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2 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 Editorial A Pan - African Tourism Vision: By Acha-Anyi Paul Nkemngu (PhD)*

The signs are there for all to see, in Foumban marvel at the spirituality considering that each day millions and creative genius of the pharaohs of tourists jet across the skies, cruise buried around the Pyramids in Egypt, through the oceans and tour in buses before leaving the continent. One can through the highways in search of most only imagine the economic spin-offs of what Africa has: unique cultures, from such a trip. unspoiled nature and pristine and Cognisant of the huddles on the way to tranquil environments. However, while achieving this laudable goal, especially tourists are exploring destinations the lack of political enthusiasm with and immortalising the attractions and a pan African economic community, experiences in photos, economic growth and the threat posed by the wanton and development occur simultaneously. destruction of the African natural and Achas Safari Magazine holds the firm cultural heritage, we nonetheless believe lmost two decades conviction that Africa has the resources in the common truism that all great after the adoptionand the potential to be a major player in achievements begin with an ambitious of the United this global market place. dream. And so we dare to dream, while Nations’ Millennium Hence, our mission at Achas Safari maintaining in our consciousness Development Goals, Magazine is to champion the the fact that fantasising alone will not poverty levels on of African tourism by attracting world develop Africa. Therefore, this is a call the African continent still remain attention to the treasure house of to action, with Achas Safari Magazine Aunacceptably high. While world-wide Africa’s natural and man-made heritage. leading the charge to take Destination absolute poverty levels have dropped We hold a fervent view that the key to Africa (DA) to the world. While we sharply from 40% to under 20%, unlock Africa’s developmental potential anxiously wait for the formation of extreme poverty levels still stand at lies in the unique and elegant tourists an African Tourism Organisation 42.7% in Sub-Saharan African (World attractions in our communities. The (ATO) to spearhead the management/ Bank, 2014). strategy to unearth this untapped marketing of Destination Africa (DA), Despite the above situation, we at Achas tourism gold mine requires both a Achas Safari Magazine has begun Safari Magazine see in the current global supply and demand side approach. the journey that will culminate in tourism boom an amazing opportunity Supply side strategies should start from Destination Africa sitting on the throne for fast-tracking Africa’s development. awakening community and political of tourism as the destination of choice This great optimism is based on the consciousness to the economic potential and the envy of the world. rich tapestry of tourism resources on of tourism, considering the industry’s the continent. From the deep caves capability to create jobs, attract foreign He who has put this beautiful vision harbouring the cradle of Humankind exchange and stimulate subsidiary and dream in us will surely bring it to in South Africa through rich palaces industries. Demand side strategies, fruition. showcasing ancient civilizations in on the other hand, would necessitate Foumban (Cameroon), Timbuktu and that Africa aggressively joins the In God we Trust! many others to the inexhaustible history bandwagon of tourism marketing and and treasure of the pharaohs of ancient actively package its tourism products in Egypt, it is evident that Africa offers a colourful and irresistible manner. In *Publisher/CEO more than the world can explore in a highly competitive tourism business Dr. Paul Nkemngu Acha-Anyi one life time. Furthermore, it is worthy space, this would demand product Lecturer: Tourism Development of note that each acre of the continent packaging that cuts across political & Economics from Cape to Cairo, from Nairobi to boundaries and a greater focus on the Tshwane University of Technology Abuja has a unique cultural heritage, general good rather than a solo national Pretoria-South Africa with an endless plethora of wildlife in mentality. A common visa system its natural habitat and an unspoiled for Africa would make it possible haven of scenic beauty, coastlines and for tourists to be mesmerised by the waterfalls. Hence, there is no gainsaying spirit of African resistance in Robben that the current tourism bonanza offers Island (South Africa), experience the the ideal conditions for Africa to avail indigenous culture of the Maasai in its tourism treasure to the service and Kenya, spend quality time with African development of the continent’s peoples. traditional royalty at the Sultan’s palace

3 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 Achas Safari Contents Magazine

Publisher, Chairman and CEO: Dr. Acha-Anyi Paul Nkemngu Co-Publisher/Editor-in-Chief: Martin A. Nkemngu Managing Editor: Dr. Afutendem Lucas Nkwetta Editor: Linda Mbacham Tajocha Assistant Editor: Anutatu Peter Contributing Editors: H.R.H Chief Foanyi Nkemanyang Paul Louis Nkembi Ndimuh Bertrand Shancho Prof. Fomin Stephen Wose Martin Theodore Mih Ndze Yerima Kini Nsom Acha Junior Jude Consulting Editors: Nkeze Mbonwoh Achu Rosette Paul E. Kode Dr. Ndam Lawrence Nana Walter Wilson Foreign Correspondents: Pretoria: Portia Siyanda Sifolo London: Alemanji Bernard Washington DC: Thomas Bekong Amsterdam: Dr. Karel Kleijn Paris: Fontem Ajong Christopher Bonn: Daikon Hans Gerd Greveling Toronto: Dr. Nkemngu Njinkeng Joseph Nairobi: Anne Louis Awa Achu Marketing/Circulation: Atabong Asaba Sama Cosmas Tazoacha Business/Financial Manager Asongu Mercy Legal Advisers: Tiku Oscar Tabi Nkea Aleambong Emmanuel Legenju Vitalis Graphics/Photo Editor:

Advertising: Eddy Etawo Anu Paul Nkeze Nji Stephen Design/Layout: Lartey Matike Computer Secretary: Lilian Ngolefac Contacts: +(27) 725898873 Email: [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Website: www.achasuniversityinstitute.com4 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 Paul Biya and Uhuru Kenyatta Lead Africa in Fight Against Poaching

President Uhuru Kenyatta sets tusks ablaze as Ali Bongo of Gabon and others look on. By Martin A. Nkemngu Park, a sprawling wildlife-filled oasis in Kenya’s capital city. Doused in fuel, smoke Africa is in the midst of quickly began to billow from each of the Cameroon and Kenya are two countries intricately assembled piles. Bright orange a poaching crisis, driven which share a few things in common. The blazes soon overtook them, blackening Cameroon Mountain, the formerly pristine pyramids. the highest peak in primarily by demand in West Africa, is found By the time the last flames in Cameroon while flickered out, Kenya hadAsia for wildlife products. Mount Kenya, also one reduced 105 tons of elephant of the highest in Africa, ivory and 1.35 tons of rhino Three-quarters of illegal is located in Kenya. horn to smouldering ash - the Besides, both countries final remains of some 6,500 ivory makes its way to are home to a wide elephants and 450 rhinos variety of animals and killed for their tusks and China, while Vietnam is plants, a great attraction horns. As President Kenyatta for thousands of tourists said in his speech, the burn the largest market for from around the globe. is meant to send a strong and This explains why last clear message to the world: “For us, ivory rhino horn. April, Presidents Paul Biya of Cameroon is worthless unless it is on our elephants.” and Uhuru Kenyatta of Kenya made Africa is in the midst of a poaching crisis, world headlines by burning huge driven primarily by demand in Asia black and white rhinos. stockpiles of ivory, rhino horns and for wildlife products. Three-quarters of Earlier, in a similar action,under the related manufactured objects in separate illegal ivory makes its way to China, while instructions of President Paul Biya, some occasions in the two countries,proof Vietnam is the largest market for rhino 2000 elephant tusks and 1753 objects of their determination to put a stop to horn. made of ivory were burnt to ashes at widespread poaching. US State Department in March, estimated the Yaoundé Conference Centre by Uhuru Kenyatta, President of Kenya, the elephant population to hover around Cameroon’s Minister of Forestry and bent over to light a tray of fuel, with the 400,000, indicating that one in five Wildlife, Ngole Philip Ngwese in the eyes of a thousand observers fixated on elephants has been killed for their tusks presence of the permanent representative his back. Looming in front of him was a during the past ten years. Last year 1,338 of the United States to the United Nations, massive tower of ivory - one of 11 starkly rhinos were killed for their horns, out of a Samantha Power and civil society groups. white pyres set up at Nairobi National total estimated population of just 25,600

5 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 According to official statistics, an average of 30,000 elephants are killed yearly in Africa by traffickers who smuggle the tusks to Asia for sale.

Colonel Didier Badjeck, spokesman for Cameroon’s military, told VOA that security forces recently have engaged in gun battles with poachers in Bouba- Ndjida National Park. Approximately 20 elephants also were killed in the immense park in 2015. Sudanese rebels on horseback, armed with automatic weapons, are believed to Cameroon’s Minister of Forestry and Wildlife, Ngole Philip have killed hundreds of elephants there in 2012, National Geographic reported Ngwesse and Samantha Power, Permanent Representative of the recently. Under Cameroon law, anyone found The incineration exercise of the 3510kg elephants in the Bouba Ndjida Park in guilty of trafficking protected species risks of seized ivory,according to the Minister, the North Region is yet to meet financial a 1-3 years jail and a fine of FCFA 3-10 is based on President Biya’s order to end commitment as requested by the Head of million (US$ 5000-16000). Cameroon is poaching in the country. Through this State to fund government’s plan,” Ngole one of the countries that was identified act, he said, the government not only Philip Ngwese lamented. as being most heavily implicated in the aims to demonstrate its commitment to Notwithstanding, Cameroon has signed illegal trade in ivory at the 16th meeting fighting against poaching activities in the three agreements with neighbouring of the Conference of the Parties to country, it is also aimed at respecting states to establish a common front against CITES (CoP16)in Bangkok, Thailand, the different international agreements cross-border poaching. in 2013. The countries were categorized which it ratified, in terms of fight against Samantha Power said incinerating seized as countries of “primary concern” (eight the illegal marketing of protected species ivory tusks was a strong message from parties) and “important to watch” (six under threat of extinction. Cameroon’s Head of State to those who parties).In terms of countries in Central The elephant tusks destroyed and West Africa, Cameroon, Republic represent material seized of Congo, Democratic Republic of from wildlife traffickers Congo (DRC), Gabon and Nigeria across the country. are all parties of “secondary concern” The pile of elephant tusks and have been requested to develop and hundreds of finished National Ivory Action Plan (NIAP), ivory products and objects while Angola is among the parties were evaluated at over FCFA “to watch” and has also been asked to 2 billion (US $3.5 million). develop a NAIP. Cameroon for the first A kilogram of raw ivory commanded time publicly destroyed its US$2,100 ( FCFA 1.2 million) last stockpile of illegal ivory seized year, up from $750 ( FCFA 430.000) in from poachers evaluated at 2010, according to Save the Elephants, 3.5 tons. a conservation group. The Minister of Forestry Public opinion, however, remains and Wildlife, Ngole Philip divided about the wisdom of burning Ngwese, during the ceremony, Piles of elephant tusks ready for burning in Nai- ivory to deter poachers. Some think on behalf of the Head of State, that the seized ivory should be stated that “We’d rather step auctioned and the proceeds used to up efforts to protect elephants than live deal in the monstrous trade. equip guards in the fight against poachers. with haunting memories of slaughtered The elephant population in Bouba Ndjida Others think that it is a tricky issue to elephants by keeping their tusks.” reduced from 800 in 2008 to fewer than burn seized ivory tusks.Many are of the 300 today, with Samantha Power saying view that this will not deter poachers from Guards Killed this was a clear indication that routes their lucrative ventures. While regretting that 2000 elephant to illegal poaching networks were well Ms. Immaculate Nkong, a senior staff in tusks represent 1000 elephants killed, the carved. the Ministry of the Economy, Planning Forestry Minister disclosed that over 600 She declared ,“Countries like the US and Regional Development admits that firearms and a significant stock of about have banned imports of ivory tusks from “The issue is complex. The burning may 3000 ammunition were destroyed barely a Africa, with the UN working on reducing serve to sensitise public opinion against week earlier in Bertoua in the East Region its demand. Meantime, China as part of buying or owning ivory. Yet, it is hard as part of efforts to protect elephants. He efforts to scale down trade in the product to say whether poachers will stop their said the destruction was therefore a happy has cut by half the price for ivory in the macabre activities because of burning.” completion of efforts that started in 2014. past two years. Conservation efforts in Whatever the situation, it is clear that He disclosed that over 1000 wildlife Congo Basin forests should be reinforced. Cameroon and Kenya have sent a guards have in recent years been deployed However, Cameroon cannot do it alone to protected areas that are most prone to and together, let us take this step.” very clear message to the world about poaching. But again regretted that in less The bloody toll in elephant poaching their resolve to combat poaching in a than four years, “We recorded the deaths continues to climb in Cameroon, where sustainable manner. of three eco-guards, four village hunting security forces reportedly killed a What is certain is that Paul Biya and guards and one hunting guide- all gunned handful of Sudanese rebels suspected of Uhru Kenyatta have taken the lead in the down by poachers”. “The international slaughtering the animals for their valuable fight that needs the cooperation of other outcry sparked by the mass killing of ivory tusks. African countries to succeed. 6 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 Cameroon’s Tourism Ambition: One Million Tourists By 2020, Says Bello Bouba maigari

By Theodore M. Ndze embarked on the promotion of tourism internally as well as internationally especially in Europe, The Minister of State for Tourism and Leisure, America and Asia. This is the secret about how we Bello Bouba Maigari says Cameroon is on go about pushing tourism forward,” Bello Bouba course to welcome over one million tourists declared. by the year 2020. Since his appointment in December 2011, Bello Bouba Maigari has been working to Bello Bouba Maigari, With the country bracing Minister of State for make Cameroon a tourist destination in Tourism and Leisure Africa for both foreign and local tourists. up to host the Women Since assuming Office of Minister of State for Tourism and Leisure, much has changed and Men’s African Cup relating to infrastructure, training, quality of of Nations in November service and the increase in flow of tourists. Cameroon already attained the level this year and 2019 of being a tourism destination in respectively, the Minister 2010. From 2011, the number of international tourist arrivals in of State is leaving no stone Cameroon had risen above 900 000 almost reaching the 1 000 unturned to make sure 000 international tourists per visitors to Cameroon feel year stipulated in the Growth and Employment Strategy at home during the two Paper targeted to be received sporting jamborees. by Cameroon in 2020. “We are already above this figure as per our statistics of 2012 and 2013. This is as In an exclusive interview with the Africa Star a result of concerted efforts Magazine recently, Mr. Bello Bouba outlined his between the Ministry of plans for the Ministry of Tourism & Leisure, and Tourism and Leisure, his determination to make the country maintain promoters of the private its status of Africa in Miniature. sector of tourism and other He said when he arrived the Ministry, Cameroon partner administrations. was already recognized as a tourist destination We work in close in 2010. After the reorganization of Government collaboration and we on 9th December 2011, he worked out a new sensitize them on organization chart in 2012 in which they brought the importance of in the Leisure aspect as a department on its own. constructing standard The Follow-up Unit for Training was raised quality hotels as well as to a Division giving it more attributes. The providing quality services.” reason for these changes was to lay emphasis The State has equally on tourism leisure activities which were never developed some tourist seen as important and the training which is very sites and constructed some important to build up capacities of personnel hotels to add to what the in order to improve the quality of service in the private sector is doing. tourism industry. Other Tourism Information The Prime Minister,Offices were also opened in Beijing-China and Head of Government Washington in USA to add to that of Paris, France personally coordinates that was earlier created. activities of the sector through Tourism “We are also focusing our attention now on Eco- National Council that tourism as one of our core products in the South holds thrice every and South West Regions following insecurity year. In this important threats by the terrorist group Boko Haram. We development meeting, have developed some sites, constructed and all actors of the rehabilitated some state hotels like Parliamentarian sector are implicated Flats and Mountain Hotel in Buea, Agric Show and asked to carry Hotel in Ebolowa and we are still in the process out development of constructing more to improve on tourism in the different areas of infrastructure in our country,” the Minister stated. intervention to facilitate the growth and development of Bello Bouba noted that tourism is a driving force . The in most economies because of the importance of Ministry of Tourism and Leisure in its policy also tourism as the number one industry in the world

7 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 after petroleum and automobile in terms of employment, income generation and growth. Because of this, he stated, that the Head of State, His Excellency Paul decided to declare tourism a priority sector for the growth of our economy. He said there are a multiplicity of tourism establishments and activities such as hotels, restaurants, travel agencies and tour guides etc. in Cameroon today because of the increase in demand for tourist services since tourists inflow has witnessed an increase. With all the available facilities, tourists are assured to have good quality services in a secure environment and good value for the money spent. Among the services provided, security has been stepped up to make sure that tourists move freely and remain save and protected. Apart from the development in hotel infrastructure, a number of other projects are on course. These include; the development of holiday camps in Sangmelima, leisure park in Buea, recreation park in Ebolowa, water sports resorts in Maga and Lagdo, leisure attraction Park in Yaoundé and a giant aquarium for exhibition of water and marine products in Yaoundé. In terms of service, MINTOURL ensures that when tourists come to Cameroon, they should go back completely satisfied so that they can always come back with their friends and relatives for repeat business. In May 2015 Training Programmes in the Tourism sector were harmonized and validated alongside the draft project on Validation of Acquired Experiences (VAE). A Professional Reference Training School in Tourism, Hospitality and Leisure is earmarked to be constructed in Bertoua in the East Region of Cameroon.This school Offices or Bureaus in America, China will help in the training of professionals and France to ensure proper promotion at all levels so that services in all tourism and marketing of Cameroon destination My vision for Cameroon establishments will be delivered by well to tour operators, travel agents, foreign train professionals. medias and other specialized tourism tourism by 2035 is that So far the new harmonized and organs through our representatives it should be an industry validated programmes in tourism were deployed to these countries.” implemented last year in Limbe and with well trained Yaoundé in November and December 2015 The performance scorecard or graph of professionals and should respectively. This same implementation the Ministry of Tourism and Leisure is on will continue in Douala, Bafoussam and the rise. Though within the back-drop of be able to receive more Garoua in 2016 to adequately reinforce fallen petrol prices in the world market than 5 million foreign the capacities of personnel of tourism and Boko Haram threat that is causing a establishments in the towns that will host dwindling effect on our economy, tourism tourists, provide 75% the 2016 female and 2019 male African development is advancing as more of employment and Nations Cup. All above measures are to standard hotels are being constructed ensure that services are improved to meet including those of the state. Many tourist contribute above 50% of with international standards. sites are also being developed and quality the National Income of “There are some changes in terms of of service in tourism establishments is also deployment of some of our senior staff improving combined with relative peace our economy. in our foreign information offices. The that is reigning in Cameroon. strategy we are using in the Ministry “As the head of the Ministry of Tourism of Tourism and Leisure is to promote and Leisure, I will like to see Cameroon our tourism products nationally and Tourism Industry rise to the first position persuading them on what they have to do. internationally making sure we reach our in Africa by 2035 with most of its “It is true that there were many check points target clients. We want to sell Cameroon development, promotion and marketing and security harassments by some over- destination to tourists all over the world activities carried out by a devoted well- zealous officers. Through a series of joint because we need them for the development structured Tourism Board. I will also meetings with other partner administrations of our economy, our country and to go like to see the private tourism sector fully of the police and gendarmerie during above the target of more than one million developed, taking initiatives and being National Tourism Council, most of the check international tourists per year before 2020 responsible rather than the Ministry points have been removed and there is little to get Cameroon top destination in Africa. or no harassment of tourists. The aim of It is for this reason that our Head of State security is to ensure protection of tourists decided to create Tourism Information not harassemment. 8 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 Cameroon is home to world’s biggest frog *ERuDeF battling extinction of Goliath Frog By Ndimuh Bertrand Shancho adjacent communities are involved in hunting activities. Listed as Endangered on the “I used to make about FCFA 200000 a Red List of the International week from the sales of frogs especially Union for the Conservation during the peak periods that run from of Nature (IUCN), goliath, November to February but now I hardly the world’s biggest and most can make up to 50000 a week no matter endemic frog species currently the period. “Explains Andre, a goliath risks extinction given wanton frog trader in Douala hunting and habitat destruction This trade is even more flourishing in in the Nlonako Mountains the villages of Kola, Lalla and Magamba Littoral Region Cameroon. that are directly adjacent to the Nlonako Endemic to the Nlonako Mountains. “Our most regular customers Mountains and parts of are foreigners and travelers who usually Equatorial Guinea, the Goliath buy these frogs either for or out of Frog known by its scientific curiosity owing to its large size. There are name Conraua Goliath plays some of them as big as the size of a new an invaluable ecological role born baby” he adds in maintaining the ecosystem According to a preliminary study and is known for its medicinal undertaken by a Biodiversity properties notably the fight Conservation Postgraduate Student at against diseases like malaria and ERuDeF institute of Biodiversity and yellow fever as they feed on the Non-Profit Studies (ERuDeF Institute) larvae of the insects that cause , Grace Neba, Nlonako adjacent these diseases. communities make up to FCFA 3million This rare amphibian specie has ( USD 6000) every year from the sales of unfortunately been subjected Goliath frogs, a situation that has raised to overexploitation by pet Boy with Goliath Frog doubts about the future of this amphibian traders and loss of habitat from species. communities adjacent to its According to IUCN Global Amphibian natural habitat. Approximately Red list Assessment of 2004, amphibians are far 2000 Goliath more threatened than either birds or mammals, with An average size goliath frog, according frogs are exploited 32.5% of amphibian (1,856 species) being globally to a pet trader in Nlonako, costs between threatened compared with 12% of birds (1,211 FCFA 5000(USD 10) and 30000(USD 60) annually and species) and 23% of mammals (1,130 species). depending on the size. commercialized ERuDeF Institute in partnership with Cameroon’s “It’s a delicacy in this village. We Ministry of Forestry and Wildlife, the Helsinki Zoo- serve it to visitors and during special on the Douala- USA, University of Buea has been engaged in baseline occasions. We also sell it to travelers on Nkongsamba survey aimed at establishing the decree of threat faced the highways” recounts a native of Kola, by this frog specie in the hands of poachers. Efforts a community adjacent to the Nlonako highway mostly to are underway for the gazetting of this mountain, Mountains. About 80%of Nlonako foreign nationals. which is host to over 93 amphibian species. 9 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 Ecotourism, ‘’ Our Hidden Treasures’’

By Earnest Yuniwo Njila* Ecotourism or Responsible travel is conservation efforts, sustainableharnessed for ecotourism purposes an environmentally responsible travel benefits to local communities, active and propose to tourists as the main to natural areas that still maintain a local participation in decision making product of the projects. high degree of originality in order and the education of both the locals For instance, ecotourism development to enjoy and appreciate nature and and the visitors on environmentally around a mountain should have at same time savouring the cultures sensitive issues. Ecotourism also hiking, bird watching, safari, of the local population. Ecotourism referred to as community based adventure tours, and mountain race seeks to promote conservation, tourism (CBT) is a community as main activities of the ecotourism minimises visitor impact, provides centered activity that depends on package. In order to involve the local socio economic benefits to the local the local population as the main population, these activities are spiced communities and ensures the active stakeholders or main actors for its by cultural display. involvement of the local population. efficiency. Unlike other human activities, How does ecotourism operate? Ecotourism is distinguished by its Ecotourism projects are usually Ecotourism developed emphasis on conservation, education, developed in local areas that still traveller responsibility and active maintain some degree of originality in around community community participation. cultures, biodiversity, environment as forest is accompanied From a more specific perspective, well as other unique features that are by biodiversity responsible travel is characterised peculiar to these areas. Here, we mean by a conscientious low-impact features like mountains, waterfalls, observation, bird visitor behaviour, sensitivity towards lakes, valleys, community forest etc. watching, nature tours the appreciation of local cultures Each feature here has a set of and biodiversity, support for local accompanying activities that can be 10 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 In situations where culture of a and their fallouts that goes into the generates alternative activities to Ecotourism, ‘’ Our Hidden Treasures’’ locality constitute the main feature project fund, which is later used for complement income generation on which the project is developed, development and provision of social especially during low seasons. The cultural display, arts and craft, facilities in the locality. local population can be trained museums, folklore, local , Ecotourism as a nature based activity on activities like bee hive keeping dressing, language, heritage tours, greatly contributes to environmental and honey production, mushroom tales, traditional wrestling make up protection, biodiversity conservation production, craft work, poultry the items that are packaged around and cultural preservation. farming, piggery, etc. They can now the culture for ecotourism purposes. It also leads to the empowerment practice it on a daily basis while Other features like lakes, waterfalls, of the local population as it creates waiting for the tourism season. caves, valleys also have what can be numerous jobs and employment Ecotourism with this multi- developed and package to develop opportunities at different levels and dimensional impact has been ecotourism around them. hence reducing unemployment rates adopted by many countries today How does Ecotourism benefit the in rural areas. For instance, people as panacea to underdevelopment, local population? gain jobs in the provision of services solution to unemployment, tool Being the main actors on which like tour guides, potters, local cuisine, for environmental and biodiversity the project is developed, the local interpreters, souvenirs providers, conservation, an instrument for population has a multidimensional cultural and theatre groups, traditional cultural preservation, as well as the benefits. fabric designers, museum attenders, cradle of financial and economic On the one hand, their direct etc. All these options are lucrative and empowerment. involvement in the projects enables generate a lot of income for the actors them to earn direct income from the thus leading to high cash flow in the Earnest Yuniwo Njila holds an M.A sales of arts and craft objects, local communities. This directly enhances in Tourism management Chief of Service cuisine, souvenir objects, services like their purchasing power and improves for Tourism Enterprise at the SW tour guides and potters, tales, tips to on their living conditions. Regional Delegation of Tourism and dance groups and other performances. Considering that ecotourism like any Leisure, Buea On the other hand, the consumption other form of tourism is a seasonal of the main product by the tourists activities, ecotourism projects always SILICON HOTEL P.O. Box 644 Tel: 680672753, 677550050, 677550060 Mile 17 Bomaka, Buea

SILICON Hotel is undoubtedly an excellent hotel the standards of International class hotel by every of class situated at Mile 17 Bomaka, Buea. The standards. Room service is unbeatable. 35-room hotel has a green vision, pregnant with The rooms are air conditioned, with modern TV meaning of, comfort, smart services and a place sets including internet services. To crown it all, for social rejuvenation. SILICON Hotel adds to its numerous services a It has a modern Bar + Restaurant that resonates nightclub. SILICON Hotel is home at home. 11 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 LIMBE FESTAC: Cameroon’s Mirror of Culture

of the land—its chthonic traditions— By Benjamin ET-NCHENGE with national territory and sovereignty. “To succeed, we These are symbolic musings to be sure, must restore Not long ago, April 2 – 9, 2016, Limbe suggesting possible interpretations of staged the Third Edition of its Festival of FESTAC’s cultural presentation in the the link between Arts and Culture (LIMBE FESTAC) to popular imagination. culture, creativity, celebrate the “individuality, the antiquity, Viewed from within, the Community and the power of the Cameroonian.” Field offered state-of-the-art facilities. and mastery of Featured as a Cameroonian fair, FESTAC, The orchestral stand was the major modern technology this unique initiative conceived by Limbe showpiece, providing an extravagant City Council Government Delegate, venue for cultural performances and and industrialism Andrew Motanga Monjimba, produced dance-dramas, and a rampart of stage- ... to endow every an extravagant spectacle of ethnic lights. diversity, Cameroonian nationalism, Radio and television booths were visibly Cameroonian with a and utopian modernity which literally alive to broadcast FESTAC performances new society, deeply staged as “cultural tradition” in Limbe’s to the outside world. Should you need to Community Field. This week-long festival relieve yourself during the performance, rooted in our cultural of cultural revival, from its planning littered closed-circuit video consuls in identity.” stages to the prizes and awards closing the hallways and lavoratories allowed ceremony, officiated by the Minister of you to watch the show as you went Arts and Culture, Jean Narcisse Mouelle about your business! These venue We can appreciate the event’s popular Kombi, a distinctive ideology of black served the one basic component of appeal in the affirmation of common culture emerged which owed much FESTAC 2016; the choreographed origins, racial brotherhood and shared to early ideas from elsewhere, but in performances of traditional cultures cultural values that were voiced by key respects diverged from them. The and dramatic arts. Equally important, elite on behalf of the masses and underlying “secret’ of FESTAC’s cultural however, were the large exhibition halls disseminated by the mass media. project, motivating over 5000 tourists which displayed traditional sculpture, whose representation of culture and FESTAC was, after all, a grand party. musical instruments, and architectural Traditional music dominated the race, was the development of a regulated technology, as well as modern art works, economy which revitalized the city with airwaves, as Limbe hospitality attained mostly by Cameroonians. new heights. unprecedented wealth. A modernist vision was thus clearly inscribed on the surfaces and in the spaces Regimes of Value The Community Field of the Community Field, embracing the The Community Field, venue of LIMBE FESTAC’s emblem performed a latest audiovisual and administration double synthesis; first, it connected FESTAC, established the exemplary center technology in Cameroon’s smallest and not only of festival activities, but also of all Cameroonians with the wealth of wealthiest Council. As a champion and their culture, and second, through the new Limbe. Its structures resembled herald of a new order, Limbe played the hub of a cosmographic piece host, through its Community Field, to the ambiguity of the gold rectangle, it radiating through architectural spokes the widest reaches of the black world. In brought the wealth of Cameroonian to embrace the modern world. Viewed the official discourse of the organizers, culture to the rest of the world. from the outside, the arena resembled FESTAC’s goals were made explicit: Visitors were indeed welcome to attend an earthly habit, as if linking the wealth FESTAC and enjoy its festivities. They

12 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 were also welcome to purchase works of art: not original antiques, of course, but replicas and contemporary paintings and sculptures. Here is the consumption of culture commodified. The true value of an exhibited culture, unperturbed by local taxes, was measured in US dollars—the international currency of global capital and key ingredient of industrial development. Closing Ceremony Clearly, any self-conscious recuperation of tradition simultaneously grounds a vision of modernity; and what varies in projects is not only the semantics of this grand opposition, but also the poetics of historical memory, what Raymond Williams calls the “structures of feeling” which inform collective recollections. In this retrospective light, FESTAC’s spectacle of Limbe writ large, and its techniques of illumination, represent a significant break from the imperial conventions of seeing and knowing the self through the other. As for FESTAC’s ethos, it was anything but nostalgic. Seeing itself in the mirror of cultural production, at once a reflection of forgotten achievements and self-styled “programme” for brighter future, the closing ceremony of FESTAC, watched by the Minister of Arts and Culture all the way from Yaoundé; the Governor of the South West Region Bernard Okalia Bilai, scores of traditional rulers; and participants to the festival from all over Cameroon, Nigeria, Republic of Benin, Togo and Ghana, produced a collective body in ecstasy. In fact, it would not be wrong to term it a mini Pan-African festival. For better and for worse, this fore-runner demonstrated that the postcolonial African subject could acknowledge and celebrate its own ambivalence—its multi-cultural, transnational, historical “hybrid” and unstable identities—in that global language of commodification which only money could afford. In all, a replay of this grand festival is anxiously awaited by each and all.

13 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 Hotel BELAVIE Detendez Vous

Nous somme situe Sis a Bonaberi entre la

14 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 Hotel BELAVIE Detendez Vous

Nous somme situe Sis a Bonaberi entre la PASTA

Contact: +237 698 638 188 / 698 634 288

15 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 KNOW YOUR AFRICA; VISIT OUR AFRICA

In this edition, Achas Safari introduces you to tourism in other countries in Africa. In our subsequent publications, we would take you to other African countries to discover their tourism potentials, opportunities and attractions. Come with us and visit the Kingdom of Swaziland with its yearly colourful cultural ceremonies, South Africa in its modernity and its rich cultural diversity and Tanzania for its enticing game parks and beautiful islands and captivating wildlife.

Tazania

Madagascar

Swaziland South Africa

16 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 Welcome to the kingdom of SWAZILAND The Hub of cultural tourism By Neliswa Nomkhosi Dlamini (Mbabane – Swaziland)

Bordered by the Republic of South Africa and Mozambique lies the small land locked Kingdom of Swaziland. This peaceful kingdom is known for its peaceful and welcoming inhabitants and it being the one of the few remaining executive monarchies in Africa.

Swaziland has drawn the world’s attention by their deeply rooted belief in their

culture by practising the Limpopo River all the way from Central 16th century. Whilst in Maputo, Dlamini Africa in search for land in to settle in. There I two son’s Mswati and Mthonga revolted cultural ceremonies was much instability within the Nguni tribes against each other over the succession of for power over each other during what is their father’s throne which led to King without fail yearly. known as the uMfecane movement which Mswati I becoming the leader of the Swazi Swazis to a certain extent are thought of as eventually led to their separation with the nation which later crossed the Lubombo very obsessed about their cultural heritage Zulu tribe led by the great King Shaka Zulu mountains and settled in what is now due to their belief that certain cultural settling in what is now known as Kwa-Zulu known as Swaziland under the leadership ceremonies are sacred and very crucial natal in South Africa, the Xhosa tribe settled of Dlamini III and Ngwane III respectively in their national unity and pride which in the Morden day Eastern Cape also in while the other son Mthonga remained in cements the eternity of the Swazis’ existence. South Africa and the Ndebele tribe in Kwa- Tongaland (Mozambique) and his tribe is However this has not gone with being Ndebele in South Africa’s Mpumalanga now known as the Tsonga’s or Shangaan’s. noticed by certain sceptics who have never province. Therefore Dlamini is the royal clan and shied away from criticising Swazi’s for such surname in Swaziland. Kings and Prime theories yet these humble clan seems to stay However, the Swazi’s led by Dlamini I in ministers can only come from the royal clan. true and proud of their culture. the late 15th century migrated past the Komati River and settled in Maputo where Under the leadership of King Somhlolo white History they mined iron in their free will before Dutch missionaries settled in Swaziland Swazi’s are part of the nomadic Nguni tribes Lourenco Marques (now Mozambique) which led to the Anglo Boer war in which (Zulu’s, Ndebele’s and Xhosa’s) that crossed was discovered by the Portuguese in the the English won and Swaziland became a

17 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 British colony. In 1968, under King Sobhuza II residence to take part in the 8 day cultural 3) Lutsango Reed Dance Swaziland peacefully gained its independence event. from the British. Swaziland is now ruled by This ceremony is led by the Kings wives known King Mswati III born Makhosetive Dlamini. Created in the 1940s in Swaziland under the as Emakosikati. This ceremony is attended by leadership of Sobhuza II was developed from married women and unmarried women who Tourism in Swaziland the ancient Umcwasho custom where young have children. These women cut reeds to show Tourism has always been and still is a crucial girls were grouped in age regiments so as to honour to the Queen the Indlovukati (Queen part of the economy of Swaziland. The tourism ensure that they are not deflowered until Mother) and the Ngwenyama (King) for four industry in Swaziland came to life during they come of age and they served the Queen days. the apartheid era in South Africa and the Mother concluded by dancing and a feast. Mozambican civil war. Between 1960-1990, 4) Bushfire arts and culture festival Swaziland adopted unique policies compared The purpose of the reed dance is to encourage The Kingdom of Swaziland plays host to the to its controversial neighbours such as young women and young girls to preserve Annual MTN Bushfire Festival which is held legalizing gambling which led to an influx of their chastity until marriage, to honour the every May and was announced by CNN as one tourists into the Kingdom which had a positive Queen Mother’s and to encourage unity and of the “Seven African music festivals you really impact on the Swazi economy. Tourist also solidarity among women by working together. need to see”. This festival is Swaziland’s globally visited Swaziland to watch television channels The girls gather at the Queen Mothers royal acclaimed music and arts festival that opens a and sporting activities that were prohibited in residence at Ludzidzini for 8 days to cut platform for individuals and organisations to South Africa. Statistics show that the number reeds, bring them back to the Queen bundled celebrate creative expression whilst promoting of tourists increased from 89 015 in 1972 to together and dance before the King and the social responsibility, boosting the economy 257 997 in 1989 while in 1988 tourism was 3% Queen Mother, Swazi citizens, international and attracting talent from all the corners of the of the GDP of the Kingdom and more than 4% dignitaries, the kings wives and international globe which had its tickets sold out three days of its total exports. tourists and media. before the festival commenced last year after a 2) Incwala ceremony mad rush for them globally. When the apartheid era civil war ended in The Incwala ceremony, also known as the Every year for the past nine years, the Bushfire South Africa and Mozambique tourism activity first ceremony is the most sacred festival attracts 20 000- 25 000 people from decreased significantly in Swaziland since ceremony in the Swazi tradition. It takes place all over the world to the scenic farmlands of tourists were now travelling to the Kingdoms in December and January depending on the Malkerns Valley to experience the three day neighbours who offered much more in terms date selected by traditional astrologers in event well known for offering eclectic and of tourism. In an attempt to revive its declining conjunction to the moon and sun phases. The multi-dimensional programming deeply tourism industry Swaziland established the king is very significant in this ceremony. This rooted in world music and also creates Swaziland Tourism Authority in 2003 which ceremony starts with “ Bemanti” travelling to harmony among revellers. still exist and is responsible for marketing Mozambique’s Indian ocean to collect water A creative programme is compiled yearly which tourism in Swaziland internationally. and return to the royal kraal where the little consists of themed workshops, discussions, art Swaziland now focuses on marketing itself as incwala (incwala lencane) commences(has to exhibitions and installations, guest speakers, a cultural tourism destination where tourists coincide with the full moon), young men from theatre shows, poetry, dance, storytelling, can get the pleasure of seeing ancient Swazi all over the kingdom walk to a specific area puppetry, film and musical performances. This ceremonies such as the to collect the sacred branches of the acacias creates a space for networking and discussion (lusekwane) shrub. On the third day of the of issues surrounding arts and culture at 1) Umhlanga Reed Dance ceremony festival a bull is slaughtered with bear hands community level around the globe. by the youths so as to show unity amongst The Umhlanga (Reed Dance) ceremony is the young men. On the fourth day, the King, Conclusion an annual cultural festival that takes place at in full traditional incwala regalia joins the Swaziland earns its right of being called the end of August falling on to the beginning warriors in dance in the royal kraal. The King the cultural tourism hub of Africa beyond of September yearly at the Ludzidzini royal then eats the first fruits of the season and joins reasonable doubt. However this little kingdom residence where thousands of unmarried and his people when the nation can also eat the has a lot more to offer besides its culture. It childless virgin Swazi girls and women leave first fruits with a go ahead from ancestors. has beautiful landscapes, game parks and their chiefdoms and travel to Ludzidzini royal numerous fun activities.

18 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 MOUNTAIN HOTEL

ountain Hotel Buea is a tourist resort of class Mountain hotel has for decades catered for people situated at the foot of Mount Cameroon, who have shaped the destinies of Cameroon by the highest peak in West Africa. The three hosting historic events like the Reunification that Star Hotel has 123 rooms made up of solidified relations between our two entities. Mlarge rooms, chalets and specious suites to match Today, the Conference Centre and the Banquet Hall its modern unchallenged standards. We offer both can host two separate events simultaneously. African and European delicious dishes with exotic With sophisticated airy and fragrantly equipped buffet on every Sundry including drinks of assorted rooms with prices cut to enable exquisite pleasures, kinds. Mountain Hotel also offers WI-FI in the premises, Mountain Hotel rooms are well equipped with large Olympic size swimming pool an attractive gardens modern beds, telephone, plasma high definition TV, with all that put its numerous clientele in the world of cable network that beams the world into your cozy social rejuvenation. rooms 24 hours nonstop and internet service. A hotel of international standards, it has airport shuttle Located in the very bowels of one of the historic towns and tourism facilities, sporting and entertaining of Cameroon, Buea, the once capital of the German gadgets that gives you the desired satisfaction. Cameroon, the capital of Southern , the P.O Box 10020, Tel: 233 32 22 99, 233 32 20 88 E-mail: [email protected] website: www.mountainhotelcameroon.com

19 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 Welcome to SOUTH AFRICA: An All-in-One Playground, “Diversity at Heart” By Portia Pearl Siyanda Sifolo Margaret Juszkiewicz (Tourism Management (Independent Contractor: Lecturer at Tshwane Univer- Education sity of Technology) Part-TimeLecturer: Tshwane University of Technology; IIE)

The tourism sector in South Africa caters to the diverse preferences of visitors. From the choice of transportation for the spectacular attractions, South Africa provides a refreshing experience. The airports possess modern infrastructure and comprehensive services for local and international travellers. The 2015 World Airport Awards crowned OR Tambo (Gauteng) as the best airport in Africa , with Cape Town International Airport second, and King Shaka International Airport in Durban finishing third. Travel by road is safe and made convenient by the effective road planning that links all the main cities and ports of this sub-continent including Maputo; Durban; Richard’s Bay; Port Elizabeth and Cape Town. Bracing the ocean by cruise or ferry allows tourists to enjoy yet another form of transportation. South Africa has the Begin the journey by understanding the history of human kind. The Cra- dle of Humankind is one of eight World Heritage Sites in South Africa. largest inland port in Africa, and the largest container depot. The landscape is peppered with subterranean limestone caves that have turned up a rich fossil record for human evolutionary studies, which lend credence to the ‘Out of Africa’ theory of where our ancestors came from.

Travel in style…. Get on track to the future! World-class efficiency South Africa comfortably presents the challenge to adventurous individ- & state-of-the-art technology merge in this long-awaited, rapid rail uals to abseil the steep slopes of Table Mountain in Cape Town. Table transport solution. Gautrain….,the first of its kind in Africa. Mountain is the largest mountain in South Africa. Adventure tourism on Table Mountain yields visitors who have embarked climbs on the highest mountains in such as Mt. Everest, K2 and Mt Kilimanjaro 20 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 Instead of visiting the distinct ecosystems of the Kruger Nation- The tourism sector understands the importance to economize al Park (in Mpumalanga)that cover vast bushes populated by during difficult times of global recession and possesses the the BIG 5, explore the Kingdom of Mapungubwe also known as tourist attractions that make traveling to the destination easier the “lost city”. The Kingdom of Mapungubwe gained this name for a visitor. due to remaining undiscovered for many years.

Visit the Mall of Africa, which is South Africa’s largest shopping mall ever built in a single phase, with 130 000m2 of retail space available. The Mall is home to over 300 shops, many of which are flagship stores. In addition to the vast array of both local and international brands, the Mall also boasts uniquely identified court areas made for easy shopping navigation as well as exceptional access, location and visibility that that caters for your preferences.

The three main marinas – opposite the Esplanade, at Wilson’s Wharf and at the Bluff (Kwa-Zulu/Natal) – are headquarters for cruises and ferries around the harbour, by day or night. The bay is also a great place to canoe, kayak or parasail. A number of charter companies offer boat fishing in its waters. 29km from Oudtshoorn, within the picturesque Cango Valley, lies the spectacular underground wonder of the Klein Karoo: the Cango Caves. There the tourist will find themselves encircled by the finest dripstone caverns, with vast halls and For scientific projects, the Northern Capeprovince has unique features, towering formations. such as the world’s largest telescope at Carnarvon, known as the Square South Africa is a land alive with unique experiences. Kilometre Array (SKA), among other tourists attractions.

Dine in the Sky and indulge in an exclusive concept. This culinary experi- ence of a lifetime, seats 22 diners above the Tuscan village of Montecasino (Sandton, Johannesburg).

South Africa invites you to come and play at the ideal tourist destination of Africa.

21 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 Chariot Hotel Buea For Reservation, Please call +237 233 22 32 33 Fax: +237 233 32 27 65 www.hotelchariotcameroon.com [email protected]

We are located at 750 metres from Mile 17 Buea, South West Region, Cameroon

22 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 Pa Longa Drums & Tanks: Lasting solution to water scarcity in Buea

Water scarcity is a big problem in most towns in Cam- eroon. ETS Mbah in Buea offers a lasting solution: plastic, iron drums and water tanks. He supplies large iron and plastic containers of all sizes ranging from 1000 to 10 000 cubic metres at very affordable prices! Take advantage and harness water for your home now. Guaranteed delivery and maintenance. Technicians available for installations. Supply points  Santa Barbara Buea  Mile 17 Buea  Kumba Contacts: MBAH David TEBONG (237) 672 460 202 / 693 275 164

23 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 24 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 Welcome to TANZANIA “ A Island”

BASIC FACTS:

The United Republic of Tanzania (Kiswahili: Jamhuri ya Muunga- no wa Tanzania), is a country in East Africa; bordered by Kenya, Uganda, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Mozambique, Zambia, Burundi, Rwanda, Malawi. Tan- zania is a result of the unification of Tanganyika (the mainland) and the Zanzibar islands. Tanganyika and Zanzibar united on 26th April 1964, forming the United Republic of Tanzania. Capital: Dodoma; President: John MAFIA ISLAND Magufuli; Prime minister: Kassim Majaliwa Population: 49.25 million (World Bank, 2013).

Culture The country is also a home to Af- rica’s richest ethno-cultural tourism which is derived from over 120 dif- ferent ethnic groups found in Tan- zania. All these culminate together to make Tanzania a unique place in world tourism.

THINGS TO DO IN TANZANIA PEMBA ISLANDS Tanzania offers some of the best at- tractions to both local and interna- Climb Mount Kilimanjaro; the the endangered Black Rhino. This is tional visitors, such as: highest mountain in Africa, famous also a world heritage site. Zanzibar The island of Unguja, for its snow-capped peak looming Serengeti national park is among part of Zanzibar, makes up the fi- over the plains of the savannah. the best-known big game safari des- nal Spice Island. Once part of the Visit Ngorongoro crater Ngoron- tinations in Africa and one of the British Empire, today Zanzibar is a goro is formed from a volcano most popular tourist attractions in semi-autonomous region of Tanza- erupting two to three million years Tanzania. It is famous for its annu- nia. The major tourist attraction is ago which has collapsed and formed al wildlife migration of wildebeest Stone Town, with its whitewashed a crater. It is also presently one of and zebra. coral rag houses. the most likely areas in Africa to see Selous Game reserve- This is a park 25 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 Savanna animals can be found in aircraft, and walking tours or riv- Ruaha national Park Located in the this reserve in greater numbers er trips are permitted, though no middle of Tanzania, the Ruaha Na- than in any other African game human habitation or permanent tional Park is the largest national reserve, Most visitors arrive by structures are allowed. park in the country.

NGONGORO CRATER MOUNT KILIMANJARO

SELOUS NATIONAL PARK

26 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 Role Models Mbarga Nguele And His Vision Of A People- Friendly Police years without promotion. But we have many young people who have raising to senior rangs within a short time”. It is important to note that Martin Mbarga Nguele is not heading the police corps in Cameroon for the first time. He already served as Delegate General for National Security from 1983 to 1984, though the period was too short for him to leave any obvious impact. On taking office in 2010, Mbarga Nguele pledged to do two things: ‘‘Leave nothing to chance for the police once again to become what it should be’’ and to ‘‘faithfully continue to serve Paul Biya, the Head S t a t e’’. Before becoming police boss, Mbarga Nguele had spent a long career as a diplomat, passing through the former Zaire to Brazil where he served as Mbarga Nguele: A man of reforms ambassador for 19 years before being appointed ambassador to Spain. By Eddy Etawo pay advantages, meritocracy in In his recent book, Defence promotions, extension of retirement Policy and National Security in The name Martin Mbarga Nguele age from 55 to 60 years for senior Cameroon(published in February and change have virtually become officers, introduction of seminars and 2012), Victorin Hameni Bieuleu, one synonymous in police circles in refresher courses amongst others. He of Cameroon’s opposition political Cameroon. At his appointment on is known to have banished tribalism, leaders recognises Mbarga Nguele as ‘a 30th August 2010 as Delegate General nepotism and corruption in police brave and patriotic police officer who for National Security, many observers recruitment examinations giving place found himself thrown into the political doubted that the 78- year- old retired to meritocracy and objectivity. arena without prior preparation’’. six- star senior superintendent of There is no gainsaying that Mbarga police- turned -diplomat would be A lady-five star commissioner of Nguele’s reforms have brought up to the task of reforming a police police said of the man “Mbarga satisfaction to the police corps that is force that was plagued by serious ills. Nguele has changed the police force now happy with its new- found status, When he took over, the reputation for the better. In the past, people use privileges and professionalism. of the Cameroon Police was at an to stay the same grade for about 18 Perhaps, the greatest beneficiary of all-time low: unbridled bribery and the reforms is the citizenry that now corruption, high-handedness, abuse of human rights, harassment of civilian population and inefficiency were some of the abuses attributed to the security forces. Today, six years down the road, most Cameroonians are agreed that Martin Mbarga Nguele has, through drastic reforms, improved the image of the Police in Cameroon. In fact, the positive change has revealed that age is no impediment to a clear vision and dynamism. Within a few years, the long serving diplomat and police Police Commissioner crafted a series of 15 decrees lately signed by the Head of State which enforced discipline, improved

27 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 Book Review: “Travels Without a Stethoscope”

Travels without a Steoscope by Gottlieb Lobe Monekosso 324 pages; FCFA 10 000.

Professor Gottlieb Monekosso is a man who needs no introThe author wrote a novel unconsciously through the dexterity of a reader who relishes literature and culture through a periscope of his scientific development that earned him an enviable posture, a guru in medicine, politics and diplomatic efficiency.  Born in Logos, Nigeria in 1928, he turned out to be a child of promise , who sailed through academics from Methodist Boys School in Lagos to University college Ibadan and to Guys at London University college of medicine. He became a Fellow of The Royal College of Physicians. His autobiographical account is reminiscent of a deep-seated researcher who investigated the causes of tropical diseases in the suburbs of Yorubaland and worked out solutions at the University of Ibadan from where he continued the pursuit several years after.[Chronic cyanide toxicity]. As advocate of the Alma Ata conference and the subse- quent Bamako initiative, greater involvement of Africa in decision making represented a paradigim shift which he saught to implement during his tenure of office in the years 1985-94[decade of significant achievement]. Having become a professor of Medicine in 1963, at the Uni- versity of Lagos , he was equipped to crisscross the continent of Africa to create Medical Schools and Health Institutions to upgrade Community Healthcare Delivery in Africa. He took a WHO job in Kingston, Jamaica which familiarized him to the West Indies. Thereafter, he had the opportunity of working in Makarere University where a medical col- lege was created. The case was the same for Dar-es-Salam and University Centre for Health Sciences/CUSS in Yaounde, camel, Changed his name , met with Nelson Mandela and Cameroon. made a scientific contribution to ANC, received three Ho- When he was elected to the post of WHO Director in Braza- noris causa from Makerere, Walter Sisulu University and Ile ville, he had both the aca- Ife. He received Queen Eliza- demic outfit as well as the beth Gold Medal of Honour. diplomatic audacity to fos- Professor Monekosso created ter his dream that meant, University Centre for Health the reinforcement of med- Sciences/CUSS, graduated First ical structures, develop- Doctors in Cameroon and be- ment of manpower and came Health Minister in 1997. implementation of medical The foreword is written by Dr. programmes through sus- Halfdan Mahler former Direc- tainable medical structures tor General at WHO. to care for the poor and ‘Travels without a stethoscope’ vulnerable across Africa. is another kind of book which In his onerous task of exe- explains the exploits of a sci- cuting his mission in Afri- entist without delving into sci- ca, he had the opportunity ences. It is bound in glossy of meeting almost all her hard cover with readable pag- leaders and it looked as if ination. he had become the “over- Readers may find it an essen- all” minister of health for tial handbook for administra- Africa.[Father of Medicine Prof. Gottlieb Lobe Monekosso with former President tors of all genres , while others in Africa, Walter Sisulu Nelson Mandela (late) who relish variegated literature University Honoris causa may pick it up and forget to Discourse 10th may, 2011]. take an appointment. In his confab, the author encounters vicissitudes like discrim- world he has so passionately im- ination, segregation and resistance but he implores knowledge pacted. He is the researcher, doctor of anthropology , satirical humour and diplomatic finesse. and consultant but holds fast for his Reading through the 324pages is deficient of studying the father’s wildest dream that he is a arsenal of expansive research and variegated expertise of the teacher. author. During his stewardship he received the gift of a

Reviewed by Yangange Martin Wose [LSJ]

28 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 Miss Beach Contest Brings Fun To Limbe

By Sama George

With an assortment of activities that are organized year long, Seme Beach Hotel has positioned itself as the place to be when you want to spend a week- end full of fun in Cameroon. One of those events is the Miss Seme Beach yearly contest that the ho- tel has gotten its guests used to. In its 8th edition, this year’s contest was held on May 14 2016 at the hotel premises presided over by the Senior Divi- sional Officer for Fako Zang III. The 2016 edition started in April when the orga- nizers moved to the Centre, West, Littoral, South West, North West and Adamawa from where 30 contestants were selected for the finals which took place on May 14 at Seme Beach HOTEL. Miss Marol Boname Mbolle, a 21 year-old student of the University of Douala emerged winner for 2016 followed by Miss Lucie Andrey Meneng and Miss Ange Veronique Sama as third. The Director of Seme Beach Hotel and President of the Organizing Committee, Yann Anoko, ex- pressed satisfaction at the end of the contest and congratulated the winners. The responsibilities of the new Miss Seme Beach include: promoting Cameroon Tourism by bring- ing to spotlight the most exciting tourist attrac- tions that Cameroon has to offer. Next year’s contest is already shaping up to be an even bigger and greater entertainment. With the hosting of the 2016 Women’s African Nation Cup and CAN in 2019, you should already make plans to be amongst the crowd that will wit- ness the rise of a new Miss Seme Beach 2017!

29 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 NEWS FROM ACHAS UNIVERSITY CAMPUS HND Students defend Internship Reports By: Tayem Lovert-Brown her work. Students also answered questions from the panel on the HND students of Achas University work they presented. The students Institute of Tourism and Business demonstrated a sound knowledge of Management defended their their work and answered questions Internship reports on April 25, 2016. asked with boldness and confidence. The defense that comprised twelve candidates took place at lecture hall The following is the list of students three of the institution. 9 students who successfully defended: defended from the department of tourism and Hotel Management, 2 • Department of Tourism and Hotel from the department of Transport Management: and Logistics and 01 from the 1.Agenganyi Patrick Nkemasung. department of Banking and Finance. 2.Fonji Joy. The defense panel constituted two 3.Ngang Maria. lecturers and one administrator 4.Nkafu Solange. from Achas University as well as a 5.Makem Jannis. representative from the HND office, 6. Kangne Mouofo Sintiche. Mrs Nde Fru. 7.Taboh Clarise. Prior to this D-day, the students 8.Tayem Lovert-brown. organized 2 pre-defense sessions 9.Violet Lum Numfor. aimed at helping them master their Projects. It was also an opportunity • Department of Transport and for them to improve on their Logistics. communication skills which are very 1.Kudu Claudia Keka. essential during defense. 2.Nkemawung Monica Nkafu. The defense proper started on April 25, 2016 at 8:00 am and lasted • Department of Banking and for three hours. Each student was Finance. given 15 minutes to present his / 1.Ebile Rita.

Open Competition for an article / letter: Winner gets a prize of FCFA 10 000 From High Schools: Talent Search The winning article /letter gets a prize of FCFA 10 000 Students should send their article/letter to the following address: [email protected] or [email protected]. Or deposit the article at the campus of Achas University behind Biaka Hospital.

Achas Scholarship: (Achas pays for school related expenses to a maximum of FCFA 200, 000 frs per recipient). Students in need of financial assistance may apply for this bursary. Applicants must be in upper sixth or holders of an Advanced Level G. C. E. pass. All applicants are advised to submit their details early as the award of the bursary is competitive. Evidence of academic dedication and commitment will be required. Applicants should fill in the following form:

SECTION A: APPLICANT’S DETAILS NAME: ………………………………………………. SURNAME: ………………………………………………...... TELEPHONE NUMBER: ………………………………………………………………......

SECTION B: INSTITUTION OR SCHOOL WHERE YOU ARE STUDYING NOW NAME OF SCHOOL: …………………………………………………………………………………………….…….……. ADDRESS OF SCHOOL: …………………………………………………………………………………………….…….... NAME OF ANY EDUCATOR WHO KNOWS YOU AT THE SCHOOL: ……………………………………………….... TELEPHONE NUMBER OF EDUCATOR: ……………………………………………………………………….…….… Send your application by post (P. O. Box 561, Buea) or by email to [email protected] or mbachamlinda@yahoo. com. Or deposit the article at the campus of Achas University behind Biaka Hospital.

30 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 NEW MOLYKO CAMPUS FOR ACHAS UNIVERSITY

Achas University will open a new campus in Molyko in August 2016. The campus is located in a gigantic storey building adjacent to Ecobank Molyko directly opposite Molyko Police Station. The new campus will also offer new opportunities like distance learning, evening and weekend sessions for HND and B-Tech studies. Workers will be able to study on a full time basis without compromising their jobs while students will be able to take dual programmes. The following programmes will be offered for the 2016/2017 academic year:  Tourism and Hotel Management  Transport and Logistics  Accounting and Finance  Project Management  Auditing and Control  Conservation Management  Marketing

NEWS FROM ACHAS UNIVERSITY CAMPUS

with flying colours. Achas University Institute of Tourism and Business Achas University is amongst 27 Higher Institutions Management, has scored 100% at the B-Tech Exam- of Learning mentored by the University of Dschang ination for the first semester 2015-2016 Academic which sat for the harmonized examination. year. Achas University registered students in five Achas University sent in 40 students in various de- departments and all the students passed the exam partments as shown below:

Departments No. of students who sat No. of students who % Pass for the exams passed 1 Tourism and Hotel Manage- 13 13 100 ment 2 Logistics and Transport Man- 11 11 100 agement 3 Business Management 04 04 100 4 Accountancy 04 04 100 5 Human Resource Manage- 08 08 100 ment Total 40 40 100%

31 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 JOKES Ignorance tion, Martin fainted. People came and A young mosquito after its first flight to gathered around him. In an attempt to neighbourhood came back and told its revive him, one the customers asked for mother, “Mummy as I was flying, ev- water to be brought. As soon as Martin erybody was clapping for me as if I am heard this, he opened his eyes and said a king”. Little did he know that all the “young man if I needed water I would clapping were attempts to kill him. have fainted beside the tap”. So look at where I fainted and do the right thing. Lesson: You should always be careful because not everyone who praises you When Do You Look Up To God actually wishes you well. A young girl locked herself up in a sev- en floor storey and mistakingly through The Hungry Martin the through the window. Nobody could come to her aid because she was all Once upon a time, there lived a boy alone. After trying in vain to open the called Martin. One day, Martin worked in a plantation door, she thought to herself, “What can I do to draw and so was famished. Unfortunately he had nothing to people’s attention to me?” she opened her bag re- eat. He was very hungry. On his way home, he saw a moved two bundles of money and threw through the woman selling water and . He approached her window. Immediately, a young man who was passing and greeted. The woman in turn inquired, “How are by hurriedly picked the money. He walked away smil- you my son?” and he answered, “Not quite fine”. The ing and singing. She threw another bundle and the woman didn’t say anything, she continued serving her same thing happened. With no money left to throw, customers. After a while, Martin said “mum I will be she decided to throw a stick that was lying near the taking my leave”. The woman replied, “Alright my dear door. As soon as she did, the stick hit a bald headed child, see you some other time”. The boy could no lon- man. This man exclaimed, “Jesus Christ” and immedi- ger bear the hunger, so he insisted again, “mum I said ately looked up. I will be taking my leave”. The woman again replied, Lesson: We should not remember God only when “Yes my dear child, I said we shall see some other pain and sorrow come. It does not matter whether we time”. And he repeated the statement a third time and are in pain or happiness. God should always be at the received the same reply. Out of anger and despera- centre of lives Riddles • I am not a king but I have a crown. Who am I? • I can pass through the sea without getting wet. Who am I? • Who has a bed but never sleeps on? • When a dumb person tells a deaf that a blind man saw a cripple walk across the street to help a barren woman carry her baby. What is it? • I came into the world very black but when I am leaving, I am all white. Who am I? • I am tall when I am born, when growing old I become short. Who am I? • When I am alive, I don’t talk but when am dead I make noise. Who am I? • There is a pregnant woman whose child is visible in the womb? Who is it? • There is something that is red at birth, white as it grows and black at matu- rity. What is it?

By Jude Junior Acha

32 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 From a Presidential Palace To a national Museum

The former presidential palace is by itself a national artifact By Mih Ndze Theodore who was supposed to be the king was only Cameroon. The National Museum was first four years old. She reigned as Queen for located in a small difficult-to-locate resi- The National Museum has become a major 10 years. Behind the statue of the queen dence on the road leading to the Yaoundé point of attraction for many Yaoundé city mother are statues of her subjects that de- Central Hospital close to the Ministry of dwellers, foreigners and tourists. Located pict the typical Bamoun Kingdom. On the Public Service and Secondary Education. in the premises of the former presidency steps leading to the museum is a bronze of the republic opposite the Ministry of spider which is a symbol of hard work and “If you want to learn about the political Public Health, the National Museum (for- patience. and cultural , this is mer presidential palace constructed by a the place to go. Charming guides explain French architect) cannot be missed by any all of the exhibits, which are housed in the visitor who comes to Yaoundé who wishes The National Museum is former governor’s palace. Well worth visit- to visit it not only for the exhibited pictures set become an ecological ing,” remarked a foreign visitor. and works of art but also for the attractive- ness of the yard. Passers-by can’t avoid museum so that future “This was the strangest museum visit I ever did - you deposit your camera, phone etc. tweeting into the courtyard of the National generations can find all Museum just to get a glimpse of the attrac- at the entrance far from the house after tive grounds and beautiful surroundings. the socio-cultural ac- having paid a stiff admission fee, then you are walked over to the main building and What first catches the eye of visitors is the tivities of the country constantly guided by young boys and girls exhibition of the great Tikar Bronze stat- in it. enthusiastically explaining the exhibits - I ue in front of the Museum. The statue de- think they are really enthusiastic, other- picts the Queen Mother of the Bamouns Since 1972, the National Museum belongs wise very…,” another visitor noted. called Njapndounke. History holds that to the Department of Cultural Conserva- she took over the throne because the heir tion of the Cultural Affairs Head Office Meantime, Prime Minister, April 29, 2016 and is the center of all public museums in appointed a pioneer director of the Na- tional Museum since its renovation in 2015. Raymond Asombang Neba’ane, was appointed alongside Esther Olembe and Joseph Eloundou Atangana as Directors of the National Museum, National Archives and National Ensemble respectively. Raymond Asombang Neba’ane who is a Lecturer and Archaeology Specialist is re- turning to the Ministry of Arts and Culture where he served as Head of Department and Director of Heritage and Technical Adviser. A lecturer in Archaeology and History at the University of Yaoundé I, Raymond Asombang Neba’ane becomes the first Director of the National Museum, which opened its doors in January 2015. It is a building of over 5000 square meters.

33 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 34 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 Your Tourist Guide

A proposed 10- day package for tourists visiting the South West Region of Cameroon

Day 1: Pick up from Douala International Day 4: Travel to Fontem Airport Day 5: Explore the cultural heritage of the Bangwa/ Mundani people Activity: • Visit and discover the Palace Azi Palace of Fontem/ • Warm reception of guests by Achas University tour Nwabetaw Palace/ Lewoh,Foto Palaces guides; • Take a walk to the Lebialem waterfall • Executive transport shuttle to Limbe for the night • Visit the Focolare Headqarters /Mary Health of Africa • Lodge at Fini Hotel/ Victoria Sea View Hotel/ Seme Hospital/Catholic church Menji Beach Hotel and enjoy absolute comfort • Freshen up and relax for a while • Enjoy delicious at Mars Restaurant Day 6: Travel to Mamfe through • Relax at Calypso Nightclub lucxuriant landscape • End of day 1 • Visit the Queen of Rosary Catholic College Okoyong, Cameroon’s first girls’ boarding school Day 2: Explore Limbe attractions • Visit the old German Bridge • at 8 am for all guests • Visit the Cross River and see hippos and other attrac- • Limbe city tour with stop-over at: SONARA, Botanic tions Garden, Limbe Wildlife Centre, Man’O Bay, Limbe market, Bakingili Volcanic Rocks/ CDC Headqua- Day 7: Explore the Banyang land and ters,etc. travel to Kumba through Flyover • Afternoon relaxation at the Limbe Beach. Bridge, etc • Supper at 7 pm at Seme Beach. • Savour Cameroonian and foreign music at a carbaret Day 8: Kumba city tour • Break up for the night. • Lodge at Macklordd’s Hotel/ Azi Fiangep Hotel/Elon- • End of day 2 go Garden,etc • Visit Lake Barombi, a crater lake, Kumba Central Market, etc Day 3: Explore the city of Buea • Visit some waterfalls • Breakfast at 8 am for all guests. Visit Kuchina restau- rant and enjoy a variety of delicacies. Day 9: Travel to Mundemba • Tour the city of Buea: visit Mount Cameroon Eco- • Lodge at Nkong Motel Mundemba and enjoy a variety tourism Park, the Prime Minister’s Lodge, Bismarck of quality services Fountain, the Reunification Monument, Mountain • Visit the Korup National Park Hotel,the University of Buea, Achas University Cam- • Visit the Bakassi Peninsular pus, Muea market/ Buea Shopping Mall, etc. • Enjoy the varied animal and plant life of Ndian Divi- • South West food tourism experience: Stop at Rhe- sion ma Restaurant/Kuchina Restaurant/ Mariton Hotel Restaurant and discover the traditional meals of the Day 10: Travel to Douala people of South West. • Lodge at Bellavie Hotel /Sawa Hotel, etc for comfort • Lighten up at Spyce night club and relaxation • Break up for the night at NAFTA Hotel/St Claire Ho- • Take breakfast at White House restaurant tel/Chariot Hotel/Silicon Hotel/ • Savour delicious meals at White House Restaurant • End of day 3 • Shuttle to the airport and departure

35 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 VISITING SOUTH AFRICA?

e-Mgazini Lodge offers you a home away from home Situated in Midrand, we are midway between Johannesburg (the economic power house of South Africa) and Pretoria (the political capital of South Africa).

36 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 Some hotels in Buea

• Mountain Hotel • Chariot Hotel • Nafta Hotel • Mariton Hotel • Silicon Hotel • Hotel Residence Carlos • Pavilion Hotel • Taaka Guest House • Hotel La Fraicheur • Pathfinder Hotel • Lady L Hotel • Miss Bright Hotel • Resort 89 Hotel • Executive Hotel • Hotel Denver • Golden Palace Hotel • Capitol Residence • Eta Palace Hotel • Hotel Mermoz Buea • Serge Ville Hotel • Delan Park Hotel • Hotel St Clair • Harglena Hotel • Rhema Guest House • D’Tchuks Palace Hotel • Harglena Hotel

37 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 Don’t Just Rob Bees, Care For Them The population of bee species worldwide reaches as many as 25,000. But of this huge swarm, only honey bees are known to live in clusters of thousands and forage several times a day. This tribe of bees constitutes 95% of pollinating services.

By Azore Opio

They also make honey for their food; to feed themselves and their brood of young ones. They also store this honey for rainy days; when plants are not flowering and wet weather conditions prevent the bees from flying. Bees don’t make honey for humans, so whenever the humans harvest honey from bees’ hives, they are actually robbing their hives. This, therefore, requires that once you domesticate bees, it becomes imper- ative to feed them just as you would feed any of your household animals. Bees are born to work. They rest inside the hive but may not sleep. They are excel- lent aviators, skilled gardeners and expert makers of honey. “Before a bee flies out to hunt for nectar, it would have learned to clean the hive, give food to the brood, feed the Queen with Royal Jelly, filled openings in the hive with propolis and guarded the entrance of the hive,” says veteran beekeeper Lyonga facture of some metals and glass, electrical to take off,” Lyonga cautions. To prevent Mbake Samuel, resident in Bonakanda and chemical cement, ink and treatment take-off, quickly carry construct another village on the flanks of Mt. Cameroon. of leather, shoe polish, sewing threads, beehive. Honeybees offer humans an interesting printing and textiles ingredients, paints That bees deserve to be fed in times of spectrum of gastronomic, economic and and varnishes, paper manufacture and need is a proposition that need not be dis- medicinal benefits. pharmaceutical preparations. puted. To keep your bees stable, healthy Bees also produce propolis, which is a nat- and productive, Lyonga advises that “the ural medicine and natural energizer with beekeeper must provide water especially bactericidal and antibiotic properties. during the dry season for the bees, using Gastronomically, Besides its nutritive prowess, honey is also either opened Indian bamboo with float- a source of medicine especially for dia- ing sticks where the bees will land to avoid bees provide honey betes and as an ingredient in veterinary drowning.” medicines, particularly cow diseases. Bees must also be fed in the rainy season as sugar substitute in Honey can also be transformed into wine. when there are no flowers and the bees and baking, Bee venom, treacherous as it may be, pos- cannot easily fly to forage. You can there- sesses curative remedies for arthritis and fore feed your bees with syrup made from for athletics and rheumatism. It also cures malignant can- reserves of honey, overripe pineapples and strenuous activities. cers through intravenous injection. jackfruit blended. Bees need as much care and love as any To facilitate the feeding of bees, Lyonga Royal Jelly is nature’s creature that his useful to humans. If you has invented a feeder that resembles a do not, bees will bscond from the hive be- honeycomb. He skilfully used scraps to richest health food. cause of leakages, attacks from ants and construct artificial honeycombs from used It consists of water, beetles, starvation, lack of water, insecti- wood, old galvanized air filter elements cidal sprays and disturbances like noise. and strands of fishnet. This contraption is carbohydrates, Therefore you should to take the following fixed on a top bar with five holes drilled to measures: constant inspection of hives to allow filling with syrup. nitrogen, phosphorus, avoid collapsing and regular provision of In the absence of a top bar feeder, Lyonga sulphur and mineral water. uses glass bottles about a litre in volume When harvesting honey from the 24-bar with perforated plastic lids lined with matter. Kenyan top bar hive, remove 16 bars only sponge to absorb the home-made syrup. and leave eight to sustain the colony oth- These bottles are placed upside down in- erwise the bees will break out. To guaran- side the hive where the bees can feed at Special offers from honeybees also in- tee long-term colony life, avoid swarming ease during the lean period. clude beeswax. Primarily, beeswax forms or overcrowding. If this happens, 50% of Once you do all of the above, you are sure the foundation for honeycomb construc- the colony will split and fly off to find a to have your bees permanently supplying tion but is also the main source of candles more comfortable hive. you with honey and other products. and cosmetics (bleached eyebrow pencils, You should keep visiting the colony; when lipsticks, hand lotion) crayons and tooth- half of the colony clusters outside the en- This article was culled from The Green ache gum. trance waiting for a second queen about Vision newspaper It is an essential ingredient in the manu- to emerge, chances are the bees are about

38 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 ECOLE DE L’HOTELLERIE ET DU TOURISME DE LA CEMAC Est un puissant outil de formation pratique de qualité, de développement des compétences et de renforcement des capacités des cadres et des employés de l’Asministration Nationale du Tôurisme (ANT) et des Entreprises Hôteliéres et Touristiques. La formation professionnelle aux métiers de l’hôtellerie, de la restauration et du tourisme contribue á l’amélioration de la qualité des services proposés á une clientèle toujours plus exigeante. Elle participle aussi á l’amélioration de la productivité, en permettant aux employés de fournir un travail de plus haute qualité et d’envisager enfin des plans de carrier cohérents dans la filière oὺ ils interviennent.

MISSIONS ACTUELLES DE L’EHT-CEMAC La triple mission de l’EHT, formation – recherché – expertise aux Etats membres, s’inscrit dans l’axe 4 du programme Economique Régional (PER) mettant un accent particulier sur le renforcement du capital humain qui constitue un des grands dèfies a relever par les chefs d’Etat de la CEMAC à l’effet de faire de l’Afrique Centrale une destination touristique emergente et d’atteindre a l’horizon 2025, une émergence économique.

OBJECTIFS DE L’EHT-CEMAC Assurer la formation, le perfectionnement, LE recyclage et la spécialization en hôtellerie, en restauration et en tourisme Appuyer le développement des métiers de l’hôtellerier, de la restauration et du tourisms sous forme de service de consultant; Promouvoir la recherché dans les domains de l’hôtellerie, de la restauration et du tourisme; Déveloper les partenaiats avec d’autres institutions similaires de formation pour augmenter l’accessibilité a la formation des cadres techniques.

RESULTATS STRATEGIQUES ATTENDUS Les compétences scientifiques, techniques, managériales et entrepreneuriales dans les domains de l’hôtellerie, de la restauration et du tourisme sont acquises. L’A dminintration Nationale du Tourisme dispose des cadres qualifiés pour la mise en valeur optimale de la riche potentialité touristique des Etats membres de la CEMAC; Les Entrepises hôtelières et touristiques disposent d’un personnel qualifié Assurant la pleine productivité grâce à leur capacité de prestation renforcée; L’expertise locale est valorisée grâce à l’amélioration des prestation de services dans les structures hôtelières et touristique; L’offre de service de qualité répond aux exigencies évolutives des clientèles tant nationales qu’internationales.

39 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 Blue Pearl Hotel

40 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 A special touch of the

By Linda Mbacham Tajocha The Cameroonian cuisine has a bit of everything, so, if you are visiting Cameroon, be ready to savour the delicious, healthy, tasty Cameroon is one of the few countries in and mouth -watering dishes. Be assured because the cooks believe Africa whose cuisine has a wide variety in the importance of good food. They are dedicated to taste, health of dishes. The varied nature of the dishes and flavour. results from some 250 ethnic groups that Our regional varieties abound, so if you are visiting Cameroon and make up the country. Each region has its you intend to visit the South West Region, be ready to eat water fufu own regional specificities and favourite and eru. Although this is the main of the Bayangs of Manyu that depends on custom, tradition and Division, water fufu and eru has gained great popularity and has religion. become virtually a favourite of the entire nation. Like other African , Cameroonian cuisine is characterized There are several methods used to prepare this delicacy. However, by the use of tasty , fresh herbs and , tubers, grains the one I propose is a unique method that will bring out all the amongst others. The fertile nature of the country has made it flavours. Read on. possible for it to have a wide variety of these foodstuffs. Water fufu and Eru Boil cow meat, canda Allow to cook and let the water dry off. (cow skin), smoked Serve hot with cooked water fufu or fish with a pinch of cooked . You can also eat with any salt and keep aside. fufu of your choice. Preserve about two If you intend to visit the NorthWest to three cups of the region of Cameroon, be ready to enjoy stock. a tasty plate of Achu and yellow soup. In a separate pot, Achu is got from pounded cocoyams add sliced water leaf and the yellow soup is a combination of and allow to cook. many spicy ingredients that result in the Once waterleaf looks production of a delicious finger licking ready, add washed dish. eru. This is a delicate One finger round the world, as it is stage so add eru commonly referred to, is common in gradually in order the Western and North West regions of Ingredients: A combination of many not to put more than is required. Cameroon. However, Achu is the main ingredients will produce a delicious dish Make a well in the middle of the pot and meal of a typical Bafut person. In most of water fufu and eru: beef (cow meat) pour palm oil. Allow to cook for a while; traditional settings, especially in villages, or snails, smoked fish, crayfish, pepper, add the cooked meat, canda (cow skin), this tantalizing delicacy is served on water leaf, eru, palm oil, cow skin (canda), smoked fish and the stock. plantain leaves and eaten with fingers maggie crevette and waterfufu. Add salt, maggie crevette, pepper and accompanied with fresh and tasty palm Preparation: ground crayfish. wine. Achu and yellow soup Ingredients: fish, cow intestines Cocoyam (macabo) and or , and other meat of their smoked meat, cow skin (canda), choice. So feel free to mushrooms, add what pleases you. limestone (kangwa), palm oil, salt, maggi, Remove the pot from pepper and other spices (achu spices ). the fire. You may heat up palm How to prepare achu oil for about 2 minutes. Wash cocoyam without peeling and put in Some people prefer to a pot. Add some water and place on the use oil without heating. fire. Many people prefer to prepare achu Dissolve limestone and cocoyam on three stone fire side because add into the warm oil of the intensity of heat that cooks faster. and add meat stock. Allow to cook for about 45 minutes Then use a small bowl depending on the amount of heat. Use a to continuously scoop fork to check if it is well cooked . and pour the soup back Once cocoyam gets ready, allow the pot into the pot for about 10 on the fire and reduce the heat. Remove minutes until the colour the cocoyam one after the other, peel and turns yellow. Add mound and create a shallow hole in the pound in a clean mortar with a pestle. ground achu spices and mix until soup is middle. Pound until cocoyam becomes soft. foamy. Add salt, maggie and pepper. Pour achu soup into the hole. Add Remove the soft paste from the mortar Add meat, canda (cow skin) smooked fish, meat, canda (cow skin), cow intestines, and put in a bowl or dish, then cover. and cow intestines. smooked fish, mushroom and pepper. Traditionally, achu is wrapped in plantain Some people serve this meal with boiled leaves and even eaten from the leaves. How to serve Achu garden egg or huckleberry to enhance Traditionally, achu is served wrapped taste. They may top it up with Achu soup: in plantain leaves and even eaten from Achu is eaten with the forefinger scooping Wash, slice and cut canda(cow skin) and the leaves. However, with the advent of the paste from around the edge of the meat into bite sizes . Boil canda(cow skin), modernity, plates are gradually replacing mound and dipping it in the soup. That is mushroom and meat with a pinch of salt plantain leaves. why the meal is referred to as one finger to taste. To make the food even more tasty Put a quantity of achu paste in a plate. round the world. and appetizing, some people add smooked Using a spoon or fingers mould it into a

41 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 42 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 43 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 What is in a woman’s handbag?

*By Acha-anyi Asongu As evident in the picture below, items in a woman’s A woman’s handbag is so much handbag may include, keys, a phone, tissues, make up more than just something she kit, perfume, lotions moisturisers and creams, dental uses to carry her wallet, keys floss, lip gloss and lipsticks, nail file, pens, hand sani- and move from point A to B. The tizer, gum, a bag (yes a bag inside a bag), wallet, a note handbag is the most intimate fe- book, a pen, a mirror, hair ties, hair brush, earrings, male accessory carried by almost receipts, sunglasses, toothpicks, just to name a few. every woman in the world. The handbag is a female territory and almost every wom- Women spend a lot of time searching for items in an in the world owns a handbag. their handbags because of the many items they put A Handbag has always been seen as the staple of a into a single handbag. Actually, research has shown woman’s wardrobe and its status has risen to an es- that women spend on average 76 days of their lives sential item that women cannot live without. Even the looking for stuff in their bags. Queen of England will not consider herself complete- This is because the items are so ly dress without her hand bag. And the many First many and disorganised. There is Answers To Ladies have gained notoriety lavish expenditure on a lipstick on top of the earrings, Riddles handbags. For example, the one-time Philippino First there are keys bumping the sun- Lady Imelda Marcos hit world headlines with her ex- glasses, the toothpicks scratch- Pineapple travagant wardrode incluing shoes and hand bags. ing the phone. Many items Air Many women claim that they carry “essentials” in are found outside the cases or River their handbags. However, the weight of the handbag pouches meant to protect them, Miracle tells a completely different story. and these cases and pouches Strange items emerge out of a woman’s handbag. also live in the handbag as well. Hair What do women carry in their handbags? If you are So, now that you know, open a Candle aimlessly scratching your head wondering what lies woman’s handbag at your own Leaf in there, read on… A woman’s handbag is a con- peril. Lamp densed container where the worlds of beauty, finance, Plum food, mobility and technology literally fall together.

44 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 Victoria Sea Breeze Hotel

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45 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 Woman and Restaurant

46 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 Mobilier Habitation & Bureau Home & O ce Furniture Portes, Fenêtres, Parquets Doors, Windows, Wood Floors Cuisines, Mobilier de Jardin , Outdoor Furniture Agencements, Décoration Fittings, Decoration Construction Maison Bois Wood House Construction

Leader dans son domaine depuis 1978, CEB / La Meublerie est menuiserie Industrielle qui fabrique et commer- cialise des produits et ouvrages en bois massif. L'Entreprise est constituée de professionnels devoués à leur métier, qui produisent et servent de la Valeur aux clients. Notre crédo : Des Produits Industriels nis à la main, dans le respect de l'Environnement.

Douala - Bonanjo Douala - Akwa Yaoundé - Mvan Usine - Douala Rue French face BICEC Rue Sylvani Rte Ancien Base aérienne BP 2362 ZI Douala Bassa 233 42 52 80 233 42 13 27 222 30 42 25 233 37 47 58 699 78 30 99 699 00 39 03 699 00 39 04 696 00 00 24

[email protected] achas safari / N o 002www.cebmeublerie.com june-august 2016 48 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 Economy

Cameroon: An Investment Eldorado?

By Yerima Kini Nsom

The Yaounde International Economic Forum would end up as a product of deceit and a bastard of procrastination if the various stakeholders do not immediately execute the assignments they committed themselves to. The two-day forum, convened by President Paul Biya, closed shop on May 18 with glittering externalities that inspire hope; hope that investors will scramble to do business in Cameroon which observers described as an Cameroon will be a more attractive the crossroads between the West and Eldorado of investment opportunities. destination if it enhances trade with Central Africa, and the intersection of Hinged on the theme, “Investing in neighbouring Nigeria that has over the two economic blocs, ECOWAS and Cameroon, Land of Attractiveness”, 173 million inhabitants. Economic CEMAC. the conference brought together over experts recommended that Cameroon The stakes also lie in Cameroon’s Atlantic 800 business people and prominent should sign an economic agreement coastline, its rail network, its three personalities across the world. The with Nigeria, so as to enable the private international airports and 50,000km positive trickle- down of such an sector of both countries to do business of road. The investors saw Cameroon economic forum is that some foreign and create wealth. through Biya’s prism as a country with business enterprises started doing enormous natural resources and fertile business in Cameroon. For instance, No sooner had the soils suitable for agriculture. one British company has already signed participants of the “With Africa’s second hydro-electric a FCFA 150 Billion deal with CAMTEL conference settled for potential and huge natural gas reserves, to enhance its network supply. Cameroon has embarked on varied A majority of foreign investors real business at the and large scale energy infrastructure pledged their commitment to do Yaounde Conference construction”, Biya boasted. Added business in Cameroon. But not before to this is the fact that Cameroon is government provides them the enabling Centre on May 17, endowed with an expanding and environment. It was in this perspective than President Paul diversified industrial fabric with many that experts saddled government with Biya showcased small and medium sized enterprises, the burden of obliterating the hiccups SME, ready to enter into subcontracting that impede the business climate in the Cameroon as an and contracting engagements. Besides, country. The spokesperson of the foreign Eldorado of business Cameroon is haven for a young and participants at the conference urged opportunities. qualified labour force for a country with government to simplify procedures of one of the highest school enrolment doing business in the country and make To him, Cameroon is an investment hub rates in Sub-Saharan Africa. the obtention of visas easier for people with several opportunities in transport Another element of enticement, going coming in to do business. infrastructure, low-cost-housing and by President Biya, is that: “Cameroon is a Jose Manuel Barroso, the former chair urban development, new technologies, haven of peace, respecting the rule of law of the European Commission, said energy and agro-business. and a country of liberty. Its institutions In a bid to further seduce are stable, functional and harmonious. more investors, Biya said They are capable of adapting to societal Cameroon’s attractiveness trends to ensure social peace, security of is also the fact that it is the persons, and property and the country’s most populated country in the Central African Sub Region (CEMAC ). Again, Cameroon stands tall as the one country that shares more than 1500 kilometres long border with Nigeria, Africa’s leading economy. The country is equally at 49 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 Dangote Cement Cameroon “Industrialization of Africa is our target”...Paavo Wiro PaavoWiro is the country manager and the CEO of Dangote Cement Cameroon. Though from Fin- land, he considers himself an African from Cameroon. He is down to earth, humble, workaholic, and focused. He is considered one of the best Managers in the country. PaavoWiro is a real leader. In this exclusive interview with Achas Safari’s Eddy Etawo, he tells us all we need to know about Dangote Cements Cameroon S.A. and their vision for Africa. Excerpts:

On Dangote Cement Cameroon our heavy raw material from port We produce African Cement by to factory far easier. We are a very Cameroonians for Cameroo- heavy activity therefore we have to nians.Cement is a vital product in assure optimum transportation of the development process of any our goods to the factory and out of nation and you know Cameroon the factory to diverse destinations is eyeing emergence by the year if we intend to move forward satis- 2035. This will mean that there factorily in this domain. I think you will be several projects that need are aware of the fact that last year good quality cement. You cannot we imported 202 trucks to help us rely on importation to develop in the transportation of our finished your nation since the value add- products. Today approximately 30% ed raw material fluctuates very of the transport of our cement is much. Therefore, it is of absolute done by our company while 70 % necessity for the African conti- is done by third party (distributing nent to create its own industries and with am the rare exception (laughs).The fact is transporters). these industries, produce the value added that Dangote group is contributing with products too. For me, this is indispensable the possibilities that we have, in the food, Douala factory completewhat if Cameroon wants to move forward. transport, cement, oil and gas industries about that of Yaoundé? We are an African company and so we etc. This is part of our contribution to By the end of this year, we shall have at- target Africa as a whole. You see, from a the industrialization of Africa. I am very tained the full production capacity of the demographic point of view, there are pres- proud to work and cooperate in the group Douala factory which is 1.5 million tons ently 1.1 billion people on the African that is taking the lead in the industrial- per year. This will be by the end of this continent. It is estimated that in 2050, the ization of Africa. The desire to industri- year. Today, the market share of Dangote population would have risen to 2.4 billion alize Africa is our target, trade mark and Cement Cameroon is 45 %. people. While in 2100, the African conti- uniqueness. We are an African Company; However, our target is to meet the cement nent alone will harbour 4 billion people. we make African cement by Cameroo- needs of Cameroonians and beyond. That This implies that we are already late in the nians for Cameroonians. is why we envisage a new cement factory industrialization process. However, it is in Yaoundé which will go operational by never too late to start. This is something On Transportation Of Raw Materials And Fin- the end of next year. The construction of that I am very keen about. It preoccupies ished Products the Yaounde plant will certainly be faster me more than anything else. The construction of our own private quay than that of Douala. The factory is locat- has been one of our major concerns since ed about 15-20 kilometres away from the On the Dangote Cement factory? we decided to construct the cement plant city of Yaoundé. The factory will also have The Dangote Cement Factory in Doua- in Douala. The cement Factory was com- a producing capacity of 1.5 million tons la has been constructed by the Dangote pleted in March 2015. Our private quay upon completion. Therefore, if you add Group. The factory is managed by Dan- located beside our factory will soon go op- this to the Douala production, Dangote gote Cement Cameroon S.A. We are per erational. Today, it is near completion and Cement Cameroon S.A will make avail- se, an African Company. Ninety percent three big boats will be able to duck there able 3 million tons of cement by the end of our employees are Cameroonians. I per month. This will make the handing of of next year. 50 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 On Quality And Price The Demand Our cement is of excellent quality. It The demand for ce- is considered the best that you can ment has strongly find anywhere on the globe. This fluctuated in the is because we produce our cement past and it is very with the most modern equipment. difficult to calculate The government is working to see and speculate on it. that the price of cement decreas- However, govern- es. Initially, there was very little lo- ment figures incline cal production and a lot was being us to think that the imported. Now, government has total demand of ce- banned the importation of cement. ment in Cameroon Today we have Dangote Cement, is estimated at 2.8 CIMAF, and CIMENCAM. Camer- million tons per oon can now boast of a total annual year. With several production capacity of a little over parts of the country 4.5 million tons annually. Cameroon being converted into vast construction as against 3 Million tons. will soon be able to comfortably export sites, we envisage that the demand will In that case, we will now target countries cement to neighbouring countries with rise accordingly. If you take our 3 million of the sub region like Equatorial Guinea, Cameroonians benefiting from the best tons annual production capacity in con- Chad, Central African Republic, Demo- prices possible. sideration, you see that our production cratic Republic of Congo, Congo Repub- alone supersedes the total annual demand lic, Gabon, etc. Brief, the entire Central Thank you DG of the country which stands at 2.8 million African sub region and beyond. You are welcome.

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51 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 Kribi Deep Sea Port: Paul Biya’s Giant Project for Cameroon’s Greater achievements 2035 By Asaahtong Fontem dynamic that will influ- ence the structural and The Kribi In- functional develop- dustrial port ment of the whole! complex with a The deep water port surface area of built in successive more than 26000 phases will be able to hectares is locat- accommodate ships ed in the town with draft of more than of Mboro 35 km 50 meters. Its primary south of the sea purpose will be to serve side city of Kribi in Cameroon. The to- the large zone of indus- tal throughput capacity of the port will trial and logistics that exceed 1,000,000 tons per year and the surround it and will port will develop into a largest port in the develop thanks to its Central and West African sub regions. In attraction. Its facilities recent years, Cameroon’s economy has which will be among grown steadily. The Cameroon govern- the most modern in sub ment has stipulated an ambitious long Sahara Africa will gen- term development plan in 2009 to develop erate a large amount of Cameroon into an emerging economy by traffic which will assure 2035. With the development of the econ- its relevance and eco- omy and port-based economy in the Kribi nomic viability. Large area, the port’s throughput will be hugely industrial areas will be increased to exceed the capacity of the ex- created around the port isting port. Therefore the government of which with specialized Cameroon has decided to construct the terminals for contain- Kribi deep sea port. The Kribi port-based ers, hydrocarbons, dif- circulation routes from all the parts of industrial zone has a total planned l land ferent ores that will be mined in the inte- the new city will link up with this. With use of 260km and a shore line of approx- rior of the country and transformed in the the increase of industrial circulation and imately 30km. The planned general port industrial zone and much more. traffic, a flourishing economy will develop area of the Kribi deep sea port is about around the complex and will attract the 8.55 square km. The total length of the Significant Gains flow of an active population with a very berths is 6,4km. The Kribi industrial port The multi-motor corridor will be the skill set will be able to practice different complex is made up of four main parts; a backbone of the complex and will on a professions in and around this vast zone. deep water port with roughly 20 wharfs or functional level assure the fluid circu- For the resulting population estimated to berths, a zone for industrial and logistic lation of the traffic from the outer har- be 80,000 people to, take into account the activity, a multi-motor transport corridor bour towards the interior of Cameroon families of the workers, there are plans to and a new city. With the goal of making and other adjacent countries but also in create a new town. The town’s develop- the complex a perfectly integrated entity, the direction on the hinterland toward ment will be in direct correlation to be in- the four parts will have an interrelated the industrial port complex. The internal dustrial, logistical and port activities. In this manner, beyond the purely indus- trial activities that will flourish around the port, the new town will be at the centre of other activities in this case social, com- mercial and recreational.

In terms of direct employment, 20,000 people are expected to live the economic activities generated by the growing industrialization of the complex.

52 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 To facilitate connexion between the shop- ping centre and the various services they Kribi Deep Sea Port: offer, the educational complexes and the recreational centres which will flourish in Paul Biya’s Giant Project for Cameroon’s the new city and the modern residential housing that will be created, new circula- tion routes and better modes of circulation Greater achievements 2035 gradually appear. In a short time, the com- plex will be transform into a modern city. Based on the industrial port complex’s ac- tivity, which will cause new commercial ac- tivities to emerge that will extend to other sectors such as service, commerce, trans- portation, research and culture. The Kribi Industrial Port complex will then be able to open itself to the world thanks to the effect of external demand. The ex- changes that will come about from the economic and touristic activity will make Kribi a hub in the Central African sub Re- gion with maritime and air connexions to all global centres of economic activity. It will cost the Cameroonian tax payer 498million USD with Cameroon contrib- uting 75 million USD and 423million of preferential buyer’s credit loan provided by Export-Import (EXIM) bank of China.

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53 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 54 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 55 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 Limbe Botanic Garden

initiated through a Memorandum of At the Limbe Botanical Garden, tourists By Linda Mbacham Tajocha Understanding which led to the renovation can discover a diversity of plant species and development of the Garden. from around the world, as well as regional Beautiful trees, plants, flowers and Many centuries ago, botanical gardens species on over 20 themes comprised of: - the sound of birds whispering are some existed primarily to acquaint humans with ancient and aquatic plants, native orchids, of the things that tourists would love to the natural world around them. The role Cameroon wild fruits, medical plant fields, experience in their various destinations. of the Limbe Botanic Garden has however Pan African and Madagascan palms. Botanic Gardens are considered one of the changed from an agricultural one to one of The garden is also home to about 70 ideal places for people to come in contact conservation, education, science, tourism animals including endangered primates with nature. No doubt, lovers consider this and recreation, to meet the needs of today. such as: red eared Guenons, preuss the perfect place to declare love to their Its thematic gardens, majestic trees, monkeys, western lowland gorillas, drills loved ones especially on special occasions. beautiful flowers and ideal setting make and chimpanzees. Moreover, with the A tourist visiting Cameroon will be it the ultimate place for people to relax or help of a wide range of guided tours, you amazed by the presence of a very beautiful escape from all sort of stress. The Garden can discover the unique beauty of flora botanical garden in Limbe. The Limbe is one of the greatest tourist attractions and fauna represented in the picturesque Botanical Garden was founded in 1892 by a in the South West Region after Mount natural surroundings. group of Germans under the Directorship Cameroon. A tourist attraction centre So if you are a tourist visiting Cameroon, of Paul Preus. It served as a trial and known as “jungle village” has been why not have a picnic with friends relax acclimatization centre for the introduction developed in the garden where cultural and enjoy in the scenic splendour of this of exotic crop species such as coffee, cocoa, activities take place during certain events garden. rubber, oil palm, banana, teak and sugar- or simply for the pleasure of tourists.” cane for distribution within “Kamerun” and other German colonies. The Garden possessed a herbarium, laboratories, classrooms, a museum, a library and staff accommodation. The British took over the responsibility for the Garden in 1920, advised by the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, and it was managed by a Kew-trained Superintendent. The British departed in 1932 and the garden was directly managed by Cameroonian personnel until 1958. With the independence of West Cameroon in 1961, the curation of the Garden was taken over by the Government. In 1988, a British-Cameroonian partnership was

56 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 Hotel Afrique

57 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 White House Restaurant

White House Restaurant (WHR) is a top grade licensed restaurant operating in the Littoral, North West, and East Regions of Cameroon. Having been in business for more than 20 years, WHR is fully equipped with an ultra-modern state- of –the- art , with highly professional and experienced personnel. The restaurant offers enticing African and European dishes at very affordable prices to the public. It has catering facilities and logistics for over 4 000 guests. In March 2014, WHR won a Presidential Medal ,awarded by the Minister of Defense ,representing the Head of State, for offering catering services to over 1 400 American / African troops for some15 days in Douala. WHR has been rated the best restaurant in Cameroon by Brasseries du Cameroun four consecutive times for the past four years. The restaurant has a wide experience in providing catering and outdoor services to corporate and private clients. Some of its outstanding services include: the establishment of canteen services for Guinness Cameroon as well as for MTN in Douala. WHR has also worked with Chantier Naval, CHOCOCAM, Orange and former Shell, serving over 1000 clients a day. WHR is an outstanding success story for the Cameroonian cuisine. Quality food at its best. To God be the Glory

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58 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 Pilgrims and Tourists to Cameroon

By E.S.D. FOMIN** of the trans-slave trade in Cameroon. They include among others, structures ameroon is a great and sites which were used for the destination for both pilgrims procurement, transportation and exit and tourists. Many visitors of the enslaved. who come to this country Time and space constraints have annually for leisure are compelled us to limit the discussion tourists attracted by its rich natural wealth only to one of these groups mentioned Csuch as the extremely varied physical above and we have chosen the last environment; the many different peoples which has to do with the exit through and cultures and the beautiful fauna and which our unfortunate brothers and flora. They are however, not the focus of sisters went out across the Atlantic. It is this write-up. We are concerned here with important to note that both the trans- the growing numbers of fervent pilgrims Saharan and trans-Atlantic trades took of multiple slavery Diasporas who are many enslaved people out of Cameroon. often wrongly lumped together with The latter affected Cameroon more. tourists. Tourists and pilgrims may come Thus Cameroon slavery Diaspora from the same country but they often pilgrims for now come from the differ from each other in their pursuits. Americas. Their ancestors were forced ports were the entry points for so many While the former come to Cameroon out of the territory through many points ethnicities such as Bassa, Ewondo, Eton, for leisure the latter come for spiritual along the Atlantic coasts of Cameroon Bamileke, Tikar and Widikum. fulfilment. and Nigeria. Many lost their lives in this The slavery Diaspora pilgrims from any In this brief article we intend to call the journey often called middle passage. The of these ethnicities will find these sites attention of Cameroonians to pilgrims pilgrims are the descendants of those who suitable and relevant places for reflection who are increasingly becoming very survived. The key points of departure and meditation. They are trans-slave trade many and who come to this country to along the coast include Campo of the pilgrimage centers par excellence, safe for trace ancestral roots. They are Africans Batanga, Douala of the Duala, Bimbia of the fact that they do not provide adequate of slavery descent found in many the Isubu, Rio del Rey of the Isangale and facilities to receive the growing pilgrims Diasporas all over the world especially in Calabar of the Efik from east to west (see from abroad and Cameroon. Bimbia alone the Americas. They are interested in the map). has physical structures which attest to the sites and structures of enslavement and The DNA Science has helped a lot in fact that serious slave trade business was slave trade which sent their ancestors, designating and linking many persons of done at the site. Despite the large numbers our brothers and sisters, to slavery out slavery descendants in the Americas and of the enslaved that went through Douala, of Cameroon. In this article we give hint Canada to one or the other of the multiple only intangible evidence exists for it today. on such sites and structures that exist in ethnicities of Cameroon. From ethnic Rio del Rey was the first major departure Cameroon but hitherto little known to identity it is possible to get to the point of point for enslaved from Cameroon who even Cameroonians at home. departure and therefore the appropriate went to the American Atlantic world but it These slavery Diaspora pilgrims would place of pilgrimage. Thus the enslaved is not easy for pilgrims to have access to it. like to visit and pray in such places as a Maka of the East Region of Cameroon, In fact, many persons from the Cameroon way of recognizing the heroic suffering Bulu of the South, and some Bassa of Grassfields, the Cross-River basin and that their ancestors endured. The sites the Center entered the middle passage Bakundu country first went out across and structures are the tangible legacies from Campo. But Douala and Bimbia the Atlantic from this port which was operational as trading station probably by 1550. But by 1650 rivals had sacked and destroyed it. It has never been revived ... Cameroon slavery Diaspora even as a tourist center despite its rich history and attractive environment. Some Bamileke, Tikar, Keaka, and Banyang of pilgrims for now come from the Cameroon also went out through Calabar after the fall of Rio del Rey. Important Americas. Their ancestors were trans-slave trade pilgrimage sites exist in Cameroon still to be better developed.

forced out of the territory through *Professor E.S.D Fomin teaches in the History Department of the University of many points along the Atlantic coasts Yaounde I, Cameroon. He is author of many scholarly works and scientific articles of Cameroon and Nigeria in peer-review journals on the Trans-Slave Trade and Slavery in Africa.

59 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 African-Americans With Cameroonian Roots In search of their origins, some 8000 African-Americans found their cradle in Cameroon after going through a DNA test.In December 2011, 87 of them made the return journey by visiting, among other places, Bimbia in the South West Region, a former slave port.Thus, artists like SPIKE LEE,QUINCY JONES and INDIA ARIE found their African origins in Cameroon.

Very rarely mentioned in the history of the Slave Trade, Cameroon really bears traces of slavery. In fact, the former slave port of Bimbia near Limbe still has vestiges of this time, including foundations of buildings that were used to imprison slaves before boarding on ships, and utensils used by slave traders and slaves. It is in this context of a strong Spike Lee symbol that 87 African-Americans have gathered where the Spike Lee whose real name is Shelton Jackson is a writer, footsteps of their ancestors would have left Cameroon. director and producer.

This “return to the origins program”, went from the north to the south of the country to complete a pilgrimage to Bimbia; the “Gorée” of Cameroon ignored and abandoned. Various meetings with local people helped revive these distant “cousins” and multiple donations were made, with promises of future meetings.A return to the roots, rich in emotion for the visitors during which a few hundred metres from the beach, local people staged a play depicting the capture of slaves by the villagers of the time. Cameroon “cradle of our ancestors” contained in the national anthem could be sung with pride in view of the strong-minded generations of famous Americans that it has produced! “Camericans” as they are now called in Cameroon. Quincy Jones The famous producer Quincy Jones has discovered Cameroonian roots after a DNA test.

Dr Mathias Fobi Dr Mathias Fobi is an eminent surgeon of Cameroonian origin, born in the small village of Nkwen in Cameroon. This renowned surgeon has developed a method that made him famous in the United States. The method is called the Fobi Pouch , which is a real achievement. Condoleeza Fobi pocket is another version of gastric Bypass which She was the 66th U.S. Secretary of State. At 50, she rose reduces gastritis. This version is now used worldwide. He to the coveted position of U.S Secretary of State for created his method to help millions of overweight people in National Security, 26 January 2005- 20 January 2009. the United States. It has helped many American celebrities like Roseanne Barr and Randy Jackson lose weight with the help of the surgical technology he developed.

60 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 Cameroonian Icons Sport music H.E. Albert Roger Milla The famous Albert Yannick Noah Roger Milla was born Yannick Noah is a tennis player and on May 20, 1952 in Cameroon –French singer, born on Yaounde. He is a former 18 May 1960 in Sedan, Ardennes, Cameroonian footbal- France. ler who played centre At only 17, he won his first junior forward position and has tournament at Wimbledon. Since influenced a whole gen- 1978, he returned to the big leagues and faced the cream of eration of world football world tennis (Connors, Pecci, Vilas, Lendi,…). A dream be- after his participation comes true for the Sedan kid. Consecration came in 1983 when in the 1990 World Cup Noah won , before a country in turmoil, the Roland Garros in Italy. At 38, he made tournament against the Swede Wilander. For 37 years, France his best performance as had expected this event and the player was celebrated as a hero. a footballer. The Lion scored four goals in the 1990 World Cup, ac- companied each time by Manu Dibango a Makossa dance around the corner flag, a ceremonial which The music icon Manu Dibango is has since toured the world. At 42, pushing the boundaries of a Cameroonian saxophonist and age, he entered two new records to his name by becoming the world jazz singer who was born oldest outfield player and the oldest scorer in the history of in Douala on 12 December 1933. the 1994 World Cup. He is also the first African player to have He is an artist, multi-instrumen- played in three finals. Roger Milla now resides in Yaoundé, talist and a composer. The story of where he holds the position of Roving Ambassador that has Manu Dibango is divided amongst led him to travel the world. Africa, France and the Unit- ed States of America for major decorations. Through experiments Samuel Eto’o Fils and collaborations, he has established himself as a renowned international figure, showing the same mastery in jazz, soul and world music. He has performed throughout the world in Samuel Eto’o is a Brussels, Antwerp and Charleroi, where his Africanized jazz Cameroonian footbal- in contact with the Congolese medium in the ambiance of the ler born on March 10, accession of the Belgian Congo to independence in 1960, in 1981 in Cameroon. Africa in 1969,where he recorded his own compositions which The 9 shirt player is are a renewed success in Africa. a professional player Since the 1980s, he revisited the world musical heritage with who plays as striker for tenors like Youssou N’Dour, King Sunny Ade, Salif Keita, An- Turkish club, An- gelique Kidjo, Papa Wemba , and a wide range of European and talyaspor. He has also American artists. played with the Indom- itable Lions of Cam- eroon where he was captain of the national X-Maleya: The Cameroonian Trio team. He is considered They are three buddies who are one of the best foot- a hit with their group X-Maleya. ballers in the world of Roger and Auguste are Camer- his generation and the oonian. Haïssama is a half-blood best African player of all time. Samuel Eto’o scored over 130 from an American father and a goals in five seasons with FC Barcelona. In 2010, he became French-Cameroonian mother. They the first and only player to win two triplets (League- Cham- sing in Bassa, French and English. pions- League Cup) consecutively. He is the most decorated They met in a high school and African player of all time, having won the African Player of the dreamed about a fate of rock stars. Year Award four times: in 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2010. He was Haïs was the last one to join the third in the FIFA World Player of the year award in 2005. He group, and he never leaves his gui- also won the CAN 2000 and 2002 and participated in the 1998 tar. They have nourished big projects and were conscious “that World Cup, 2002 World Cup and that of 2010. He is the best many things again were to be perfected”. scorer in the history of the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon Their popular albums include: “Exil” in 2006, “X Maleya” in and best scorer in the history of the African Cup of Nations. 2009, “’Tous ensemble” in 2011 and “Revolution” (sold up to 10 000 copies the first day of its release!) in 2013, Playlist in 2016. Their success makes them a trio to be watched.

61 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 My African Dream… to roam freely through the four corners of Africa, my Africa

By Portia Siyanda Sifolo*

In this African month, I am reminded of a speech made 20 years ago by the former South African President, Thabo Mbeki; “I am an African. I owe my being to the hills and the valleys, the mountains and the glades, the rivers, the deserts, the trees, the flowers, the seas and the ever-changing seasons that define the face of our native l an d .” And so, I have a dream of accomplishing my dream of travelling unimpeded around my own continent, home, space and destination called Africa. As we celebrate the month of May (Africa month), one can not help, but be reminded of the enormous tourism potential and the contribution the industry stands to make to the development of the African economy. However, this optimism of how much the sector can assist in the economic development of the continent is often dampened by a barrier to the continent’s accelerated are breath-taking; however, staggering the ongoing insecurity challenges that face development. conflicts hampered my journey. Africa and the world. It can be argued that As I begin my journey from the south of the direct and indirect effects of conflicts, the continent (South Africa) hoping to I wondered if the North, East and West terrorism and general instability create get strength from Robbin Island, which is Africa are at the better state as I intended to a symbol of ‘Triumph of the travel the beautiful shores of Africa. To my Human spirit’, I was however surprise, the incident whereby 21 people disturbed by the social and were killed by gunmen who opened fire economic challenges such at the Bardo National Museum, in Tunis, as…. the inequality and the Tunisia; I was robbed an opportunity to negative stories I see on the hike at Mountain Oasis which has plenty of social networks about South historical insight. Africa. The thought of the group of gunmen who I wanted to wake up in opened fire to a crowed in Grand Bassam Zimbabwe, and experience beach in Abidjan, Cote d’ Ivoire, killing ‘a hidden gem in the heart about 16 people; I could not experience the of Bulawayo’ and have an architecture of Grand Bassam and the Tai intellectual argument about National Park. the tourism sector in our continent; however, this I was perplexed again in April 2015, where dream was disturbed by the by about 150 people were left dead in Kenya hyperinflation, resultingin an attack linked to the with Somalia-based from ‘poor leadership and Islamist extremist group called al-Shabaab, corruption’. my dream of seeing African Species in Kismayu National Park (Hargeisa) was I then wanted to travel to shuttered. My dream of promenading in the Democratic Republic of “the Jewel of East Africa” and its finest Congo, an untapped market beaches seemed very bleak. The spate of for natural resources, with attacks continued in 2016 with a direct the hope of seeing gorillas in impact on the tourism sector of various Salonga National Park and countries of the continent. (http://www. relishing nature, particularly bbc.com/news/world-africa-35798502). in Goma where the forests

62 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 In the same month of March abducted? 2016, gunmen opened fire at the Africa, help me to travel and enjoy Radisson hotel in Mali, I didn’t get the vast tranquil and beautiful land to enjoy the prayer in one of the of our fore fathers. As a woman, Greatest Mosques of Djenné the I shouldn’t worry about my girl culture of Koutiala child wondering around whilst exploring her opportunities of Then… I got to question myself contributing to the tourism sector as An African,.. will I ever move one day, yet again…worry about around in my native land and the Bokoharam in Nigeria that enjoy being adventurous in the they will abduct her. hills and the valleys of Africa. Allow me to be an African, and Can I do mountain climbing on travel in my own terrestrial… the mountains and the glades of because in the African land, I am our land? Can I decide to do river guaranteed economic development rafting in the rivers and shores of through the tourism sector…. Somalia without being scared of because I am an African! the pirates? How about exploring the “deserts, the trees, the flowers, (Portia Pearl Siyanda Sifolo, an the seas and the ever-changing African before anything else...) seasons that define the face of our Lecturer of Tourism Management native land” (Mbeki, 2009) without (Pretoria – South Africa) being worried about the being Proximity Tourism The Latest Trend in Tourism Safari By Paul E. Kode rarily forget anything concerning modern culture of peace in the world at large. All conveniences. You have to be an integral that is needed is a change of mentality What Proximity Tourism Is part of their activities from sunrise to sun- through sensitization. It is tourism revolutionalized. Consider set for the entire 14 or so days of your so- Should the trend be reversed, the Camer- the present trend of tourism. You fly all journ with them. oonian who may also happen to indulge the way from some part of the world and in a safari would come back home sat- land in Cameroon as a tourist. You check That, is proximity tourism and it is the isfied with having integrated himself or into a four or five star hotel. In the morn- trend presently. Come to think of it, does herself into the daily life and activities of a ing, you order continental breakfast and it not make sense? Of course it does. If you welcoming family abroad. four- course meals later in the day. You were to go to the North Pole and visit with Cases are on record where a Cameroonian may visit a couple of sites in a 4WD vehi- the inhabitants there, you would have to fella sent the expatriate fiancé to stay with cle. In the evening, you may order for light participate in all their daily activities like his parents in the village for six months. supper and a nightcap and the day is done. a full member of the family. She emerged with a more balanced atti- That trend of tourism is now considered tude in respect of her fiance’s background. to be hackneyed or anachronistic. Home Tourism It was just to balance the equation with It is time Cameroonians open their doors the Cameroonian staying with her parents Modern Tourism to home tourism too. A family in Bova, abroad. The modern tourist derives a lot of plea- Bimbia, Akwaya, Mouck, Bamumbu or sure and satisfaction when he integrates Bakassi should be ready and willing to Advantages himself in what is called proximity tour- accommodate a tourist from abroad in its There are so many reciprocal advantages ism. home for a couple of days or weeks. Soon- in proximity tourism that they would fill a er or later, the tourist would feel so much book. The best this magazine can do is to Imagine you were to visit a pygmy at home that the bond of camaraderie leave it to the readers’ fertile imagination village for a week or two. with the host family would go a long way to itemise them with a cool head. The first thing in your mind is to tempo- to promote and sustain the much needed

63 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 Fini Hotel

64 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 Mars Limbe

65 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 THE MEDIA

The National Communication Council: In Defence of Press Freedom and Ethics in Cameroon

ameroon’s National effectively sink its teeth and rid a tailor-made complaints handling Communication burgeoning media landscape – made procedure for the regulators. Council, NCC, is up of over 600 print media organs, Following the enactment of Law an independent more than 100 radio stations and a Governing Audiovisual Activities body established by similar number of television stations of April 20, 2015 which heaped the December 19, -- of malpractice. new competences on the Council, 1990 Mass Communication Law to In its commitment to upholding it organized a national seminar on Cregulate the media and the conduct the guiding journalistic principles child protection in the media in and discipline of journalists. The of integrity, independence, September of the same year. The nine-member body is also charged professionalism, transparency and aforementioned seminar resulted in with advising the State on questions accountability, the Council has the production of a manual for the pertaining to the formulation of since 2013, made skills training protection of children and minors national media policies. seminars and consultations on the in the media which is pending The fundamental public interest Code of Conduct for the Practice of adoption. maxim of media freedom, freedom Journalism its major activity. Meanwhile, the National of expression and principles of A case in point is the September Communication Council also open and independent media that 2012 National Forum it organized, ensures that the public have the promotes participatory democracy, following its transition into a fully- opportunity to raise complaints rule of law and accountability in fledged regulator with brand new against the conduct and behavior the governance process underlay powers to mete out sanctions which of journalists and media houses. the media regulation process at the brought together media professionals, Till date, 107 complaints have been Council. scholars, policy makers and the processed, resulting in decisions Five years after the NCC was civil society to address the stakes which all gear towards ensuring that accorded wider powers by the and challenges facing the country’s the rights and privileges of journalists January 23, 2012 Presidential Decree media. Also, the NCC initiated and are protected on the one hand, while to regulate the country’s media, hosted a regional seminar of media professionalism and accountability the fledgling watchdog has sought, regulators of Central Africa in of media workers is upheld on the albeit with daunting challenges, to May 2014 which sought to devise a other. 66 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 The NCC Team

67 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 THE MEDIA CJA Cameroon honoured at London Conference Chief Foanyi Nkemayang elected vice-president for Africa

By Theodore M.Ndze

On the side-lines of its 10th World Conference on the theme; “The Future of Journalism in the Digital Age”, the Commonwealth Journalists Association, CJA, held elections into the governing organs of the body. The international executive bureau that had been in place for over three years, needed some rejuvenation to enable it to conduct its business around the Commonwealth with greater vigour. During the campaigns that began with lobbies among the delegates since the start of the conference, the Cameroonian delegation, worked its way to success. At the end of the election exercise on April 13, 2016, the President of CJA- Cameroon, Chief Foanyi Nkemayang Paul was voted as Vice President for Africa, while another member of the delegation, John Presient Paul Biya greets newly-elected CJA Vice President for Africa Chief Foanyi Mbah Akuroh who is also Secretary of responsible journalism. The Cameroonian delegation General of the Cameroon Branch At the close of the elections, the that performed brilliantly at the of the organisation, was elected new bureau was received at a elections was received in audience into the International Executive organized by the Commonwealth by Cameroon’s High Commissioner Committee of 12. Secretariat in Marlborough House, in London, H.E Nkwelle Ekaney. Rita Payne, who was the in the heart of London. During the He congratulated the duo and International President until April reception, the Secretary General promised to collaborate with them 13, was replaced by Mahendra of the Commonwealth, Baroness during their term in the governing Ved of India who had previously Patricia Scotland, told the men organ of the CJA. served as Vice President for South and women of letters that her Shortly after, the Director of the Asia. The elections which were action plan will centre around Commonwealth Department in conducted in a transparent, free three priority areas: gender equity, the Ministry of External Relations, and fair atmosphere set the ground youth training and employment Solomon E. Tatah praised Chief for more engagement and greater and climate change. There was also Foanyi Nkemayang Paul and action within the association in a clear engagement to encourage John Mbah Akuroh following efforts to protect journalists around CJA in its drive to contribute their brilliant election into the the Commonwealth, while at the to the wellbeing of the entire prestigious international executive same time promoting the virtues Commonwealth community. of the Commonwealth Journalists

68 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 69 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 “SPORTS,Modern Olympic TOURISM Swimming AND Pool CULTURE in Douala: ARE INVALUABLE VECTORS OF NATIONAL UNITY AND PROGRESS”, HON. DAVID MANFOUO

By Eddy Etawo The inauguration ceremony which the promoter of Belavie Hotel and was attended by several hundred Accessories. Belavie Company Limited Honorable David Manfouo is people, turned out to be a kind of deals in hotels, bakeries, restaurants a Member of Parliament from cultural jamboree. Dance groups fresh , snack bars, cafes etc. He Bamboutos in the West Region of from the north, west, east and recently set up a pure water processing Cameroon. He is a multi-faceted south of the country were on hand and packaging company. and leading economic operator in to grace the occasion. The most Honourable Manfouo can be Cameroon. He is of the opinion that spectacular of them was the Bantou considered a successful business when we promote culture, sports dance group from Ndobo in Douala. man; he is a man with a clear vision and tourism, we promote national The professional composers and and judgment. He is patriotic and unity integration and progress. He dancers pulled the diverse and varied a true symbol of national unity and expressed this view recently as he Cameroon culture into a tiny focus. integration. He employs over five inaugurated the Olympic Swimming They expressed it majestically in their hundred Cameroonians drawn from Pool and Belavie Hotel (3 stars) manner of dressing and dancing as across Cameroon. With the NOFIA behind La Pasta head office in the they vibrated to rhythms and sounds micro finance, he facilitates savings, Bonaberi neighborhood. Thanks to that cut across the North, South, West loans and investments to individuals Honourable Manfouo, Douala can and East of Cameroon. and small companies as well as assist now boast of a new and modern Honourable Manfouo has not only stranded tourists to access their Olympic Swimming Pool. Swimming invested in sports. He is the proprietor accounts in international banks. He being a sport for all genders and of Nouvelle Financière Africaine is using sports, tourism and culture ages, Manfouo called on the Regional (NOFIA), a micro finance structure to foster national unity, encourage Delegate of Sports to organize as many of international standing. He also national integration and foster swimming competitions as possible owns the Elegance Pressing Company economic progress and good life for in the pool. He equally called on the Limited, a dry cleaning and washing all Cameroonians. Three cheers to the population to come and swim and company that is conspicuously MP from Bamboutos. exercise themselves so as to be healthy imposing in all major cities in and strong. Cameroon. Above all, Manfouo is

70 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 Sports Ramatou alias Mama Eto’o eto’o’s fanatical supporter Those who frequent the city of Douala ent and supportive throughout the I can to promote his name. He is our will obviously know Ramatou Njoya player’s career- from Real Madrid to national hero”. alias Mama Eto’o. This robust 45-year- Mallorca to Barcelona to Inter Milan Mama Eto’o explains that the peak of old lady, has worked happily without to Russia, and to Turkey where Eto’o is her business is usually when Camer- pay for the past fifteen years. She takes playing today. oon qualifies for the African Cup of the name and reputation of the ace in- Asked what prompted her to become Nations or World Cup competitions ternational footballer, Samuel Eto’o, to a fanatical supporter of Eto’o, Ra- and when Eto’o qualifies his team for all the nooks and crannies of Douala matou says, “Eto’o is my son. the finals of European Cup competi- City. She braves it on foot, by bike or I am not his nat- tions. by taxi where she can afford one, with ural mother Mama Eto’o only one message, rally support for but I am r e v e a l s the popular footballer, Samuel Eto’o. really that Eto’o Dressed in sports attire and carry- v e r y sends her ing Cameroon national flag and that envelopes of the club for which Eto’o with good plays, she parades the amounts from streets of Douala. Europe and She either wears sometimes a green t-shirt, when he is in red shorts, yel- Cameroon. low stockings She also dis- and a pair of closed that Eto’o classy tennis has promised to which is the attire build her a house. of the Indomitable “I can’t wait for this Lions of Cameroon dream to become a re- or she wears the ality”, she says in an ex- complete jersey of pectant mood. the club Eto’o plays for in Europe at that particular time. On both hands, she car- ries jerseys bearing the name Samuel Eto’o in a bid to sell the name and per- sonality of her fa- vourite footballer. Her ambition is to preach Eto’o to football lovers, sports fans and Camer- oonians as a whole. “I started doing this when Eto’o start- ed playing for Real Madrid”, Ramatou Njoya told Achas Safari. She however regrets that Eto’o’s stay at Real Madrid was quite brief reason why very few Cameroonians saw her sell Real Ma- proud of him to the extent that drid jerseys. She equally says she has I consider him my son. I am always worked hard to add something equally very proud for what he positive to the reputation of Eto’o. The has done for Cameroon and be- fanatic fan has always been very pres- yond. I will continue to do what

71 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 “From Your Machine In The Office You Can Have Your Goods Cleared As Well As Have Authorization To Take Them Out Of The Port”. –Isidore Biyiha, G.M. Guce

Shortly before the ceremony to receive provisionary computers and administrative technics system better known in the French language as Systeme d’ Information des Administrations Techniques (SIAT), the final step to the implementation of paperless trade procedures,the General Manager of the Single Window for Foreign Trade (GUCE) Isidore Biyiha talked to the Achas Safari’s Eddy Etawo in his office about the unfolding dematerialization process. Excepts; Mr. General manager, what is paperless trade or dematerialization? It is the sum total of operations that consist in reducing the Isidore Biyiha: G.M. GUCE use of paper and to replace it with a competent computer phase that we called the technical them out of the port. Brief, this is network system. We have proceeded reception phase, that is to say, the what obtains now in the GUCE. You to the dematerialization of all the administration and all technicians know we had already put in place procedures in external trade. We are met at GUCE last January 22 to the electronic payment system in a thus about to launch the complete assure the entire development and convention we signed with the port of switch over from paper to the other applications connected to Douala a few months ago. electronic system. The event of today dematerialization and corresponding How Will This Process Benefit is the reception of the provisionary to their needs and aspirations. Tests Clients? equipment aimed at arming the were done procedure by procedure In just a few seconds all payment, administration concerned with and treatment by treatment. be they taxes or others could be the computer technique. This will done successfully. This implies help them to work in the process How Many Procedures Are Involved In This considerable time gain. In the past, and context of dematerialization. Operation? it was a procedure that could take There are at least 10 administrations Globally, we have about 70 several days. Henceforth, with just concerned. Henceforth, instead of procedures of which 36 are major a simple click, the client will be able using the paper, they will use a special while the rest are minor or sub to pay his taxes and other forms technique in the computer. This procedures. In reality, it is the entire of payments without budging. No contract was realized by a Tunisian process of the Single Window more photocopies etc. everything is firm. It should be noted that there For External Trade that will be electronic and this assures rapidity is a period of one year guarantee. It dematerialized. Paper as we use and efficiency at every point. Above is at the end of the 365 days that we today shall be replaced by computer all, the process now considerably will say that the reception is complete operations. The use of the system reduces physical contact and and the system fit for exploitation. does not require movement. From therefore too corruption in the However, henceforth, SIAT shall your machine in your office, you process of clearing goods in the go fully operational. Before this could have your goods cleared as market. protocoled phase there was the well as have the authorization to take

72 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 National Shippers Council

73 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016 74 achas safari No 002 june-august 2016