Front page of June 30 2014
Publisher/Editor: OJONG Steven AYUKOGEM. Tel: (+237) 77 07 27 79. E-mail: themedianpaper@yahoo.com
Monday, 30 June 2014
Philemon Yang
 |
| President Paul Biya alone knows why he is maintaining Philemon Yang at the star building |
 |
| President Paul Biya alone knows why he is maintaining Philemon Yang at the star building |
As it has always been the case, President Paul Biya alone could tell his motivations for propelling this native of Jikejem-Oku to the high office of PM. And when he did so, he gave him four principal missions: To put a definitive end to inertia that Biya himself has repeatedly decried; to improve the living conditions of Cameroonians; to help speed up the execution of major development projects as well as notify hundreds of senior state functionaries of their time to go on retirement.
After five years of Yang’s stay at the Star Building, Cameroonians have come to know his method and technique of work only too well. The wind has blown and the anus of the fowl has been exposed! His balance sheet during this period can in all fairness be described as hugely unimpressive. And this is very sad especialy for someone who has had one of the most brilliant careers under Biya.
Uninspiring personality
A good and serious administrator enlivens those around him with an inspiring personality. Even when he is generally of a not-too-friendly disposition, he makes an effort to conceal it. But this is what Philemon Yang does not know how to do. For the five years that he has been Prime Minister, Head of Government he has proved to be irreversibly phlegmatic and ungraceful and exhibits an astounding dearth of perspicacity.
Those who work with him on a daily basis say he repels rather than attracts, unlike one or two of his predecessors. Senior government officials and those of the governing Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM) who were supposed to be close to him rather avoid him on this account. Even members of Yang’s extended family stay away from him with some even praying that he should be removed or replaced with some other North Westerner who is more lively and open-handed. The Median learned that Yang’s ‘friends’ are his wife and children and nobody else.
Directing Government action
How powerful is the Prime Minister?
Major actions of the Prime Minister must have the visa of the President of the republic before they can take effect. But because president Biya is over-crowded with prerogatives, he has delegated the signature of the presidential visa to the Secretary-General of the Presidency (SGPR). Public law experts say this makes the SGPR the real Prime Minister, while the sitting Prime Minister only plays a functional or representational role. Over the years this situation has been a source of real frustration to successive Prime Ministers.
By Ayukogem Steven Ojong in Yaounde
Does the Prime Minister of Cameroon wield real powers or he is only a functional, nay representational executive? This is the question that many Cameroonians have continued to ask themselves whenever they take a keen look at the performance of the sitting Prime Minister, Philemon Yunji Yang. The question also often comes up whenever the cabinet is reshuffled with a new Prime Minister appointed.
The Prime Minister by virtue of the Cameroon Constitution of 18 January 1996 is the head of government. Ministers are supposed to be appointed on his proposal to the president. But over the years Biya reshuffles the government without his Prime Minister’s knowledge or consent. More often than not the prime minister himself is never sure whether he would survive a cabinet shake-up or he would be given the sack by the president. In fact, in Cameroon many ministers are sure to survive a cabinet shake-up than the Prime Minister.
Major actions of the Prime Minister must have the visa of the President of the republic before they can take effect. But because president Biya is over-crowded with prerogatives, he has delegated the signature of the presidential visa to the Secretary-General of the Presidency (SGPR). Public law experts say this makes the SGPR the real Prime Minister, while the sitting Prime Minister only plays a functional or representational role. Over the years this situation has been a source of real frustration to successive Prime Ministers.
By Ayukogem Steven Ojong in Yaounde
 |
| Philemon Yang |
The Prime Minister by virtue of the Cameroon Constitution of 18 January 1996 is the head of government. Ministers are supposed to be appointed on his proposal to the president. But over the years Biya reshuffles the government without his Prime Minister’s knowledge or consent. More often than not the prime minister himself is never sure whether he would survive a cabinet shake-up or he would be given the sack by the president. In fact, in Cameroon many ministers are sure to survive a cabinet shake-up than the Prime Minister.
Philemon Yang
An unrepentant finance conservative
All those who jubilated and celebrated following the appointment five years ago, of Philemon Yang as the prime minister of Cameroon, have today realized that they had no cause to celebrate. Also, all those who thought that Yang’s appointment would usher in another spate of joyous moments for the Anglophones especially those from the North West, like was the case during the Achidi Achu and Mafany Musonge era have also had their hopes and dreams shattered, as Philemon Yang wasted no time to point out to them that he was a finance conservative and not a “father Christmas.”
North West fons who paid a visit to Yaounde to congratulate their illustrious son on his brilliant appointment in 2009 could barely afford their return ticket to Bamenda.This was because the PM could hardly provide enough money for their return journey. The fons did not hide their disappointment. The fons have not forgiven their “stingy son” for the shabby treatment he gave them.
All those who jubilated and celebrated following the appointment five years ago, of Philemon Yang as the prime minister of Cameroon, have today realized that they had no cause to celebrate. Also, all those who thought that Yang’s appointment would usher in another spate of joyous moments for the Anglophones especially those from the North West, like was the case during the Achidi Achu and Mafany Musonge era have also had their hopes and dreams shattered, as Philemon Yang wasted no time to point out to them that he was a finance conservative and not a “father Christmas.”
North West fons who paid a visit to Yaounde to congratulate their illustrious son on his brilliant appointment in 2009 could barely afford their return ticket to Bamenda.This was because the PM could hardly provide enough money for their return journey. The fons did not hide their disappointment. The fons have not forgiven their “stingy son” for the shabby treatment he gave them.
Yang and the crisis of authority
Philemon yang is said to have failed to stamp his authority as head of government business throughout his five years at the star building. Cases abound where the PM has tried without success to get his decisions respected by ministers and even General Managers. The Median was hinted on several occasions how Yang has had to bump out of meetings in anger because some minister(s) would not heed his orders. We have also heard of cases where Beti ministers, communicating in their dialect, would team up and reject the PM’s position on an issue during a meeting at the star building.
Many reported cases abound of how the PM’s decisions have either been challenged or ignored by some minister(s) and/or General Manager of a state-owned company. Sometime last year it was reported that the PM who at the time, doubled as the board chairman of the national air-carrier Camair-co, was unable to get the authorities of the company to respect his instructions asking them to permit the ministry of Tourism and Leisure to use part of the building that serves as Camair-co’s Yaounde agency, as offices for some of the ministry’s staff. Because of the small availabe space and the over-crowding at that ministry, the minister, Bello Bouba, wrote to his colleague of Domain and Housing, Jacqueline Koung à Bessiké and the PM, asking for permission to use parts of the building. Though both Koung à Bessike and the PM accorded Bello’s request, the authorities of Camair-co still refused to release any parts of the building.
Many reported cases abound of how the PM’s decisions have either been challenged or ignored by some minister(s) and/or General Manager of a state-owned company. Sometime last year it was reported that the PM who at the time, doubled as the board chairman of the national air-carrier Camair-co, was unable to get the authorities of the company to respect his instructions asking them to permit the ministry of Tourism and Leisure to use part of the building that serves as Camair-co’s Yaounde agency, as offices for some of the ministry’s staff. Because of the small availabe space and the over-crowding at that ministry, the minister, Bello Bouba, wrote to his colleague of Domain and Housing, Jacqueline Koung à Bessiké and the PM, asking for permission to use parts of the building. Though both Koung à Bessike and the PM accorded Bello’s request, the authorities of Camair-co still refused to release any parts of the building.
Dispute over ownership of donated property
Voice of Manyu wins 1st battle against Manyu Community Radio
The judge of the Mamfe High Court has dismissed an application from Manyu Community Radio praying the court to reject an action brought up by Voice of Manyu Radio calling on the court to grant her ownership rights over the property donated by a Dutch NGO.
By Ekumtambe Eku in Mamfe
The legal battles pitting the Voice of Manyu Rural Radio (VOMRR) Mamfe, against Esther Ayuk of Cameroon Young Jurist Legal Resource center (cyjulerc), Manyu Community Radio (MRC), Orock Thomas Eyong of United Action for children (U.A.C), Agbor Delphine Agborem - former President of VOM Management Committee and others, have begun to shed some light on the truth about who are the rightful owners of the equipment that was allegedly sent to Voice of Manyu radio but was diverted some ‘powerful persons’ in Manyu and used to create the Manyu Community Radio.
The Management of Committee of the VOMRR represented by Mr. Peter Ita Eta had earlier filed a substantive suit No HCM/03/2013 and motion No HCM/11M/2013 praying the court to grant VOMRR rights of ownership of the contested equipment.
The judge of the Mamfe High Court has dismissed an application from Manyu Community Radio praying the court to reject an action brought up by Voice of Manyu Radio calling on the court to grant her ownership rights over the property donated by a Dutch NGO.
By Ekumtambe Eku in Mamfe
 |
| Peter Eta has sworn to fight for the rights of Voice of Manyu |
The Management of Committee of the VOMRR represented by Mr. Peter Ita Eta had earlier filed a substantive suit No HCM/03/2013 and motion No HCM/11M/2013 praying the court to grant VOMRR rights of ownership of the contested equipment.
Eyumojock, Manyu Division
Ndepaya and Akwen
villages go to war over land
-DO brokers peace, calls for mutual tolerance
By Ekumtambe Eku in Eyumojock
The sub Divisional officer (DO) for Eyumojock sub-division, Malafa Johnson Mofa has suspended investigations into the recent bloody clash between the youths of Akwen and Ndepaya villages of Eyumojock sub-division. Malafa Johnson took the decision after a fact finding mission he led to the belligerent villages and a crisis meeting he convened in his office subsequently.
The youthful but sage Malafa Johnson succeeded to broker peace between the warring villages and warned that any perpetrators of further acts of lawlessness would be punished according to the laws in force.
Malafa’s decision came in the wake of peace talks he held in his office with the chiefs, notables, security men and other representatives from both villages. The D.O revealed that behind the unrest lurked a controversial 1991 Sub-Divisional Land Consultative Board Decision which gave Ndepaya village ownership rights over 97 percent of a disputed parcel of land and only 3 percent to Akwen.
villages go to war over land
-DO brokers peace, calls for mutual tolerance
By Ekumtambe Eku in Eyumojock
The sub Divisional officer (DO) for Eyumojock sub-division, Malafa Johnson Mofa has suspended investigations into the recent bloody clash between the youths of Akwen and Ndepaya villages of Eyumojock sub-division. Malafa Johnson took the decision after a fact finding mission he led to the belligerent villages and a crisis meeting he convened in his office subsequently.
The youthful but sage Malafa Johnson succeeded to broker peace between the warring villages and warned that any perpetrators of further acts of lawlessness would be punished according to the laws in force.
Malafa’s decision came in the wake of peace talks he held in his office with the chiefs, notables, security men and other representatives from both villages. The D.O revealed that behind the unrest lurked a controversial 1991 Sub-Divisional Land Consultative Board Decision which gave Ndepaya village ownership rights over 97 percent of a disputed parcel of land and only 3 percent to Akwen.
Mbingo Baptist Hospital
Mbingo Baptist Hospital graduates two Doctors from its specialization programmes
By Njodzefe Nestor
The Christian Internal Medicine Specialisation, CIMS, and the Pan African Academy of Christian Surgeons PAACS have graduated two doctors from their Mbingo Baptist Hospital Specialisation programs.
Dr. Ngoe Anthony Mesoah graduating from the PAACS program and Dr. Kamdem Jacob graduating from the CIMS were awarded their end of course Diplomas, June 14 at the Mbingo Baptist Hospital Chapel, Boyo Division in a highly attended and colourful graduation ceremony.
In a commencement address Dr. Sherry Wren, Professor of Surgery at the Stanford University, California, USA and one of the tutors of the laureates said the graduation of the two doctors was a worthwhile achievement for Africa in general and Cameroon in particular.
She was upbeat that education and training such as the one which the duo had undertaken was a panacea for the recurrent health crisis in Africa
By Njodzefe Nestor
The Christian Internal Medicine Specialisation, CIMS, and the Pan African Academy of Christian Surgeons PAACS have graduated two doctors from their Mbingo Baptist Hospital Specialisation programs.
Dr. Ngoe Anthony Mesoah graduating from the PAACS program and Dr. Kamdem Jacob graduating from the CIMS were awarded their end of course Diplomas, June 14 at the Mbingo Baptist Hospital Chapel, Boyo Division in a highly attended and colourful graduation ceremony.
In a commencement address Dr. Sherry Wren, Professor of Surgery at the Stanford University, California, USA and one of the tutors of the laureates said the graduation of the two doctors was a worthwhile achievement for Africa in general and Cameroon in particular.
She was upbeat that education and training such as the one which the duo had undertaken was a panacea for the recurrent health crisis in Africa
SCNC Picks Ayah Paul to Succeed Chief Ayamba?
Usually dependable sources within the now fragmented Southern Cameroons National Council SCNC, have hinted The Median that as preparations are heating up to give the late emblematic SCNC National Chairman, Chief Ayamba Ette Otun a ‘state burial’, leaders of the different wings of the restoration movement are also fine-tuning strategies to ensure a smooth succession at the helm of the movement. We gathered that senior magistrate and frontline politician, Ayah Paul Abine has already been contacted by some leaders of the movement to take the relay baton and continue from where Chief Ayamba stopped.
By Ayukogem Steven Ojong in Yaounde
Those who called our newsroom to announce the development said that Ayah Paul has proven beyond all doubts that he is truly “a most respectable and courageous man.” They said Ayah Paul is not only a man of timbre and calibre but has the wherewithal both intellectually and otherwise to pilot the pressure group away from mucky waters and give it fresh impetus that will enable the SCNC to achieve its desired goal and objective: The restoration of the statehood of the former Southern Cameroons.
But we were also told that Ayah Paul has not given his nod to the proposal. He also did not totally reject the idea. “Justice Ayah Paul maintained a straight and expressionless face when we proposed the idea to him,” said one of our informants, who at once also hinted that the choice of Justice Ayah Paul enjoys considerable consensus among the many leaders of the now fragmented and near moribund movement.
It should be mentioned that if leaders of the SCNC are looking up to Ayah Paul as successor to the late Chief Ayamba it is because Ayah Paul himself had earlier declared that he would not only join the Southern Cameroons struggle but would do so fully and whole-heartedly. Ayah Paul made the solemn pledge in his scripted and extempore remarks to the press after the release of results of the 20 September 2014 twin Council and parliamentary elections. Ayah’s party, the PAP won neither a council nor parliamentary seat in the elections.
By Ayukogem Steven Ojong in Yaounde
 |
| Ayah Paul |
But we were also told that Ayah Paul has not given his nod to the proposal. He also did not totally reject the idea. “Justice Ayah Paul maintained a straight and expressionless face when we proposed the idea to him,” said one of our informants, who at once also hinted that the choice of Justice Ayah Paul enjoys considerable consensus among the many leaders of the now fragmented and near moribund movement.
It should be mentioned that if leaders of the SCNC are looking up to Ayah Paul as successor to the late Chief Ayamba it is because Ayah Paul himself had earlier declared that he would not only join the Southern Cameroons struggle but would do so fully and whole-heartedly. Ayah Paul made the solemn pledge in his scripted and extempore remarks to the press after the release of results of the 20 September 2014 twin Council and parliamentary elections. Ayah’s party, the PAP won neither a council nor parliamentary seat in the elections.
Ayah Paul and Fru Ndi sponsoring SCNC?
By Ayah Paul Abine
We are just back from Buea Central Prison. Mola Njoh Litumbe, accompanied by Ayah Paul Abine, Mami Mbiwan, a barrister, a man of God and a host of local SCNC leaders, went there for a visit of solidarity to a detained SCNC leader, Oben Maxwell.
From the horse’s mouth, Oben Maxwell went to Buea on January 29, 2014, on a purely social trip. As he planned to be in Buea for four days, he took along copies of Ernesto Che Guevara’s book on urban guerrilla which he had downloaded from the internet so as to while away time reading during the trip. At the end of the safari, Oben decided to call on someone he had never met but who had been chatting with him on the phone. After chatting with the person, Oben was on his way from Mautu village when his host stopped over to introduce him to some youths at some off-licenced premises.
Taking advantage of the situation, Oben educated the youths on the ideals of SCNC. He took for a joke when the publican (the woman running the premises) told him she would have him and the entire group arrested. Oben travelled back to the motor park, secured his seat on a bus bound for Yaounde, and was on the bus, waiting for departure. Two policemen in civilian clothes came up to him and asked Oben to alight from the bus for a chat. After listening him out as to his presence in Buea, the two policemen left Oben momentarily only to return with reinforcements and led him away, claiming that the SW Governor wanted to meet him. The police instead took Oben to the police station and locked him up incommunicado, after searching his bags.
Nigerians resort to witchcraft to fight Boko Haram
Fleeing jihadists have revealed that mysterious snakes and bees have infiltrated their hideout in the forest and this has made life unbearable for them
By a correspondent
Some members of the Islamist sect, Boko Haram, arrested recently at Mairi ward behind University of Maiduguri by members of the Civilian JTF vigilante group, have confessed that they are fleeing the Sambisa forest to areas across Borno State owing to what they believe are spiritual attacks from mysterious snakes and bees, which have killed many of their leaders.
One of the arrested insurgents said “most of us are fleeing because there are too many snakes and bees now in the forest. Once they bite you they disappear and the victims do not last for 24 hours.”
He continued “we were told that the aggrieved people who had suffered from our deadly attacks, including the ghosts of some of those we killed, are the ones turning into the snakes and bees.”
“Our leaders are fleeing too,” he said, noting that some of their leaders have escaped to Cameroon because they are known to the Nigerian authorities and could be easily identified. According to him, those of them who lived all their lives in Maiduguri have no where to run to. So they returned and tried to sneak into town.
By a correspondent
Some members of the Islamist sect, Boko Haram, arrested recently at Mairi ward behind University of Maiduguri by members of the Civilian JTF vigilante group, have confessed that they are fleeing the Sambisa forest to areas across Borno State owing to what they believe are spiritual attacks from mysterious snakes and bees, which have killed many of their leaders.
One of the arrested insurgents said “most of us are fleeing because there are too many snakes and bees now in the forest. Once they bite you they disappear and the victims do not last for 24 hours.”
He continued “we were told that the aggrieved people who had suffered from our deadly attacks, including the ghosts of some of those we killed, are the ones turning into the snakes and bees.”
“Our leaders are fleeing too,” he said, noting that some of their leaders have escaped to Cameroon because they are known to the Nigerian authorities and could be easily identified. According to him, those of them who lived all their lives in Maiduguri have no where to run to. So they returned and tried to sneak into town.
Buea General Assembly
Buea General Assembly:
1600 lawyers oppose appointment of notaries in NW and SW
By Sarah Nkongho Ojong in Buea
Cameroonian lawyers have overwhelmingly rejected the appointment of notaries public by government in the North West and South West regions, as a means towards protecting and maintaining the bi-jural character of practice of the law profession in the country.
The lawyers took the unanimous decision during a General Assembly of the Cameroon Bar Association that held in Buea, South West region on Saturday 28 June 2014 and chaired by the Bar Association President Barrister Tang sitting alongside the Bar Council President, Sama Francis Asanga.
1200 lawyers effectively answered present at the conclave while about 400 others participated by proxy.
The major outcome of the sitting was the warning note that the lawyers sent to Yaounde authorities, praying them to drop any imminent plans to appoint notaries public in the North West and South West regions.
The lawyers noted that two different legal systems operate in Cameroon: The French legal system operating in the Francophone regions of the country and the English common law system operating in the two Anglophone regions.
1600 lawyers oppose appointment of notaries in NW and SW
By Sarah Nkongho Ojong in Buea
Cameroonian lawyers have overwhelmingly rejected the appointment of notaries public by government in the North West and South West regions, as a means towards protecting and maintaining the bi-jural character of practice of the law profession in the country.
The lawyers took the unanimous decision during a General Assembly of the Cameroon Bar Association that held in Buea, South West region on Saturday 28 June 2014 and chaired by the Bar Association President Barrister Tang sitting alongside the Bar Council President, Sama Francis Asanga.
1200 lawyers effectively answered present at the conclave while about 400 others participated by proxy.
The major outcome of the sitting was the warning note that the lawyers sent to Yaounde authorities, praying them to drop any imminent plans to appoint notaries public in the North West and South West regions.
The lawyers noted that two different legal systems operate in Cameroon: The French legal system operating in the Francophone regions of the country and the English common law system operating in the two Anglophone regions.
South West region
 | ||||
Mayors and local council authorities have been called upon to reinforce the collaboration between them and put in place the necessary mechanisms and technics of managing their treasury while regulating the cash flow plan to avoid mismanagement of public funds. The call was made by the Directorate General of treasury resource person, Assongfack Hippolyte who was speaking during a one day seminar on the stakes and technics of managing cash flow of decentralized public localities, Wednesday June 18, 2014 at the Buea council hall.
By Sarah Nkongho Ojong in Buea
With the goals of achieving an evolutionary era where all stakeholders involved in the management of cash flow and public funds speak the same language and share the same knowledge in fund management processes, reinforcing the capacities of those directly responsible for managing public funds especially mayors, municipal treasurers and local council authorities, the seminar was deemed to be of utmost importance to the afore-mentioned professionals so that they get abreast of the new techniques of modernizing the management of public funds with some modern techniques like the mastery of treasury and liquidity.
Such innovation was realized following the fact that in the past, much emphasis and interest was laid on the traditional mechanisms of fund management based on the budgetary aspect, reason why the treasury as a whole is now more concerned not only with budgetary aspects but also on the cash flow and circulation within the regional and local councils and their treasuries.
The seminar saw the attendance of The SW Governor Okalia Bilai, the SW Pay-Master Peter Ayuk Akpoeban, staff of treasury stations across the region, mayors and assistant mayors of councils of the south west region alongside their municipal treasurers among others.
Speaking to the press, Assongfack Hippoplyte, a resource person at the training highlighted the importance of the workshop to the mayors and municipal treasurers. He said it would not only strengthen the working relationship between council executives and municipal treasurers but would also help them to effectively manage funds put at their disposal.
Ekondo-titi council gets new municipal treasure
By Eddy Bokuba in Kumba
The Ekondo-titi Council in Ndian Division of the South West Region has a new Municipal Treasurer. Iyassa Moses was installed into his new functions on 20th June 2014 at the Council hall. He replaces Sona Makia Simon, transferred to Nguti Council in the same capacity.
Prior to his news function, he had occupied several positions at the level of the Ekondo-titi Council, notably computer secretary, civil status secretary, treasury clerk, revenue collector, custom services and head of the finance department.
The Ekondo-titi Council in Ndian Division of the South West Region has a new Municipal Treasurer. Iyassa Moses was installed into his new functions on 20th June 2014 at the Council hall. He replaces Sona Makia Simon, transferred to Nguti Council in the same capacity.
Prior to his news function, he had occupied several positions at the level of the Ekondo-titi Council, notably computer secretary, civil status secretary, treasury clerk, revenue collector, custom services and head of the finance department.
New Manager at NW livestock development fund
By Njodzefe Nestor in Bamenda
The new administrative director of the North West Livestock Development Fund, CDENO has been installed with a call on him to use the funds put at his disposal to meet the needs of the population.
The Minister of Livestock, Fisheries and Animal Industries, Dr. Taiga installed MbahMicheal who takes over from Daniel Mokom on Friday, June 28 2014.
The installation ceremony which saw the turnout of a mammoth crowd and a cream of the NW administration took place at the Bamenda Congress Hall.
Commissioning the new CDENO Boss, the Minister said that the North West Livestock Development Fund was created because the NW Region plays and important and strategic role in the production of livestock in Cameroon.
He reminded the population that the 14 year old fund has as objective the protection of animals, provision of livestock infrastructure, development of pasture and livestock production.
Dr. Taiga observed that the task of the fund has become daunting with the tarring of the Bamenda-Inugu stretch of the road which will increase the demand for livestock as the NW region will be exposed to a larger African market.
The new administrative director of the North West Livestock Development Fund, CDENO has been installed with a call on him to use the funds put at his disposal to meet the needs of the population.
The Minister of Livestock, Fisheries and Animal Industries, Dr. Taiga installed MbahMicheal who takes over from Daniel Mokom on Friday, June 28 2014.
The installation ceremony which saw the turnout of a mammoth crowd and a cream of the NW administration took place at the Bamenda Congress Hall.
Commissioning the new CDENO Boss, the Minister said that the North West Livestock Development Fund was created because the NW Region plays and important and strategic role in the production of livestock in Cameroon.
He reminded the population that the 14 year old fund has as objective the protection of animals, provision of livestock infrastructure, development of pasture and livestock production.
Dr. Taiga observed that the task of the fund has become daunting with the tarring of the Bamenda-Inugu stretch of the road which will increase the demand for livestock as the NW region will be exposed to a larger African market.
Green Generation Book for Cameroon’s Primary Schools
By Eric Kaba Tah
The Green Generation Book, written by Award Winning Author, Arrey Emmanuel Enow has been selected by the Ministry of Basic Education to be used in Anglophone primary schools beginning the next academic year that starts in September 2014. The book that deals with environmental issues in a very specific, innovative and comprehensive manner touches on the natural vegetation, wildlife, pollution, climate change and poems, is prefaced by another multiple awards winner and wildlife crusader Ofir Drori who now coordinates a wildlife law enforcement network that covers over 9 countries in Africa.
The origins of the The Green Generation book is therefore deeply rooted in the fight against wildlife criminality in Cameroon as the author has, for a long time now, been part of a team of dedicated people working in the domain. The book, although dealing with wildlife issues goes beyond this and encompasses pertinent environmental issues while presenting them graphically and in simple English meant for elementary users as those of classes 5 and 6 who are certainly going to benefit from this rich resource. Teachers too who have been clamouring for specialised literature on environmental education are now perfectly served. A book is accompanied by a workbook.
The origins of the The Green Generation book is therefore deeply rooted in the fight against wildlife criminality in Cameroon as the author has, for a long time now, been part of a team of dedicated people working in the domain. The book, although dealing with wildlife issues goes beyond this and encompasses pertinent environmental issues while presenting them graphically and in simple English meant for elementary users as those of classes 5 and 6 who are certainly going to benefit from this rich resource. Teachers too who have been clamouring for specialised literature on environmental education are now perfectly served. A book is accompanied by a workbook.
Tons of Pangolin Scales from Cameroon seized in Hong-kong
 |
| Chinese national arrested at Nsimalen airport with pangolin scales |
By a correspondent in Yaounde
Hong Kong Custom officials on June 11, 2014 seized over 2 tons of pangolin scales which reports say was from Cameroon and was heading to Malaysia. The pangolin scales weighing 2, 340 kg were concealed in 115 bags deceivingly labeled as timber sources say. A Malaysian business man was arrested over the illegal product but released on bail with further investigations pending. Another seizure of 1 ton of pangolin scales from Africa, carried out on May 28 in Hong Kong is suspected to be connected to the same smuggling ring and some conservationists are calling on investigations into the smuggling of pangolin scales on the side of the countries of origin.
In 2006, a big haul of ivory weighing 3.9 tons were seized in Hong Kong and it was discovered that the ivory was shipped from Cameroon’s port city Douala. Investigations carried out in the country proved very successful in unraveling the matter and the government of Cameroon was awarded the Interpol Eco-message award for its expertise.
Succession politics in Cameroon
Beware of McCarthyism!
By Tazoacha Asonganyi, Yaounde
Joseph McCarthy was one of the most corrupt politicians of his time. He exploited the scare about the prospect of communist subversion against the United States with the claim that he had a list of people in the State Department who were known members of the American Communist Party. He engaged in witch-hunts against innocent citizens he accused of being communist subversives. Today, “McCarthyism” refers to demagogic, reckless, and unsubstantiated accusations of political adversaries and rivals; it also refers to public attacks on the integrity, character or patriotism of dissenting citizens.
Mark you, in Cameroon there is a succession cold war being fought within the ranks of people of power – people of the CPDM regime. Regime powerful daily circle one another, knife in hand, looking for the least opportunity to “finish them.” They buy one journalist or the other, one press organ or the other, to do their dirty work against their perceived adversaries, or “enemies,” or rivals. They use tracts, signed and unsigned letters, motions of support and other foul means to express their loyalty and worries, and to accuse and counter-accuse friends and foes. The most used weapon of blackmail is succession politics around their aged president-in-perpetuity, known to have a strong aversion for any thought about his succession.
By Tazoacha Asonganyi, Yaounde
Joseph McCarthy was one of the most corrupt politicians of his time. He exploited the scare about the prospect of communist subversion against the United States with the claim that he had a list of people in the State Department who were known members of the American Communist Party. He engaged in witch-hunts against innocent citizens he accused of being communist subversives. Today, “McCarthyism” refers to demagogic, reckless, and unsubstantiated accusations of political adversaries and rivals; it also refers to public attacks on the integrity, character or patriotism of dissenting citizens.
Mark you, in Cameroon there is a succession cold war being fought within the ranks of people of power – people of the CPDM regime. Regime powerful daily circle one another, knife in hand, looking for the least opportunity to “finish them.” They buy one journalist or the other, one press organ or the other, to do their dirty work against their perceived adversaries, or “enemies,” or rivals. They use tracts, signed and unsigned letters, motions of support and other foul means to express their loyalty and worries, and to accuse and counter-accuse friends and foes. The most used weapon of blackmail is succession politics around their aged president-in-perpetuity, known to have a strong aversion for any thought about his succession.
Sunday, 15 June 2014
SDF walk out on Soro was a big mistake
-Dr Susungi
By Dr. Susungi-Courtesy (chiefsusungi.com)
Let me start by telling you a true story. In 1996 Chairman John Fru Ndi travelled through Abidjan to Mali to attend some socialist meeting there with President Alpha Oumar Konare and Ibrahim Boubacar Keita (who is now the President) (both of them socialists). On his way back he got stuck at the airport in Abidjan because he did not have a visa to Cote d’Ivoire. While killing time at the airport he was noticed by an Ivorian policeman because he was wearing his trademark traditional dress. When the Chairman explained his visa status to the policeman, the officer reported the matter to his boss. Before long, the matter had been transmitted through channels to the highest ranks of the police to the Minister of the Interior and finally to President Henri Konan Bédié.
President Bédié reacted by giving instructions that the Chairman should be given a visa and brought into Abidjan as a guest of the Ivorian government. He was lodged at Hotel Ivoire. Before long the Chairman was brought to President Bédié’s home in Cocody where he was received by the Ivorian President.
By Dr. Susungi-Courtesy (chiefsusungi.com)
 |
| Dr Susungi |
President Bédié reacted by giving instructions that the Chairman should be given a visa and brought into Abidjan as a guest of the Ivorian government. He was lodged at Hotel Ivoire. Before long the Chairman was brought to President Bédié’s home in Cocody where he was received by the Ivorian President.
From Buea to Bambui
Hero’s funeral for Barrister Bonu
By Njodzefe Nestor and Sarah Nkongho Ojong on special assignment in Bamenda
The remains of renowned Barrister and Advocate, Barrister Innocent Bonu were laid to rest Tuesday June, 10 in his native Bambui village in Mezam Division of the North West region.
At the North West Court of Appeal during Judicial Honours just like at the Holy Family Parish Catholic Church, Major Seminary, Bambui, in one of the Requiem Masses for the repose of his soul, huge crowds of sympathziers, mourners, friends, colleagues and family members turned out to bid farewell to the legal guru.
Bonu died on April 17, 2014 at the CNPS Hospital in Yaounde. He had travelled to Yaounde to join other colleagues in correcting scripts of the entrance examination into the Cameroon Bar Association.
At the funeral, Barrister Innocent Bonu was described differently by friends, family members and colleagues with all being unanimous that he was a good man.
By Njodzefe Nestor and Sarah Nkongho Ojong on special assignment in Bamenda
The remains of renowned Barrister and Advocate, Barrister Innocent Bonu were laid to rest Tuesday June, 10 in his native Bambui village in Mezam Division of the North West region.
At the North West Court of Appeal during Judicial Honours just like at the Holy Family Parish Catholic Church, Major Seminary, Bambui, in one of the Requiem Masses for the repose of his soul, huge crowds of sympathziers, mourners, friends, colleagues and family members turned out to bid farewell to the legal guru.
Bonu died on April 17, 2014 at the CNPS Hospital in Yaounde. He had travelled to Yaounde to join other colleagues in correcting scripts of the entrance examination into the Cameroon Bar Association.
At the funeral, Barrister Innocent Bonu was described differently by friends, family members and colleagues with all being unanimous that he was a good man.
Violence was Gbagbo’s political weapon
Soro
By Numh Rogers in Yaounde
Guillaume Soro has described Laurent Gbagbo as an anti democrat who paid only lip service to the panafrican course. Speaking to the Cameroonian press at the Yaounde Hilton hours before his departure for the Ivory Coast last Saturday, the former member of Gbagbo’s government said that Gbagbo’s accession to power in 2000 was not through a fair and transparent election.
‘Veritable rivals were eliminated leaving Gbagbo to challenge coup leader Robert Guei alone. Gbagbo himself called the elections a calamity. Only the socialist regime in France declared them free and fair.’
Soro had dropped his guard because in his own words, he had suffered too much persecution in his political life in the Ivory Coast.
Making a gun gesture with his left hand, he continued the tirade.
By Numh Rogers in Yaounde
Guillaume Soro has described Laurent Gbagbo as an anti democrat who paid only lip service to the panafrican course. Speaking to the Cameroonian press at the Yaounde Hilton hours before his departure for the Ivory Coast last Saturday, the former member of Gbagbo’s government said that Gbagbo’s accession to power in 2000 was not through a fair and transparent election.
‘Veritable rivals were eliminated leaving Gbagbo to challenge coup leader Robert Guei alone. Gbagbo himself called the elections a calamity. Only the socialist regime in France declared them free and fair.’
Soro had dropped his guard because in his own words, he had suffered too much persecution in his political life in the Ivory Coast.
Making a gun gesture with his left hand, he continued the tirade.
10 May 1974 - 10 May 2014
 |
| The magnificent CSPH head office in Y'de |
-Management says it is time for innovation and modernization
Even though the GM, Elung Paul Che, has underscored the enormous challenges that the petroleum company must address notably performance and effectiveness, he is at once upbeat and confident that, with better monitoring of fuel prices and stringent regulation of the petroleum sector, coupled with greater innovation in managing cash flow and reserves, CSPH will transform its stumbling blocks into stepping stones.
By Ayukogem Steven Ojong in Yaounde
A fool at 40 is a fool for ever, so says the English adage. The Hydrocarbons Prices Stabilization Fund CSPH turned 40 on 10 May 2014. Even though no big event was organized to mark this ruby anniversary, authorities of the petroleum company are leaving nothing to chance in their bid to transform the state-owned company into a more modern, better managed and highly effective institution.
Gov’t’s approach to solving the Fako land crisis is suspect
- Ikomi Ngongi Esq., Human Rights Lawyer
Interviewed by Ayukogem Steven Ojong and Sarah Nkongho Ojong
*There is much talk today about a land crisis in Fako Division-the so called Bakweri land saga. The problem is the subject of heated debates in political and media circles in the Southwest region and beyond. Can you enlighten the public on what exactly has also come to be referred to as the Fako land crisis?
*-There are several aspects of the Fako land problem or crisis: The first is what the British Colonial Administration in the British Southern Cameroons called “the Stranger Problem”. The second is the “New Layout Problem”. The third is the privatization of Government Residential Areas (GRA’s, Clerks’ Quarters, Federal Quarters, etc. The fourth is the CDC land “surrender”.
Let us start with the “Stranger Problem”. After having seized vast lands from the Bakweris, the German colonizers set out to make vast plantations on them. They tried to force our ancestors to work on these plantations as slaves. Of course, the proud, noble Bakweri people would not be subjected to such humiliation. Many of them preferred to commit suicide, die, rather than be enslaved as laborers on their own ancestral lands by their conquerors. And so began the importation of much needed labour for the German plantations; slave labor from North West Cameroon, from the then East Cameroon and other parts of West Africa. But the Germans had to pay these “imported” laborers salaries, which gave them economic and social privileges only money can buy. This is how the first aspect of the Bakweri – Fako - Land Crisis emerged. “The Stranger Problem” as it was called by Messrs W.M. Bridges, Victoria District Officer in 1935 and D.A.F. Shute, Victoria District officer in 1938, both working under the British Colonial Government in Southern Cameroons. In their “Intelligence Report on the Bakweri”, prepared for the British Colonial Authority in London and long before the Cameroon Development Corporation was established in January, 1947, Bridges and Shute wrote this about the Bakweri land problem, in paragraph 41, on pages 11 to 12:
Interviewed by Ayukogem Steven Ojong and Sarah Nkongho Ojong
 |
| Bar. Ikome Ngongi Esq |
*-There are several aspects of the Fako land problem or crisis: The first is what the British Colonial Administration in the British Southern Cameroons called “the Stranger Problem”. The second is the “New Layout Problem”. The third is the privatization of Government Residential Areas (GRA’s, Clerks’ Quarters, Federal Quarters, etc. The fourth is the CDC land “surrender”.
Let us start with the “Stranger Problem”. After having seized vast lands from the Bakweris, the German colonizers set out to make vast plantations on them. They tried to force our ancestors to work on these plantations as slaves. Of course, the proud, noble Bakweri people would not be subjected to such humiliation. Many of them preferred to commit suicide, die, rather than be enslaved as laborers on their own ancestral lands by their conquerors. And so began the importation of much needed labour for the German plantations; slave labor from North West Cameroon, from the then East Cameroon and other parts of West Africa. But the Germans had to pay these “imported” laborers salaries, which gave them economic and social privileges only money can buy. This is how the first aspect of the Bakweri – Fako - Land Crisis emerged. “The Stranger Problem” as it was called by Messrs W.M. Bridges, Victoria District Officer in 1935 and D.A.F. Shute, Victoria District officer in 1938, both working under the British Colonial Government in Southern Cameroons. In their “Intelligence Report on the Bakweri”, prepared for the British Colonial Authority in London and long before the Cameroon Development Corporation was established in January, 1947, Bridges and Shute wrote this about the Bakweri land problem, in paragraph 41, on pages 11 to 12:
Councilors unite to fight for their salaries
The Association of North West Councilors (ANWEC) met with their counterparts of South West last (Association of South West Councilors (ASWEC) Sunday, June 8 in Buea to examine issues plaguing the smooth running of their duties on a daily basis. Top on the agenda was the delay in paying salaries to Mayors as well as stipends to councilors.
According to information gathered at the conclave in Buea, the councilors learnt that of all Francophone countries in Africa, it is Cameroon alone that does not value the grassroots leaders, in our case, the councilors. They examined the circumstances and challenges that councilors face on a day to day basis and concluded that it is inhumane and heartless for the state of Cameroon to have not yet started paying her councilors.
Taking the case study of Senators who were voted by these very councilors, the councilors held that it was atypical for councilors to have the power of voting Senators into office, yet remain beggars while the senators suddenly start sailing at the top of the world with huge salaries.
They noted as well that the councilor is with the population, the citizens and the local community every minute, every hour, every day facing all the problems and carrying them to appropriate quarters for possible solutions. Yet, the Senator, who was elected by this councilor, is enjoying himself in some luxurious hotel in Yaoundé, swimming in some epicurean life style, and at the end of the month, earns over a million francs, with other huge fringe benefits. At the end of the conclave, Councilor Yembe Martin Fon, who doubles as the 1st Deputy mayor of Ndu Council, and a former Chairman of the Council’s Commission of a certain leading political party in the north
West was tasked to harness ideas from both ANWEC and ASWEC that will culminate in a massive move to see this nightmare buried once and for all. Mr. Yembe was as well commissioned to organize another conclave in Bamenda in the days ahead that will bring together representatives of all the councils in the North West and the South West. At the forth-coming meeting, ANWEC and ASWEC will evaluate the progress of things as concerns the payment of salaries to mayors and stipends to councilors as well as examining the role of the administration in the encumbrances or progress of council activities.
It should be noted that other councilors from Penja like Fongoh Wilson and Djeutem Jean were present at the meeting of North West and South West Councilors. At the end of the conclave, it was unanimously agreed that the problems of councilors will no more be left in the cooler but put on permanent heat for the good of the communities the are called upon to serve on a daily basis.
Closing the conclave, Mr. Yembe, the Interim president of ANWEC promised that he has never failed in his missions and assignments, which always harp on three principles: to do what is good, just and right, and called on all the councilors of Cameroon to join ANWEX and ASWEC to see to the betterment of the social welfare of our communities and citizens. He held that there is this wrong and misleading concept that Cameroon is Yaoundé or the Regional capitals, while the bulk of the citizens and their problems are at the base with the councils.
It should be noted that ANWEC and ASWEC were formed on the advise of the organizers of the February/March training sessions organized by MINAT-D and MINFI for all Mayors and First Deputy mayors of all the councils in the country. The other Region that has an organized structure of councilors is the West Region with their Association de Conseilleur de l’Ouest (ASCO). It should be recalled that in the last March session of parliament, the Minister of State for territorial Administration, Rene Emmanuel Sadi, told the people’s representatives, the MPs that all has been finalized to see to it that Mayors start receiving their due salaries (including arrears). Many thought that before this June session kicks off, the deal would have been done, but no one is saying anything, reason why these councilors are mobilizing to do whatever it takes to see to the implementation of the decision before this June runs out.
According to information gathered at the conclave in Buea, the councilors learnt that of all Francophone countries in Africa, it is Cameroon alone that does not value the grassroots leaders, in our case, the councilors. They examined the circumstances and challenges that councilors face on a day to day basis and concluded that it is inhumane and heartless for the state of Cameroon to have not yet started paying her councilors.
Taking the case study of Senators who were voted by these very councilors, the councilors held that it was atypical for councilors to have the power of voting Senators into office, yet remain beggars while the senators suddenly start sailing at the top of the world with huge salaries.
They noted as well that the councilor is with the population, the citizens and the local community every minute, every hour, every day facing all the problems and carrying them to appropriate quarters for possible solutions. Yet, the Senator, who was elected by this councilor, is enjoying himself in some luxurious hotel in Yaoundé, swimming in some epicurean life style, and at the end of the month, earns over a million francs, with other huge fringe benefits. At the end of the conclave, Councilor Yembe Martin Fon, who doubles as the 1st Deputy mayor of Ndu Council, and a former Chairman of the Council’s Commission of a certain leading political party in the north
West was tasked to harness ideas from both ANWEC and ASWEC that will culminate in a massive move to see this nightmare buried once and for all. Mr. Yembe was as well commissioned to organize another conclave in Bamenda in the days ahead that will bring together representatives of all the councils in the North West and the South West. At the forth-coming meeting, ANWEC and ASWEC will evaluate the progress of things as concerns the payment of salaries to mayors and stipends to councilors as well as examining the role of the administration in the encumbrances or progress of council activities.
It should be noted that other councilors from Penja like Fongoh Wilson and Djeutem Jean were present at the meeting of North West and South West Councilors. At the end of the conclave, it was unanimously agreed that the problems of councilors will no more be left in the cooler but put on permanent heat for the good of the communities the are called upon to serve on a daily basis.
Closing the conclave, Mr. Yembe, the Interim president of ANWEC promised that he has never failed in his missions and assignments, which always harp on three principles: to do what is good, just and right, and called on all the councilors of Cameroon to join ANWEX and ASWEC to see to the betterment of the social welfare of our communities and citizens. He held that there is this wrong and misleading concept that Cameroon is Yaoundé or the Regional capitals, while the bulk of the citizens and their problems are at the base with the councils.
It should be noted that ANWEC and ASWEC were formed on the advise of the organizers of the February/March training sessions organized by MINAT-D and MINFI for all Mayors and First Deputy mayors of all the councils in the country. The other Region that has an organized structure of councilors is the West Region with their Association de Conseilleur de l’Ouest (ASCO). It should be recalled that in the last March session of parliament, the Minister of State for territorial Administration, Rene Emmanuel Sadi, told the people’s representatives, the MPs that all has been finalized to see to it that Mayors start receiving their due salaries (including arrears). Many thought that before this June session kicks off, the deal would have been done, but no one is saying anything, reason why these councilors are mobilizing to do whatever it takes to see to the implementation of the decision before this June runs out.
Tiko Council
Health in Moquo community preoccupy mayor
By Sarah Nkongho Ojong in Moquo
The entire community of Moquo under Musaka village of Tiko sub division with the leadership of the village notable, Chief Sonne Gilbert gathered to welcome the Mayor of the Tiko municipality as he officially handed over the keys of the newly constructed Moquo health centre to the community, Tuesday June 4, 2014.
As the saying goes, a healthy people is a wealthy nation, the people through their council chairman while thanking the government for the magnificent building put in place to improve their health conditions, begged for the necessary equipments and staff needed to ensure an effective operation of the health centre for 24hours daily.
The 50 million worth health center which is constructed following the new standards of the national construction of building is intended to improve the working conditions of all health personnel in the area an also the health conditions of the entire community. Realized under the public investment budget, the center came to replace the rented building which the Moquo people have been using since 2008.
By Sarah Nkongho Ojong in Moquo
The entire community of Moquo under Musaka village of Tiko sub division with the leadership of the village notable, Chief Sonne Gilbert gathered to welcome the Mayor of the Tiko municipality as he officially handed over the keys of the newly constructed Moquo health centre to the community, Tuesday June 4, 2014.
As the saying goes, a healthy people is a wealthy nation, the people through their council chairman while thanking the government for the magnificent building put in place to improve their health conditions, begged for the necessary equipments and staff needed to ensure an effective operation of the health centre for 24hours daily.
The 50 million worth health center which is constructed following the new standards of the national construction of building is intended to improve the working conditions of all health personnel in the area an also the health conditions of the entire community. Realized under the public investment budget, the center came to replace the rented building which the Moquo people have been using since 2008.
Football and Simplistic Patriotism
By Tazoacha Asonganyi, Yaounde
The flag is like the identity card of a country. More importantly, it is a symbol of certain national ideals; it is an expression of the principle of freedom and inclusiveness. It is not an instrument for the promotion of stage-managed patriotism. It is not a symbol of repressive state power. It is not a tool with which demagogic politicians play games of simplistic patriotism, or puppets and puppeteers grandstand with the concept of patriotism.
Human progress and achievement is anchored on the rights of spirit and mind – freedom of speech, press, religion, assembly, association, and petition for redress. These freedoms can also be expressed through symbolic actions like the memorable corner-flag dance of Roger Miller, or the recent symbolic actions of Eto’o Fils, in response to the gossips of Mourinho about his age. When such symbolic expressions are played out, opponents jeer, while friends and supporters cheer. That of course is their right.
The flag is like the identity card of a country. More importantly, it is a symbol of certain national ideals; it is an expression of the principle of freedom and inclusiveness. It is not an instrument for the promotion of stage-managed patriotism. It is not a symbol of repressive state power. It is not a tool with which demagogic politicians play games of simplistic patriotism, or puppets and puppeteers grandstand with the concept of patriotism.
Human progress and achievement is anchored on the rights of spirit and mind – freedom of speech, press, religion, assembly, association, and petition for redress. These freedoms can also be expressed through symbolic actions like the memorable corner-flag dance of Roger Miller, or the recent symbolic actions of Eto’o Fils, in response to the gossips of Mourinho about his age. When such symbolic expressions are played out, opponents jeer, while friends and supporters cheer. That of course is their right.
Monday, 9 June 2014
Journey of no return
 |
Bar, Bonu Innocent |
By Ayukogem Steven Ojong in Yaounde
The body of renowned, fearless and militant barrister and advocate, Bonu B. Innocent would be buried on Tuesday 10 June 2014, in his native Bambui village in Mezam Division of the North West region.
According to the funeral program that was communicated to us, Barrister Bonu’s remains would be removed from the Buea Hospital Mortuary on Monday 9 June 2014, and taken in procession to the South West Appeals Court in Buea for judicial honors.
From the Buea Court premises, the funeral procession will head for the deceased’s residence in Limbe for the 1st public viewing. Then at 5.30pm, the body would be taken to the Liberty Law Firm (Bonu’s law office) in Mutengene, for the 2nd viewing. A funeral mass will follow at 8.00pm still at the premises of the Liberty law farm.
Barrister Bonu’s body will leave the South West region for Bamenda in the North West region at exactly 10.30pm, Monday. It will receive judicial honors at the North West Appeals Court in Bamenda, at 8.30am Tuesday.
Access to foreign Universities
International Baccalaureat Program launched in Cameroon
By Sarah Nkongho Ojong on assignment in Yaounde
A high school program leading to the worldwide renowned International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma will begin in Cameroon as from the 2014/2015 academic year.
The IB program would be run at the Complex Scolaire La Gaiete situated at Nouvelle Route Bastos in Yaounde. The complex is a subsidiary of the South Africa-based Enko capital.
According to Cyrille Nkontchou, managing partner of Enko capital, the advantage of the International Baccalaureate (IB) is that its holders can gain easy access to the best universities in the world, especially because the IB has worldwide recognition, unlike the Cameroon Baccalaureate and GCE ‘A’ levels which are at times doubted by some universities thus warranting their holders to write a test before they can gain admission into these universities.
By Sarah Nkongho Ojong on assignment in Yaounde
A high school program leading to the worldwide renowned International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma will begin in Cameroon as from the 2014/2015 academic year.
The IB program would be run at the Complex Scolaire La Gaiete situated at Nouvelle Route Bastos in Yaounde. The complex is a subsidiary of the South Africa-based Enko capital.
According to Cyrille Nkontchou, managing partner of Enko capital, the advantage of the International Baccalaureate (IB) is that its holders can gain easy access to the best universities in the world, especially because the IB has worldwide recognition, unlike the Cameroon Baccalaureate and GCE ‘A’ levels which are at times doubted by some universities thus warranting their holders to write a test before they can gain admission into these universities.
Brighter days for Cameroon’s petroleum industry
By Numh Rogers in Yaounde
The National Petroleum Company (SNH) has announced a 24.58% increase in crude oil production in Cameroon. The announcement was made at a board meeting held in Yaounde on 3 June.
Production hit a record 8.82 million barrels for the first quarter of the year, officials said. The boom was largely due to peak production at the Dissom oil wells, and the exploitation of the Padouk and Muia oil fields.
World Bank experts have predicted a tremendous increase in oil production in Cameroon. They forecast that production could more than double if new oil wells are well exploited. SNH also projects production at 57 million barrels in 2016, as opposed to 24.4 in 2013.
The National Petroleum Company (SNH) has announced a 24.58% increase in crude oil production in Cameroon. The announcement was made at a board meeting held in Yaounde on 3 June.
Production hit a record 8.82 million barrels for the first quarter of the year, officials said. The boom was largely due to peak production at the Dissom oil wells, and the exploitation of the Padouk and Muia oil fields.
World Bank experts have predicted a tremendous increase in oil production in Cameroon. They forecast that production could more than double if new oil wells are well exploited. SNH also projects production at 57 million barrels in 2016, as opposed to 24.4 in 2013.
Redeployment of Governors
Anglophones less fit for delicate missions?
Two governors of Anglophone extraction: Awa Fonka Augustine and Joseph Otto Wilson were last week relocated down South from the North of the country, where Boko Haram has been razing havoc in the past many months. Commentators have been wondering whether the transfer of the two Anglophone governors was a coincidence, or it was just another instance of president Biya’s reluctance to allow very delicate sovereignty missions in the hands of Anglophones.
By Ayukogem Steven Ojong in Yaounde
Awa Fonka Augustine was replaced in the Far North by Midjiyawa Bakari, a Moslem Fulani from the North, while Joseph Otto Wilson who is now the Governor of the Centre region was replaced in the North by Abate Edi’i Jean, an indigene of the Centre region.
It can very easily be understood though, that Midjiyawa Bakari could have been sent to Maroua in the Far North because being a Hausa/Fulani, he speaks the native language of the area and so can better relate and communicate with the populations, especially at this time of the Boko Haram scare. Also, Boko Haram said to be a religious (Moslem Phenomenon) Governor Midjiyawa will be commanding in his home front, in a war whose origins and under-tones he is expected to quickly and very easily decipher.
But it should at once be recalled that Awa Fonka was made governor of the Far North in compensation for loyal services he rendered to the state and especially the minister of Territorial Administration, Rene Emmanuel Sadi, during his brief stay as SDO of the Mbam and Inoubou division (Rene Sadi’s division of origin).
Two governors of Anglophone extraction: Awa Fonka Augustine and Joseph Otto Wilson were last week relocated down South from the North of the country, where Boko Haram has been razing havoc in the past many months. Commentators have been wondering whether the transfer of the two Anglophone governors was a coincidence, or it was just another instance of president Biya’s reluctance to allow very delicate sovereignty missions in the hands of Anglophones.
By Ayukogem Steven Ojong in Yaounde
 |
| Awa Fonka Augustine & Joseph Otto Wilson |
It can very easily be understood though, that Midjiyawa Bakari could have been sent to Maroua in the Far North because being a Hausa/Fulani, he speaks the native language of the area and so can better relate and communicate with the populations, especially at this time of the Boko Haram scare. Also, Boko Haram said to be a religious (Moslem Phenomenon) Governor Midjiyawa will be commanding in his home front, in a war whose origins and under-tones he is expected to quickly and very easily decipher.
But it should at once be recalled that Awa Fonka was made governor of the Far North in compensation for loyal services he rendered to the state and especially the minister of Territorial Administration, Rene Emmanuel Sadi, during his brief stay as SDO of the Mbam and Inoubou division (Rene Sadi’s division of origin).
Boko Haram causes fuel shortage
 |
| Most gas stations in Yaounde were short of fuel last week |
By Ayukogem Steven Ojong in Yaounde
The mild scarcity of fuel that hit Yaounde and some other towns in the country including particularly Garoua, Maroua and Bafoussam last week was due to the recent war launched by President Biya against Boko Haram, this we can say with certainty.
Though the temporal shortage at many gas stations in these towns was said to be due to a technical break at the lone petroleum refinery in the country, SONARA, which halted operations for 2 weeks to clean up and overhaul its equipment, it turned out that the immediate cause of the shortage was the huge stocks of fuel that was ferried to the Northern parts of the country, to furnish the motorized units of the several thousand troops that were recently marched onto the Northern frontiers with Nigeria to check the Boko Haram menace. This was our take home message, when we went out investigating with some stakeholder companies concerned with the supply of petroleum and petroleum products in the country.
Cameroon economy suffers under Boko Haram
By Ismail Maliki in Maroua
The insurgency of the jihadists in Northern Nigeria has not only brought loss of life to Northern Cameroon, but has seen the economy of the area plummet to an all time low.
Cross-border trade between Cameroon and Nigeria was the first to be hit by the reigning insecurity in the North. Fearing for their lives, Cameroonian traders no longer cross with their goods into Nigeria. Before the advent of Boko Haram, at least 5000 cattle used to leave Kousseri for Nigerian markets each Tuesday. Foodstuff that was exported from Maroua, especially cereals and onions, constituted a billion-franc-business. All these have been brought to an abrupt halt, leaving businessmen desperate.
“It is over a year since I last took cattle to Nigeria,” a cattle merchant told the press, adding that “it is foolhardy to attempt crooing over because Boko Haram has mired every market frequented by foreigners,” Alhadji Ahmadou explained, complaining that “transferring the cattle to the South is expensive, and there are few buyers in Adamawa which makes the beasts very cheap there.
The insurgency of the jihadists in Northern Nigeria has not only brought loss of life to Northern Cameroon, but has seen the economy of the area plummet to an all time low.
Cross-border trade between Cameroon and Nigeria was the first to be hit by the reigning insecurity in the North. Fearing for their lives, Cameroonian traders no longer cross with their goods into Nigeria. Before the advent of Boko Haram, at least 5000 cattle used to leave Kousseri for Nigerian markets each Tuesday. Foodstuff that was exported from Maroua, especially cereals and onions, constituted a billion-franc-business. All these have been brought to an abrupt halt, leaving businessmen desperate.
“It is over a year since I last took cattle to Nigeria,” a cattle merchant told the press, adding that “it is foolhardy to attempt crooing over because Boko Haram has mired every market frequented by foreigners,” Alhadji Ahmadou explained, complaining that “transferring the cattle to the South is expensive, and there are few buyers in Adamawa which makes the beasts very cheap there.
African lawyers vow to stop capital flight
 |
| Bar Akere Muna |
By Numh Rogers in Yaounde
African lawyers have agreed to streamline their efforts in the fight against illicit financial flows from Africa. Speaking at the opening of a three-day convention of the Pan-African Lawyers Union holding in Yaounde on 5-7 June, the president of the Union, Cameroonian-born Barrister Akere Muna called for the repatriation of frozen assets from European banks to the African Development Bank.
Citing Haiti that was cash-strung in crisis despite having trillions of dollars of frozen assets in European banks, Bar. Akere Muna pointed out that the funds would better serve the nations from which they originated, if transferred to the African Development Bank.
2nd parliamentary session
Senate & N.A. to open Wednesday
By Numh Rogers in Yaounde
Parliament will open for its 2nd session for the 2014 legislative year on Wednesday 11 June 2014.
According to a communiqué signed by the Secretary General of the Senate, members of the Upper House of parliament are convened in session on Wednesday 11 June, at the temporary headquarters of the Senate at the Yaounde conference Centre.
By virtue of another communiqué signed by the Assistant SG of the National Assembly, Bernard Wongolo, the lower house of parliament is also convened for Wednesday 11 June.
Most of the members of the lower house will be returning to Yaounde after making field trips to their respective constituencies to communion with and distribute parliamentary packages to the electorate.
By Numh Rogers in Yaounde
Parliament will open for its 2nd session for the 2014 legislative year on Wednesday 11 June 2014.
According to a communiqué signed by the Secretary General of the Senate, members of the Upper House of parliament are convened in session on Wednesday 11 June, at the temporary headquarters of the Senate at the Yaounde conference Centre.
By virtue of another communiqué signed by the Assistant SG of the National Assembly, Bernard Wongolo, the lower house of parliament is also convened for Wednesday 11 June.
Most of the members of the lower house will be returning to Yaounde after making field trips to their respective constituencies to communion with and distribute parliamentary packages to the electorate.
SW Chiefs Conference:
 |
| Nfon Mukete |
By Balemba Maquens in Kumba
The paramount chief of the Bafaws, Senator Nfon Victor Esseminsongo Mukete has succeeded the departed Fon Fontem Njifua as the president of the South West Chiefs Conference, SWECC. The 96-year-old patriarch inherited the stool at the last General Assembly of the South West Chiefs Conference in Kumba on 30 May.
Nfon Mukete inherits a divided house: He would have the task of convincing Fako chiefs who felt slighted when Fon Fontem Njifua hijacked the centre stage at the recent reunification celebrations in Buea, giving the “host chiefs?” little room to dialogue with President Biya, who doubles as “Nalyombo-nfon-mbwog” of the South West region. Other grievances of the Fako chiefs included what they considered as the opacity that characterized the sharing of the ‘envelope’ from the Head of state to the South West Chiefs, as well as the envelope from the first lady Chantal Biya to the wives of the chiefs. The Fako chiefs expressed their discontent by breaking off from the SWECC.
B’da Newspaper vendor threatened with death
 |
| Waffo Jean Paul |
A wave of pandemonium swept across the City of Bamenda last Tuesday 3 June 2014 when gun-totting Gendarmes whisked off a popular newspaper vendor at the Bamenda City Chemist Round About over what turned out to be trumped up charges. The vendor, Wafo Jean Paul, 49, was shown a warrant of arrest said to issued by the State Prosecutor for Mezam, asking him to appear before the Ntarinkon Brigade commander.
Immediately Waffo arrived at the Brigade, he was pushed into the guard room and locked up. He spent the night behind bars.
Before his arrest, Wafo Jean Paul was recovering from injuries inflicted on him last May 26, 2014 by tugs believed to have been hired by his former LandLord, Ndifor Ngwafor George, a Pharmacist and businessman.
Worse still, Jean PAUL complained bitterly that when he went to that Pharmacy to buy drugs prescribed by the Dr. who consulted him, Dr. Ndiffor ordered his nurses not to attend to him. Jean Paul has since reported the matter to the Judicial Police and human rights organizations who have referred the matter to the State Counsel.
Doubtful statistics
Synergies Africaines exaggerates incidence of cleft lips in Cameroon
By Numh Rogers in Yaounde
The Pan African NGO Synergies Africaines has inflated the figure of cleft-lip corrective surgeries it has sponsored in Cameroon since 2012.
In a ceremony to sign a partnership with the American NGO Smile Train in Yaounde on 5th June, officials said at least 400 children have benefitted from corrective surgery for the congenital deformity thanks to support from Synergies Africaines.
But documents given to reporters at the signing ceremony showed far lower figures: 64 patients from 5 to 15 November 2012; 61 patients from 28 June to 4 July 2013 and 50 patients between 30 November and 3 December 2013, summing up to 175 cases.
By Numh Rogers in Yaounde
 |
| Jean Stéphane Biatcha |
In a ceremony to sign a partnership with the American NGO Smile Train in Yaounde on 5th June, officials said at least 400 children have benefitted from corrective surgery for the congenital deformity thanks to support from Synergies Africaines.
But documents given to reporters at the signing ceremony showed far lower figures: 64 patients from 5 to 15 November 2012; 61 patients from 28 June to 4 July 2013 and 50 patients between 30 November and 3 December 2013, summing up to 175 cases.
Tiko Sub-Division
 |
| JCI Tiko creek members pose with SG Nkwen Tamo P. at Tiko council with gifts for schools1 |
By Sarah Nkongho Ojong in Tiko
Junior chambers international, JCI Tiko Creek Renaissance chapter, working in partnership with the Tiko council, has donated school items to some 5 schools in the sub division to help promote grass root education. The donation took place on Monday, June 2, 2014.
The initiative which has been in the pipeline since last year targeted a blend of public and private institutions within the sub division where the lack of some basic school necessities was identified. Among the schools chosen were government school, Likomba, Presbyterian school, St Mary Catholic school, and C.B.C school all in Tiko, which received items like drinking buckets, jars, books, pens and pencils from the impact-creating organization which has as objective to identify problems in the community and resolve them.
According to the JCI Tiko creek renaissance president, Ebaneck Brian Binda, the choice of items was intended to ensure that all the pupils benefit from the gift. Even though, there were also special gifts to some of the best pupils in all institutions.
Exclusive Interview
Boko Haram uses Cameroon for recruitment and funding
- Prof. Kale Ewusi, UN expert on Peace and Conflict
According to Cameroonian-born expert and researcher on peace and conflict at the UN University in Costa Rica, Boko Haram is purely an internal problem in Nigeria; Cameroon has only been dragged into it because Boko Haram considers Cameroon as a potential source for funding and recruitments to swell up its ranks. Professor Kale Ewusi made this and other salient remarks in an exclusive and very scintillating dialogue he had with The Median’s editor, Ayukokogem Steven Ojong in Yaounde. It makes for very captivating reading.
Before we proceed with this interview, can you let our readers to know who Prof. Kale Ewusi is?
I am Dr. Kale Ewusi. My surname is Ewusi, to differentiate from the well known and very famous professor Ndiva Kofele Kale. I was born in Buea. I did my secondary school studies at Bilingual Grammar school, Molyko Buea, and then the University of Yaounde where I took a law degree. I also took a Masters degree in International Relations at the University of Maiduguri in Nigeria, and then a Doctorate Degree in Peace and Conflicts Studies and International Relations at the North Western University in South Africa. I am presently teaching at the United Nations University for Peace with headquarters in Costa Rica, where I am also the research coordinator for Africa. I also teach courses in political economy of peace and conflict. Apart from these i am also visiting professor at many African Universities, such as the Rwandan National University; the Rwandan Defense College; the Makerere University in Uganda; the University of Addis Ababa in Ethiopia etc. Also, in my capacity as research coordinator for Africa at the UN University i work with 26 universities on the continent.
As an expert in peace and conflict management and someone who passed through the University of Maiduguri in Borno State of Nigeria, where Boko Haram activities are today concentrated, can you trace the origin of the Boko Haram Phenomenon?
That’s a very interesting question. I lived in Maiduguri, Northern Nigeria between 1994 and 1998. I was there for four good years, and that was when Maiduguri was an extremely peaceful city in Bornu state. I should say Boko Haram is an outcome of three particular aspects: Firstly, it is an outcome of political thuggery, which is a salient feature of the Nigerian political system. Secondly it is an outcome of political abandonment; a situation where by politicians use thugs to get to power and then abandon these thugs as soon as they capture power. Thirdly it is an outcome of the huge economic inequalities that exist in what is today considered as Africa’s biggest economy. These three factors have combined to create what I would call a Frankenstein Monster: The Boko Haram.
Some informed opinions hold that the extreme poverty in Northern Nigeria partly accounted for the rise of the Boko Haram phenomenon. How come there is such widespread poverty in Northern Nigeria, after at least 8 of the over 10 former Nigerian heads of state originated from there?
We shouldn’t forget that most of these presidents were military officers. These were people who came to power by use of force and so had neither legitimacy nor a constituency. Therefore most of these military presidents, though from the North, did not consider themselves accountable to the people of Northern Nigeria. In fact, most of these leaders were an out shot of what was referred to as “the Military Industrial Complex” within Nigeria and what was at some point known as the Kaduna Mafia, which comprised of military officers in Kabout with politicians and businessmen. Therefore much of Northern Nigeria has been abandoned in spite of the fact that most of the former military presidents came from the Northern part of the country. So, with the coming of democracy in Nigeria, it was expected that after two terms of Obasanjo Olusegun (a Southerner) at the presidency, a Northerner would also be given at least two terms at Aso Rock, to balance the political equation. And because it was expected that this Northerner should have been a democratically elected leader with a constituency, there was hope that he should have brought some development to the Northern parts of Nigeria or at least pay allegiance to the North. But this was not to be. But i must say that this arrangement was not explicitly written; it was only a gentleman’s agreement but which was violated within the ruling party in Nigeria. Because that equation failed to take root, Boko Haram is now being used by some of the Northern politicians to destabilize the country. But that is only part of the problem.
- Prof. Kale Ewusi, UN expert on Peace and Conflict
 |
| Prof. Kale Ewusi |
According to Cameroonian-born expert and researcher on peace and conflict at the UN University in Costa Rica, Boko Haram is purely an internal problem in Nigeria; Cameroon has only been dragged into it because Boko Haram considers Cameroon as a potential source for funding and recruitments to swell up its ranks. Professor Kale Ewusi made this and other salient remarks in an exclusive and very scintillating dialogue he had with The Median’s editor, Ayukokogem Steven Ojong in Yaounde. It makes for very captivating reading.
Before we proceed with this interview, can you let our readers to know who Prof. Kale Ewusi is?
I am Dr. Kale Ewusi. My surname is Ewusi, to differentiate from the well known and very famous professor Ndiva Kofele Kale. I was born in Buea. I did my secondary school studies at Bilingual Grammar school, Molyko Buea, and then the University of Yaounde where I took a law degree. I also took a Masters degree in International Relations at the University of Maiduguri in Nigeria, and then a Doctorate Degree in Peace and Conflicts Studies and International Relations at the North Western University in South Africa. I am presently teaching at the United Nations University for Peace with headquarters in Costa Rica, where I am also the research coordinator for Africa. I also teach courses in political economy of peace and conflict. Apart from these i am also visiting professor at many African Universities, such as the Rwandan National University; the Rwandan Defense College; the Makerere University in Uganda; the University of Addis Ababa in Ethiopia etc. Also, in my capacity as research coordinator for Africa at the UN University i work with 26 universities on the continent.
As an expert in peace and conflict management and someone who passed through the University of Maiduguri in Borno State of Nigeria, where Boko Haram activities are today concentrated, can you trace the origin of the Boko Haram Phenomenon?
That’s a very interesting question. I lived in Maiduguri, Northern Nigeria between 1994 and 1998. I was there for four good years, and that was when Maiduguri was an extremely peaceful city in Bornu state. I should say Boko Haram is an outcome of three particular aspects: Firstly, it is an outcome of political thuggery, which is a salient feature of the Nigerian political system. Secondly it is an outcome of political abandonment; a situation where by politicians use thugs to get to power and then abandon these thugs as soon as they capture power. Thirdly it is an outcome of the huge economic inequalities that exist in what is today considered as Africa’s biggest economy. These three factors have combined to create what I would call a Frankenstein Monster: The Boko Haram.
Some informed opinions hold that the extreme poverty in Northern Nigeria partly accounted for the rise of the Boko Haram phenomenon. How come there is such widespread poverty in Northern Nigeria, after at least 8 of the over 10 former Nigerian heads of state originated from there?
We shouldn’t forget that most of these presidents were military officers. These were people who came to power by use of force and so had neither legitimacy nor a constituency. Therefore most of these military presidents, though from the North, did not consider themselves accountable to the people of Northern Nigeria. In fact, most of these leaders were an out shot of what was referred to as “the Military Industrial Complex” within Nigeria and what was at some point known as the Kaduna Mafia, which comprised of military officers in Kabout with politicians and businessmen. Therefore much of Northern Nigeria has been abandoned in spite of the fact that most of the former military presidents came from the Northern part of the country. So, with the coming of democracy in Nigeria, it was expected that after two terms of Obasanjo Olusegun (a Southerner) at the presidency, a Northerner would also be given at least two terms at Aso Rock, to balance the political equation. And because it was expected that this Northerner should have been a democratically elected leader with a constituency, there was hope that he should have brought some development to the Northern parts of Nigeria or at least pay allegiance to the North. But this was not to be. But i must say that this arrangement was not explicitly written; it was only a gentleman’s agreement but which was violated within the ruling party in Nigeria. Because that equation failed to take root, Boko Haram is now being used by some of the Northern politicians to destabilize the country. But that is only part of the problem.
Tiko Mayor hailed for good works
 |
| Mayor Moukondo, 2nd deputy Blessed Tita & councilor dancing on ceremonial ground |
In appreciation of the wonderful efforts to develop Tiko town and better the lives of the populations of the municipality, the Fako Traditional Dance, Arts and Cultural Association, Fatradanca, mobilized some close to 10 traditional dance groups from all 10 regions of the country to hail and encourage the newly elected mayor of Tiko and his collaborators.
The cultural bonanza that took place on Sunday, May 24, 2014 at the Tiko council premises witnessed the presence of the Mayor of Tiko, Moukondo Daniel, the 4 Deputy mayors, councilors and well wishers. Fatradanca is a federation of all the different cultural associations in Tiko sub division, recognized by the SW regional delegation of culture.
According to Fatradanca President, Ngando Mwambo Edwin, the reception organized in honour of the mayor and his entourage is in recognition of the fact that “our votes in the twin elections of September 2013 did not fall on sandy soil but rather, on very fertile soil.”
UB launches project on women’s right to land
By Sarah Nkongho Ojong in Buea
Stakeholders of all works of life related to land issues gathered in the Amphitheater 250 of the University of Buea to join the Vice Chancellor Pr. Nalova Lyonga and other authorities of the institution to officially launch another research project brought to light by Dr. Lotsmart Fonjong of the social sciences research group of the University of Buea, may 30, 2014.
Sponsored by the international Development Center for Research, IDRC of Canada under the supervision of Ms Ramata Thioune of the IDRC regional office in Nairobi- Kenya, the project has as goals to critically examine the conditions under which women can be empowered to effectively participate in the processes of large scale land acquisition, ensure better promotion of accountability and legitimacy on land governance through policy and legal frameworks in respect of women’s rights.
 |
| General coordinator of the UB IDRC research project, Dr. Lotsmart Fonjong |
Sponsored by the international Development Center for Research, IDRC of Canada under the supervision of Ms Ramata Thioune of the IDRC regional office in Nairobi- Kenya, the project has as goals to critically examine the conditions under which women can be empowered to effectively participate in the processes of large scale land acquisition, ensure better promotion of accountability and legitimacy on land governance through policy and legal frameworks in respect of women’s rights.
Moldova reduces Cameroonians’ trust in Lions
The farewell game that pitted the Indomitable Lions against their Moldova counterparts at the Ahmadou Ahidjo Omnisport Stadium in Yaoundé left many Cameroonians in doubt as a result of the Lions narrow 1-0 victory over the visitors.
Since the 2-2 draw against Germany, supporters’ confidence for the Lions increased drastically as a result of the show of quality that gave many the euphoric feelings of the Italy 1990 World cup exploits that saw the lions reached the quarter finals.
Although the match ended with the lions snatching a 1-0 victory thanks to a goal from Edgar Salli at the 29th minute, lions supporters were however not satisfied with the way their team approached the game.
The lions put on a show relatively below average as their play style look heavy, slow and also short of the tiki-taka style they demonstrated against Germany.
Since the 2-2 draw against Germany, supporters’ confidence for the Lions increased drastically as a result of the show of quality that gave many the euphoric feelings of the Italy 1990 World cup exploits that saw the lions reached the quarter finals.
Although the match ended with the lions snatching a 1-0 victory thanks to a goal from Edgar Salli at the 29th minute, lions supporters were however not satisfied with the way their team approached the game.
The lions put on a show relatively below average as their play style look heavy, slow and also short of the tiki-taka style they demonstrated against Germany.
Finke not Eto’o is Lions flag bearer
The Prime Minster, Philemon Yang on the occasion handed the flag to the coach who in the company of football authorities showed it round the stadium.
But, many still continue to wonder why the coach and not the team captain was the flag-bearer.
Tuesday, 3 June 2014
Inadequate logistics may mar war on Boko Haram
-War expert
By Numh Rogers in Yaounde
President Biya is leaving nothing to chance in the war on Boko Haram. Experts have affirmed that only an elite force could face the jihadists, because of the atypical blend of guerrilla warfare and terrorism carried out by the terrorists. It has emerged based on the Nigerian example that the massive deployment of troops against Boko Haram may not yield the desired fruits (Nigeria boasts of one of the strongest armies on the continent).
Military experts point out that only a special, well adapted force capable of independent operations that can last from a few hours to weeks could be efficient in the war on Boko Haram. According to NATO, small, highly effective units can counter adversaries of far greater numbers, by reverting to diverse techniques and tactics, and preying on the weaknesses of the enemy.
By Numh Rogers in Yaounde
President Biya is leaving nothing to chance in the war on Boko Haram. Experts have affirmed that only an elite force could face the jihadists, because of the atypical blend of guerrilla warfare and terrorism carried out by the terrorists. It has emerged based on the Nigerian example that the massive deployment of troops against Boko Haram may not yield the desired fruits (Nigeria boasts of one of the strongest armies on the continent).
Military experts point out that only a special, well adapted force capable of independent operations that can last from a few hours to weeks could be efficient in the war on Boko Haram. According to NATO, small, highly effective units can counter adversaries of far greater numbers, by reverting to diverse techniques and tactics, and preying on the weaknesses of the enemy.
Growing Insecurity
Fru Ndi calls for dialogue, not war with Boko Haram
-Ransom money meant for Boko Haram embezzled at Etoudi
By Njodzefe Nestor
The Social Democratic Front, SDF National chairman has declared that 90% of the money which was disbursed by France to Cameroon to pay as ransom to Boko Haram in exchange of the abducted French nationals was tracked and located within the Cameroon territory. According to SDF national Chairman, Ni John Fru Ndi French satellite in trying to locate Boko Haram through lazar-banknotes detected that part of the money was inside the Presidency of the republic in the hands of some corrupt officials.
Fru Ndi made the startling revelation in Nkambe and Ndu during celebrations to mark the 24th Anniversary of the SDF on 26 May.
He told the over 30.000 man-crowds in Ndu and Nkambe that it is for similar reasons that the National Executive Council of the SDF last December 2013 issued a resolution “calling on President Biya to resign because he has failed”.
-Ransom money meant for Boko Haram embezzled at Etoudi
By Njodzefe Nestor
Fru Ndi made the startling revelation in Nkambe and Ndu during celebrations to mark the 24th Anniversary of the SDF on 26 May.
He told the over 30.000 man-crowds in Ndu and Nkambe that it is for similar reasons that the National Executive Council of the SDF last December 2013 issued a resolution “calling on President Biya to resign because he has failed”.
War on Boko Haram
1000 troops deployed along Nigeria borders
By Njodzefe Nestor in Bamenda
On the instruction of the President of the Republic, Commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces, about1000 troops and armor vehicles have been deployed in the northern parts of the country especially areas bordering Nigeria. The troops arrived at their destination since Monday 26 May 2014. The heavy troop deployment is in a bid to counter the rising threat from the islamist terrorist sect, Boko Haram.
The troops have a special mission to carry out reconnaissance operations and be ready to respond with fire power in case of any Boko Haram attack, according to military spokesperson, Lt. Colonel Didier Badjeck told Reuters, emphasizing that the troops were already patrolling along the northern frontiers with Nigeria.
Reports said two suspected Boko Haram militants were arrested by Cameroonian forces around the Waza neighborhood on Wednesday 28 May 2014.
Cameroon earlier deployed 700 troops under a joint regional effort to fight Boko Haram in March this year.
By Njodzefe Nestor in Bamenda
On the instruction of the President of the Republic, Commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces, about1000 troops and armor vehicles have been deployed in the northern parts of the country especially areas bordering Nigeria. The troops arrived at their destination since Monday 26 May 2014. The heavy troop deployment is in a bid to counter the rising threat from the islamist terrorist sect, Boko Haram.
The troops have a special mission to carry out reconnaissance operations and be ready to respond with fire power in case of any Boko Haram attack, according to military spokesperson, Lt. Colonel Didier Badjeck told Reuters, emphasizing that the troops were already patrolling along the northern frontiers with Nigeria.
Reports said two suspected Boko Haram militants were arrested by Cameroonian forces around the Waza neighborhood on Wednesday 28 May 2014.
Cameroon earlier deployed 700 troops under a joint regional effort to fight Boko Haram in March this year.
Limbe Handi-craft village inaugurated
 |
| The imposing structure of Limbe handicrafts village |
Bernard OKALIA BILAI, Governor of the South West Region and other personalities of competence were installed last May 27 by the Minister of Small and Medium sized enterprises, social economy and handicrafts, Laurent Serge Etoundi Ngoa, to assume managerial power over the Regional Handicrafts Village of Limbe. The official swearing-in was done during the inauguration ceremony of the Limbe Handicrafts village and the one stop shop for Business registration in the South West Region.
By a correspondent in Limbe
After laying the foundation stone three years ago, precisely on August 19 2011, Pr. Laurent Serge Etoundi Ngoa was delighted to inaugurate the magnificent structure that will host talented Cameroonians who have a special passion for the crafts sector. Situated at Bonadikombo, Mile 4 Limbe, the handicrafts village will be a meeting point for lovers of crafts and craft products. It is a platform for the expression and discovery of talents. The handicrafts village is intended to promote job creation, self employment and contribute in the fight against poverty especially among youths.
The establishment is also expected in the nearest future to stimulate youths to embrace entrepreneurship through the one stop shop center which will make it possible for prospective business owners of the Region to create enterprises in 72 hours.
Government’s priority is on the maintenance of the structure, modernization of the sector and the training of interested Cameroonians in a bid to help the handicrafts industry emerge from its slumber, H.E. Etoundi Ngoa pledged, as he installed the management committee of the village.
The nine-man management committee is a melting-pot of men from diverse horizon. It includes the Regional Delegate of Tourism and Leisure, the Regional Delegate of Arts and Culture, the Regional Delegate of Small and Medium Sized Enterprises among others, all under the coordination of Governor Bernard OKALIA BILAI.
Despite the beauty of the building, the representative of crafts persons, Catherine Foretia alongside the Government Delegate for the Limbe City Council picked some faults which may become obstacles to the smooth functioning of the village; the absence of electricity and the lack of security around the premises. The minister addressed the situation on the spot by promising to pay particular attention to the construction of a fence for security reasons and the supply of energy sooner than later. In addition, he disclosed that, the computerization of the structure is the next point on the agenda of the Ministry to facilitate the practice of e-commerce and also modernize the crafts sector.
24th Anniversary
Tiko SDF demonstrates mobilization strength
By Sarah Nkongho Ojong in Tiko
Members of the SDF party, Tiko executive bureau members, militant s of the party family accompanied by the Tiko district party Chairman who doubles as Mayor of the municipality, Moukondo Daniel Ngande welcomed the SDF SW Regional Chairman, George Likiye to celebrate the party’s 24th anniversary at GS Likomba, Tiko.
The reason for the choice of Likomba to host the anniversary celebrations in the south west was as a result of the enormous contributions and support the Likomba people accorded the party especially during the 2013 twin elections during which the SDF gained grounds with an overwhelming victory over the ruling CPDM party.
By Sarah Nkongho Ojong in Tiko
 |
| SDF SW regional & Tiko district chairmen demonstrating power |
The reason for the choice of Likomba to host the anniversary celebrations in the south west was as a result of the enormous contributions and support the Likomba people accorded the party especially during the 2013 twin elections during which the SDF gained grounds with an overwhelming victory over the ruling CPDM party.
Wood laudering
Herakles farms accused of illegally exporting timber
By Mumh Rogers in Yaounde
The conservation group Greenpeace has accused the American company, Herakles farms of colluding with the Cameroon minister of forestry and wildlife to illegally export timber to China. In a report published on May 27 2014, Greenpeace reveals that Herakles farms’ Cameroon subsidiary SGSOC was using another company Uniprovince, as a front company to export its stockpile of timber collected illegally in the course its forest clearing exercise that ran between 2010 and 2013.
The report notes that in January this year Uniprovince obtained a 2.500 ha logging permit (vente de coupe No 11-02-10) inside the Herakles farms concession but observes that the vente de coupe permit was granted in violation of the Cameroon forestry legislation as well as the Voluntary Partnership Agreement (VPA) that Cameroon signed with the EU, especially because it did not follow the procedure of a public auction as the law requires. Furthermore, the report suspected a deliberate attempt by the forestry minister to hide an illegal decision taken in favor of Herakles farms”, as the vente de coupe did not figure in the most recent list of valid permits published by the ministry on March 10, 2014.
By Mumh Rogers in Yaounde
The conservation group Greenpeace has accused the American company, Herakles farms of colluding with the Cameroon minister of forestry and wildlife to illegally export timber to China. In a report published on May 27 2014, Greenpeace reveals that Herakles farms’ Cameroon subsidiary SGSOC was using another company Uniprovince, as a front company to export its stockpile of timber collected illegally in the course its forest clearing exercise that ran between 2010 and 2013.
The report notes that in January this year Uniprovince obtained a 2.500 ha logging permit (vente de coupe No 11-02-10) inside the Herakles farms concession but observes that the vente de coupe permit was granted in violation of the Cameroon forestry legislation as well as the Voluntary Partnership Agreement (VPA) that Cameroon signed with the EU, especially because it did not follow the procedure of a public auction as the law requires. Furthermore, the report suspected a deliberate attempt by the forestry minister to hide an illegal decision taken in favor of Herakles farms”, as the vente de coupe did not figure in the most recent list of valid permits published by the ministry on March 10, 2014.
Fighting unemployment
CAMYOSFOP calls for professionalization of education
By Numh Rogers in Yaounde
The reputed NGO, Cameroon Youth and students’ forum for peace CAMYOSFOP has called for Cameroon’s education system to be overhauled. Speaking last Tuesday at the presentation of a report titled “The Voice of the Youth on Education sector reform for youth employment’, the executive director of CAMYOSFOP, Ngalim Eugene Nyuydine blamed the high rate of youth unemployment on misguided curricula.
“Education is an over-lapping millennium development goal which if well tailored to suit the job market, has the potential to accelerate the attainment of the MDGs and the much desired sustainable development goals,” Mr. Ngalim reiterated.
By Numh Rogers in Yaounde
“Education is an over-lapping millennium development goal which if well tailored to suit the job market, has the potential to accelerate the attainment of the MDGs and the much desired sustainable development goals,” Mr. Ngalim reiterated.
Thabo Mbeki expected at lawyers confab
By Numh Rogers in Yaounde
Former South African president Thabo Mbeki will be in Cameroon from June 5-7, 2014 to partake in the third general conference of the Pan African lawyers’ Union. The announcement was made by the president of the Cameroon Bar Council, Barrister Sama Francis Asanga. President Paul Biya and former Nigerian Head of State Olusegun Obasanjo are expected to receive an award at the conference for the peaceful resolution of the Bakassi conflict.
Former South African president Thabo Mbeki will be in Cameroon from June 5-7, 2014 to partake in the third general conference of the Pan African lawyers’ Union. The announcement was made by the president of the Cameroon Bar Council, Barrister Sama Francis Asanga. President Paul Biya and former Nigerian Head of State Olusegun Obasanjo are expected to receive an award at the conference for the peaceful resolution of the Bakassi conflict.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)