The Herald Tribune

The Herald Tribune The Herald Tribune is a weekly publication, on News events. We are present in 5 Regions of Cameroon (North West, South West, Centre, Littoral and West).

Alom Valley Elites Mobilize Support for Peaceful and Inclusive Participation in 2025 Presidential ElectionBy Neba Jerome...
11/10/2025

Alom Valley Elites Mobilize Support for Peaceful and Inclusive Participation in 2025 Presidential Election

By Neba Jerome Ambe

In a strong demonstration of civic engagement and community solidarity, the people of Alom Valley in Bafut Subdivision, Mezam Division, convened a grand meeting in Yaoundé on October 10, 2025. The gathering, which brought together elites and residents of Alom Valley living in Yaoundé and Douala, focused on promoting voter participation among internally displaced persons (IDPs) and registered voters from Mezam IV Bafut ahead of the October 12 presidential election.

Speaking during the meeting, Ntumfor Mejang, Spokesperson for the Fons of Alom Valley, emphasized the importance of collective responsibility and civic duty in strengthening democracy and ensuring peace through participation.

“The CPDM is a supportive party where the strong carry the weak along. Internally displaced persons with valid voter cards have the same civic rights as every Cameroonian, and we are committed to helping them exercise that right,” he stated.

To facilitate this, the elites of Alom Valley pledged logistical and financial support to help registered voters return home to cast their ballots. According to Ntumfor Mejang, a total of 723 registered militants from Mezam IV Bafut will benefit from free transportation, with private vehicles placed at their disposal. The initiative is fully funded by Alom Valley elites, several of whom are already on the ground as part of the communal campaign team.

Reflecting on the broader context of the elections, Ntumfor Mejang recalled the leadership of President Paul Biya, commending his decades of service and steady governance. He described the President as a symbol of continuity and experience, adding that his character and sense of duty continue to inspire citizens nationwide.

“President Paul Biya is like fine wine, the older he becomes, the more qualified he is. He embodies decency, conviction, and grace, values that our nation needs to preserve unity and progress,” he noted.

Beyond politics, the spokesperson called for civility and respect during the campaign period. He urged Cameroonians to reject hate speech and divisive rhetoric, stressing that peaceful coexistence and national cohesion remain the cornerstone of a strong Cameroon.

“The hateful language we hear from some quarters does not represent the true spirit of this country. Our children are watching us, we are their role models. Let us show them that when others go low, we go high,” he said.

Ntumfor Mejang concluded by reaffirming Alom Valley’s commitment to peaceful participation and the democratic process, urging all eligible voters to perform their civic duty responsibly on October 12.

“This election is not about regions or languages; it is about shaping our country’s future for the next seven years. Let us all go to the polls with peace in our hearts and hope for a better Cameroon,” he affirmed.

The Alom Valley initiative stands as a model of community-driven engagement, highlighting how collective action and local leadership can help overcome displacement-related challenges while promoting inclusive political participation and national unity.

It should be noted that, the Communal president, Chenwi Samuel and his team which is made up of Mayor of Bafut Council, Hon. Agho Oliver, the resource lady for Mezam IV Bafut Mme Tabod Jacqueline Mah epse Mejang who are also the key persons for Mezam IV politics.The Elite president Dr.Ajambang Walters, Hon Gordon Chebelem and other Elites of Alom Valley and Bafut subdivision including traditional rulers have all give their support to President Paul Biya.

CPDM Mezam IV Bafut Holds Mega Rally Ahead of Presidential ElectionBy Neba Jerome AmbeThe Cameroon People’s Democratic M...
11/10/2025

CPDM Mezam IV Bafut Holds Mega Rally Ahead of Presidential Election

By Neba Jerome Ambe

The Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM) Section for Mezam IV, Bafut, held a grand rally on Saturday October 11, 2025, eve of the Presidential Election, calling on supporters to turn out massively and vote for the party’s candidate, President Paul Biya.

Addressing the crowd, the CPDM Section President for Mezam IV, Ngwakongoh Lawrence, said the event was meant to strengthen party unity and reaffirm commitment to the Head of State’s leadership.

“The purpose of today’s rally is to mobilize our militants and express our support for President Paul Biya, whom we regard as the driving force behind development in Bafut. The massive turnout shows that our section is ready and confident about tomorrow’s vote,” he stated.

Speaking at the event, the Women’s Wing (WCPDM) Section President, Chesi Miriam, expressed optimism about the party’s performance at the polls. She praised President Biya for advancing gender equality and implementing initiatives that have improved the welfare of women in the area.

“President Biya has given equal opportunities to both men and women. Here in Bafut, women have benefitted from his policies, including the health voucher programme. We are proud to stand behind him,” she stated.

The Youth Wing (YCPDM) President, Kongni Herman, highlighted the enthusiasm of young people throughout the campaign period, stressing that youth participation will be crucial in determining the outcome of the election.

“The Youth Empowerment Centre recently established in Bafut demonstrates the President’s commitment to young people. Tomorrow’s election is in the hands of the youth, the future belongs to them,” he remarked.

Hon. Gordon Chebelem described President Biya as “a visionary leader whose experience and steady leadership continue to guide Cameroon’s progress.”

“The future belongs to those who believe in their dreams. The President’s achievements warrant another mandate to consolidate peace and development in Cameroon,” he said.

The President of the Presidential Campaign Team in Mezam IV, Chenwi Samuel, echoed similar sentiments, noting that the party’s unity and discipline remain key strengths going into the election.

“The CPDM has conducted a successful campaign. The enthusiasm seen today demonstrates the confidence militants have in our candidate. We are prepared to go to the polls in solidarity and determination,” he emphasized.

The rally, marked by music, cultural displays, and speeches, drew militants and sympathizers from all parts of Bafut Subdivision. Organizers said the event was both a celebration of party achievements and a final call to action before election day.

*Prime Minister’s Visit Reignites Hope as North-West Regional Council Opens Final Session of First Mandate*By Neba Jerom...
22/09/2025

*Prime Minister’s Visit Reignites Hope as North-West Regional Council Opens Final Session of First Mandate*

By Neba Jerome Ambe

The North-West Regional Executive Council opened its September Ordinary Session on Monday, under the theme, Medium term (2026-2028) budget framework orientation session, marking a pivotal moment in the region’s decentralization journey and development aspirations. The session, which runs from September 22nd to 24th, is the final ordinary sitting of the council’s first mandate a mandate many regard as having laid a solid foundation for regional governance.

Addressing councillors and dignitaries at the opening ceremony, the representative of the State, North West Governor, Adolph Lele L'Afrique, emphasized on the significance of the session, which comes on the heels of a historic visit by the Prime Minister, Head of Government, His Excellency Chief Dr. Joseph Dion Ngute, on September 17th.

“The Prime Minister’s visit was not a mere formality; it was a powerful demonstration of the Government’s resolve to bring tangible development to the people of the North-West Region,” the Governor noted.

One of the key highlights of the Prime Minister’s visit was the inauguration of the long-awaited Babadjou, Bamenda road, a critical piece of infrastructure expected to significantly boost regional trade and economic integration. Also launched were works on the Bamenda Urban Crossing and various C2D-backed development projects aimed at enhancing road networks and commercial viability within the city.

The turnout from the public during the Prime Minister’s visit was described as "massive and jubilant," a clear rejection of calls for ghost towns and a public reaffirmation of the region’s commitment to peace and progress.

“The people of Bamenda have made the choice of development over destruction, hope over despair, and unity over separation,” Adolph Lele L'Afrique declared. “We condemn in the strongest terms these acts of intimidation that seek to hold our population hostage.”

*Strengthening Traditional Governance*

The session also reviewed outcomes from a recent workshop on traditional leadership held during the Council’s recess. Under the theme “Strengthening Traditional Leadership, Governance and Cultural Heritage”, the training sought to equip traditional rulers,custodians of local governance and culture, with the tools to better navigate the evolving decentralized political structure.

“This initiative... will go a long way to enable our Royal Fathers to better operate and reign within our decentralized setup,” he said, noting the importance of increased citizen participation as recommended by the Head of State.

*Election Preparedness and Call for Unity*

With the 2025 presidential elections scheduled for October 12th, electoral readiness also featured prominently in the opening speech. The state Representative referenced a recent meeting held with ELECAM and regional stakeholders aimed at ensuring a smooth, peaceful, and transparent electoral process.

“I call on each and every one of us to put hands on deck to ensure that peace reigns supreme before, during, and after the elections,” he urged, also condemning hate speech and divisive rhetoric.

He further issued a strong rebuke against renewed calls for school boycotts, describing them as “irresponsible” and a “grave injustice” to the region’s children.

“Education is the bedrock of any society that aspires to develop... Denying our children their right to education is to mortgage their future and the future of our entire region,” he stated.

*Saluting Security Forces and Civil Cooperation*

The Governor reserved special praise for the region’s Defence and Security Forces, commending their “bravery and unwavering dedication” amid ongoing security challenges. He encouraged citizens to continue supporting local authorities with actionable intelligence. “If you see something, say something,” he reiterated.

*A Call for Constructive Deliberations*

As the Regional Council nears the end of its first mandate, with elections scheduled for November 30th, councillors were reminded of the weight of their responsibility. The primary agenda for this session will be the examination and adoption of the budget, what the State representative called the “financial embodiment of our development priorities.”

He called for “thorough, selfless, and constructive deliberations” that align with the needs of the people in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and agriculture.

*North West Regional Assembly Reaffirms Commitment to Peace, Development, Decentralization at September 2025 Session*By ...
22/09/2025

*North West Regional Assembly Reaffirms Commitment to Peace, Development, Decentralization at September 2025 Session*

By Neba Jerome Ambe

The North West Regional Assembly officially opened its September 2025 Ordinary Session with a strong message of unity, development, and continuity in leadership. In a solemn address that blended appreciation, accountability, and a call to action, the President of the Regional Assembly Prof. Fru Angwafo III reviewed key achievements of the past five years and set the tone for the session's debates on budget orientation and ex*****on for the first three quarters of 2025.

Addressing Assembly members, traditional authorities, civil society representatives, and invited dignitaries, the President highlighted the Assembly's role in transforming decentralization from a theoretical concept into a visible and impactful reality in the lives of citizens across all 34 subdivisions of the region. “The achievements of the North West Regional Assembly speak for themselves: they are visible, measurable, and impactful,” he declared.

*Transformational Achievements Through the Peace and Development Initiative*

At the core of the Assembly's success story is the Peace and Development Initiative (PDI), a flagship program that has executed over 200 grassroots projects in 2023 alone, and more than 100 additional projects already underway in 2025. These range from infrastructure works such as road rehabilitation and water schemes to the revival of cultural and youth activities that had long been suspended due to instability.

The PDI has not only improved physical infrastructure but also served as a catalyst for peace-building and social cohesion, garnering recognition from civil society and international observers alike.

*Infrastructure, Partnerships, and Innovation*

In terms of public investment, the Assembly has overseen the delivery of 244 Public Investment Projects, executed through dynamic Public-Private-Population Partnerships (PPPPs) with national and international collaborators including FEICOM, Cameroon Customs, Smile Train, and eBASE Africa.

The Smile Train partnership in particular was praised for its impact on health, offering free cleft surgeries and capacity-building programs for health professionals, effectively restoring dignity to vulnerable populations.

The President also hailed the success of the North West Development and Investment Fund (NOWEDIF) and its Digital Innovation Hub, which has already supported 100 young innovators to launch 49 startups. These ventures are expected to generate over 1,000 jobs and 6 billion CFA francs in revenue by 2035. “The North West is no longer waiting for the digital economy, it is building it,” he proclaimed.

*Electoral Season and Political Endorsement*

With the Presidential election only weeks away, the President underscored the Assembly’s support for the re-election of President Paul Biya, credited for introducing the Special Status under Law No. 2019/024 of December 24, 2019.

Referring to President Biya as the "Father of the Special Status," he noted: “One good turn deserves another. The wheels of change we have documented are a tribute to the New Cameroon he promised.”

*Responding to Challenges with Resilience*

Acknowledging the ongoing socio-political and security crises, economic shocks, and school boycotts, the Assembly President emphasized the region's resilience and determination to overcome these adversities.

He called for an end to all forms of violence, tribalism, school boycotts, and drug abuse, urging leaders to confront the root causes and drivers of the crisis. “The North West is not defined by its difficulties, but by the courage and creativity with which it overcomes them,” he asserted.

A Call for Unity and Accelerated Progress

In closing, the President extended a unifying call to all stakeholders, traditional rulers, community leaders, youth, women, and civil society, to consolidate the gains of the first mandate and advance the region’s quest for peace, prosperity, and inclusive development.

“Our people deserve nothing less than a region of peace, development, opportunity, and dignity, where no one is left behind, and where decentralization translates into daily improvement in livelihoods.”

As the session gets underway, the Assembly will continue its tradition of recognizing academic excellence and supporting humanitarian activities, including the distribution of health vouchers to pregnant women and school supplies to underprivileged students.

The session is the penultimate of the Assembly’s maiden mandate, and expectations remain high for continued progress and regional transformation.

*Project Rate*

On the day one's agenda was a presentation on good governance in the Regional and local Authorities, update presentation on budget ex*****on, and presentation on the Medium term (2026-2028) budget framework.

On Investment budget that is (PIB), a total of 74 projects were programmed, 74 projects were awarded, and as of 10/09/2025, 12 projects have been received while 52.65% was recorded as the general percentage of ex*****on.

On PPRD projects, 12 projects were programmed, 12 awarded, and all the projects are still ongoing with an ex*****on rate of 9.00% and average time consumption stood at 15%.

With projects funded by PROLOG, eight out of the 10 projects were awarded and all projects are still going on.

Meta Unity Sports Committee Cleans GBHS Mbengwi Ahead of New School YearBy Neba Jerome Ambe As part of efforts to suppor...
13/08/2025

Meta Unity Sports Committee Cleans GBHS Mbengwi Ahead of New School Year

By Neba Jerome Ambe

As part of efforts to support and encourage the smooth kick-off of the 2024/2025 academic year in the Mbengwi municipality, the Organising Committee of the Meta Unity Sports Tournament (MUST) 2025, under the auspices of the Ndangoh Tah Calvin Foundation has undertaken a major clean-up of GBHS Mbengwi, the tournament’s host venue.

The Meta Unity Sports Tournament, now in its second edition, has become a platform for discovering and rekindling sporting talent in Mbengwi, while offering young people a space to relax, interact, and embrace peace. This latest initiative by the organising committee goes beyond sports, reflecting the Foundation’s commitment to community development and education.

GBHS Mbengwi, long regarded as a citadel of academic excellence in Cameroon, had been left in disrepair for nearly nine years due to the ongoing crisis in the restive Anglophone regions. By clearing and restoring the school premises, the organisers hope to inspire parents to send their children back to class and to revitalise the institution’s role in shaping future leaders.

This “human investment,” as the organisers describe it, sends a clear message: the community values both education and peace, and is committed to creating a safe, clean, and welcoming environment for learning.

Meta Unity Sports Tournament Enters Grand Finale StageBy Neba Jerome Ambe The beautiful game of football, often celebrat...
13/08/2025

Meta Unity Sports Tournament Enters Grand Finale Stage

By Neba Jerome Ambe

The beautiful game of football, often celebrated as a unifying force and a promoter of peace, love, and social cohesion, remains at the heart of the Ndangoh Tah Calvin Foundation’s mission. It is for these reasons that the Foundation initiated the Meta Unity Sports Tournament, now in its second edition, hosted at the GBHS Mbengwi grounds.

On Tuesday, August 12, football fans thronged the venue to witness the highly anticipated semi-final clashes in the men’s football category, regarded as the most competitive sector of the tournament.

In the opening semi-final, Munam FC edged past Bafana Bafana of Njindom with a convincing 3–1 victory, securing the first ticket to the grand final. While the match was considered less intense by many spectators, as both teams hail from the “Medig Zone,” locally nicknamed Side Down, Munam FC demonstrated composure and efficiency to earn their spot in the championship match.

The second semi-final was a true crowd-puller, pitting two tournament heavyweights against each other: defending champions Njembeng FC and the spirited Bessi Formunkong FC, popularly known as the “Arsenal Boys” for their large fan base often seen dressed in Arsenal jerseys. Many dubbed this clash “the final before the final” due to the quality and rivalry between the sides.

Njembeng FC wasted no time asserting their dominance, opening the scoring early and maintaining a 1–0 lead at halftime. Despite a spirited second-half push from Bessi Formunkong, Njembeng’s superior form and tactical discipline proved too much, as they went on to seal a commanding 4–0 victory.

With the results, Bessi Formunkong FC will face Bafana Bafana in the third-place playoff on Thursday, August 14.

Saturday’s Final Line-Up – August 16, 2025

Handball (Women): Superior Girls vs Bafana Bafana Girls.

Handball (Men): Superior Boys vs Peace Handball Club of Ngyen-Mbo.

Football (Women): Superior Girls vs Young Star Girls of Mbengwi Village.

Football (Men): Njembeng FC vs Munam FC.

The stage is set for a thrilling finale as the tournament reaches its climax. Fans eagerly await to see which teams will lift the coveted trophy this Saturday.

Ndamba na Peace.

*COSSA International partnership with LICHA-Cameroon Empowers IDP Woman to Sustain Vulnerable Families*By Neba Jerome Am...
11/08/2025

*COSSA International partnership with LICHA-Cameroon Empowers IDP Woman to Sustain Vulnerable Families*

By Neba Jerome Ambe

In a testament to the power of sustained collaboration, a five-year partnership between Christian Outreach for Spiritual and Social Assistance International,
(COSSA) International and the Life Changing Humanitarian Association (LICHA-Cameroon) has once again brought tangible relief to those most affected by the ongoing socio-political crisis in Cameroon’s Northwest and Southwest Regions.

Two weeks ago, a joint COSSA–LICHA delegation visited an internally displaced woman in Bamenda III, Nkwen, delivering 55 three-week-old table birds, five bags of poultry feed, and essential poultry equipment. This initiative aims to strengthen her ability to care not only for herself but also for the 14 internally displaced persons (IDPs) currently living under her roof.

The beneficiary, originally from Bui Division, relocated to Bamenda in the early days of the crisis. Despite her own fragile health and limited resources, she has opened her home to pupils, students, single mothers, apprentices, and elderly women, creating a small haven of safety in a time of great uncertainty.

Her shelter was made possible through the generosity of a Cameroonian living abroad, who allowed her to live in and maintain his home. In return, she resolved to extend the same generosity to others facing displacement. Yet, sustaining such a commitment has been an uphill battle.

LICHA first encountered her during routine fieldwork, where her urgent need for support became clear. In response, COSSA International swiftly mobilized resources to provide poultry as a sustainable livelihood option, enabling her to generate income, improve nutrition, and continue her humanitarian work.

Receiving the donation, she expressed profound gratitude. “Apart from my benevolent host, I have no sponsor. This gift from COSSA and LICHA is more than support, it is hope. I believe it will open more doors, not just for me but for everyone I care for", said Sarah Lawong.

For LICHA-Cameroon, this act of support is not an isolated gesture but part of a broader strategy to address humanitarian crises through sustainable solutions. By equipping vulnerable individuals with tools for self-reliance, the organization hopes to foster long-term resilience.

“We salute COSSA International, our longstanding partner, for always responding promptly to urgent needs,” founder of LICHA, Promise Fornjum said. “We also call on the wider community to join in supporting this extraordinary woman and the many lives she is transforming.”

This partnership demonstrates that in the midst of conflict and hardship, solutions grounded in collaboration, empowerment, and sustainability can light the way forward.

Epic VIP transport service
Locations Bda
Ayaba street , next to ayaba hotel
Tel: 672 927 088, 693 27 27 27
Yde total Melen Mini ferm former entrepôt Fokou
620 599 499
Opposite MTN

*Epic Rides and Tours: Redefining Safe, Comfortable Travel in Cameroon*By Neba Jerome Ambe A new chapter in Cameroon’s t...
10/08/2025

*Epic Rides and Tours: Redefining Safe, Comfortable Travel in Cameroon*

By Neba Jerome Ambe

A new chapter in Cameroon’s transport sector began on Saturday August 9, 2025 as Epic Rides and Tours, a subsidiary of EPIC Holdings Limited, officially launched operations in Bamenda. More than the unveiling of a travel agency, it marked the birth of a bold vision to transform the way Cameroonians move between cities, with safety, comfort, and reliability at its core.

Speaking at the launch ceremony at the company’s headquarters on Ayaba Street, Managing Director Linda-Bei Achiri Ngundam (eps Che) said the mission of Epic Rides and Tours is clear: “We believe intercity travel in Cameroon can be better, and we are here to prove it.”

At the heart of the company’s operations is a set of guiding values captured in the acronym CHESS—Comfort, Health, Safety, and Security. These principles, she explained, are not just ideals but practical commitments, reflected in every aspect of service delivery.

*Raising the Bar in Public Transport*

Epic Rides and Tours buses are fitted with modern amenities including CCTV cameras for enhanced passenger security, satellite internet for connectivity on the go, phone charging ports, onboard television screens, refreshments, and spacious seating. Passengers can choose between Epic Comfort and Epic Executive options, both promising the same high service standards.

Chief Executive Officer Ngongban Augustine Che emphasized punctuality as a defining feature of the service. “Our motto is On Time, All the Time. We are bringing a combination of safety, comfort, health, and security that many agencies do not offer,” he said.

In the near future, Epic Rides and Tours plans to expand its portfolio to include curated tourism packages, opening new opportunities for domestic travel and local economic growth.

*A Blessing for the Road Ahead*

As part of the launch, Archbishop Andrew Nkea blessed the company and its staff, invoking divine protection over every journey. Drawing from Christian tradition, he underscored the importance of placing new ventures under God’s guidance. “Four angels will be in each vehicle, two in front and two behind. Nothing can succeed without God, and He will protect all who travel with Epic Rides and Tours,” he declared.

*A Reliable New Option for Travelers*

From its Bamenda headquarters, Epic Rides and Tours will initially operate routes to Yaoundé and Douala, with plans to add the Douala–Yaoundé route soon. Day departures from Bamenda are scheduled for 8:15 a.m., with evening trips leaving at 5:00 p.m.

By combining innovation, safety measures, and customer care, Epic Rides and Tours offers more than transportation, it delivers peace of mind. In a sector often criticized for unpredictability and safety risks, the company’s launch signals a practical solution for travelers seeking dependable intercity transport.

Epic VIP transport service
Locations Bda
Ayaba street , next to ayaba hotel
Tel: 672 927 088, 693 27 27 27
Yde total Melen Mini ferm former entrepôt Fokou
620 599 499
Opposite MTN

*Building Healthier Communities: RADA Trains Youth, Civil Society in the Fight Against Unhealthy Diets in Cameroon*By Ne...
24/07/2025

*Building Healthier Communities: RADA Trains Youth, Civil Society in the Fight Against Unhealthy Diets in Cameroon*

By Neba Jerome Ambe

As Cameroon grapples with the growing health threat posed by non-communicable diseases (NCDs), a new movement is taking shape, one grounded in evidence, community engagement, and a vision for healthier futures. The Reconciliation and Development Association (RADA), a leading civil society organization at the forefront of food policy advocacy, is charting a new course for public health through a powerful grassroots initiative: training community health educators to combat unhealthy diets and champion health tax policies.

From July 17 to 19, 2025, RADA convened a groundbreaking three-day training at the CBC Mvan Resource Centre in Yaoundé. The event brought together 20 youth health educators from across Cameroon’s ten regions and five civil society organizations under the Coalition for the Promotion of Healthy Diets in Cameroon. This intervention is part of a broader campaign to advocate for fiscal policies, including a proposed tax on sweetened beverages and ultra-processed foods, that promote healthier consumption patterns and reduce the country’s rising NCD burden.

*A Growing Crisis Meets a Bold Solution*

Cameroon, like many low- and middle-income countries, faces a surge in diet-related illnesses. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), NCDs were responsible for an estimated 74,000 deaths in 2016, making up 35% of all deaths among individuals over the age of 50, with a 21.6% chance of dying from a major NCD before age 70. The primary driver? Poor dietary habits, spurred by rapid urbanization, increased consumption of processed foods, and limited nutrition education.

Rather than focusing solely on the problem, RADA’s training offered a solution-oriented approach, rooted in capacity building, community action, and policy reform.

*Training the Next Generation of Nutrition Advocates*

The training was designed to equip participants with technical knowledge and practical tools for community sensitization, health promotion, and policy advocacy. The curriculum featured six core modules, delivered by renowned public health experts, economists, and advocacy specialists:

Health Economic Analysis of a tax on sweetened beverages and processed food, Policy Landscape Mapping and current dietary trends in Cameroon, Community Baseline Knowledge and Attitudes on food taxation, The Power of Nutrition and disease prevention, Behaviour Change Communication for community sensitization, Field Planning and Effective Reporting for grassroots engagement.

Throughout the training, participants engaged in hands-on sessions, case studies, and practical roleplays designed to strengthen their public speaking skills, improve message delivery, and foster localized solutions.

*Evidence at the Core of Advocacy*

In his session on health economics, Professor Ndamsa Dickson outlined compelling evidence from countries like South Africa and Ghana where fiscal policies,particularly taxes on sugary beverages,have reduced consumption and spurred healthier product reformulation. "We are not fighting companies," he said. "We are calling on them to reformulate and contribute to public health.”

Policy analyst Ferdinant Sonyuy detailed how Cameroon’s soft drink consumption stood at 1.2 billion litres in 2023, roughly 20 litres per person, and presented a timeline of excise duty adjustments from 2010 to 2024. His research also revealed that 94% of Cameroonians would support a tax on unhealthy foods if revenue was redirected to health improvement efforts.

These findings not only underscore the urgency of policy reform, but also reflect broad public readiness for change, a vital component for any systemic intervention.

*Nutrition as Empowerment*

Day two of the training focused on deepening participants’ understanding of healthy eating and its link to disease prevention. Dr. Sirri Akwen, a public health expert and pharmacist, delivered a session on the science of nutrition, highlighting how malnutrition, both under- and over-nutrition, fuels diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and obesity. “Let food be thy medicine, and medicine thy food,” she reminded participants, quoting Hippocrates.

Dr. Akwen provided practical strategies for promoting affordable and accessible nutrition, such as prioritizing seasonal produce, establishing home gardens, and adopting simple meal preparation techniques.

*From Knowledge to Action*

The final day of the workshop emphasized practical application and community engagement. Participants were introduced to RADA’s suite of campaign materials, brochures, posters, infographics, t-shirts, and reporting templates, and were trained on how to adapt these resources to their local contexts. Each educator received at least 600 brochures and 47 posters to kickstart their outreach activities.

In a powerful closing exercise, each participant delivered a mock community health talk, tailored to their specific region and audience. Trainers offered personalized feedback to enhance clarity, confidence, and effectiveness.

Facilitator Ms. Marlen Wango reminded participants of the importance of planning and accountability. “A work plan gives direction. Reporting shows impact. Preparation ensures transformation.”

*Scaling Solutions, One Community at a Time*

With the training now concluded, the 20 youth health educators and five CSO representatives return to their communities not just with materials, but with a mission, to shift public perception, influence policy, and save lives. Through their work, RADA hopes to see increased public support for the adoption of a specific health tax on sugary and ultra-processed foods, and ultimately, healthier food environments across Cameroon.

This initiative exemplifies solution journalism in action: spotlighting a pressing public health issue, presenting an evidence-based solution, and showcasing how empowered citizens can be agents of systemic change. It is a reminder that when youth, civil society, and science come together, even the most complex challenges can be addressed with courage, clarity, and community.
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