Hon. Cavayé Yeguié Djibril Re-Elected Speaker of Cameroon’s National Assembly

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Hon. Cavayé Yéguié Djibril, Member of Parliament representing the Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM) Party from the Mayo-Sava in the Far North Region, has been re-elected as the Speaker of the Cameroon’s National Assembly.

**Hon. Cavayé Yéguié Djibril, salutes MPs after re-election** (Photo Credit: National Assembly)

The senior statesman was re-elected on March 22 during a plenary session chaired by Koa Mfegue Laurentine Mbede, Eldest Member of Parliament.

Out of 156 votes, Hon. Cavayé received a total of 143 votes, with 13 null ballots. Reports indicate that he secured the majority of votes from members of his ruling CPDM party in an election where opposition MPs did not field a candidate. The CPDM party controls more than 160 out of 180 seats in the Lower House of Assembly.

Results board after Elections (Photo Credit: National Assembly)

Born in 1940, Hon. Cavayé will be serving his 32nd year as Speaker of the National Assembly, having taken over from Hon. Lawrence Fonka Shang in 1992.

He has also been a member of the National Assembly for 54 years, starting in 1970 shortly after becoming the quaestor in the National Assembly in 1973.

In 1975, he was appointed to the Central Committee of the ruling party, the Cameroonian National Union (CNU). Additionally, he has been a traditional leader of Mada since 1971.

UNHCR Unveils Multi-Year, Multi-Partner Strategic Plan For Refugee Management

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in Cameroon has unveiled a multi-year and multi-partner strategic plan for 2022-2026 geared towards managing refugees, internally displaced persons, and asylum seekers.

**Olivier Guillaume, UNHCR Multi-Country Office Representative** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

The strategic plan was unveiled on March 20 in Yaounde in a ceremony chaired by the Secretary-General at the Ministry of External Relations, Chinmoun Oumarou (Representative of the Minister).

He was accompanied by the UNHCR Multi-Country Office Representative, Olivier Guillaume, as well as the Resident Coordinator of the United Nations Systems in Cameroon, Siaka Coulibaly, among others.

Speaking during the ceremony, Olivier Guillaume said the strategic plan was drawn up was drawn up such that it can be in line with the government National Development Strategy but also with the United Nations framework for sustainable development in the country.

Indicating that it was difficult to align actions, activities, and objectives with a one-year planning, he mentioned that having a multi-year plan will allow UNHCR to have a short, medium, and long-term vision about managing the situation of refugees.

**Siaka Coulibaly, Resident Coordinator of the United Nations Systems in Cameroon** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

To Chinmoun Oumarou, such an occasion always marks a significant turning point in the joint commitment towards refugees and internally displaced persons in Cameroon.

“Cameroon, it should be highlighted here, has always been a country of assured and proven compassion, a nation known for legendary hospitality extended to those displaced by force. Indeed, both our hearts and borders are open to all those fleeing conflicts and various forms of pressure and persecution, providing them with an opportunity to rebuild their lives,” said Chinmoun Oumarou.

He also noted that, the current conflict situation, which has been ongoing for an extended period, requires an organized and sustainable response from all stakeholders.

“The plan is therefore aimed at strengthening our policies and actions while fostering cooperation among the various stakeholders involved in this process. In this connection, just as pointed out here by the resident representative of UNHCR Cameroon, the plan is based on three fundamental pillars, which are adequate protection, coordination,” he added.

**Chinmoun Oumarou, Secretary-General at the Ministry of External Relations** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Meanwhile, Siaka Coulibaly welcomed the approach taken by the government and its partners to improve refugees’ access to empowerment opportunities through their socio-economic inclusion. According to him, this is the right approach to address operational challenges.

“In line with the recommendations of the Global Compact on Refugees, the United Nations System represented in Cameroon is committed to working collectively to prioritize the inclusion of refugees in its cooperation frameworks for sustainable development goals and also establish a major programmatic framework,” Siaka Coulibaly stated.

The 2022-2026 Multi-Year and Multi-Partners Strategic Plan aims to address protection issues and find solutions that enable refugees and internally displaced persons to care for themselves, contribute to the economy of the country in which they are located, and no longer depend on humanitarian assistance while addressing statelessness issues.

Its achievement is based on three strategic directions and nine priority actions. The three strategic directions include strengthening the protection response, enhancing coordination mechanisms, and seeking solutions.

**Officials and Partners pose for a family picture** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

Among the nine priority actions are supporting the development of host communities, promoting social cohesion and environmental management, intensifying efforts to prevent, mitigate, and respond to gender-based violence, ensuring access to registration and civil status documents, expanding economic opportunities, enhancing access to national public services, implementing sustainable solutions, and improving the normative, regulatory, and governance framework.

In order to respond to the needs of the most vulnerable, especially women and children, UNHCR requires over 689 billion US Dollars between 2022-2026. As of the end of 2023, UNHCR had received only around 38 million USD out of the 142.8 million USD needed.

Cameroon is hosting refugees from nine countries, along with facing security challenges in the Far North, Northwest, and Southwest Regions of the country.

Mr. Leo Drops 3rd Musical Album, ‘Good Vibes’

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

Leonard Fonyuy Nsobunrika, known as Mr. Leo in the music world, a singer-songwriter from Cameroon, has released his new musical album.

The album, composed of 14 tracks titled “Good Vibes” was presented to the public on March 20 during a press conference held at the Lionz Academy headquarters in Douala. This new album comes three years after dropping his second album.

**Mr. Leo speaking during the release of his third album**

During the album presentation, the urban music singer shared details about this new project, which is set to be released tomorrow, Friday, March 22. With the aim of inspiring music lovers, the 14 tracks narrate the singer’s experiences and life’s ups and downs.

“My inspiration comes randomly in the form of a short melody […] Sometimes, it’s about things that have happened to me and sometimes, things that I have observed,” Mr. Leo said during the press conference.

All the songs on “Good Vibes” are written and performed by the artist, except for the track “Vrais Amis,” which is the work of Freddy Musk and Luigi Seno. The production is handled by Dijay Karl, Fredy Muks, and Slym Harley under the banner of Lionz Muzik, the label he founded in 2018.

The first track, “Fly,” immerses the listener in a positive atmosphere with a sunny rhythm blending afrobeat and pop. “Goodbyes” is a captivating ballad with R&B-blues sounds evoking heartbreak.

“Vrais Amis” delves into the concept of friendship with arrangements by Fredy Muks & Luigi bridging rap and hip-hop. “One Man Down” celebrates resilience with lively traditional percussion.

The tracks “Good Vibration,” “Woso,” and “Saka” are poised to be danceable anthems featuring neo-soul flows and assertive Afropop melodies.

The songs offer a diverse mix of groove, Cameroonian rhythms, and influences from Afro pop, pop, blues, and hip-hop. The album “Good Vibes” follows his previous releases “Love Original” in 2017 and “Lion of Africa” in 2021.

Senate, National Assembly In Suspense As New Bureau Is Awaited

By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo

The political climate in Cameroon is charged with anticipation as the two houses of Parliament gear up for the imminent elections to appoint new bureau members.

**Hon. Cavaye Yeguie Djibril during the opening session of the 2024 Legislative year with other MPs** (Photo Credit: National Assembly)

As the days tick by, the atmosphere of suspense grows thicker, leaving a sense of ambiguity hanging over the impending decision of who will assume the leadership roles and steer the legislative activities in both houses.

The uncertainty surrounding the forthcoming leadership transition intensifies with each passing moment, setting the stage for a crucial juncture in Cameroon’s parliamentary landscape.

The question of whether the incumbent officeholders will retain their positions or new faces will emerge victorious remains unanswered until the upcoming electoral process unfolds.

For many Cameroonians who have closely followed these developments for an extended period, the re-election of the familiar figures would not come as a surprise.

“I am not expecting any new updates from the two Houses of Parliament regarding who will be elected as President. The same familiar faces will likely retain their positions. While I do hope for a change, I am skeptical that anything will actually change,” a concerned citizen said.

If Hon. Cavaye Yeguie Djibril secures the position of President of the Lower House of Parliament in the upcoming election if he stands for the post, the seasoned statesman, born in 1940, will make history as the longest-serving House speaker.

With a parliamentary tenure dating back to 1970, Hon. Cavaye assumed the role of House Speaker in 1992, succeeding Hon. Lawrence Fonka Shang. Should he stand and be elected, the 84-year-old Hon.

Cavaye will embark on his 32^nd term as the Speaker of the National Assembly, surpassing 50 years of service at the Cameroon National Assembly by the end of the current mandate.

In the Upper House of Parliament (The Senate), the competition is expected to unfold between the incumbent, Senator Marcel Niat Njifenji, and any potential newcomers. Senator Niat Njifenji has been a Senator thanks to a Presidential appointment.

**Marcel Niat Njifenji, President of the Upper House of Parliament, The Senate, during festivities commemorating Cameroon’s National Unity Day on May 20th, 2023.** (Photo Credit: Mainimo Etienne)

He was one of 30 senators who received their seats by presidential appointment; the other 70 senators were indirectly elected.

Having returned to the country to take part in the elections, many Cameroonians still see him as the one to be elected.

Despite the prevailing sentiment, some Cameroonians harbor doubts about the possibility of these seasoned statesmen being replaced.

Only a few Members of Parliament have managed to challenge their positions successfully, and even then, such instances are often seen as mere formalities rather than genuine contests, as noted by political analysts.

Assar, Aruna, Lead Six Other Africans To 2024 ITTF World Cups

Egypt’s Omar Assar and Nigeria’s Quadri Aruna, two prominent table tennis players, will lead a six-man African player contingent to the $1 million prize money elite tournament taking place in Macao, China.

The tournament is scheduled to begin on April 15 and conclude on April 21. The annual tournament, which has been on hiatus for several years, is making a comeback as part of ITTF’s strategic vision and unwavering dedication to revitalizing the sport’s illustrious heritage.

In the men’s event, Assar and Aruna will be joined by Egypt’s Ahmed Saleh and Mohamed El-Beaili, while Egypt’s Hana Goda, the 2023 African Games champion, along with compatriots Mariam Alhodaby and Yousra Helmy, as well as Cameroon’s Sarah Hanffou, will compete in the women’s event.

With the centenary celebrations of table tennis approaching in 2026, this initiative embodies ITTF’s commitment to infusing iconic events with renewed energy and excitement.

A total of 48 players will secure coveted spots in the Singles World Cup lineup, with 44 players qualifying through the Continental Cups or World Rankings, and up to two host association players receiving nominations. Each country is expected to enter up to four players, excluding the reigning World Champion and U19 World Champion, who receive automatic qualification.

The 2023 African Games champion Assar and finalist Aruna top the list of African players already confirmed for the championships. In the men’s event, Assar and Aruna will be accompanied by Egypt’s duo of Ahmed Saleh and Mohamed El-Beaili, while 2023 African Games champion Egypt’s Hana Goda, along with compatriots Mariam Alhodaby and Yousra Helmy, as well as Cameroon’s Sarah Hanffou, will compete in the women’s event.

Since its inception in 1980 in Hong Kong, China, the World Cup format has evolved with the gathering of the sport’s elite from around the world for intense competition. With an electrifying experience and a new playing system, the action commences with Stage 1, where players are divided into 16 groups of 3, engaging in intense round-robin battles.

The top-ranked players lead each group, with the rest drawn in using a modified snake system to ensure every match is a showcase of skill and strategy. To maintain the competition’s intensity and fairness, players from the same association are placed in different groups.

The winners of each group will progress to the knockout draw of Stage 2, while the Galaxy Arena, the premier indoor venue in Macao, China, with its cutting-edge arena, will fuse the world of table tennis with entertainment, providing an unprecedented spectacle for spectators worldwide.

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.

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