Exploring Cameroon: A Visionary Journey into Africa’s Economic Future By Dr. Abdul Manaff
Exploring Cameroon: A Visionary Journey into Africa's Economic Future By Dr. Abdul Manaff
Exploring Cameroon: A Visionary Journey into Africa’s Economic Future By Dr. Abdul Manaff
Recently, I had the distinct privilege of visiting Cameroon as part of the African Economic Development Week, an inspiring event organized by the African Economic Development Agency, under the astute leadership of Dr. Ruth Tembe Biz. This journey proved to be more than a mere tour; it was an immersive experience into the heart of a nation that, in many ways, embodies Africa’s vibrant and diverse spirit.
Cameroon, often hailed as a miniature Africa due to its rich cultural and geographical diversity, welcomed me with open arms. My visit gave me the invaluable opportunity to engage with various organizations and stakeholders, deepening my understanding of this dynamic country and its immense economic growth and development potential.
A Warm Welcome and Insightful Discussions
My official visit commenced with a meeting with His Excellency Issa Tchiroma Bakary, the Minister of Employment and Vocational Training. The encounter was profoundly impactful, marked by the Minister’s genuine warmth and passion for his country’s progress. Our discussions revolved around critical topics such as the importance of education, the creation of international-standard vocational training centers, and job creation strategies. His commitment to these issues was evident and served as a strong foundation for my subsequent engagements.
Following this, I had the pleasure of meeting His Excellency Tasong Njukang Paul, the Minister of Economy Planning and Regional Development. His expertise as a planner and his ability to listen attentively provided me with a clearer understanding of Cameroon’s developmental needs and opportunities. He graciously encouraged me to engage with the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, His Excellency Mbiarobe Gabriel, which led to an enlightening discussion on group farming, rural development, and the availability of agricultural land throughout Cameroon.
Empowering Women and Promoting Gender Equality
One of the highlights of my visit was the meeting with Her Excellency Abena Ondoa née Obama Marie Thérèse, the Minister of Women’s Empowerment and the Family. Her dedication to addressing gender discrimination and promoting employment for women, particularly in rural areas, was truly inspiring. During our conversation, I shared our organization’s initiatives, including WEDO – Women Entrepreneurship Development Organisation, Visionary Women Circle, and #SHEFINANCE, and introduced our one-billion-dollar fund to empower women. Her enthusiasm for collaboration was encouraging, and I eagerly await the project proposals from her office to integrate into our funding plans.
A Visionary Leader: Prime Minister Dion Ngute
The culmination of my ministerial meetings was with His Excellency Joseph Dion Ngute , the Prime Minister and Head of Government. The Prime Minister’s vision for Cameroon was both clear and compelling. His openness, simplicity, and assurance were a testament to his commitment to improving his country. His willingness to support and facilitate investment opportunities was deeply reassuring. With a budgetary allocation of $48 billion for Africa from my companies, the Prime Minister’s assurance that his team would support our endeavors was a significant boost to our investment plans.
A Journey of Collaboration and Hope
This journey, facilitated by Dr. Ruth Tembe Biz and coordinated by Mr. Tamba Yvan Blackwell Keyaka from the Ministry of State Property and Land Tenure, was a remarkable exploration into the economic and developmental landscape of Cameroon. The engagement with various ministers and stakeholders has not only broadened my perspective but also solidified my confidence in investing in Cameroon’s future.
As I reflect on this visit, I am filled with optimism and excitement about the potential collaborations and investments that lie ahead. Cameroon’s strategic vision, combined with the dedication of its leaders, provides a fertile ground for economic growth and innovation. I look forward to working closely with the government and local organizations to contribute to the country’s ongoing development and prosperity.
In conclusion, this visit has reaffirmed my belief in Cameroon as a beacon of opportunity in Africa. With its rich resources, passionate leaders, and emerging entrepreneurial spirit, Cameroon stands poised to make significant strides on the continental and global stage. The journey was not just a tour but a step towards a promising future, one where our collective efforts will pave the way for sustainable development and economic success.
