Wednesday, December 28, 2022

Governor Adolphe Lele commisions Royal 5 Nursery and Primary school

Governor Adolphe Lele cutting the commissioning ribbonGovernor Adolphe Lele Lafrique giving his commissioning speechGovernor Adolphe Lele Lafrique giving his commissioning speech
 
The Governor of the North-West Region, Adolphe Lele Lafrique last friday December 16, 2022 cut the ribbon to commission Royal 5 Nursery and Primary School, Bamenda up Station. During the school Christmas party and commissioning ceremony, Governor Lele Lafrique highly appreciated the quality of investment he sees.

"Based on what we've witnessed here today at Royal 5 Nursery and Primary school, I am convinced to say these are the kind of initiatives Cameroon needs to attain its 2035 dream and such a lofty dream will not only end at the basic education level, it will sure cut through into the secondary and even tertiary levels of Education". Governor  Lele commended, while commissioning Royal 5 Nursery and Primary school, Bamenda Up Station on Friday December 16th 2022.

Governor Lele giving his commissioning speech 

In his commissioning speech, Governor Lele further reiterated that, mindful of the fact that Royal 5 is  the very first school he is commissioning for his 11 years of service at the helm of the Region, he therefore charges the proprietor and management of the school to be role models for other schools in the Region to emulate. "Royalty entails service and respect of Republican institutions, its symbols, emblems and that of those who encarnate it, so live up to the name of the school. He added.


After the cutting of the commisioning ribbon, Governor Lele and his entourage were shown round the institution. The new facility consists  two floors and a basement, and it has the necessary conditions and enabling environment for learning and training of pupils. In particular, the building of the institution has over 20 educational classrooms and some 8 separate technical/administrative offices, and its equipment is complete within the framework of modern education requirements.

In the school facility, separate classrooms for skill acquisition have been organized like the music studio, the computer lab, the cookery lab etc. The learning experience at Royal 5 is conducted taking into account the requirements of modern times and recognized methods. 

Dr. Sama Emmanuel 
Proprietor, Royal 5 Nursery and Primary school, Bamenda Up Station 

In his welcome address,  and focusing on the mission and vision of the school, the Proprietor of Royal 5, Dr. Sama Emmanuel stated that, the school is out to through its innovative education program package and comprehensive learning experience, build well grounded, confident and responsible children equipped to achieve their full potentials in life. "Royal 5 is committed to be the Region's most trusted and valued partners in creating a destination for holistic and high quality education. We at Royal 5 are determined to make the difference and this commitment we make to all our pupils, parents and all stakeholders of the basic education sector". Dr. Sama added.


Mr. John Ngwainbi 
Headteacher Royal 5 Nursery and Primary school 
Mme Suinyuy Prudence 
Assistant Headteacher 

Presenting the holistic education program package, the headteacher of the school, Mr. John Ngwainbi and the assistant Headteacher,  Mme Suinyuy Prudence respectively unveiled the   complete curriculum consisting of a quality academic content and innovative life skill acquisition package like music, cookery, photography, tailoring/fashion designs etc. Royal 5 stands for Holistic education, moral rectitude and academic excellence 

Cross section of pupils in class

The school also offer IT classes with each pupil entitled to a laptop and high-speed Internet connection. The school also has a playground for the pupils, a security system that permits everything happening in the classes and on campus to be on record.  Not forgetting the Nursing station that takes care of the health issues of staff and pupils on campus. It is worth noting that the school is built with high architectural design and the quality of education, program content and enabling learning environment of Royal 5 Nursery and Primary school is truly something to write home about.

The pupils in all excitement graced the event with curricular activities like musical interludes, dancing, recitations, choral singing.

By VictoryMarshal Ayafor Basang 

Thursday, December 22, 2022

Governor Adolphe Lele commisions Royal 5 Nursery and Primary school

Governor Adolphe Lele cutting the commissioning ribbonGovernor Adolphe Lele Lafrique giving his commissioning speechGovernor Adolphe Lele Lafrique giving his commissioning speech
 
The Governor of the North-West Region, Adolphe Lele Lafrique last friday December 16, 2022 cut the ribbon to commission Royal 5 Nursery and Primary School, Bamenda up Station. During the school Christmas party and commissioning ceremony, Governor Lele Lafrique highly appreciated the quality of investment he sees.

"Based on what we've witnessed here today at Royal 5 Nursery and Primary school, I am convinced to say these are the kind of initiatives Cameroon needs to attain its 2035 dream and such a lofty dream will not only end at the basic education level, it will sure cut through into the secondary and even tertiary levels of Education". Governor  Lele commended, while commissioning Royal 5 Nursery and Primary school, Bamenda Up Station on Friday December 16th 2022.

Governor Lele giving his commissioning speech 

In his commissioning speech, Governor Lele further reiterated that, mindful of the fact that Royal 5 is  the very first school he is commissioning for his 11 years of service at the helm of the Region, he therefore charges the proprietor and management of the school to be role models for other schools in the Region to emulate. "Royalty entails service and respect of Republican institutions, its symbols, emblems and that of those who encarnate it, so live up to the name of the school. He added.


After the cutting of the commisioning ribbon, Governor Lele and his entourage were shown round the institution. The new facility consists  two floors and a basement, and it has the necessary conditions and enabling environment for learning and training of pupils. In particular, the building of the institution has over 20 educational classrooms and some 8 separate technical/administrative offices, and its equipment is complete within the framework of modern education requirements.

In the school facility, separate classrooms for skill acquisition have been organized like the music studio, the computer lab, the cookery lab etc. The learning experience at Royal 5 is conducted taking into account the requirements of modern times and recognized methods. 

Dr. Sama Emmanuel 
Proprietor, Royal 5 Nursery and Primary school, Bamenda Up Station 

In his welcome address,  and focusing on the mission and vision of the school, the Proprietor of Royal 5, Dr. Sama Emmanuel stated that, the school is out to through its innovative education program package and comprehensive learning experience, build well grounded, confident and responsible children equipped to achieve their full potentials in life. "Royal 5 is committed to be the Region's most trusted and valued partners in creating a destination for holistic and high quality education. We at Royal 5 are determined to make the difference and this commitment we make to all our pupils, parents and all stakeholders of the basic education sector". Dr. Sama added.


Mr. John Ngwainbi 
Headteacher Royal 5 Nursery and Primary school 
Mme Suinyuy Prudence 
Assistant Headteacher 

Presenting the holistic education program package, the headteacher of the school, Mr. John Ngwainbi and the assistant Headteacher,  Mme Suinyuy Prudence respectively unveiled the   complete curriculum consisting of a quality academic content and innovative life skill acquisition package like music, cookery, photography, tailoring/fashion designs etc. Royal 5 stands for Holistic education, moral rectitude and academic excellence 

Cross section of pupils in class

The school also offer IT classes with each pupil entitled to a laptop and high-speed Internet connection. The school also has a playground for the pupils, a security system that permits everything happening in the classes and on campus to be on record.  Not forgetting the Nursing station that takes care of the health issues of staff and pupils on campus. It is worth noting that the school is built with high architectural design and the quality of education, program content and enabling learning environment of Royal 5 Nursery and Primary school is truly something to write home about.

The pupils in all excitement graced the event with curricular activities like musical interludes, dancing, recitations, choral singing.

By VictoryMarshal Ayafor Basang 

Monday, November 7, 2022

North West Region: Minister Eloundou lays Foundation stone of landmark Gas Plant in Bamenda


Minister Eloundou posing the foundation stone

The Minister of water resources and Energy,  Eloundou Essomba Gaston, has revealed that the price surges the population of the North West region suffers on the cost of domestic gas will soon be a thing of the past. 

Representing the Prime Minister and Head of Government,  Minister Eloundou made this declaration in Bamenda on Saturday November 5, 2022, while laying the foundation stone for the Construction of an ultramodern LPG filling centre at the Bangshie neigbourhood in
Bamendakwe.

The minister intimated that:
"As far as the consumption of domestic gas is concerned,  Bamenda already has a huge market but often suffers from exhurbitant prices. More so, the coming of the plant has the advantage of creating employment for sons and daughters of the Region, and reducing the risks of
handling gas cylinders from Bafoussam to Bamenda which is 80km away. 

"Beyond the comfort the plant brings to the general public by minimising the risks of gas shortage, the presence of this filling centre in Bamenda, will contribute to the consolidation of efforts such as advocated by the Head of State, His Excellency Paul BIYA with the view to revitalise our economy".
And the high dependency on gas will reduce the usage of coal and wood, create jobs and revitalise the local economy,"  Minister Eloundou added.

GM CSPH, Okie Johnson Ndoh

In his own declaration, the General Manager of
the Hydrocarbons Prices Stabilisation Fund (CSPH), Okie Johnson Ndoh,  stated that the gas plant is the 3rd in the Nation, after that of Maroua (2005) and Bertoua in 2015 and is the most modern in the country as at now. Okie added that:
"The Hydrocarbons Prices Stabilisation (HPSF) has opted for the construction 8of these LPG filling centres in regional headquarters, then eventually extend sub centres in  the Divisional headquarters. This deployment of filling centres is in line with the Government's policy to combat deforestation and improve the quality of life of the population.

Prof. Fru Angwafo III,  President of the NW Regional Assembly 

On his part, the President of the North
West Regional Assembly President, Prof Fru Angwafor III, stated that dependence on domestic gas will go a long way to fight deforestation and protect the ozone layer.
The gas plant will also help reduce the use of coal and wood,  hence reducing the dangers of some respiratory diseases. He added.

Prof Angwafo also used the opportunity to request  for the devolution of the competent powers to the regions to drive local development and enhance the Decentralization process of local governance. 

Paul Achombang 
Bamenda City Mayor

In his welcome address, Bamenda City Mayor,  Paul Achombang, pronounced that with the coming of the gas plant, there is already a ready market of about 2.5 million people scattered all over the  region to consume. He equally added that the facility will eliminate middlemen and put an end to the black market syndrome that brings about the price hikes of cooking gas.
The city mayor added that, "the North West Region loses close to
2,000FCFA for every 12 L cylinder gas bottle sold. Which means as the price of gas rises, the region loses about 2.8 billion FCFA in a year. 

The 24 months project costs 5.6 billion
FCFA that will be constructed on a
land area of 6 hectares will have a total storage capacity of 200 MT,  and will comprise:
Four LPG Tanks with a capacity of 50 Metric Tons each, a carousel of twelve stations, a fire water tank, a gas filling hall, a generator,  product and fire pumping station, two nitrogen and air compressors, an engineering building, a maintenance building, a clinic, cafeteria, playground, two security buildings, Control equipment and  two weighbridges etc.

It should be noted that, an LPG filling centre is a technical facility for storing and filling gas. This is where gas cylinders are filled and later returned after consumption. From there, the distribution of gas is ensured by marketers who work in gas distribution and storage in Cameroon, namely: SCTM, AFRIGAZ, BOCOM, Green Oil, Stan Gaz etc". "The Bamenda Gas Plant consists of four gas tanks with a capacity of 50 metric tons each; one fire water tank, one gas filling hall, one generator, one product and fire. He added.

By VictoryMarshal Ayafor Basang 

Ruby jubilee of New Deal Government celebrated in style in the North West Region


Popping and sipping of the anniversary Champaign

Militants of the Cameroon people’s Democratic Movement, (CPDM) joined the rest of the Nation last, November 6, 2022, to commemorate the ruby anniversary of the party in strict compliance with COVID 19 barrier measures. The day was marked by celebrations of Biya's achievements in 40 years.

Former Prime Minister Philemon Yang 

Appreciating Biya's development efforts and strides at the helm of the Nation, the Regional Permanent Coordinator for the North West, former Prime Minister Philemon Yang stated that:

"It has been 40 years of excellent leadership with Political development such as democratisation, Decentralization and the special status, economic development such as heavy infrastructure and productive industries, banks and financial institutions etc, socio-cultural development like primary, secondary and teriary educational institutions at all levels , universities and hospitals in all parts of the country".


Militants at the commercial Avenue ceremonial ground 

One of the key achievements North West militants celebrated is the special anniversary gift the Head of state gave the Region - the laying of the foundation stone for a LPG filling centre in Bamenda, on November 5, 2022, by the Minister of Water Resources and Energy.

40 years since his accession to the Supreme magistracy on November 6, 1982, President Paul Biya is celebrated as the leader who brought democracy and multi-partism to Cameroon. Moreso, he has consistently consolidated efforts for a great cameroon of One people, one nation with a prosperous future.

The North West militants further praised President Biya for the ceaseless efforts of the government to peacefully resolve the anglophone crisis, manifested through various decisions taken to address the corporate and socio-political grievances of the people.

The Ruby anniversary was celebrated under the theme: "Let us further strengthen our mobilisation behind President Paul Biya to jointly pursue a nation building actions with one heart, peace and stability under the prism and spirit of National New Deal." And the North West militants used the opportunity to jointly reaffirmed their unwavering support for President Paul Biya and His lofty ideals.

Prof. Jean Kuete giving his key note address 

The celebration was presided over by Prof Jean Kuete, former Vice Prime Minister, Secretary General of the CPDM central committee. In his key note address, Prof Jean Kuete recalled the need for all the sons and daughters of the North West Region to get actively involved in peace building and local development. "Let us further strengthen our loyalty and mobilisation behind President Paul Biya to jointly pursue nation building actions with one heart, peace and stability in the spirit of the new deal". He added.

Minister Mbayu Felix 

During the celebration, Cameroon's Minister Delegate at the Ministry of External Relations in charge of the Commonwealth, Felix Mbayu, who doubles as the Secretary of the follow up committee for the Implementation of the resolutions of the Major National Dialogue, recounted the key achievements of the Major National Dialogue 3 years after:
Achievements such as the promulgation of Law No 2019/024 instituting the General Code of Regional and Local Authorities. Granting a special status to the North West and South West Regions and setting in place the office of Public Independent Concilliator that resolves disputes between the municipal Authorities and users of the councils, the creation of the National School of local Administration, NASLA and the devolving of 4 other powers to the region. In the domain of Transport, Tourism, Environment and Urban Development, the creation within the supreme court of a special bench to review appeals against decisions in English as well as redeployment of Magistrates, the putting in place of the Presidential Plan for the reconstruction and Development of the North West and South West Regions is another key fall out of the Major National Dialogue, rehabilitation of Ex-fighters who took up arms against the state ongoing at the DDR Centres in Bamenda, Buea and Mora. Also the abolition of the position of appointed Government Delegates replaced by Elected City Mayors.

The 40th anniversary celebration in Bamenda took a regional conotation with representions from all the 7 Divisions and 34 sections of the Region.

By VictoryMarshal Ayafor Basang


Sunday, October 30, 2022

PIC NW trains Mayors on Rights, Duties and ethical compliances in Council functioning.

PIC with Mayors

The Office of Public Independent Conciliator (PIC), North West has driiled the Local authorities of the Region on rights, duties and ethical compliances for proper functioning of their councils. This was during a two-day training workshop that took place at the PIC Conference Hall, Upstation, Bamenda from October 27 - 28, 2022.

Tamfu Simon Fai
Public Independent Conciliator North West

Speaking during the event, Tamfu Simon Fai, the North West PIC revealed that the objective of the training was to sharpen the managerial skills of mayors as well as equip them with an indepth knowledge of the functional and substantive mandates of PIC, and its roles with regards to the councils, the North West Regional/ City councils, and other users. The seminar also aimed at "fueling collaboration, and correcting the already existing misconception that the PIC has come to police councils, instead of being the watchdog, pacificator and advocate of councils", Tamfu added.
He equally called on the mayors to sharpen their competencies and acquire new competencies in every area of management and functioning to be able to cope with the daunting task that awaits them on the pathway of the ongoing decentralisation process of local governance.

Participants at the training

During the two days, the facilitators armed the participants with indepth knowledge that will enable them function effectively in the discharge of their duties. At the opening on Thursday October 27, as per their expectations, the participants expressed amongst other needs, the desire to be schooled on the laws, rights and duties of citizens in their municipalities and how they can factor in on this, to cultivate rights based programming of Council missions and services.

It is against this backdrop that, the research officer at OPIC Ndi Nelson Ngayinkfu, kick-started the training with the generalities on rights and duties in council functioning, and Rights based programming,

Agingi Nina schooling the participants

On her part, Nina Agingi, speaking on freedoms and duties, non discrimination and Mainstreaming inclusiveness, expressed that everybody should be engaged with community development projects and activities in council functioning. As for Dr. Alfred Wuku Kudi, citizen participation is a right and duty that must be factored in, for effective council functioning and local governance. Mr Ngodji Rais took turn to school the participants on the law and an overview of ethics compliance. 


As for Yang Francis Fombi, Esq., he gave insight on the primary duties of councils as agents of local public service in preventing ethical misconducts. Atia Tilarious wrapped up with a practical approach on the importance of ethical compliance in council functioning, while highlighting on the key elements for the elaboration of an ethical policy for councils.

Speaking to Trendsetters infos, Stephen Bongfen, Mayor for Nkum Council underscored that, the seminar was very timely as it eqquipped them with the necessary tools and knowledge to, on return to their various councils, and function efficiently, and effectively, vis-a-vis the rules and regulations in force.

In appreciation, on behalf of the Participants, the President of United Councils and Cities of Cameroon (UCCC), Mayor Denis Awoh Ndang thanked the PIC for such a laudable initiative and implored that such initiatives be taken right down to the grassroots and councils to train and equip not only the mayors, but also all council workers. This alone will ensure effective council functioning.

The training drew participants from the North West Regional Assembly, the  Bamenda City Council and Mayors of the 34 councils of the region. 

By VictoryMarshal Ayafor Basang

Saturday, July 2, 2022

12 Signs the Guy You Love Respects You



1. He always asks for your opinion. He actively seeks out your advice whether he’s applying to a job in a different department at work or having a fight with a friend. He might not always take your advice, but your insight is imortant to him. He treats your relationship like a team effort.

2. He doesn’t try to micromanage your life. He trusts you to do your own thing. He’s never on you about doing your taxes or getting to work on time. He trusts you to handle your responsibilities. Basically, he’s not a backseat driver, but for life.

3. He doesn’t get jealous when you go out without him. He’s not constantly checking your phone messages. He’s not worried you’ll meet someone else when you go out. He’s confident in your relationship and, more importantly, he trusts you and respects the time you spend away.

4. He opens up to you, even when he’s not sure you’ll like the answer. He shares his insecurities and his past with you even if he thinks you might disapprove. He doesn’t hide any aspect of himself from you, because he knows you’ll understand.

5. He takes your side. Sometimes blindly, but he trusts the decisions you’ve made and he’ll side with you in an argument. He’s only hearing your side of the story, but he knows it’s the right one.

6. He doesn’t jerk you around. He’s not booty-calling you or canceling plans last-minute. He doesn’t ditch you to hang out with friends or disrespect your time. If he does have to cancel on you, he’s apologetic and it rarely happens. He doesn’t ghost on you.

7. He encourages you to take risks. He wants to see you succeed, and he believes in you even when if you want to try a job in a new field. He’s not worried about you taking risks because he knows you can handle yourself, even if you fail.

8. He doesn’t second-guess you. He knows you’ve got a good sense of the world around you and he doesn’t try to change your mind. He knows the decisions you make are the best for you.

9. He doesn’t lie to you. He doesn’t feel the need to hide anything from you. He shares everything with you, even the embarrassing stuff, like being broke or getting embarrassingly drunk. He even tells you when an ex texted him. There are no secrets.

10. He’s OK with disagreeing. Even if you don’t see eye-to-eye on things like politics, he doesn’t try to sway you or put down your opinion. He respects that you have your own viewpoint, even if it’s not the same as his.

11. You actually go out on dates. “Quality time” isn’t just hooking up or watching TV. Early on in the relationship especially, he’s making an effort.

12. He’s upfront about where your relationship is going. He doesn’t tell you now isn’t a good time to get serious. He doesn’t skirt the issue of marriage or kids. It doesn’t matter how he answers it; he lets you know exactly what he wants out of your relationship.

Sunday, June 19, 2022

Father's Day: The Financial Cost of Being a Father in Cameroon



Providing financially has been a key, almost unspoken law, for fathers through the ages. There are several other roles that come with fatherhood, but the financial aspect is what we’ll focus on.

Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison in a 2014 study on the influence of fathers on children found that the most effective fathers do not necessarily have the highest income. The level of income is not as important as a steady income that meets the family’s needs.

So, what does it cost to be a father in Cameroon in this day and age? Is there a number? What should one anticipate? 

To get a clear picture, let’s assume that you are at that stage in your life when starting a family of your own is constantly making cameo appearances in the back of your mind.

At least 95% of your close friends are all dads and your special person is giving you that look – you know what I’m talking about. Any extended family gathering means mini-cross examinations from at least two aunts who want to know your plans for the family bloodline. 

Well, if you identify with any of that or are just curious as to what the financial impact is when it comes to fatherhood, then this could be of help.

Let’s approach this in the form of a journey that goes as far back as initial conception.

a) The Cost of Birth 
On average, a normal delivery can cost between 50,000FCFA and 100,000FCFA and a C-section can cost between 100,000FCFA and 250,000FCFA approximately, and that excludes regular anti natals and preparation for birth.

So, before you get to this point, there are several mandatory hospital visits (check ups) that need to be included in the budget. There could be an unexpected emergency visit as well which simply means that a father needs to be ready and on call at all times.

This is where medical cover comes in handy. Ask any parent around and they’ll probably tell you that having a sound medical cover in place when looking to start a family is a no-brainer.

In the 9 months leading up to birth, your significant other may wake you up in the middle of several nights demanding boiled maize or roasted rat mole, hihihi. All these little things amount to costs that need to be in your budget.

When thinking about the financial cost of fatherhood, you have to factor in the costs incurred before the baby is born and then the actual delivery.

b) Toddler Costs
Diapers will be a part of your life for the next 2-3 years, whether you like it or not, and even if you choose to go the napkin route, the costs will still add up. When you add wipes and formula to the mix, you get the picture. It’s all about value for money and buying bulk. 

When a friend of mine learned that he was going to be a dad, he started buying a molfix pack diaper each time he went out on weekends. Every Friday and Saturday, before buying a drink or indulging in njangis, he’d secure a molfix pack.

In a month he’d have 8 packs, by the time his little bundle of joy was born, he had 72 assorted   (in terms of age and size) diapers almost bursting through his wardrobe. Planning ahead is a must for any father.

c) Accommodation 
For those with financial ability, the addition to the family means getting a bigger house to accommodate their kid in a spacious setting.

Moving from a studio apartment from one end of the city to let’s say a 2-bedroom apartment another end of the city is a huge financial undertaking. This could mean paying double the amount of rent, increased utilities expenses in case of sleepless nights etc.

New parents often have their sights set on a large new home to accommodate their growing family, but it's important to keep things in perspective. If an upgrade puts a strain on your budget, consider your options carefully and never sacrifice stability for space.

A newborn also needs his/her own possessions, from a crib, beddings, toys and clothes that will be outgrown in a matter of a few months or years. Not forgetting their own food that they finish a tin within 4 to 5 days. It is more challenging for mothers who are not able to do exclusive breastfeeding.
All these things need to be pre-planned if the dad is looking to have a relatively smooth transition into fatherhood.

d) Mobility 
When the baby comes, that 2-door corvette that screams midlife crisis will need to be traded in for a van or something spacious enough for a car seat.

The good thing about fatherhood in this day and age is technology. A car may be unaffordable, but hailing cabs is now a phone-app away. If you need to take the family to the hospital on any given day, such options are available, at a cost. These can be termed as convenience costs, and could include any of the following:

1. Daycare and a nanny - Both come with associated periodic costs.

2. Leisure – Weekend trips to the mall and kid’s park where enjoyment comes at a premium cost.

3. Childcare: Here, options include having one parent stay at home, using an in-home daycare, hiring a nanny, or looking into a daycare center. 

Each has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, as well as a wide range of price points.

Before the baby arrives, fathers have to decide (via dialogue) what might or might not work for the family as well as research costs in their area to help review their budget.

e) Priority Costs
Life insurance (for both parents): Life insurance protects one’s family financially in the event of death. The proceeds of a life insurance policy can be used to help the partner replace lost income so that they can continue to pay things like a mortgage, a loan, and take care of the child.

You don’t want to get too hung up on whether you’re ready financially, because no one is ever really ready and it works out in the end, but you do want to think about how you see that first year with a new baby.

f) Education & Healthcare
This one needs an elaborate plan as schools are becoming expensive by the day. Some schools charge as much as 100k for a single term in Grade 1. It’s all about finding what fits one’s budget without compromising on the quality of education.

Calculating the total cost right up until your kid turns 18 may lead to a heart attack. Breaking it down into manageable trunks may be the way to go.
Of course, there's no rule that says you have to help your child with college expenses, but if you intend to do so, you should start planning ahead.

As for healthcare, this is pretty straightforward. It’s the one expense that fathers cannot afford to ‘wing it’ as the consequences will be dire if something unfortunate happens that requires treatment and admission.
Without medical cover, a father is just one serious condition away from poverty.

g) Other Costs
Your risk appetite may drop drastically as you now want stability. Channelling your money into new business venture that needs capital is not something you can now do off the cuff.

This can be a good thing in that it kinda means that fathers are monster researchers when it comes to where they funnel their money.

Hanging out with friends every other weekend will become harder and harder, especially during the child’s formative years. Sundays go from race or match day to family day and trips to some colourful theme parks.

Plan for the future - For example, if you want to pay your child’s way through college, you need to identify the savings vehicles that can help you hit this target. Review your insurance and bank accounts – Your life is not about you anymore so make necessary changes e.g. multiple beneficiaries on relevant accounts, should anything unexpected happen to you, your loved ones are sorted.

Expect the unexpected - A well-funded emergency fund is a must. Remember the boiled maize in the middle of the night scenario. Start thinking about childcare as soon as possible - Visit some nurseries before your baby is born to get a feel for the environment and remember to ask questions about waiting lists and enrolment, and most importantly, costs.

Invest in your kids’ future - Finding money to put aside for your children's future can be difficult, but it's well worth it if you can afford it. Investing small amounts of money each month can add up to a significant sum over time, especially if you begin investing early.

To wrap up, despite all the costs mentioned above, and how overwhelming it looks for a father, having a newborn doesn’t have to become a financial crisis. 
It just needs a realistic grip on the expenses you’re likely to face, and advance planning.

From the moment you learn about the pregnancy, try building a financial cushion that will cover at least six months of your living expenses. This could be through an automatic savings or money market program with a bank or a brokerage or mutual-fund company. The name of the game is simple...plan, plan, plan.

Also, when you speak with involved fathers, you'll quickly learn that the benefits of becoming one aren't limited to the children. During the transition, fathers' own ideas of manhood expand, as do their abilities to form rewarding human connections. The costs may seem overwhelming but they can be easily broken down into small manageable bits.

By VictoryMarshal Ayafor Basang

Thursday, June 2, 2022

10 Signs That You’re A Highly Desirable Woman

Everyone in this world has an idea of what their perfect partner looks like, what traits he or she has and what they desire the most in him or her.
Most women would love to be someone else’s desire and chances are that you are one of the most desirable women in this world of ours if you have these ten traits.

1. You’re independent
woman with closed eyes standing against the sea. Even if you’re in a relationship, you know how to handle your life alone. You’re not dependent on your partner to make you happy and you really shouldn’t be. You are pursuing your goals and dreams which don’t include him and you make time for your partner after all the work you have to do is done. No one but you has the power to make your life awesome and you’re well aware of that!

2. You’re not chasing anyone

You would rather invest your time and energy into chasing your own dreams instead of chasing another person. This is one thing that is so desirable about you, because you don’t care if other people will like you, you only care about liking your own self. Because of this, you’re a carefree, confident and complete person.

3. You don’t gossip

Gossip is for immature, little girls who don’t have anything better to do with their lives and you simply avoid it. You’d rather spend an hour talking about a new project than about unnecessary things. 

5. You’re honest and you respect the people who are honest with you too
 
Because of your honesty, your man knows he can trust you. You’re always telling him what’s on your mind and you can separate the good from the bad. Men don’t want women who are not trustworthy. You will always talk about your feelings because you want the same thing from your partner.
Honesty and trust are crucial things in any relationship, not only romantic ones, and these are the things that you appreciate the most about yourself and others.

6. You love yourself

You love yourself and accept yourself for who you are. You don’t spend time in front of the mirror thinking about how your legs are too skinny or that your lips are too thin. You know that this is who you are and you embrace it! You may not be wearing the latest fashion but your clothes are comfortable and elegant. They help you radiate confidence! 

7. You’re not an attention whore 

All the attention you do get is because of your achievements and it’s deserved. You’re not one of those people who put up ten selfies a day on your social media, nor the type of girl who changes her relationship status too quickly.
You’d rather be known for the real and meaningful things you’ve done in your life. You want to earn the attention of people who matter to you.

8. You never lose yourself in relationships

You have your priorities set and you’re not ready to give up on them for anything. You have a life of your own that goes beyond a relationship. You’re not clingy because you sure don’t want a clingy man in your life. You know how to handle your emotions. You won’t see a desirable woman coping with a break-up for months. Just like you, you feel what you feel and you dedicate some time to heal. But life is too wonderful to be sitting around in your room for so long without getting anything done in your life. You know that emotions are a natural part of everyone’s lives, but you also don’t want them to bring your ambitions down to the point where you stop being productive or stop pursuing your own dreams.

9. You’re highly intelligent

Something that really adds to your desirability is your intelligence. This doesn’t always refer to IQ but rather the amount of wisdom you have gathered in your life because of your experiences. It has made you see the world from your own perspective and you have a certain understanding of life, people and yourself. You can keep up a mindful conversation and you’re always up to seeing what other people think about a certain topic.

10. You’re a brilliant communicator.

With the words you choose to use to communicate with others, you tend to touch and win over hearts. You always let everyone say what they have to, without interrupting them because you will find your time to shine and to say your own opinion. You will let people talk and make them feel appreciated and with this you show the compassion you have for them. This is the trait that all people admire in you and the one that makes you the most desirable.

By VMA

Thursday, May 26, 2022

The 7 Qualities of Highly Respected people

Respect is something not automatically given. It must be earned. When you’re in a leadership position, it is imperative that the people with whom you work respect you. They might respect your work habits, your intelligence, or your ability to close a deal. Yet, there’s more to respect than that. If you can earn their respect as a person, then you’ve really won the game.

Here are some tips for earning more respect.

1. Be polite.
Always be polite to everyone you meet during the day, from your family members to your co-workers, to the checkout person at the grocery store. Give others the same respect you’d like to receive yourself. Seek out actions you can take to offer politeness. Open the door at the coffee shop for the person behind you, or let the person with one item go ahead of you in the grocery store. Say please and thank you whenever possible.

2. Act respectfully.
Eliminate disrespectful behaviors such as rolling your eyes, interrupting or talking negatively about someone. Not only are these actions not respectful of the person you’re interacting with, they deter or prevent further involvement or resolution of issues, and create a wedge that can become permanent. Instead, foster an environment of respectful listening. Everyone deserves to be heard, even if you don’t agree with a person’s views or opinions. Consider how you’d like to be treated if you have something to say, especially if there is an important issue at hand.

3. Listen well.
Listening is an active process, not a passive one. Think before you speak. Most often in today’s conversations, one person’s comments “trigger” thoughts in the listener, who then brings forth their own story along the same lines. Instead of telling your tale, ask questions that encourage the speaker to tell you more. Most people will be flattered that you care.

4. Be helpful.
People earn respect by always being ready to lend a hand or an ear whenever they’re needed or notice an opportunity to help. Look for opportunities to help that you might have previously overlooked. Does a co-worker need help with a big project? Can you grab a cup of coffee for someone? Strive to be helpful several times a day.

5. Don’t make excuses.
Your actions are based on your choices, and barring some unforeseen circumstance, there is no reason for excuses. Own your actions. For example, if you’re constantly late, don’t make lame excuses. Own up to your mistakes and instead of dwelling on them, look for opportunities to move past them and do better next time. Instead of focusing on your shortcomings, ask, “How can I rectify my behavior or situation?”

6. Let go of anger.
Holding on to anger or a grudge doesn’t hurt anyone but yourself. If you get upset, allow yourself to be angry momentarily, then move on and either rectify the situation or put it behind you. Give yourself and others a break. Forgive, and then forget.

7. Be willing to change.
Being intractable won’t get you anywhere. Realize that the process of evolution includes change. Make an effort to grow as a person; learn new skills, try new activities, and especially, re-examine your automatic behaviors. And don’t forget to congratulate yourself on progress you make along the way to becoming a better person.

Friday, April 29, 2022

Cameroon-Canada cooperation:Canada’s High Commissioner Visits North West Regional Assembly

The Canadian High  commissioner to Cameroon, His Excellency Richard Bale, on Friday, April 22, 2022 was at  the North West Regional Assembly, for a working visit.
The visiting ambassador, upon arrival, listened to a presentation on the North West Regional Development Plan (NWRDP), and the feasiblity studies for the the construction of the permanent headquarters of the North West Regional Assembly. The  two presentations were done by partner consultants of the Regional Assembly.
In his welcome note, the President of the North West Regional Assembly, Prof. Fru Angwafo III, thanked the diplomat for coming and acknowledged the long standing cooperation Canada has has with Cameroon over the years.
"The North-West Region has benefitted in large measure from the multifaceted bilateral Canada-Cameroon relations. Particularly, in the creation of community radios, technical schools and educational grants/scholarships, the Kumbo water project and in the human and physical development realm." Prof. Angwafor stated.
"The people of the North-West will forever be grateful for the overtures and actions towards a return to peace and normalcy in our restive region. We sincerely hope this visit will be a turning point in our lives, in our quest for sustained peaceful development". he added.
While appreciating Canada for the healthy bilateral relation  with Cameroon, Prof Fru Angwafo highlighted that  the North West Region in particular will be pleased to twin with Canadian Provinces to initiate partnerships and joint ventures between private concerns and or NGOs.
In his key note remark, H.E Richard Bale, Speaking to the press, expressed satisfaction for the quality of plan projected by the two presentations and promised to  study them indepth with his team upon his return to Yaounde. He congratulated the North West Regional Assembly on its great job in assessing needs and identifying opportunities for bilateral cooperations.
The ambassador equally added that, for foreign partners and investors like Canada, after receiving a plan as such, the next step is for them to go digest the plan and identify  areas of complementarity to hitching on.
Speaking on the resolution of the crisis, the High Commissioner called on Cameroonian stakeholders to device or develop solutions and implement them. However, Canada is always there to assist in such a process if called upon. He added that the security situation really need to be  addressed so that the Region can pursue its developmental plan and objectives. 
Before parting ways,  H.E Richard Bale expressed complete satisfaction to have been in the midst of the North West Regional Assembly community. “It was a great visit, I learned a lot about the North West Region of Cameroon and it was a pleasure to meet all the team.” he said.
The two personalities, Professor Fru Angwafor and H.E Richard Bale equally praised the joint progress resulting from the Cameroon-Canada bilateral cooperation. They have together expressed the wish to see it become more dense.

It should be noted that the  Cameroon-Canada bilateral cooperation share a  rich cooperation which dates back to 1962 and which has diversified into various sectors of human investment, rural development, communication and telecommunications infrastructure, microfinance, support to the private sector, and more recently, support to the fight against Covid-19 pandemic, etc.

Monday, April 25, 2022

World Malaria Day: Free Intermittent Treatment For Infants Launched

The Secretary General at the Ministry of Public Health, Professor Louis Richard Njock has launched a chemoprevention nationwide strategy to curb malaria in children under five years. The launching ceremony  took  place today Monday 25th April 2022, at the Soa Health District in the Mefou and Afamba Division of the Centre Region. 
The Intermittent Preventive Treatment of malaria in Infants (IPTi) is being administered through the Enlarged Programme on Immunization Services. Each child, as from the age of 10 weeks to 5 years will henceforth  receive a tablet of Sulfadoxine Pyriméthamine (SP), the pediatric formula will be repeated during each vaccination contact until the child is 23 months.

The Intermittent Preventive Treatment of malaria in Infants (IPTi) will be piloted in six districts of the centre region; Bafia, Nkolbisson, Ngoumou, Soa, Obala and Ntui for four years.

It should be noted that Malaria is a life-threatening, acute febrile illness transmitted through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. And World Malaria Day is celebrated on April 25th every year. And this year, it is celebrated under the theme “Harness Innovation to Reduce the Malaria Disease Burden and Save Lives.”  The global campaign emboldens everyone to draw efforts and encourages worldwide campaigns to reduce the burden, suffering and death from malaria. 

Malaria is a devastating illness that has affected almost 241 million people in 2020 with estimated death being 627,000 in 85 countries. Despite its high burden, it is a completely preventable and curable disease, if proper measures are adopted. There are almost five Plasmodium parasites that cause malaria in humans among which the two most threatful species are P. falciparum and P. vivax. Others include P. malariae, P. ovale, and P. knowlesi.

To achieve the WHO's Global Technical Strategy for Malaria targets by 2030, WHO has broadened the use of the RTS,S malaria vaccine (first vaccine against P. falciparum) in October 2021 for young children in moderate and high transmission areas.

Sunday, April 10, 2022

North West: 5th Joint Military Region Graduates Forty IED Detectives.

          Brigadier General Nka Valère

The Commander of the 5th Joint Military Region, Brigadier General Nka Valère presided over the graduation ceremony of some 40 combined Defense and Security Forces (Army, Gendarme and Police) who completed a three-week indepth training on Improvised Explosive Devices' (IEDs) detection.
          Cross Section of Graduates

The graduation ceremony took place on Friday,  April 08,  2022 at the Up station, Bamenda Headquarters of the 5th Joint Military Region.

Speaking during the event,  Gen. Nka divulged that a spiral of targeted attacks on the defense and security forces as well as on civilians in 2021 necessitated the first training in June 2021 which saw an earlier graduation of 30 trainees whose results have been palpable on the field. "For the past 06 months, they have been capable of detecting and detonating over 90% of IEDs laid in ambush for the defense and security forces as well as the population in North West Region." This he stated, on April 08, 2022 while graduating a second batch of IED detectives.
General Nka in the presence of his counterpart,  Brigadier General Ekongwese Divine Nnoko and other top-notch military officers ended his discourse by urging the graduates to exhibit the theoretical and practical security knowledge acquired within the past three weeks during field patrols. "You are now the detective eyes of your collegues during military patrols", he advised. 
Colonel TETCHA Felix, Commander of the 51st Military Engineering Regiment

On his part, Colonel TETCHA Felix, Commander of the 51st Military Engineering Regiment, the Commander under whose tutelage the training was done, intimated that the 87 hours training course, was a perfect blend of theory and practicum. He furthered that the training was hinged on the following, inter alia: generalities on explosives, components of IEDs, how they function, measures on protecting and safeguarding against IEDs, potential points in the field for the planting of IEDs and above all, practical field exercises on detection and detonation of IEDs.

Colonel Tetcha thanked Brigadier General Nka Valère for seeing the need and providing for such a training. He did not forget to equally laud senior commanding officers who saw the importance and enrolled their collaborators into the course for the security of the region in particular and the nation in general.
It is worth noting that the theoretical part of the course took place  at the 5th Joint Military Region while most of the practical part was done in the field through simulation exercises. The graduation ceremony was crowned with some simulation exercises by the trainees at the   ceremonial ground. The graduating officers started the training course on March 21, 2022.

The graduation ceremony  witnessed 40 graduates comprising  24 elements from the Army, 06 from the Gendarmerie and 10 from the Police corps.

By VictoryMarshal Ayafor Basang