Projet Femmes et Foncier : Horizons Femmes Mobilise dans le Mbam et Inoubou, les Acteurs Communautaires Amplifient leurs Voix

Projet Femmes et Foncier : Horizons Femmes Mobilise dans le Mbam et Inoubou, les Acteurs Communautaires Amplifient leurs Voix

La première phase des ateliers départementaux a débuté à Bafia, dans le Mbam et Inoubou le mercredi 30 juillet 2025. Bafia, chef-lieu du département du Mbam et Inoubou dans la région du Centre au Cameroun était au cœur du plaidoyer que mène l’ONG Horizons Femmes à travers son projet dénommé : « Femmes et Foncier : mobilisation communautaire et plaidoyer pour la sauvegarde des droits fonciers des femmes et veuves dans les régions du Littoral, Centre et de l’Ouest du Cameroun ». Un projet qui depuis son lancement dans les régions du Centre, Littoral et de l’Ouest a permis d’outiller de nombreuses femmes leaders, d’où le slogan : « Les Femmes à l’école du foncier ». Dans la ville de Bafia, il était donc question de toucher du doigt les réalités du terrain dans le cadre de ce projet qui fait des émules depuis sa mise en œuvre par l’ONG Horizons Femmes qui bénéficié de l’appui financier de l’African Women’s Development Fund (AWDF). Des femmes venues des différents arrondissements du département du Mbam et Inoubou ainsi que les autorités administratives, leaders communautaires et chefs traditionnels, ont été mobilisés le mercredi 30 juillet 2025, à la salle des fêtes de la ville, dans le but d’intensifier le plaidoyer en cours et de faire des témoignages sur le vécu des femmes en ce qui concerne l’accaparement des terres et la marginalisation que plusieurs d’entre elles subissent dans le cercle familial. Angeline Madong épse Dang, une sexagénaire originaire de ce département fait partie de ces femmes qui ont reçu les enseignements de l’ONG Horizons Femmes dans le cadre de ce projet salvateur. Elle est à ce jour une bénéficiaire qui impacte d’autre femmes sur le terrain avec sa casquette de para juriste. Issue d’une famille où il ya plusieurs hommes, elle a été marginalisée par ses frères au point d’être « mendiante » des biens de ses parents tel qu’elle l’a indiqué. Cette femme relate la marginalisation que subissent plusieurs femmes dans cette partie du pays juste parce qu’elles sont des femmes et n’ont pas droit aux terres léguées par leurs parents. Selon Mme Dang, plusieurs femmes qui deviennent veuves et veulent se réfugier par la suite dans la maison familiale sont souvent chassées, car elles n’ont plus rien de ce côté, tout comme dans les familles de leurs feus époux. Des situations tristes et précaires qui justifient le bien-fondé de ce projet qui met du baume au cœur. Au cours de son témoignage, elle a remercié « Horizons Femmes » qui a joué un rôle clé à travers les nombreuses formations qui l’ont permise de connaitre quelles sont les démarches à entamer lorsqu’on est victime de ce type de situation. Grace à ce projet, elle a été outillée pour faire face à ses frères, dit-elle. Mme Dang Angeline souligne toutefois qu’il est important que les autorités accompagnent davantage les femmes pour que celles-ci ne se sentent plus marginalisées à cause des us et coutumes. Elle dit : « Nous avons hérité de quelque chose de nos parents qui disaient que les filles ne peuvent pas hérites des biens, et ceci a infecté toutes les familles au point où une femme reste sans repère. On dirait que c’est la femme qui choisit de naitre femme dans une famille, ou alors c’est le parent qui choisit le sexe de l’enfant avant de naitre. C’est un véritable problème et c’est ceci qui fait qu’avec l’arrivée d’Horizons Femmes, beaucoup de choses ont changé. Il fallait d’abord aller sur le terrain, commencer à sensibiliser et ce n’est même pas facile parce que certaines femmes restent encore réticentes de nos jours, elles ont peur des représailles dans leurs familles…Il est important de mettre un accent sur les enseignements d’équité, d’égalité et de changement de comportement. » Cependant, le projet mis en place dans ce département comme dans plusieurs autres, va bon train. Les autorités en charge des questions de la femme telles que le Délégué département de la promotion de la femme et de la famille dans le Mbam et Inoubou a, à son tour relevé que plusieurs mécanismes ont été mis sur pieds pour accompagner les femmes dans les procédures liées à l’accès à leurs terres. Charles Mbarga Amougou indique que : « nous sommes au service du peuple. Et lorsque nous avons certaines situations de ce genre nous accompagnons les femmes à saisir les autorités administratives pour certaines facilités liées aux descentes sur le terrain. Nous ne nous arrêtons pas juste aux procédures administratives, nous allons jusqu’à sensibiliser les femmes sur le sujet car il est dit que mon peuple péri faute de connaissance. Alors nous enseignons aux femmes qu’elles ont autant les mêmes droits que les hommes en ce qui concerne la terre… » Cette rencontre animée par des échanges et le partage des « sucess stories », par Monsieur Ticke Armand, Responsable suivi et évaluation de l’ONG Horizons Femmes, a donné lieu à un partage d’expériences, notamment avec les cas de certaines femmes dans le département du Mbam et Inoubou. Dans sa prise de parole, Carole Toche, Chef de projet et Directrice des Programmes à Horizons Femmes, a souligné l’importance de ces activités de la phase 2 du projet qui se veut être une rencontre de terrain avec toutes les femmes et les acteurs qui œuvrent pour son bon déroulement.  Et tel que l’a indiqué Mme Toche, l’idée est de toucher davantage ces personnes qui vont faire avancer le plaidoyer pour un impact plus positif. D’après le Chef de projet, par ailleurs Directrice des Programmes, il est plus que nécessaire de faire appel à une mobilisation accrue, sensibiliser les femmes notamment les veuves et lutter contre la marginalisation dont celles-ci sont victimes. Carole Toche dit : « Ce projet s’inscrit dans la continuité de notre engagement stratégique en faveur de la promotion des droits fonciers des femmes et des veuves, et plus largement dans notre Axe stratégique n°3, qui vise l’autonomisation des femmes et des jeunes filles à travers la réduction de la pauvreté, la promotion de la sécurité alimentaire et le développement de l’économie solidaire. Malgré leur contribution essentielle à l’agriculture,

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 Biodiversity Finance Initiative: Cameroon Takes Steps Forward

Biodiversity Finance Initiative: Cameroon Takes Steps Forward

A global initiative of the United Nations Development Programme that tackles the challenge of financing biodiversity conservation by providing technical support to develop and implement effective biodiversity finance strategies. Cameroon has officially launched the Biodiversity Finance Initiative-Biofin, on July 29, 2025, in Yaoundé, marking a significant step towards sustainable financing for biodiversity conservation. The event, organized by the ministry of Finance (MINFI), the ministry of Environment, Nature Protection and Sustainable Development (MINEPDED), in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), supported by the Global Environment Facility (GEF), took place under a two-day national launch workshop. This national launch workshop of the Biofin Cameroon project aimed at formalizing the government’s and its partners’ institutional commitment to implementing the initiative by integrating biodiversity finance into the country’s strategic priorities, notably the National Development Strategy 2030 (NDS30). A crucial Programme to close financing gaps During the official launch of the Biofin scheme, government officials, experts, and mayors of some councils made some high-level interventions that will help advance Cameroon’s ecosystem. UNDP’s Resident Representative in Cameroon, Mathieu Ciowela, highlighted the multiple threats that affect nature. Mathieu Ciowela said: “As you know, our planet is facing its sixth mass extinction of species, with consequences that will undoubtedly affect life on Earth today and for centuries to come. Humans have destroyed or degraded vast areas of terrestrial, marine, and freshwater ecosystems, pushing many of them toward irreversible ecological tipping points. Since 1990, primary forest, which includes some of the most biodiverse habitats, has declined by more than 80 million hectares (an area larger than Turkey). More than one million plant and animal species—a quarter of the world’s species—are threatened with extinction. This decline is largely due to changes in land and sea use, overexploitation, climate change, pollution, and the spread of invasive alien species.” According to UNDP’s country Representative, this initiative is a clear response to address the numerous challenges in which Cameroon is entangled. “Cameroon is recognized as a country with exceptional biodiversity, notably because it is home to more than 92% of Africa’s ecosystem categories, particularly in terms of variety, quantity, ecosystems, and genetic resources, with a high degree of endemism considered a natural capital, a fundamental pillar of food security, and its climate resilience in favor of sustainable development; Cameroon has the second largest forest massif in the Congo Basin, with forests covering approximately 45% of the national territory. This biodiversity contributes significantly to the well-being of populations, economic development, as well as scientific and medicinal research.” He added.   The Ministry of Environment, Nature Protection and Sustainable Development, acting as the technical agent in this project, outlined the positive impact of Biofin as the country enters into the practical phase. Taking the floor to address officials and participants at the national launch workshop, Minister Hele Pierre made a national assessment of key statistics that need to be taken into account. The patron of the Ministry of Environment, Nature Protection and Sustainable Development stated: “According to the National Assessment of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services validated in 2022, Cameroon has 92% of Africa’s ecosystem types. Its biodiversity includes more than 9,000 recognized plant species, more than 10% of which are endemic, and it is home to more than 3,500 animal species, more than 271 of which are endemic. Not to mention the mushroom species, which number more than 1,150. However, these different species are threatened daily. Some say this is due to the influence of deforestation, the impact of forest industries, or even poaching and bushfires…” He mentioned the mechanisms put in place by his ministerial department to tackle the degradation of the ecosystem and the conservation the biodiversity, as well as the financing gaps that this project is coming in to curb. Chairing the ceremony, Minister of Finance, Louis Paul Motaze, saluted the fruitful cooperation that exists between the government of Cameroon and development partners such as the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). He said this project comes in as a solution-based approach to address threats that have been triggered by climate change and other natural factors. Minister Louis Paul Motaze also emphasized on the importance of this innovative financing and its role in boosting the green economy. Elise Kenimbeni

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 Religion : « Christ from Africa University » Consacre l’Apôtre René Joly Belinga, les Apôtres Badama Marie et Narcisse Symphorien Todom Dr. Honoris Causa

Religion : « Christ from Africa University » Consacre l’Apôtre René Joly Belinga, les Apôtres Badama Marie et Narcisse Symphorien Todom Dr. Honoris Causa

Ils ont été distingué le Samedi, 26 juillet 2025 au siège de l’Union des Ministères pour l’Évangélisation Globale (UMEG), de Yaoundé, en collaboration avec l’université Christ From Africa University(CFAU). Ladite cérémonie s’est déroulée en présence du Président André Bidao, accompagné du collège des anciens, des membres du Conseil d’Administration et des fidèles, dans un temple qui a fait le plein d’œuf pour la circonstance. Trois profils différents, mais une cause commune, celle de servir le Seigneur et de partager la parole de l’évangile partout où besoin se fera ressentir. On les appellera dorénavant Dr Honoris Causa, il s’agit notamment du Dr Apôtre René Joly Belinga ; Dr Apôtre Badma épse Badama Marie, et du Dr Apôtre Narcisse Symphorien Todom. Une récompense après plusieurs années de service dans leurs ministères respectifs, qui vient magnifier un parcours academico-sociaux dans l’œuvre de Dieu, « Christ From Africa qui est un instrument entre les mains du Seigneur pour équiper les serviteurs de Dieu dans cette grande commission que Christ nous a donner à trouver bon de distinguer des personnes qui ont fait preuve dans leurs ministères en accord avec les pairs de l’évangile ici au Cameroun. C’est pour leur donner une possibilité de servir, de pénétrer le corps de Christ un peu partout.  L’église est en train de perdre, il y a une puissance dans l’évangile, et avec tout ce qui se passe, nous sommes en train de conscientiser les hommes et femmes de Dieu et ceux que nous venons de distinguer à garder leur attachement à la parole pour que l’évangile du Seigneur ne soit pas compromis au point où Christ ne sera pas frustré. », explique le Président de CFAU, André Bidao. Dr Apôtre René Joly Belinga : 36 ans de vie dédiée au service de l’éternel Après 36 ans consacré à répandre les œuvres du Seigneur que ce soit au Cameroun (où il a implanté une vingtaine d’églises) mais aussi à l’étranger notamment en Ouganda (7 églises), au Burundi et ailleurs, voilà des actes forts significatifs qui lui confère ce titre de Dr Honoris Causa. C’est donc un acte de reconnaissance qui va lui ouvrir davantage de portes pour l’expansion de l’évangile, « Dans la Bible il est écrit : « votre travail n’est pas vain devant le Seigneur. » Alors si nous sommes honorés par les Hommes, cela est une émanation de ce que Dieu a déjà arrêté. Je ne suis pas un nouveau serviteur de Dieu, nous avons commencé l’œuvre au Cameroun, et maintenant davantage de portes nous sommes ouvertes à l’étranger. Il y a des endroits où nous pouvons utiliser cet outil pour atteindre des sommets, parce que nous sommes appelés à prêcher l’évangile dans les 6 dimensions : les perdus qui sont en haut, les perdus d’en bas, les perdus de gauche, de droite, devant et derrière, et cela peut nous être utile. » Confie le Dr Apôtre René Joly Belinga. Dr Apôtre Badma Marie : Plus de 50 ans dans l’œuvre de Dieu Depuis sa tendre enfance a l’âge de 8 ans jusqu’à ces 63 ans bien entamé à ce jour, la native de Maroua dans l’Extrême-Nord Cameroun, ne sait pas faire grand-chose que de servir le Seigneur depuis déjà plus de 50 ans. Fille de pasteur, cette distinctions académique et spirituelle sonne pour elle comme une concrétisation de son engagement envers Dieu, car, cette dernière a connus tous les combats et les braver avec brio depuis des lustres avec la CFAU, « J’ai été primé par rapport à tout le travail que j’ai fait dans la maison du Seigneur. J’ai travaillée très tôt dans l’œuvre de Dieu à l’âge de 12 ans je servais déjà le Seigneur avec les enfants et les jeunes. Je suis formée à CFAU, et voilà que le Seigneur est en train de me valoriser. Nous avons subi une formation en Eschatologie, en théologie et dans d’autres domaines. J’ai été honoré, je suis dans la joie, et maintenant je vais préserver pour être Professeur, j’aimerais continuer avec les études tout en servant le Seigneur sur tous terrains parce que nous sommes déjà dans 26 pays, et je pourrais apporter l’offrande de Dieu partout où il me demande d’aller. » Argue la Dr Apôtre Badma épse Badama. S’agissant du Dr Apôtre Narcisse Symphorien Todom, lui a bravé les kilomètres de distances pour se rendre au Cameroun afin de recevoir cette distinction. En provenance du Canada, ce guide et bâtisseur dont la foi n’a plus d’égal a conquis les terres européennes, franchi les plus hautes épreuves pour faire connaitre le CFAU, ceci, par son courage, et son abnégation. En rappel, cette cérémonie de distinction s’est déroulée en marge de la Convention qui a débuté le 24 juillet dernier et qui va s’achever ce dimanche 27 juillet à UMEG sous le thème : « retour à Dieu et aux œuvres parfaites devant Dieu. »   Myriane Djamegne    

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 Elecam Publishes List of 13 Candidates to Run Presidential Election in Cameroon

Elecam Publishes List of 13 Candidates to Run Presidential Election in Cameroon

The Electoral Board of Elections Cameroon published an official list of 13 candidates who will run for the October 12, 2025 presidential election. On Saturday, July 26,2025 in Yaounde, the Electoral Board of the elections governing body in Cameroon-Elecam, officially published the list of candidates who will stand for the presidential race. The list of 13 candidates out 82 files received during the registration process was unveiled by Dr. Enow Abrams Egbe, Chairperson of the electoral board. According Elecam’s electoral board chairperson, the 13 candidates are those whose files respected all the criteria requested. On the race we have incumbent President, Paul Biya of the CPDM seeking for another mandate; Ateki Seta Caxton of the political party PAL; Bello Bouba Maigari of NUDP; Jacques Bougha Hagbe of MCNC; Hilaire MACAIRE Dzipan of the PM; Issa Tchiroma Bakari of the national salvation front; Samuel Hiram Iyodi of FDC; Kwemo Pierre of UMS; Cabral Libii Li Ngue of the PCRN; Serge Espoir Matomba of the PURS; Barrister Akere Muna Tabeng of Univers party; Joshua Osih of the Social Democratic Front and Mrs. Ndam Njoya Tomaino Patricia. All these 12 challengers will face Mr Biya Paul of the CPDM who has been in power since 42 years as Head of state of the country. As outlined by electoral code in Cameroon, rejected candidates have 72 hours (3 days) to appeal to the Constitutional Council. The final list of candidates will therefore be released by the constitutional Council latest on August 10, 2025, paving the way to the electoral campaign ahead of the highly expected October 12 presidential election. Elise Kenimbeni

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 Presidential Election in Cameroon: Elecam Examines 82 Files

Presidential Election in Cameroon: Elecam Examines 82 Files

The Directorate General of Elections Cameroon has officially handed-over files of 82 aspirants to the the Electoral Board as outlined by the Electoral code.   As members of the Electoral Board of Elecam gathered on Wednesday, July 23, 2025 in Yaounde, for their second session as of right, the Director General of Elections Cameroon, Dr. Erik Essousse handed over the 82 files received from aspirants of the October 12 presidential race. The board meeting in its second session as of right is expected to start scrutinizing and validating candidacies for the October 12,2025 presidential election.   Speaking at the start of the session, Dr. Enow Abrams Egbe, chairperson of the Electoral board praised the directorate general and all the staff of Elecam for conducting the registration process of candidates in a smooth and transparent way. The chairperson of the electoral board also pointed out the significant challenges, he and his team have to overcome with regards to the numerous expectations from the people and all aspirants to the presidency of the republic. Dr. Enow Abrams Egbe said: “The stakes of a presidential election cannot be overstated. It is the highest and most consequential expression of the people’s sovereignty. The session of today marks a significant turning point in this important election. In keeping with the provisions of Section 10 sub 1 of the Electoral Code, our primary responsibility is to ensure compliance with the electoral law by all candidates for the purpose of guaranteeing regular, impartial, free, fair, transparent and credible elections.” Dr. Abrams Egbe and other board members have immediately gone on duty as there is no time to waste. “The duty bestowed upon us today is both delicate and decisive, as we need to uphold the uprightness of the law and to ensure that only eligible and law-abiding candidates are accepted, in strict respect of the legal and regulatory framework in force. In this regard, the task of examination of candidacy files, requires from us objectivity, rigour and impartiality in our deliberations.” He added. As members of the electoral board of elections governing body in Cameroon-Elecam enter into duty, the list of hopefuls to the presidential race is expected to be published on Saturday 26th of July 2025. Elise Kenimbeni

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 RESPECT  Unveiled: Makes it Easy for EdTech Stakeholders to Embrace AUDA NEPAD’s Africa EdTech 2030 Vision

RESPECT Unveiled: Makes it Easy for EdTech Stakeholders to Embrace AUDA NEPAD’s Africa EdTech 2030 Vision

RESPECT™, a Digital Public Infrastructure for Education, makes it easy to for African Ministries of Education and other stakeholders to embrace AUDA-NEPAD’s transformative African EdTech 2030 Vision.   NAIROBI, Kenya – 23 July 2025 – RESPECT™, a Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) for Education, was announced today during the STEMtastic Adventures! Africa symposium. RESPECT was developed by the Spix Foundation to make it easy for Africa’s EdTech stakeholders to embrace AUDA NEPAD’s Africa EdTech 2030 Vision and Plan, announced earlier this month. AUDA NEPAD’s Vision proposes that, by 2030, “every African student should have access to the world’s best interactive digital courseware—developed in Africa by Africans—on smartphones already present in their pockets, households, and/or schools”.   With today’s release of RESPECT Version 1, Africa has gained a multi-year head start over the rest of the world. The United Nations has only this year started talking seriously about the need for a DPI for Education. Africa has already released it. Africa is already ahead. To accomplish the Vision, Africa need only leverage its new advantage to the hilt.   Speaking at the launch, John Kimotho, EdTech Consultant, Spix Foundation and Head of RESPECT Africa Office, said: “Much of EdTech is pilot-driven and disconnected from education systems, leaving developers without clear growth pathways and teachers with tools that don’t last. RESPECT makes it easy for policymakers, educators, and developers, to build solutions that align with real classroom needs and can grow and last.”   The launch coincides with AUDA-NEPAD’s release of sobering statistics: only 40% of African primary schools have internet access, an estimated 30 million primary-age children remain out of school, and the continent will need 17 million additional teachers by 2030 just to maintain universal access. Meanwhile, billions in education technology investment have resulted in fragmented, unsustainable pilot projects rather than scalable solutions. “Africa has a unique opportunity to simultaneously drive access to free localised edtech solutions that can reach all parts of the education ecosystem, even those offline, while making it profitable and sustainable to develop the world’s best interactive digital courseware, right here in Africa;” said John Kimotho. “The system has been failing the innovators, not the other way around, and RESPECT makes it easy for those innovators to deliver the education technology solutions that Africa’s children need.”   The scale of market fragmentation Recent analysis by the mEducation Alliance revealed that developers must navigate different rules, requirements, and procurement protocols in nearly every African country, resulting in what researchers term “small-batch deployment” – a Kenya pilot here, a Senegal district project there, with each requiring complete retooling.   The consequence is a paradox: whilst Africa has produced world-class educational technology – from Kenya’s classroom management systems to Senegal’s Wolof-language XamXam platform serving 1.2 million users – these innovations remain largely isolated within their countries of origin.   “Teachers are experiencing ‘tool fatigue’ from juggling multiple siloed applications with no central access or data integration,” notes the mEducation Alliance’s 2024 report on digital courseware in low- and middle-income countries. “This discourages adoption, even when individual apps are excellent.”   Key problems – and solutions AUDA NEPAD’s Vision and Plan notes two key problems: (1) the lack of real-time, reliable data about what digital courseware works best for different learners, and (2) barriers to scale including policy, commercial, and technological obstacles.   “AUDA-NEPAD observes that if Africa solves these two problems—by making it easy for courseware to generate real-time data for ranking and research, and by lowering policy, technical, and commercial barriers—then market forces will do the rest,” according to the Vision and Plan.   All RESPECT Compatible™ apps send data on every learner-app interaction to the relevant authority – within the bounds of the jurisdiction’s data privacy, security, and sovereignty laws – enabling that authority to implement data-dependent techniques such as Teaching at the Right Level and Structured Pedagogy. This data, federated at the continental level, enables courseware ranking and research.   RESPECT lowers the aforementioned policy barriers by implementing AUDA-NEPAD’s new Policy Framework for Standards-Based, Vendor-Neutral EdTech, a draft of which was released for public comment today.   RESPECT lowers the technical barriers through the implementation of a range of on-device technologies from data compression, web caching, proxy servers, and mesh networking to make it easy for courseware app developers to write a single app that works online, offline, and intermittently online. Likewise, it has early support for systematic text localization and, eventually, curriculum standards mapping, that are expected to provide easy technological fixes for complex scaling problems. Also, RESPECT enforces interoperability through internationally-standardized APIs such as xAPI, OneRoster, and OAuth.   RESPECT lowers the commercial barriers by providing all RESPECT Compatible™ apps for free to all students and intermediaries, while paying the developers and localizers of said apps based on those apps’ usage (and later, impact). RESPECT’s revenue, derived from sponsorships, will go primarily to these developers and localizers. Think of it as “YouTube meets PBS Kids” for EdTech apps.   Looking ahead “The opportunity is historic, but time is short,” concluded Kimotho. “We need to stop lamenting the barriers and start dismantling them systematically.”

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 AUDA-NEPAD Unveils Transformative draft for African EdTech 2030 Vision & Plan for Africa to lead global education technology innovation

AUDA-NEPAD Unveils Transformative draft for African EdTech 2030 Vision & Plan for Africa to lead global education technology innovation

Draft strategic roadmap and policy framework envisage a future where every African learner has to access locally developed digital education by 2030, transforming the continental economic and social landscape.   NAIROBI, Kenya – 22 July 2025 – The African Union Development Agency-NEPAD (AUDA-NEPAD) today launched the draft African EdTech 2030: Vision, Plan and Policy framework for consultation and stakeholder input. The ambitious new vision sets out an achievable roadmap to transform African education systems through technology whilst positioning the continent as the global leader in mobile-first, locally-relevant digital learning. The vision, mission and policy framework were unveiled during the STEMtastic Adventures! Africa symposium.   Aligned with Agenda 2063, STISA-2034, CESA 2026-2035, and the AU Digital Transformation Strategy, the vision, plan and policy framework envisage a Pan-African EdTech transformation grounded in continental leadership and local innovation.   “The draft vision, plan and policy framework aim to catalyse an accelerated transformation in education for the continent: leveraging local innovation and leadership in Edtech to make Africa’s education systems more inclusive, resilient and innovation-driven, as envisaged by Agenda 2063 and the AU Digital Education Strategy,” Said Dr. Barbara Glover, Program Officer, Integrated Vector Management Programme (IVM), AUDA-NEPAD.   Africa’s leapfrogging opportunity The framework capitalises on Africa’s unique position to bypass traditional educational infrastructure constraints. Just as mobile money succeeded in Africa before other regions due to limited traditional banking infrastructure, digital education can surpass conventional classroom-based systems because the continent isn’t constrained by legacy educational infrastructure.   “Schools can harness offline and mobile-first technologies to reach marginalised learners,” noted framework developers, highlighting how solutions designed for intermittent connectivity and basic smartphones can be exported globally to serve similar conditions worldwide.   With smartphone ownership among teachers exceeding 90% in South Africa and ranging between 30-65% in Ghana, Nigeria, and Kenya, Africa possesses foundations for mobile-first educational interventions that other continents are still developing.   A comprehensive vision for 2030 The framework establishes an ambitious yet achievable vision: “Every African learner—regardless of gender, location, disability or background—has affordable access to high-quality, localised digital learning resources on reliable devices, within an inclusive ecosystem that fosters innovation and entrepreneurship.”   In practical terms, this means a student in rural Tanzania could access quality chemistry lessons in Kiswahili using easy to access offline capable devices, while teachers across the continent could share resources seamlessly.African-developed educational apps could compete globally whilst serving local needs first. The harmonised environment enables a teacher in Kenya to use courseware developed in Nigeria, whilst student data remains nationally secure but contributes to continental learning insights.   Addressing critical educational challenges The Vision & Plan responds to urgent continental challenges. With Africa’s youthful population—over 60% under age 25—projected to reach 2.5 billion by 2050, quality education becomes critical for sustained growth. However, significant barriers persist: an estimated 30 million primary-age children in Sub-Saharan Africa remain out of school, whilst Africa will need 17 million additional teachers by 2030 just to maintain universal access.   Only approximately 40% of African primary schools have internet access, and UNICEF reports that approximately 75% of African youth lack digital skills required by modern economies. COVID-19 exposed these gaps when most countries couldn’t pivot to remote learning. “It is time for a Pan‑African EdTech transformation: one that turns connectivity and content investments into improved learning, inclusion, and economic opportunity for every learner,” emphasised John Kimotho,  highlighting the urgency of coordinated continental action.   Strategic framework and implementation The African EdTech 2030 Vision & Plan advances six strategic objectives: Access and infrastructure: Expand digital access via low-cost devices, solar solutions, and offline-first technologies, building on the fact that smartphone ownership among teachers already exceeds 90% in South Africa and ranges between 30-65% in countries such as Ghana, Nigeria, and Kenya.   Courseware development: Promote locally made, curriculum-aligned, multilingual digital courseware, including successful examples such as Senegal’s Wolof-language XamXam platform serving 1.2 million users.   Teacher capacity: Upskill teachers in digital pedagogy, content curation, and data use with specific emphasis on fostering positive attitudes and building confidence in using technology for learning.   Interoperability and standards: Institutionalise vendor-neutral interoperability frameworks through AUDA-NEPAD’s standards-based vendor-neutral EdTech policy framework.   Policy and governance: Support data privacy, equitable funding, and regulatory harmonisation across the continent.   Data and research: Generate and use robust data and research to guide policy, monitor learning outcomes, and ensure continuous improvement.   Implementation occurs through three phases: Foundation building (2024-2026) develops continental policy frameworks enabling cross-border content sharing and establishes technical standards. System integration (2026-2028)scales interoperable Digital Public Infrastructure, enabling single sign-on access to multiple educational applications whilst deploying regionally developed courseware. Consolidation and export (2029-2030) positions Africa as a global EdTech exporter whilst launching the Pan-African EdTech Innovation and Research Hub.   The Digital Public Infrastructure as a public good approach means teachers won’t juggle multiple passwords and platforms—instead accessing integrated educational tools through unified systems whilst maintaining local language and curriculum relevance.   Stakeholder mobilisation and sustainability Clear roles for all stakeholders are encapsulated in the plan and framework, creating accountability where it is needed.   Governments lead policy formulation, funding, and alignment with national curricula. Regional bodies coordinate standards, research, and shared platforms, whilst development partners provide catalytic funding and technical expertise. The private sector develops infrastructure, devices, and platforms suited to African contexts. NGOs and foundations pilot models, build capacity, and conduct impact assessments. Communities advocate for EdTech and support student engagement.   Sustainability relies on blended finance models combining grants, equity, and subsidies, Digital Public Infrastructure investment promoting shared, scalable infrastructure, and partnerships with organisations such as GPE, UNICEF, and UNESCO to enable contextualised alignment with global priorities.   Call for continental collaboration AUDA-NEPAD’s mission through this framework is to coordinate continental efforts by aligning policies and standards that enable open, vendor-neutral technologies; investing in digital infrastructure and platforms that scale affordably; strengthening educator and leadership capacity in digital pedagogy; encouraging local innovation through incubation, financing and partnerships; and using data-driven monitoring and governance to continually improve equity and outcomes.   The draft African EdTech 2030: Vision & Plan represents

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 Protection et Promotion du Genre : Le Nouveau Représentant Résident du PNUD En Audience au MINPROFF

Protection et Promotion du Genre : Le Nouveau Représentant Résident du PNUD En Audience au MINPROFF

Mathieu Ciowela, nouveau Représentant Résident du Programme des Nations Unies pour le Développement (PNUD) au Cameroun était l’hôte du Ministre de la Promotion de la Femme et de la Famille, Marie Thérèse Abena Ondoa le mardi 21 Juillet 2025 à Yaoundé. Marie-Thérèse Abena Ondoa, Ministre de la Promotion de la Femme et de la Famille a reçu le mardi 21 juillet 2025 a la salle de conférence de son département ministériel, le nouveau Représentant Résident du PNUD au Cameroun. Mathieu Ciowela fraichement arrivé au Cameroun a tenu une séance de travail avec la MINPROFF et ses collaborateurs dans le but de prendre contact et mettre en exergue certains programmes/projets liés au question de genre que poursuivent le gouvernement du Cameroun et le PNUD.   Lors de la prise de parole des responsables du MINPROFF, il était question de mettre en vitrine des éléments et programmes qui ont fait l’objet de collaboration avec le PNUD. Le Représentant Résident du PNUD a exprimé sa joie au moment où il fait la rencontre avec la Ministre de la Promotion de la Femme et de la Famille ainsi que ses collaborateurs. Monsieur Ciowela Mathieu dit avoir été impressionné par le leadership de Madame la Ministre dans la production des documents de qualité qui intègrent la protection et la promotion du Genre en étroite ligne avec les Objectifs de Développement Durable (ODD). Dans sa prise de parole, il a également relevé que le MINPROFF joue un rôle majeur dans l’atteinte des ODD notamment le numéro 5 qui traite de l’Egalité entre les sexes et l’autonomisation des femmes et jeunes filles. Tel que souligné, cet objectif vise à l’élimination de toutes les formes de discrimination à l’égard des femmes et des filles, et à garantir leur pleine participation dans toutes les activités clés de la société. Le nouveau patron du PNUD au Cameroun a indiqué que le MINPROFF est un partenaire clé d’où cette audience. Qui est Mathieu Ciowela? Mathieu Ciowela, expert congolais du développement, est le nouveau Représentant Résident du Programme des Nations Unies pour le Développement (PNUD) au Cameroun. Avec plus de 30 ans d’expérience dans le développement international, il a occupé des postes de responsabilité dans plusieurs pays africains, contribuant de manière significative à la mise en œuvre de politiques publiques durables et à l’appui institutionnel. Nommé Représentant Résident du PNUD au Burundi en 2022, il a auparavant exercé les mêmes fonctions au Burkina Faso (2019–2022), en République Centrafricaine (2018–2019) et au Sénégal (2014–2018). Il a également travaillé au siège régional du PNUD à New York (2012–2014) comme conseiller pays et membre de l’équipe de soutien technique aux bureaux nationaux d’Afrique. À cela s’ajoutent des postes de Représentant Résident Adjoint au Bénin (2009–2012) et à Djibouti (2005–2009), ainsi qu’un passage remarqué comme Conseiller Principal au programme à Libreville, au Gabon. Son parcours au sein du PNUD a commencé en 1990 dans son pays natal, la République Démocratique du Congo, où il a gravi les échelons en tant qu’administrateur de programme, puis Assistant Représentant Résident Programme, avant de devenir Conseiller Principal. Avant de rejoindre le PNUD, Mathieu Ciowela a été Chargé d’Études à la Direction des Études Macroéconomiques du Ministère de la Planification de la RDC (1989–1990), mettant déjà en évidence sa solide expertise en économie. Il est titulaire d’un Diplôme d’Études Approfondies (DEA) en planification et développement économique obtenu à l’Institut Africain de Planification et de Développement Économique (IDEP) de Dakar. Mathieu Ciowela détient également une maîtrise en économie de l’Université de Dakar, Sénégal. Sa formation académique de haut niveau vient appuyer une carrière bâtie sur la rigueur, la compétence et la vision stratégique. Rédaction timesnews2.info

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 Presidential Election in Cameroon: 82 Candidates Registered by Elecam

Presidential Election in Cameroon: 82 Candidates Registered by Elecam

Cameroon’s elections body, Elecam has registered a total of 82 candidacies ahead of October 12 polls.   Elections Cameroon, Elecam- the main elections body in the country has registered on July 21, 2025, a total of 82 files from aspiring candidates of the October 12, 2025 polls. The process that ran for 10 days according to the electoral code in Cameroon paved the way to the registration of several independent candidates and well known political parties’ leaders. President Biya, 92, is on the race for another mandate after 42 years in power. The national president of the CPDM party is been challenged by some well known political leaders such as Barrister Akere Muna who is carried by “univers” political party; Bello Bouba Maigari of NUDP; Issa Tchiroma Bakary, Minister of Employment and vocational training who resigned some weeks ago to lead at the summit his political party FSNC; Maurice Kamto, founding leader of the CRM party is supported in this race by Manidem while Cabral Libii Li Ngue runs under the banner of the PCRN party. Despite the fact that several candidates expressed the will to challenge incumbent president, Paul Biya, the list of 82 candidates is dominated by men. Out of the 81 files received by Elecam, there are only seven female candidates on the race for presidential elections. These female candidates are: Eliane Véronique Eboutou and independent candidates Mbengono Zouame Epse Ndzie Ngono Guyleine and Géneviève Zeh Amvene. After the just ended registration phase, the final list of candidates expected to battle for the presidential seat on October 12 will be released by the constitutional council. The final list is expected to be published latest August 10,2025. Here are the lists of 82 registered candidates by Elections Cameroon:         Elise Kenimbeni

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 UN-Spotlight Initiative: Gov’t, Development Partners Amplify Voices to Tackle GBV in Cameroon

UN-Spotlight Initiative: Gov’t, Development Partners Amplify Voices to Tackle GBV in Cameroon

UN-Spotlight initiative, a project aimed at tackling GBV in Cameroon, was officially launched on July 18, 2025, in Yaounde during a gala with development partners. Minister of Women’s Empowerment and the Family, Canadian High Commissioner, UN Resident Representative, UNWOMEN Resident Representative, and UNDP’s Deputy Representative were all taking part in this event that took place on Friday, July 18, 2025, at the residence of the High Commissioner for Canada in Cameroon. The event was equally highly attended by officials of some ministries engaged in the programme, diplomats, civil society organizations, the media, and champions targeted within the framework of this project. As underscored by United Nations’ representatives, the five-year project dubbed “UN-Spotlight Initiative” has been put in place for young girls, women victims of GBV in all ten regions of the country, also targeting internally displaced persons, refugees, and those living in various communities and who are affected by crises. During the presentation of this project, some key statistics were unveiled by UNWOMEN. It was indicated that: 39% of women and young girls are victims of physical violence; 13% are victims of sexual violence; 1.4% of women have been subjected to female genital mutilation; 11.4% of girls under 15 and 36% of girls under 18 are subjected to Early and Forced Child Marriages (EFCM). Apart from figures unveiled to the public, there were testimonies made by survivors of GBV and influential artists, as well as sports icons who joined the movement years ago to contribute to the fight against this growing scourge in Cameroon. Amongst the artists convened to join the move, there was X-Maleya, a well-known group of artist musicians, who have been involved in similar projects aimed at fighting GBV and rape. The group, made up of Roger and Hais, seized the occasion of this launch to praise the support of the government, UN agencies, and the High Commission of Canada, who have helped them in pursuing their campaigns to combat GBV. The duo that sings for development and a change in the mindsets of people expressed its will to intensify actions to tackle GBV, as they envisage producing a one-hour movie in the months ahead. Speaking during this gala aimed at advocating for collective efforts towards combating GBV in Cameroon, Minister of Women’s Empowerment and the Family, Pr. Marie-Therese Abena Ondoa said the UN-Spotlight initiative is a continuous move that comes in to accelerate the numerous actions undertaken by the government and development partners in the fight against this social ill that has become very rampant in several households and communities. “We must mutualize our efforts, work hand in hand with government, UN agencies, diplomatic missions, civil society organizations, and various leaders, as well as the media. We must not forget to educate the communities themselves. We need to reinforce the coordination to eradicate GBV in all its forms…” She said. Pr. Abena Ondoa, in her keynote address, pointed out some crucial aspects that need to be taken into account in the fight against GBV. She said: “The Ministry of Women’s Empowerment and the Family is determined to continue to play its role, which focuses on the coordination of actions, and that will be reinforced with the UN-Spotlight initiative, to transform social norms, mentalities that perpetuate these barbaric acts. The fight against GBV necessitates financial, human, and material resources. Together, we have to mobilize these resources in a bid to create a favorable socio-cultural environment for all, and where there is no room for Gender-Based Violence. We should therefore join hands together to tackle GBV so that no girl, no woman, no human being, neither a young boy nor a man should be a victim of violence simply because of their sex…” Mrs. Anderson Lorraine, High Commissioner for Canada in Cameroon, said this project is worthy to be praise, thus it has to do with promoting human rights and the dignity of people. “For us in Canada, this is all about promoting Human Rights and dignity. And for us, this was an opportunity to highlight this spotlight programme and other means we have to raise awareness and to see how we can mobilize support for the fight here in Cameroon.” The High Commissioner said. UN Resident Coordinator, Issa Sanogo, on his part, underscored the contributive role of women and girls in the development of a country. He said without safe and healthy women, no development can be realistic. In an exchange with media practitioners, the UN Resident Coordinator revealed that this programme, initiated in 2017 by the UN’s Secretary General, is a milestone in accelerating the fight against Gender-Based Violence. “For us, development cannot happen without women. But then, when we look at the numbers, it is clear that the economic power that can help accelerate the development is missing from the picture because this economic power is suffering from Gender-Based violence. That is why it was important that will come in to support this initiative.” The UN-spotlight initiative is a global, multi-year initiative focused on eliminating all forms of violence against women and girls. The Initiative is so named as it brings focused attention to this issue, moving it into the spotlight and placing it at the centre of efforts to achieve gender equality and women’s empowerment, in line with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.   Elise Kenimbeni

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