Fotografen in Jaunde

Cameroon weighs femicide law as anger over more killings rises

Berichtsstil, Interpretierend: Primarily reported news, but includes emotionally charged accounts and critical assessments from activists and victims' relatives.

Politischer Kontext, Mitte: Reports on proposed legislation and institutional shortcomings without advancing a partisan position.

Cameroon is considering a bill that would make femicide a standalone crime as reported gender-related killings of women rise to nearly 70 this year, up from at least 50 in 2023 and 67 in 2024. The death of teacher Geraldine Achiah, whose husband has been charged with murder and denies killing her, has intensified calls for justice. Activists say weak laws, delays, corruption, intimidation and inadequate support for survivors contribute to the crisis. Protests have taken place in major cities, and the bill is expected to go before parliament in November; advocates say legal reform must be paired with broader action against systemic barriers.

Opposition leaders in Cameroon contest official election results as protests continue

Berichtsstil, Informativ: Mostly factual reporting with some quoted opinions from political actors and rights groups.

Politischer Kontext, Mitte: Article provides balanced reporting of political conflict without endorsing a political position.

Opposition leaders in Cameroon rejected official presidential election results declaring incumbent Paul Biya the winner, amid ongoing nationwide protests marked by clashes with security forces and multiple casualties. International bodies including the EU, UN, Human Rights Watch, and Amnesty International condemned the violent response to demonstrators and called for restraint and investigations. Opposition figures Issa Tchiroma Bakary and Tomaïno Ndam Njoya alleged widespread irregularities, while authorities insisted protesters caused significant unrest. Despite challenges, Biya is set for swearing‑in after securing 53.66% of the vote, extending a rule that began in 1982.

Chad seal schools, restricts movement to contain measles outbreak

Berichtsstil, Informativ: Primarily factual with some subjective elements.

Chad's health authorities have taken decisive measures to curb a measles outbreak by closing numerous schools and sending students and teachers home. Movement restrictions have also been implemented to prevent further spread of the disease. The report comes from Moki Edwin Kindzeka, based in Cameroon.

Gabon courts stand still as magistrates protest working conditions

Berichtsstil, Ausgewogen: The article presents both sides of the issue, with statements from the magistrates and the government, but lacks a clear resolution or factual conclusion.

Politischer Kontext, Mitte: The article discusses government actions and protests without taking a clear political stance.

Gabonese magistrates have halted court operations, protesting poor working conditions and pay. Despite government pleas, the magistrates demand immediate improvements, citing the importance of judicial independence. The National Trade Union of Magistrates criticizes the government's inaction, while Justice Minister Paul Marie Gondjout cites financial constraints. The protests continue as the country approaches presidential elections, with magistrates urging the transitional president to address their grievances.

Cameroonians Neglect Covid-19 Safety Precautions

The article discusses the lax attitude of residents in major cities of Cameroon towards Covid-19 preventive measures such as social distancing and wearing face masks. Despite the government's efforts, including a mobile Covid-19 screening strategy termed 'Track, Test and Treat', and daily press briefings to update the public, many Cameroonians believe they are naturally immune to the virus. Prof Yap Boum, deputy head of Cameroon’s Public Health Emergency Research Centre, acknowledges the public's negligence due to the high recovery rate and low death rate. The reasons behind the high healing rate in Cameroon are still being investigated, with possibilities including boosted immunity, exposure to numerous tropical diseases, or the youthful demographic of the population.

Impact of COVID-19 on democracy in Africa [Interview with Dr. Christopher Fomunyoh]

Dr Chris Fomunyoh, a Senior Associate and Regional Director for Central and West Africa at the National Democratic Institute, discusses the challenges African countries face in conducting elections during the COVID-19 pandemic. He highlights the varying approaches of countries like Mali, Burundi, Tanzania, Malawi, and Ethiopia in dealing with election schedules amidst the pandemic. Dr Fomunyoh emphasizes the need for innovation and technology to facilitate elections while adhering to social distancing. He also addresses concerns about the potential weakening of democratic institutions and the importance of goodwill among African leaders to promote democracy and transparency in elections. Additionally, he touches upon the economic crisis and social unrest that could arise due to the pandemic. Lastly, Dr Fomunyoh comments on a high-profile anti-graft case in the Democratic Republic of Congo, underscoring the importance of transparent judicial processes in combating corruption.

Profile of a Female Web Developer in Cameroon

Berichtsstil, Ausgewogen: Mix of factual reporting and personal viewpoints, with subjective commentary about challenges and discrimination.

A young Cameroonian woman, Njilah Betty Mankfu, is highlighted as part of the small percentage of women entering the technology sector in Cameroon. Despite studying journalism, difficulty finding employment led her to pursue a career in web development following encouragement from a relative. She faces challenges such as unreliable internet access and gender-based discrimination from potential clients. Working mainly from home, she has developed skills in web development, graphic design, and mobile video editing. Her family initially struggled with her deviation from their expectations but ultimately her path emerged from practical necessity and her longstanding interest in computing.

Cameroon’s top opposition leader dies after weeks of detention

Berichtsstil, Faktenbasiert: Straightforward news report presenting claims from the family, opposition groups and government without taking a position.

Politischer Kontext, Mitte: The report neutrally covers the disputed election, opposition claims and government response.

Cameroonian opposition leader Anicet Ekane, 74, died after several weeks in detention following his October arrest on insurrection charges. His lawyer and family say he suffered worsening respiratory problems and was denied adequate treatment; the government says he had chronic illnesses, received medical care and died following an illness. President Paul Biya has ordered an investigation, which the defense ministry says is underway. Ekane’s party and the Union for Change allege he was murdered and seek an international inquiry. His detention came amid protests over the disputed presidential election, in which Biya was declared the winner and rival Issa Tchiroma Bakary claimed victory.

Rights groups dispute Cameroon’s death toll from postelection protests and claim at least 30 killed

Berichtsstil, Interpretierend: The article contains subjective statements and opinions from rights groups and opposition figures.

Politischer Kontext, Mitte-links: The article highlights human rights concerns and critiques government actions.

Rights groups in Cameroon challenge the government's reported death toll of 16 from postelection protests, claiming at least 30 were killed. The protests erupted following President Paul Biya's election victory, which opposition figures contest. Human Rights Watch and other organizations criticize the government's violent crackdown and call for accountability. The unrest highlights ongoing political tensions and human rights issues in Cameroon.

How the Zai farming technique is transforming soil fertility in North Cameroon

Berichtsstil, Informativ: Mostly factual with some subjective statements from farmers and experts.

In North Cameroon, the Zai farming technique is revitalizing soil fertility and improving crop yields. Farmers like Pierre Adamou and Aiessatou have adopted this traditional West African method, which involves digging holes to mix compost, grain, and rainwater, significantly increasing their harvests. The technique is part of broader efforts by organizations like FODER and WWF to combat land degradation and desertification around Bénoué National Park. Despite its benefits, the labor-intensive nature of Zai has deterred some farmers. The Cameroon government, alongside NGOs, is committed to restoring degraded landscapes, aiming to integrate various stakeholders for sustainable environmental management.

Lucy Zambo, kidney patient

Kidney patients at the Yaoundé University Teaching Hospital in Cameroon have been facing a dire shortage of dialysis kits, leading to a blockade of the hospital by patients demanding the essential supplies. The kits finally arrived on March 5 after the protest, but concerns remain about the sustainability of the supply. Patients like Lucy Zambo and Irene Ojong Obi are struggling with the effects of the shortage, which prevents them from undergoing necessary dialysis treatments. The hospital has a history of kit shortages and machine breakdowns, affecting the ability of patients to receive treatment, which should occur thrice weekly. The government has subsidized the cost of dialysis, but access to machines and kits is still a significant challenge. Questions are being raised about the hospital's planning and management of supplies, but the Director of the hospital has not provided any answers.

Global climate deals have failed Africa

Berichtsstil, Interpretierend: The article contains a mix of factual reporting and subjective statements, particularly in its critique of past climate deals and its advocacy for future actions.

Politischer Kontext, Mitte-links: The article advocates for increased climate finance and support for the Global South, aligning with progressive and internationalist viewpoints.

Global climate deals have failed to deliver the promised $100 billion annually to help Global South countries achieve climate goals, with plans now five years behind schedule. President Macron's summit in Paris aims to rebalance relationships for a new agreement, crucial for COP28 in Dubai. The article emphasizes the need for the next climate finance plan to focus on the Global South, particularly Africa, which faces severe climate impacts. It advocates for significant investment in affordable, clean energy to meet Sustainable Development Goals and support adaptation. The article highlights the work of innovators like Sokofresh and Solar Aid and calls for wealthy nations and major funders to match the commitment of frontline organizations and Global South governments.

New trade in lucrative ape skulls and bones stokes fears of annihilation of wild gorilla and chimpanzee populations

In Cameroon, a new and disturbing trend in wildlife trafficking is emerging, where poachers are now targeting gorillas and chimpanzees for their heads, bones, and limbs rather than for bush meat. This trade is believed to be more lucrative and is causing a rapid decline in ape populations. The Last Great Ape Organisation (LAGA) and other anti-poaching groups have noticed an increase in the number of traffickers arrested with ape parts. The demand for these parts is linked to mystical practices in Nigerian communities. Despite efforts to combat this illegal trade, corruption within the legal system hinders the prosecution of major traffickers. Conservationists warn that if the current trend continues, great apes could become extinct in the wild within the next 10 to 15 years.

UN summit - UN General Assembly | Cameroon Insider

The article discusses the upcoming focus of the UN General Assembly, highlighting that one of the key issues will be addressed by the UN within the next year. However, the specific issue that the UN plans to resolve is not detailed in the provided text. The article is likely to cover the agenda of the UN summit and the global challenges that the General Assembly aims to tackle in the forthcoming sessions.

In Cameroon, education has become a victim of war

Berichtsstil, Ausgewogen: Balanced reporting with some subjective statements and personal accounts.

Politischer Kontext, Links: Focus on humanitarian impact and criticism of government actions.

The ongoing conflict in Cameroon between anglophone separatists and the francophone government has severely impacted the education system, with over 600,000 children affected by school closures. The separatists' school boycott campaign has led to widespread violence, destruction of schools, and displacement of families. Humanitarian needs are escalating, with 1.3 million people requiring assistance and 450,000 displaced. Efforts for peace talks are ongoing, with Switzerland mediating between the separatists and the Cameroonian government. The crisis has broader implications, including risks of sexual harassment and criminality among displaced children.

Health Research: The 2026–2030 Plan Will Cost CFAF 3.044 Billion, with 23% Allocated to the Ethics System

Berichtsstil, Faktenbasiert: Predominantly factual reporting based on figures and provisions in the national health research plan, with limited analytical commentary.

Cameroon’s National Strategic Plan for Health Research for 2026–2030 is budgeted at CFAF 3.044 billion, including CFAF 711.2 million—just over 23%—for ethics committees and bioethical monitoring and regulation. Governance and ethics represent the plan’s largest spending area at CFAF 978.2 million. Other allocations cover capacity building, financing, and the production and use of scientific results. The plan includes CFAF 511 million for decentralizing research across the country’s ten regions, but its average annual spending of CFAF 608.7 million is far below the level implied by the 2% research-financing target in the 2008 Algiers Declaration. The document describes the budget as a coordination and structuring foundation rather than the full national research budget, and identifies dependence on external funding and possible budget execution failures as major implementation risks.

Yaoundé General Hospital: Noel Essomba Commits Nearly CFAF 100 Million for 200 Surveillance Cameras and 45 Computers

Berichtsstil, Faktenbasiert: Highly factual reporting based on procurement decisions, with limited analysis of transparency and competition.

Yaoundé General Hospital has awarded ETS ALIBA two contracts worth a combined 98.6 million CFA francs for information technology equipment and the installation of 200 surveillance cameras. The 73.9 million CFAF IT lot includes 40 desktop computers, five laptops, servers, network equipment, software licenses and a 64-terabyte backup system, while the 24.7 million CFAF surveillance lot includes cameras, cabling, network switches, recorders, storage drives and an 86-inch monitoring screen. The total is 1.4 million CFAF below the initial estimate of 100 million CFAF. The procurement documents do not identify the areas to be monitored, data-retention period or authorized viewers, and do not disclose the number or pricing of competing bids, limiting assessment of competition and oversight. Delivery and installation are expected within two months.