dusty football field, cheering on the players as they engaged in a competitive inter-quarter competition. The crowd was massive, with everyone seemingly at the top of their voices, coaching their respective teams towards victory. With every move on the pitch, the spectators shouted out the players’ names like ‘Eto’o’, ‘Mane’, ‘Ronaldo’, ‘Onana’—nicknames given to players based on their performances on the field throughout the competition.

**Youths in the National Football Academy showcasing their talents**

One spectator exclaimed, “That number seven is a remarkable player, playing with finesse akin to Ronaldo. He exhibits great skill in front of the goal post. He is definitely one to keep an eye on.” Another fan pointed out a certain number nine and remarked, “He plays just like Eto’o. I admire players who hold their ground in front of the goal post. His style mirrors that of Eto’o.”

These discussions and many more occupied the minds of the fans as they passionately discussed the reasons behind giving specific players these nicknames. Some even suggested that such local events should be frequented by sports authorities to scout for raw talents that could potentially fill the gaps present in various national teams.

A stone’s throw away from this lively scene was another stadium where children, approximately 12 years old and below, were engrossed in a game of ‘Dima catch’. Observers from a distance noted the presence of raw talent among these young players. However, the attention of the crowd was predominantly focused on the adult game, with little regard given to the youth match. This imbalance mirrors the current state of football in Cameroon.

According to Cameroonians, youth football seems to have taken a back seat, with more attention and resources directed towards those who have already made a name for themselves in the sport. Going by them, there is a growing sentiment that the development of young talent is being neglected in favor of established players who are perceived to have “arrived.”

Peter Nasi is a football fan, “For the past ten years and more, football in Cameroon have been on a downward trend. This is because youth football which is the foundation has not been given the pride of place. Instead of developing form the base, we turn to those who are already shinning. That is not bad but youth football is the foundation.”

***Youths in the National Football Academy***

Peter Nasi, a football fan, expressed his concerns, stating, “For the past ten years and more, football in Cameroon has been on a downward trend. This is because youth football, which is the foundation, has not been given the pride of place. Instead of developing from the base, we turn to those who are already shining. That is not bad, but youth football is the foundation.”

Nathelia Fai on his part emphasized the importance of youth football, saying, “We have to make youth football a reality because for so long, it has existed only on paper. Youth football will allow a smooth transition from various categories to the national team. It will also address the issue of age cheating, where players falsify their ages to fit into a certain age group for football development.”

An official working at the National Identity Card production Unit in a Police Station in Yaounde highlighted concerns about age manipulation among players. He noted, “Priority seems to be given to players to freely adjust their ages. This leniency is not extended to ordinary citizens, indicating a disparity in treatment.”

Brian, a football promoter, raised the issue of age cheating prevalent in Cameroon’s football system, stating, “Team officials manipulate their players ages at will, and their identity cards are processed swiftly, within 24 to 48 hours. To me, they lack vision because before long, nature will catch them. This neglect of youth football is hindering the progress of our football system.”

Noting that youth football is crucial for the future of football in Cameroon, Brian stated, “Youth football is the key to the survival of our football. Building a strong football system starts from the grassroots. Embracing youth football will pave the way for greatness in our football landscape, similar to successful football nations that prioritize youth development.”

However, sports pundits advocate for the establishment of academies with comprehensive facilities to support football development. While the Cameroon Football Federation, FECAFOOT, plays its part, football promoters need to be diligent in their roles to contribute effectively to the growth of football in the country.

Tzy Panchak’s Latest Album “GOD’s PEOPLE” Sparks Enthusiasm

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Cameroonian singer Etah Tambe Nyenti, also known as Tzy Panchak, has set the music scene ablaze with his latest album, “GOD’s PEOPLE,” featuring captivating melodies and powerful lyrics.

Tzy Panchak’s fourth studio project, recently released, consists of nine tracks. Speaking to News-Lens, fans of Tzy Panchak expressed their happiness with tracks like “Only You” and “Moves,” which evoke strong emotions.

**Etah Tambe Nyenti, aka Tzy Panchak** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

“I like his latest album because the songs have very meaningful lyrics. The message is wonderful, especially the track ‘God is Love,'” a fan shared, while another praised the collaboration with Tenor in the track “Never Fall.”

“As you can see, I am enjoying the album. The songs are very nice,” another fan added.

After savoring fans with “Love & War” album in 2022 and parting ways with Blu Nation Recording, Tzy Panchak, under his own record label Greatness Music, collaborates with artists such as Blanche Bailly, Raizy, Tenor, Krys M, MiNk’s, Innoss’B, Cleo Grae, and Abztrumental to give the album the grandeur it deserves.

The singer aims to establish his legacy under his newly created record label, Greatness Music, with the release of “God’s People.”

Tzy Panchak, a Cameroonian artist, found his inspiration for music while studying at university in Calabar, Nigeria, where he fell in love with the Nigerian sound.

However, he is determined to be recognized as a Cameroonian musician and to support other young artists from his country. Etah Tambe Nyenti is not only an artist but also a performer, vocal coach, and songwriter.

U.S Ambassador Inaugurates Center For Transformative Education in Ngaoundere

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The United States Ambassador to Cameroon, H.E Christopher J. Lamora has inaugurated the Center for Transformative Education at the University of Ngaoundéré in the Adamawa Region.

***H.E. Christopher J. Lamora (3rd from Left) cutting the inaugural ribbon*** *(Photo Credit: US Embassy Yaounde)*

The inauguration ceremony took place on March 11. H.E Lamora was accompanied by Prof. Abdoulmoumini Mamoudou, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ngaoundéré, alongside many other dignitaries.

In a keynote speech, the U.S. diplomat said that the occasion marked the culmination of several years of collaborative efforts between Cameroonians and Americans. He added that the center will provide an opportunity for teachers, lecturers, professionals, and students to engage in constructive discussions, pushing each other to challenge the status quo and improve educational outcomes for future generations.

“This occasion marks the culmination of several years of collaborative efforts between Cameroonians and Americans. The work that we do together has tremendous potential to transform societies, and today we are witnessing the beginning of the far-reaching effects that I am confident will result from the creation of this Center,” H.E Lamora said.

H.E. Christopher J. Lamora speaking to the press (Photo Credit: US Embassy Yaounde)

He added, “This marks the beginning of transformative education pedagogy, where teachers, lecturers, professionals, and students will engage in constructive discussions, pushing each other to challenge the status quo and improve educational outcomes for future generations.”

Highlighting the partnership between the University of Ngaoundéré and Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana, he said that both institutions share an unwavering commitment to education and professional development.

“This is why we were pleased to award Ball State University a U.S. government grant of CFA 15 million ($25,000) to organize a series of seminars on innovative pedagogic approaches in support of the Center for Transformative Education,” he added.

While admitting that several lecturers and students at the University of Ngaoundéré have benefited from exchange programs in a variety of fields, he expressed his optimism that this partnership will grow and expand for the mutual benefit of Cameroonian and American students and scholars.

Besides remunerating some of the teachers of the institutions who have benefited from the US Exchange programs, the Ambassador indicated that partnerships between American and Cameroonian universities, such as that between the University of Ngaoundéré and Ball State, further foster knowledge-sharing and strengthen academic ties.

“We at the U.S. Embassy also seek to empower students and faculty by providing access to free digital library resources, ensuring they have the information they need to successfully conduct their work. Furthermore, we invest in the future of Cameroon by supporting projects that empower young people across the nation and develop their leadership skills,” he said.

**H.E. Christopher J. Lamora and officials pose for a family picture** (Photo Credit: US Embassy Yaounde)

According to Ambassador Lamora, these engagements embody the U.S. commitment to investing in Cameroon’s vast human capital and its institutions. “I have focused a lot on educational and leadership development. But the U.S. partnership with Cameroon also extends to other priority areas, such as addressing immediate humanitarian needs,” he stated.

The Center for Transformative Education is a partnership between the University of Ngaoundéré and Ball State University in the United States. The Center’s goal is to reinforce pedagogic competence among professors, increase curriculum quality, and promote transformative pedagogy, student engagement, leadership, and effective evaluation of students and instructors. In addition to donating 10 computers, the U.S. Embassy supported the Center with over 15 million CFA to implement pedagogic workshops.

Victoria United Faces Uncertain Playoff Fate As Chamber Of Arbitration And Conciliation Makes Ruling

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The fate of Victoria United of Limbe, alias Opopo, participating in the 2023/2024 playoffs, is hanging in the balance following the ruling of the Chamber of Arbitration and Conciliation of the Cameroon National Olympic and Sports Committee, CNOSC.

Sources say the ruling made on March 12, Victoria United lost a match they had won on a green carpet. The winning of the match had taken them to the top four with the likelihood that they will be participating in the playoffs.

**Victoria United during the 2023/2024 football season in Cameroon** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

On matchday 15 of Elite One championship, Victoria United and Avion du Nkam played out a 1-1 draw. Opopo because of cases of irregularities appealed to FECAFOOT’s judicial bodies and won the case. The green-carpet victory propelled Opopo into the playoffs.

However, after referring the matter to the Chamber of Arbitration and Conciliation, Avion du Nkam won the match, confirming the score as 1-0. The loss of two points consequently relegates Victoria United to fifth place, synonymous with the Play-offs Down.

If Opopo disagrees with the ruling, the team has another option to appeal before TAS, which will decide as the last resort. Assuming everything being equal, Victoria United will be participating in the Play Down, which involves 11 teams. In the meantime, several other cases are pending in the Chamber of Arbitration and Conciliation.

The cases of Fauve Azur vs FECAFOOT, Yong Sport vs FECAFOOT/Victoria United, UMS vs FECAFOOT/Victoria United, and UMS vs FECAFOOT/Apejes. Verdicts for these cases are expected to be passed on March 13.

All applying clubs, namely Fauve Azur, Yong Sport, and UMS, are challenging some decisions made at the end of the championship by the FECAFOOT judicial bodies.

SYNAFOC Calls For Postponement Of Playoffs

The National Union of Cameroonian Footballers, better known as SYNAFOC, has called on FECAFOOT to postpone the playoffs scheduled to begin in the coming days.

In a press release signed by Daniel Blaise Ngo, Secretary-General, regarding the 93 players (Elite One & Two) who are suspected of fraudulently using their identities, SYNAFOC strongly condemned the practice of identity fraud among players.

Among other questions raised, SYNAFOC questioned why such serious accusations against the players are made public in this manner, even though the clubs employing them have been given a 48-hour period to provide evidence justifying the identities presented in license application files. SYNAFOC stated that identity fraud cannot be solely attributed to the players, who are often the victims in such situations.

Considering the gravity of the situation (15 out of 19 Elite One Clubs are implicated), the Union of footballers proposed that the playoffs be postponed for at least ten days. This would allow for a thorough investigation into the matter, which may involve not only the players but also other known and identifiable stakeholders organizing the fraud. The players could potentially be mere scapegoats in a larger fraudulent scheme.

The Union further suggested the creation of a joint commission of inquiry comprising representatives from players, clubs, and legal professionals to ascertain responsibilities and ensure that all parties involved are held accountable. This would help identify and eliminate the individuals perpetuating this fraud and safeguard the integrity of the sport.

93 Players Identified To Have Double Identification

On March 11, FECAFOOT announced the temporary suspension of 93 players from Elite One and Two teams due to age fraud. Among those suspended was Wilfried Nathan Douala, who had been highlighted as the youngest player during the 34^th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations, AFCON.

The suspended players had been selected for the upcoming play-offs of the country’s premier championship, MTN Elite One, which are set to begin on Friday. FECAFOOT stated that these players would not be allowed to participate in the competition unless they could provide valid explanations for their dual identities.

This development has implicated players from 12 out of the 16 clubs participating in the play-offs, shedding light on the long-standing issue of age fraud that has plagued the football landscape in Cameroon.

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