About Talented Cameroonians at Home and Abroad N° 013 Miss South Africa USA Miss Kenya USA Miss Liberia USA Miss Sierra Leone USA Miss Cameroon USA Miss Gambia USA Miss Guinea USA Nyasha Zimucha Victoria Njau Belloh Julius Philippa Lahai-Swaray Danielle Mingana Fochive Tanta Badjan Binta Diao Miami Florida Texas Georgia Georgia Maryland New York New Jersey
Miss Zimbabwe USA Miss Ghana USA Miss Burundi USA Miss Nigeria USA Miss South Sudan USA Miss Ethiopia USA Miss Senegal USA Busi Mlambo Krystle Simpson Danielle Ntahonkiney Esosa Edosomwan Nathalie Zambakari Aziza Elteib Mariama Brown Texas Maryland Texas New York Georgia Georgia
Miss Democratic Re- Miss Uganda USA Miss Zambia USA public of Congo Imat Akelo-Opio Mutinta Suuya Andrea Mvemba International Georgia ello Readers, Your favourite E-Magazine is one year old. We acknowledge that your interest and comments have been invaluable to our editorial work and so we hereby pledge our commitment to continue this initiative that ushers in a new era of hardwork, creativity and results that will accompany our country on the difficult path towards development. Things will never be the same again. H HEALTH FOR ALL has been a bestselling slogan and dream for so many decades in Cameroon like in other countries. While we all see Health For All as an achievement that permits everyone to get care in order to prevent or treat most common ailments at affordable prices, we still observe that despite all the individual, collective and government efforts aimed at improving on healthcare delivery systems , so many obstacles imposed by more communicable and non-communicable diseases still exist in an environment marked by poverty.
In this Issue, we run to a few dedicated health practitioners for rescue. Our first stop is Daytona Beach in Florida where we find Dr. Philip NDUM, an oncologist and hematologist, to give us an insight into the reasons that account for his success in practice as well as get his bits of analysis and ad- vice on most health problems that we face today.
We join health decision makers from all over Africa in the 58th Session of WHO Africa Region Committee holding in Yaounde to learn more about Africa’s growing health challenges and efforts to meet them. One of such challenges is, of course, MALARIA. Our interest in Yaounde is also aroused by a one day conference on African Traditional Medicine. We are impressed by efforts made by Governments to integrate traditional medicine into modern medicine since more than 60 percent of Africa’s population still has recourse to traditional solutions to their health problems.
Dr. Philip NDUM’s expert opinions on some non-communicable diseases inspire us to stop for a moment on Breast Cancer and examine its growing threat on the health of especially young women of African descent.
We remember the 1978 Alma-Ata Declaration on Primary Health Care and meet one of Africa’s greatest icons in Medicine, Professor Gottlieb Lobe Monekosso, to share his most interesting moments as a talented health professional and administrator throughout his very long period of service and awesome achievements.
At the Tiko District Hospital, Dr. EBONG Charles EWANG gives us an insight into the challenges that most health practitioners face in different health institutions in Cameroon. His opinions on several health issues are just so enriching.
A few kilometers away, at the foot of Mount Fako, Madam OMAM Esther explains to us how she and the hardworking staff of REACH OUT set out strategies to support underprivileged groups in the community with emphasis on good reproductive health and economic empowerment among youth and women.
Next, we accompany the Presidential Couple to New York and Quebec and also join in celebrating the achievements of tal- ented Cameroonians like EBEN ARMSTRONG, FRANCOISE MBANGO ETONE, LADY KATE NJEUMA. We also join in celebrating Prince BELDON’S First Birthday in Colorado, before attending the African workshop on Governance in the Transport Sector organised in Yaounde.
Dear Reader, Part of our hopes for African Development lies with the US Presidential Elections and BARACK Tonge B. Ebai OBAMA is our Choice! Enjoy Your Reading.
About Cameroonians at Home and Abroad 3 The U.S. Embassy in Cameroon will lead a high-level Trade Delegation of African Business Executives and Entrepreneurs to Chicago for a Trade Mission, Business Forum, attendance to Pack Expo International 2008 and a major Chicago Car Auction Sale.
Makuna International, Chicago US Embassy, Yaounde Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] website: www.makunainternational.com Tel: (237) 22 20 15 00 (4118) Tel: 1630 670 5551
Welcome to the SUCCESS STORY E-MAGAZINE, Dr. Philip Ndum and GREETINGS from our Readers around the world. Medicine can be a vocation or a profession. Which is it for you?
From the very early days of my training, I had a constant reminder from my professors that the only rest one could get as a physician would be in the grave. You come to realize quickly that illness has no timing and that your services could be needed at any hour of the day. If you have compassion for your patients like I do, you feel the compulsion to be there when you are needed to make life changing decisions. Now, when my patients ask when I will have a vacation, I tell them my vocation is my vacation. Nothing gives me more real pleasure than the satisfaction of having done my best and seeing an excellent outcome.
What inspired you to begin work in this field?
Strangely enough, for as long as I could remember, I always wanted to be a physician. Maybe the suffering that I saw growing up, gave me the drive. From my Shisong Hospital for almost 2 years before coming to the United States in days in primary school, I was called 'Docteur' by my friends. My decision to 1996. Within a year, I was able to complete the required medical licensing subspecialize in medical Oncology and Hematology was a well thought out process. examinations for all practising physicians in the United States and begin Cancer is a devastating illness which continues to rob people of a meaningful specialization in Internal Medicine at the University of Missouri which I existence. The weapons we have to fight cancer are still evolving and my passion to completed in 2000. I went right on to subspecialize in Medical Oncology be a part of the groundbreaking work towards a cure for these diseases led me to and Hematology in the same institution and completed this process in this field. I also realize that death is inevitable and as people get closer to life's end, 2003. From then, I have worked at the Florida Hospital Cancer Care Cen- they become more receptive to God's word. It has been a great experience sharing ter in Palm Coast and Ormond Beach. my faith with others who may never have been approachable in the first place.
What professional steps led you to your present position? “I worked in Shisong Hospital for
Where do I begin from? After breezing through primary and secondary school, I almost 2 years before coming to the went to CCAST Bambili where I obtained a scholarship to study medicine in Nigeria. It took 5 years of medical education and 1 year doing a rotating internship United States in 1996…” before I could practise medicine in Cameroon as a general practitioner. I worked in
About Cameroonians at Home and Abroad 5
What are some of the challenges that you faced reaching your professional objectives? “Now, when my patients When I look back, I must say I have been very blessed. I know what many of my African colleagues have gone through to get assimilated in this system. I will not ask when I will have trivialize their struggles by stating the irrelevant. If I must say anything, my chal- lenges have been at a personal level. I got married at 21 while in medical school and quickly had two children. Most friends and family thought I must be crazy vacation, I tell them my then, and juggling family life and medical school was an experience I would not like to repeat. Also, I had to leave my family back home for almost 4 years while trying to regularize my stay here. Those were the most challenging years of my life. vocation is my Who inspires you?
No one particular individual serves as my main inspiration. I was brought up in a vacation.” family where faith, integrity, hard work and self sacrifice were categorical impera- tives. These are the attributes which serve as my main inspiration and I respect individuals who embody these qualities. From the woman who sells puff puff on What are some of the strengths that you have as a the streets of Limbe so that her children can go to school, to the magistrate who Cameroonian that help you in performing your job? refuses a bribe and ensures that justice is not for sale, these are my real heroes.
I am a product of adversity and this has given me a sense of dedication and What advice do you have for any young person wanting to enter your hard work. Compassion is a great strength in my profession which has profession? been well nurtured by the extended family networks in Cameroon. A deep Christian faith has also given me the mental ability to cope with my pa- Dedication and hard work is all it takes. There is more perspiration than inspira- tients trials and tribulations and quite often the grief of their families, tion in this field. For those who perceive this field as a vocation, they are more knowing that death only creates a new beginning and for those who likely to succeed. Many have asked how I managed to spend so many years in believe, there is a better life after this. training. It is not that hard. The most difficult part is going through medical school. After that, there is a lot of work and studies during specialization, with a “I am a product of adversity and this small salary we consider as a stipend. Your stipend can pay the bills and take care of a small family. In most of the developed world, the financial rewards are monu- has given me a sense of dedication mental, depending on the area of subspecialization. Those who fail focus too much on the financial gains and fail to have a balance between the spiritual and the and hard work.” physical. Medicine can be depressing if you fail to acknowledge the spiritual com- ponent of the physical man.
6 About Cameroonians at Home and Abroad “I was brought up in a family where faith, integrity, hard work and self sacrifice were categorical imperatives. These are the attributes which serve as my main inspiration and I respect individuals who embody these qualities.”
You are a family man. How do you manage the balance between your job and your personal life?
It is a tough job that I am still trying to master. I thank God for giving me a very supportive wife who has sacrificed her ambitions to ensure a balance in our family, where my presence is appreciated and my absence is understood. Having to take calls frequently and travel for continuing medical education as well as research meetings, there must be a constant presence at home to ensure the kids are always supervised and loved. My wife's devotion has been the thread that has kept our family together and I remain eternally grateful to her.
“ ...my wife's devotion has been the thread that has kept our family together and I remain eternally grateful to her.”
About Cameroonians at Home and Abroad
About Cameroonians at Home and Abroad What is the most puzzling case you have ever come across? “I got married at 21 Recently I saw a 16 year old who attempted suicide by taking an overdose of his blood thinners. Six months prior, I had diagnosed him with an in- herited clotting disorder when he presented to the hospital with a clot in while in medical school his leg and lungs. At that time, the recommendation was for lifelong blood thinners which would preclude him from contact sports or any physical activity with a high risk for injury. Like his father and grandfather before him, his dream was to become a marine and he saw his dream shattered by and quickly had his new diagnosis, hence the attempt on his life. I told him I just came from seeing a 29 year old who had a clot in his lung. At 17, he was in- volved in a devastating motor vehicle accident that rendered him quadri- two children.” plegic. For the last 12 years he survived as a living head, requiring total care and being fed by a feeding tube. When I had finished my consultation and was about to leave he tearfully looked at me and asked, “Doc, am I going to die." I not available in most of the national territory. An uninterrupted power supply will was shaken by his resolve to live in spite of his overwhelming handicaps. be the basis of any industrial revolution to power the medical equipment necessary Where does faith like this come from? for advanced healthcare delivery. The 16 year old was an atheist who refused the existence of God. My story brought him to tears as he realized that there was much more to life than The greatest killers in Cameroon are preventable, including malaria, childhood being a marine. waterborne illnesses, AIDS and liver cancer. In these areas, we need government policies which need to be formulated by the right professionals. A simple example How can Cameroon attract and keep more medical is to ensure a safe pool of blood for transfusion to reduce transmission of blood borne illnesses especially hepatitis viruses which end up causing liver cancer, which professionals? is the most prevalent cause of cancer death in the third world, including Camer- It is not just medical professionals who are leaving Cameroon. Most of our oon. intellectuals are leaving. If I look back at my school days in Cameroon, I must say the brightest and the best minds have left the country. It is not Breast cancer is usually very aggressive and deadly in our young women. Mam- just a problem with medicine, the problem of absence of resources and mography is a cheap, effective diagnostic tool which can lead to earlier diagnosis opportunities as we know it, it is a failure of governance. The government and potential cures if used as a screening tool. This technology is easy to transfer. in Cameroon has entrenched a system of mediocrity, cronyism and ethno- Prostate cancer is also very common in men of African descent and effective centrism which has allowed injustice, inequalities and insecurity to prevail. screening including annual digital rectal exams and Prostate Specific Antigen test- To attract and keep medical professionals in Cameroon, we need a govern- ing for men over 40 years can be a life saver.
ment that is made up of leaders who have a genuine love for their country. Stomach and esophageal cancers are also very prevalent in Cameroon because of a We need a government that has zero tolerance for corruption, which re- diet rich in smoked foods. The Japanese have greatly reduced mortality in this area wards hard work and ingenuity and ensures a regional balance in appoint- by doing screening upper endoscopies which has led to earlier diagnosis and in- ments and development. If these things are done, we will be able to attract crease in cures. and retain our intellectuals as well as foreign businesses to infuse the much Our markets are flooded by counterfeit drugs from India and China. Licences for needed capital to re-invigorate our economy. drug importation and government drug supply contracts are given to party loyal- ists, kinsmen and family friends who know nothing about quality control but are Your wish list for improving the health of Cameroonians. What more concerned about profits. People die needlessly who are prescribed the right priority health equipment/services would you like to see used in medications but are sold fake medicines which predominate in our drug markets. Cameroon? We need a regulatory agency to ensure that the drugs coming to our country are tested, safe and effective. The health of Cameroonians is directly linked to the economic situation. With better governance, most of the missing links will fall in place. What With AIDS related illnesses being the greatest killer of our young people, we need drives a great healthcare system is an array of skilled medical professionals, a national policy which includes mandatory testing and partner notification, crimi- most of whom require several years of training. My greatest desire is that nal prosecution and stiff penalties for those who knowingly infect others, protec- our medical professionals, most of whom were initially trained at the ex- tion against discrimination for those who are HIV positive as well as aggressive pense of the government, should return home and serve as a beacon of education and treatment which is culturally appropriate. For us, AIDS has as- hope for the ailing healthcare system. We need an enabling environment sumed epidemic proportions and at times like this, we need a radical approach to for this to happen. stem this tide of destruction.
For a country like Cameroon which is struggling economically, preventive I remember going to Limbe, the intense emotions I felt when I visited the grave- methods which are cost effective should be emphasized. yard in New Town where one of my childhood friends lay buried. Just reading the These include a safe and uninterrupted water supply which is
8 About Cameroonians at Home and Abroad My greatest desire is that our medical motorcycle transportation, chainsaw operating schemes for forest exploitation, fuel sale businesses as well as provision sales. I must say for the most part this has professionals, most of whom were been a success as most of this people can take care of their families without re- sorting to begging. I am in the process of constructing a health center, working initially trained at the expense of the with the Baptist mission in Cameroon that will eventually run it once completed. Although work for this has been at snails pace because of the seasonal roads, government, should return home and most of the funds have already been sent to the Baptist mission to realize the serve as a beacon of hope for the ailing project. There is just so much I can do by myself but when we join hands together, in- healthcare system. We need an enabling stead of building a health center, we can build hospitals, instead of providing for a village, we can provide for a province. environment for this to happen Cameroon is a nation that is blessed with great intellectual and material resources and with the right leadership, we can rise to meet the challenges of the modern names on the tombstones and recognizing that in my absence, a lot of young world. acquaintances had met an untimely end, was a rude awakening.
Are there some things you will like more people do to support their health? Breast Cancer
For Cameroonians, especially in the Diaspora, I will say most of them are is usually very aggressive and deadly in digging their graves with their teeth. There is an obesity crisis fuelled by a sedentary western lifestyle, cheap food and a healthy appetite. These have our young women. Mammography is a created a metabolic syndrome manifested by a high incidence of diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. These problems are also grave among the cheap, effective diagnostic tool which can 'nouveau riche' back home. These have led to an increasing incidence of heart attacks, strokes, kidney failure and blindness. I have even lost friends from lead to earlier diagnosis and potential these problems. cures if used as a screening tool. This A strong recommendation will be for a healthy, active lifestyle, to eat with technology is easy to transfer. discretion and a balanced diet, physical activity with regular exercises and also spiritual health. In the Diaspora especially, our quest for excellence and pursuit for material gains has fattened the body but left an ailing spirit. We must find time within our busy schedules to enhance our spiritual health. It goes without Prostate Cancer saying that a healthy spirit makes for a healthy body. is also very common in men of African Far away from home, what Cameroonian dish do you miss the descent and effective screening including most? annual digital rectal exams and Prostate Fresh roasted fish and 'miondo'. I can’t wait to go to Limbe and sit by the sea at Down Beach for this delicacy. Specific Antigen testing for men over 40 years can be a life saver. Final thoughts on Cameroon?
In the words of Kennedy, I will say, 'ask not what your country has done for you, but what you have done for your country.' It is easy to become very bitter Stomach and about Cameroon, when you see the colossal waste of natural resources due to mismanagement of the public trust. Cameroonians must develop a righteous anger against their government but at the same time continue to help the most Oesophageal Cancers vulnerable in our communities. We must learn to give back in ways that will not only benefit our immediate families, but the disadvantaged public as a are also very prevalent in Cameroon whole. We must find ways of coming together and joining our hands to create because of a diet rich in smoked foods private initiatives that will benefit the common man. Two years ago, I went home to bury my dad. The roads leading to my village were almost impassable. The village youths had nothing more to do than sub- sistence farming. There were Ibo boys in my village operating motorcycle transportation businesses. My village boys did not have the resources to set up Interviewed by Clementine Ewokolo Burnley such a business. So far I have assisted them to set up individual projects from
About Cameroonians at Home and Abroad 9 elegates from 46 nations gathered at the Yaounde Conference Center from September 1st to 5th 2008 under the chairmanship of Camer- oon’s Prime Minister and Head of Government H.E. Chief Ephraim D Inoni to evaluate progress made so far in tackling major health issues affecting the African population in the strife to attain the Millennium Development Goals. The opening ceremony was marked by speeches from Yaounde City’s Government Delegate, Gilbert Tsimi Evouna; the African Union Commission Chairperson’s representative, Dr. Tshabalala; the Director General of the WHO, Dr Margaret Chang; and WHO Africa’s Regional Director, Dr. Luis Gomes Sambo. In his keynote address, H.E. Chief Ephraim Inoni regretted the fact that Africa on the whole seems to achieving very little positive results while other re- gions were making commendable strides towards achieving the Millennium De- velopment Goals. He recommended a synergy of actions within the region in order to engage the struggle more effectively. On her part, Dr. Margaret Chan blamed Africa’s health situation to poverty and the socio economic crisis that the continent suffered from in the nineties. She advised African Leaders to work harder, with a focus on integrated pro- grammes. Throughout the 5-day session, the Delegates discussed on topics like: action to reduce the harmful use of alcohol; cancer prevention and control; women’s health in the WHO African region; strengthening public health laborato- ries; iodine deficiency disorders; patient safety in African health services; imple- mentation of the regional oral health strategy and adoption of the Ouagadougou Declaration on Primary Health and Health Systems. The session was organised within the context of reform and change initi- ated by Dr. Luis Gomes Sambo since his election as Regional Director for Africa.
one day conference was organised at the Yaounde Conference Centre on the 31st of August 2008 to celebrate the 6th Anniversary of the African Day of Traditional Medicine. A While discussions centred around the theme “the role of traditional practi- tioners in primary health care,” the conference also set a platform to review the mid- term of the African Traditional Medicine Decade Plan that was adopted in 2001 by Health Ministers of the African Union, in Tripoli, Lybia and later validated at a Heads of States and Heads of Government’s summit of the Union in 2003 in Maputo, Mozam- bique. The objectives of the Decade were “knowledge, development, integration, and the institutionalization of traditional medicine by all member states in their respective public health systems during the decade in relation to the priority action of the WHO regarding research in the treatment of malaria, HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and other infec- tions, in conformity with the Maputo Declaration” Besides setting up a Traditional Socio-Sanitary Care Service in 2002 and the Department of collaboration with traditional health practitioners at the Ministry of Public Health , the Prime Minister of Cameroon and Head of Government, H.E. Chief Inoni Ephraim mentioned in his opening speech that a National Strategic Plan was elabo- rated to develop and integrate traditional medicine in Cameroon during the period run- ning from 2006 to 2010. Other speakers like Dr. Luis Gomes Sambo (WHO African Regional Director) disclosed that early referral of patients was already in practice, while the Commissioner for Social Affairs of the African Union, Mrs. Gawana Bience challenged African coun- tries to learn from the examples of China and India that have integrated traditional medicine into their health systems. The representative of the Chairman of the African Union Commission, Dr. Tshabalala Msimang called on researchers to collaborate more with universities to standardize herbal medicine; to focus on indigenous knowl- edge; to include intellectual property rights in African traditional medicine; to regulate the exploitation and export of traditional medicine from Africa to developed countries. alaria remains one of the most of insecticide (irS) and intermittent deadly diseases in Africa. preventive treatment in pregnancy According to the recently pub- (ipt). M lished World Malaria Report The Report however regrets that de- 2008, there were an estimated 247 million spite increases in the supply of mos- malaria cases among 3.3 billion people at quito nets, especially llin in Africa, the risk in 2006, causing nearly a million number available in 2006 was still far deaths, mostly children under 5 years. 109 below need in almost all countries. countries were endemic for malaria in 2008, The procurement of antimalarial medi- 45 within the WHO African region. cines also increased sharply, but ac- Due to increased support from the UN Sec- cess to treatment especially of ACT, retary General; the Roll Back Malaria Part- was inadequate in all countries sur- nership; UNICEF; the World Bank; the veyed in 2006. Global Fund; and the Gates Foundation , “Malaria is a primary cause of child malaria deaths have declined in several mortality. If the availability of bednets countries, and a few African nations have and other key interventions can be managed to reduce deaths by half following increased, lives can the recommended measures. be saved,” said Ann The Report states that the combination of M. Veneman, the tools and methods to combat malaria now Executive Director of includes long-lasting insecticidal nets (llin) the United Nations and artemisinin-based combination therapy Children’s Fund (aCt), supported by indoor residual spraying (UNICEF)
s you know, malaria drains Africa of over US $30 billions each year in health costs and lost productivity. With interest compounded on top of missed opportunities, my personal belief as a businessman is that the real cost of malaria is more than US $60 billion annu- A ally. Just think about this: with 600 million people at risk, the cost of malaria works out to US $100 per person per year! That is more than the average income of most of the 600 million people at risk! Malaria traps millions of citizens in poverty. As you well know, malaria annually takes the lives of between one and three million peo- ple in Africa. If we could bring morbidity and mortality from Malaria down to zero, the benefits to the African people would be greater than any other single thing we could do or any step we could take! As the First Special Envoy for Malaria, I stand before you today to boldly state that we now have the money and the technology to bring deaths to zero in the next several years! Imag- ine what your economies would look like without malaria. Imagine the happiness of your people without malaria and especially the parents of little children. Imagine the empty beds in your hospi- tals and health clinics without malaria. Finally , we must work together. It is critical that this be a shared commitment and a shared re- sponsibility. However, without your full leadership we hold no hope of success. Excerpt of the Address by Mr. Ray Chambers, the UN Secretary General’s Special Envoy for Malaria, during the opening ceremony of the WHO’s 58th Regional Committee, September 1st 2008, Yaounde to care and what type of treatment women were given during the study. Subsequent studies have confirmed these results also taking into account differences in income or education levels of women with breast cancer.
Closer to home, breast cancers from Nigeria, Senegal and North America have been compared for the first time. The study by researchers in Nige- ria and America shows that women of African ancestry are at higher risk of aggressive breast cancer disease than women of European ancestry. The study author Dr. Olufunmilayo I. Olopade is Professor of Medicine and Human Geneticist at the University of Chicago, and an international leader in research. She studies the genetics and the environmental contri- bution to breast cancer incidence and mortality in America and Africa. The results of the study mean that the screening guidelines for breast cancer may have to be changed to detect these types of breast cancer in women of African descent. he facts have been known for some time: for African-American women, the chance of getting breast cancer is lower than for white women, but “...Women of African ancestry are at higher the risk of dying from the disease is higher. risk of aggressive breast cancer disease
T What are the reasons for racial differences in breast cancer survival rates? than women of European ancestry...” What is the chance of getting breast cancer for African women? How can be breast cancer detected at an early stage? How is it best treated? What is the risk for Camer- When researchers from the University of Calabar, University of Chicago oonian women? How is breast cancer diagnosed and treated in Cameroon? How and University of North Carolina compared the breast cancer tissue from can we lower our risk? What can I do to help…? African women to that of North American women they found that breast cancers in the African women occurred at an earlier age. They also found In the next months the Health Team at Success Success E-Magazine will investigate this that breast cancers in African women were less likely to respond to com- important subject with the help of our home-grown Doctors, Cancer Specialists and mon drug treatments. This is because the molecular composition of Researchers. breast cancer cells differs from person to person. More blacks had a sub- Because breast cancer is rare in younger women, regular screening for the disease type which is sensitive to chemotherapy but has a poor outcome. More begins at age 40 in most countries where there are regular screening programmes. research is needed on blacks; the studies which are on-going still lack Breast cancer is, however a leading cause of death in women under 40. Younger black participants. If more blacks participate in research studies, they can black women are also being diagnosed with aggressive forms of the disease. We help researchers to identify the different cancer cell subtypes and develop now know that under the age of 35, women of African descent have a higher risk of individualized courses of treatment.
breast cancer than women with European ancestry. Over 50 years of age, African As Head of the Cancer Risk Clinic at the University of Chicago Medical American women have lower risk of breast cancer than their white counterparts. Center, Dr. Olopade is an expert on individualized treatment for breast Researchers point out that while not all African-American women have worse cancer. Her advice to African-American women is to “first assess their risk chances of surviving breast cancer, a subset of African-American women do. for the disease and then talk with their doctors to develop an individual strategy to Women at higher risk, both of getting breast cancer and of dying, need to be identi- lower the risk.” For those who see a breast cancer diagnosis as a death sen- fied to improve their chances of survival. tence, Dr Olopade had some reassuring words in an October 2007 Ebony article: "It's a disease where we have found new treatments that are saving more lives, Racial Differences …It is not the disease of your grandmother, where everyone who got breast cancer Two recent, long-running breast cancer studies have showed “intrinsic biological differ- died."
ences in the disease and response to treatment among racial groups” in the USA. The two In Part 2 we will look at on-going research on breast cancer and at ways clinical chemotherapy trials followed a group of 2,140 women from 1975-2000. to prevent or to detect the disease. Compared to Hispanics and whites, more African-American women came into the trial with later stage disease, larger tumours and tumours which were considered ©Clementine Ewokolo Burnley and Dr. W. Efimba difficult to treat. The trials controlled for factors such as whether women had access
n 1978, Delegates to the International Conference problems: proper nutrition; safe water supply and basic on Primary Health Care holding in Alma-Ata, in sanitation; support to health of mothers and children, in- present day Kazakhstan, declared access to health cluding family planning; vaccination; prevention and treat- services “a universal human right”. A time limit was ment of common diseases and injuries; and provision of givenI to put in place the structures to achieve this goal. essential drugs.
Eight years after the deadline and exactly thirty years According to David A.Tejada de Rivero (WHO Dep- later, it’s time to take stock. uty-Director at the time of Alma-Ata) many of the In 1978., health was gaining a place in the minds of deci- social and political aims of the primary health care sion makers as a public good, an investment in people policy are still to be achieved. The bulk of world- and in the future. At the time, developing country gov- wide health spending is focused on a few diseases ernments faced a healthcare planning dilemma: where to defined health as a state of “complete, physical, mental and and health systems are still highly centralized.
invest, what to invest and how much to invest? They social well-being”. Health for all would mean that every- Despite outstanding successes the WHO in 2000 moved first to establish teaching hospitals and medical one could get care to prevent or treat most common reported that the Primary Health Care initiative and nursing schools. The rural population was served by ailments and be cured of most diseases at affordable had been underfunded, with many of the non- isolated outposts, mission hospitals and clinics and tradi- prices. professional practitioners insufficiently trained and tional healers. The pattern is still the same in many coun- The Alma-Ata Declaration was adopted by all lacking equipment. These problems were com- tries. In poor nations, Doctors are lightly sprinkled countries who were members of WHO. Locally deliv- pounded by new challenges such as the HIV epi- though the rural population. Most are found in the urban ered, affordable care, with the participation of the demic. In many countries, government actually areas. community and professionals from many sectors, reduced provision healthcare services, and intro- The “Health for All” model for poor countries was that of would be central to the countries’ health systems and duced or increased charges. Among noteworthy community-based Primary Health Care, with both profes- the foundation for social and economic development improvements: many more children are vaccinated sional carers and trained amateurs giving essential care to of the whole nation. against childhood diseases and many more people rural populations. Such a structure would be decentral- have safe water and sanitation. The PHC initiative Health researchers Hall and Taylor identify the essen- ised, and would involve local people in continues to be an integral part of global health tial items for health as: education on methods of making decisions about their care. The policy. preventing and controlling the most common health World Health Organisation (WHO) © Clementine Ewokolo Burnley
12 About Cameroonians at Home and Abroad MD. ( London ) FRCP (Edinburgh) Dsc. Honoris Causa University of Ife , Nigeria Dsc. Honoris Causa University of Dar es Salaam
Former Minister of Public Health , Cameroon , Emeritus Director, WHO Africa Region Founding Dean, University Centre for Health Sciences, Yaounde Currently President, Global Health Dialogue Foundation.
citizen of the Republic of Cameroon , Profes- sor obtained his primary and secondary school education in Lagos , Nigeria and stud- ied medicine at the Guy's Hospital Medical SchoolA of the University of London, England (1948-53). He then went to the London School of Tropical Medicine countries. He was elected to the post of the WHO Director for Af- (1956-57). After House appointments at Guy's Hospital, rica , completing two five year terms of office: 1985-1995. During this London , he joined the new University College of Ibadan time he was a member of the WHO executive management in Ge- (1954-56) as the Resident Physician in the Department of neva and had the privilege of giving technical advice to 46 countries Medicine. He spent the academic year 1956/1957 securing in Africa and to the Oganisation of African Unity (OAU) and the UN postgraduate academic and specialist qualifications. Be- Economic Commission for Africa . He returned home in 1995 to ac- tween 1967and 1960 he worked successively as Senior tive retirement in the Littoral and South West Provinces . He finally Resident in Ibadan , Lecturer in Makerere University Col- had the great fortune to serve as Cameroon's Minister of Public lege , Uganda , and Research Fellow at the University Col- Health from 1997-2000. He currently runs a small foundation de- lege of West Indies, Kingston , Jamaica . voted to health and welfare of young people with Headquarters in Buea and an operational office in Douala . Returning to Africa in 1960, he was successively Senior Lecturer and Associate Professor of Medicine in Ibadan A life time devoted to health, Professor Monekosso has been active and Vice Dean of the Faculty of Medicine. In 1963 he was in clinical, laboratory and field research on endemic diseases espe- appointed Professor of Medicine and Head of Department cially tropical neuropathy; the adaptation of teaching programmes of Medicine of Lagos College of Medicine. In 1968 he was ( for medical, nursing and other health sciences students) to commu- WHO professor and Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, Uni- nity health needs; the organization of healthcare delivery in univer- versity of Dar es Salaam , Tanzania . He returned home to sity centres, district hospitals and at community level. He taught a Cameroon in 1969 to head the newly created University couple of generation of health professionals active in Eastern, West- Centre for Health Sciences (CUSS). He headed CUSS for its ern and Central Africa . He has held several honorary positions – first decade. professional, academic- around the world and has published a num- ber of books and over a hundred paper s in the scientific and health In 1978/80 he was a resident consultant to the World literature. Health Oganisation in Geneva , carrying out missions in Asia , Africa and Latin America . From 1980-1985 he was Retired but not tired, he is publisher of a monthly newspaper Cam- WHO Representative to Jamaica with responsibility for the santé News, and supervises the activities of the Global Health Dia- sub region of the northern Commonwealth Caribbean logue Foundation.
About Cameroonians at Home and Abroad 13 On returning to Africa in 1954, I was drawn to setting and implementing strategic health policies by the force of circumstances. African countries after independence in the 1960’s inherited colonial health systems that catered for civil and military officers and their immediate neighborhoods mainly in capital cities whilst compassionate missionaries looked after the
Professor, Welcome to Success Story E-Magazine. Could you start by rural poor. telling us about your long career in setting and implementing strategic health policies at national and international level? to go out to the villages to see how those problems came about. I Thank you for your invitation to contribute to your E-magazine. It has found myself a champion of primary health care, and this took me been my privilege to work for health in the past sixty years – beginning on back to WHO under the leadership of Dr. Halfden Mahler. entry to medical school in London in 1948, house appointments in Lon- don, followed by University posts junior and senior in three African coun- What are some of the strengths that you have as a tries. This was followed by my ten years pioneering opportunity in Camer- Cameroonian that helped you in performing your job? oon – the privilege to be at the foundation of the Yaoundé Medical School Firstly, Cameroon is Africa in miniature, at the crossroads of Af- and Teaching Hospital (1959-69); then an internal WHO global assignment rica’s population types, and culture; situated in Central Africa bor- from Geneva, then to the Pan American Health Organization (1980-85) dering Nigeria, the Congo Democratic (ex-Zaire) and a stone throw and finally my election to the post of WHO Regional Director for Africa from the vast Sudan. Secondly, the bicultural heritage British and (1985-1994). On returning home I tasted the new Cameroon as Minister of French colonial experiences of two administrative and political Health (1997-2000). systems facilitated understanding of issues and problems from the majority of countries of sub-Saharan Africa. Thirdly the linguistic What inspired you to begin work in this field? bilingual advantage, able to speak, read and writes English and On returning to Africa in 1954, I was drawn to setting and implementing French, fourthly, our culture of tolerance and peaceful coexistence strategic health policies by the force of circumstances. African countries – “on va fait comment” – with a few notable exceptions. after independence in the 1960’s inherited colonial health systems that catered for civil and military officers and their immediate neighborhoods What are some of the challenges that you faced reaching mainly in capital cities whilst compassionate missionaries looked after the WHO’s regional objectives? rural poor. The contrast between my UK education and experience and the WHO’s regional objectives were essentially those of member states conditions in Africa was glaring, especially as my last job in London was as expressed in resolutions adopted by Health Ministers each year. Senior House Officer in Neurosurgery (brain surgery) at the Guys Maude- They however resembled in political terms “the stand” of civil soci- sley Neurosurgical Unit. ety organizations and were not always implemented with celerity by governments. As an inter-governmental agency (a branch of the What professional steps led you to positions as WHO Director for UN) WHO operations suffer from bureaucratic bottle necks, as Africa and Minister of Health? well as the constraints “gently imposed” by the policies of the ma- Looking back there were a series of steps – none of which were planned. I jor powers. WHO however was different from the Bretton Woods went unwillingly to medical school partly to respect my father’s wishes but Institutions, and some bilateral agencies. Sometimes member states also to fulfill the dream of going to Europe. I had dreamt of teaching and resisted resolutions accepted by the majority. During my ten years research in the physical sciences. It was only after graduation and appoint- the main theme was health for all by 2000 through the primary ments in my London Teaching Hospital that I realized I could be a teacher health care approach. Not many countries achieved the ideals of and a researcher. Not as a follower of Einstein’s theory of relativity which Alma Ata. drove us crazy. I left Britain (1954) to join the new Medical Faculty at Ibadan (in Nigeria) where I taught for ten years (1954 - 63) with short as- Is the provision of essential health care for all an achievable signments at Makerere University College Medical School, Kampala target? Uganda (1958 – 60) and a research fellowship at the University College of It depends what one means by “essential health care”. It is not a the West Indies Kingston Jamaica (1960). These steps were circumstantial. fixed finite target, even though as defined by WHO. it is not only I held the chair of Medicine in Lagos 1963 – 1968 and then accepted the attainable but it is an imperative for development to which it is challenge from WHO and the Tanzanian Government to be foundation intricably linked. Health care in the narrow clinical medical sense is Dean of Medicine at the University College, Dar es Salaam. During this not attainable and will remain so because human expectations are period of University Teaching Assignments I participated in changing always increasing and new challenges, new health problems are medical education in Africa. Teaching and practice of medicine are insepa- always round the corner. In health care we are regrettably destined rable, as a professor of medicine I sat on policy committees of the different for “a sliding scale”. Resources for a local district health care sys- countries (especially in Cameroon) and was technical adviser tem that would cover over 70% of essential health care needs of in some cases. What is interesting in retrospect was that our communities should be affordable. research in health problems that I saw in hospital forced me
14 About Cameroonians at Home and Abroad After 30 years what have been the outcomes of the PHC How much control do developing countries like Cameroon really have initiative in Africa? Successes, failures, lessons learned? over their own health care strategy? Thirty years after the Alma Ata Declaration on Primary Health Developing countries must aim at taking control of their own health care Care all the regions of the WHO have concluded that PHC is still strategies and their implementation. This can only be done if the populations relevant to health policy every where. Many African countries and therefore their governments acquire sufficient health knowledge, and developed enabling health policies, child illuminations yielded health awareness. And if governments decide to spend at least 15% of their dramatic results, measles wards disappeared, poliomyelitis came budget on health. Ignorance and poverty associated with low tax revenues under control, neonatal tetanus and leprosy were virtually elimi- encourage “unconscious dictation” by donor or partners. Community partici- nated, but early hopes in tuberculosis and malaria control were pation, empowerment and ownership are prerequisites to governmental con- not sustained, worse still an uninvited enemy showed up when we trol of national health policy. thought the party was nearly over. The outstanding achievement in Africa was the adoption of a framework for primary health care China is an emerging investor and infrastructure provider in Cameroon. implementation, that made it possible to implement simultane- Do you foresee any impact in the health care sector? ously at the local/district level the 4 guiding principles and the 8 China has been a health partner of Cameroon for over thirty years – initially in essential elements of primary health care. The vast majority of three localities. China has become significant player with significant impact on countries created for the first time health districts, district hospi- the health sector. There would certainly be unwanted side efforts of Chinese tals and district health systems. Health for all was not achieved investments and infrastructure if they are simply gratefully accepted as broth- even after the year 2000. Alma Ata assumed that benevolent gov- erly gifts. Learning to stand on you own two feet is the lesson China is teach- ernments and partners would provide resources. These did not ing the rest of the developing world and Cameroon. materialize, on the contrary a morose economic climate and struc- tural adjustment programs showed up. These aggravated poverty Can you share with us the success stories of WHO programs in Africa and apathy in communities, which in any case were forgotten in and most especially, in Cameroon? (Program outcomes as compared to the developmental equation. Sociopolitical unrest followed poorly targets etc?) understood and poorly executed externally imposed democratic A document entitled “A Decade of Significant Achievements” covered my exercises leading in some cases to recurring civil wars. Short cuts mandate at WHO/AFRO Brazzaville (1985-1995). The visible palpable proposed by well meaning partners led in some situations to dra- changes included (i) Internationally recruited WHO representatives in all matic failures. On the whole in spite of numerous meetings, semi- member states (ii) national experts were incorporated in WHO country teams nars and conferences there was insufficient understanding of the (iii) WHO offices and management were strengthened so as to be competitive approach – leading many to find refuge in vertical programs and and effective in technical cooperation, ample space was available for over a “selective” primary health care. dozen professional staffs, (iv) expansion of logistic and communication facili- ties (v) a new health sciences library in WHO/AFRO Brazzaville (with ICT) Which groups are the most vulnerable to shortcomings in and in all country offices, (vi) delegation of responsibilities to countries offices essential health care? – technical and financial with a supervisory control mechanism (AFRO/POC) The most vulnerable groups were/are pregnant women and chil- (vii) capability of WHO country offices to be involved in all national health dren; abortions, maternal morbidity and mortality, low birth programs in a coordinating/advisory capacity (viii) capability of WHO to col- weights, neonatal problems and mortality, poor child nutrition, laborate with other major players (ix) increased national capacity by a re- decreased breast feeding, HIV/AIDS etc. other significant groups vamped fellowship and research grants program (x) an increasing range of are the adolescents and youths, as well as the aged. community based interventions, epidemiological surveillance, anti-HIV pro- grams, onchocerciasis control (xi) participation in developing health institu- What policies could best help these vulnerable groups? tions in countries (hospitals, health centers), faculties of medicine and health The best policies would include to revitalize and consolidate the sciences. achievements of primary health care, develop comprehensive national health systems, primary secondary and tertiary care, with Far from home, what Cameroonians traditional meal did you miss adequate resources for the health workforce, medicines and most? equipment and sustainable financial systems; All these would be Roasted grilled fish and miondo such as you can only really find on the banks reinforced by the complementary and overlapping elements pro- of the Wouri River. But I had such a longing for roasted/baked cocoyam and posed in the millennium development goals. Good health cannot salted palm oil that I had a small electric oven on a do it yourself basis in my be achieved and sustained in the face of poverty entrenched in European apartment. local communities in developing countries by unequal and iniqui- Thanks Professor for sharing your wide experience with the tous trading systems. These are considered in the MDG’s. SUCCESS STORY E-MAGAZINE
© Clementine Ewokolo Burnley
About Cameroonians at Home and Abroad 15 line not achieved in Cameroon? How do you judge Cameroon’s health policy and strategies put in place for access to quality and af- fordable community healthcare? Welcome Doctor to Success Story E-magazine. Success Story E- I think health policy makers who set this deadline are better placed to give magazine is an online publication of the Global Network for Good these reasons after evaluation of the system that was put in place to Governance (GNGG) Cameroon. Could you present yourself further achieve this goal. What I can say is that, achieving health for all is not just to our readers? a governmental affair, but the collective effort of the various actors in the I am Dr. Ebong Charles Ewang, medical doctor, general practitioner non – health sector and that of the community. I think there has been lack and Director of the Tiko District Hospital. of effective participation of the key players of the non-health sector and community especially within the context of the poor economic situation. You have had a successful medical practice in so many years, what Judging Cameroon's’ health policy and strategies put in place, I will say are some of the health issues that have aroused your interest? that what has been put in place is good but what is lacking is effective The profession is quite a fascinating one, but during my about ten years follow up of the implementation. of practice, the degrading commitment of both medics and paramedics, the absence of effective emergency management organization and the Water-borne diseases still account for one of the highest number of absence of health insurance policy are some of the health issues that deaths in the African society. In your opinion, what could be the best have aroused my interest. strategies for providing potable water to rural and urban communi- ties? For our benefit, what are some of the communicable diseases that The provision of potable water to rural and urban areas should go with exist and their modes our transmission? the identification of the best sources, the protection of catchments points The range of communicable diseases is very wide, but in our milieu, a where there exist, the regular physical and chemical treatment procedures few of the commonest ones are and the maintenance of the channeling system and the replacement of old - Malaria, transmitted by infected female anopheles mosquito. ones. - HIV/AIDS, transmitted by sexual intercourse, blood transfusion and the use of unsterilised instruments and mother to child trans- With regards to nutrition, what are some of the foods that you would- mission, during pregnancy, delivery and after delivery. n’t advise persons over 50 years to eat, so as to bring cholesterol lev- - Tuberculosis, whose commonest form in one milieu, that’s air- els? borne. Cholesterol levels are highly influenced by the types of foods consumed. - Intestinal parasitosis with or faecal mode of transmission, that is In our milieu, it should be discouraged and the consumption of other fatty by ingestion of eggs in farces. foods like butter, cheese etc should be moderated. There are many of these diseases and their modes of transmission, but if we want to talk about communicable diseases, it could take us a whole day.
We have seen an uprise in recent years of non-communicable dis- eases, what are some of the most common and how can they be treated / prevented? Some of the non-communicable diseases in our milieu include hyperten- sion, diabetes and peptic ulcer diseases. Their prevention globally obeys certain rules of diet, hygiene and sanita- tion. Their effectiveness of medical treatment depends on how compli- ant the patients are. Most of the patients who suffer from these diseases are either negligent or stubborn and this is the main reason why most of them develop the complications that are usually fatal.
A decade ago, there was much talk about ‘Health for all BY THE YEAR 2000’. Why was this dead-
16 About Cameroonians at Home and Abroad
Doctor, the 4th,5th and 6th items of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), center around health ( Reduce child mortality, improve maternal health, combat HIV/AIDS, Malaria and other preventable diseases ). Examine closely, and tell us if these will be realized, by 2015. Much is being done by Cameroon in achieving these goals but it should be noted that, good health achievement is directly related to soundness of the economic situation of the people.
What mechanisms do you think the Government needs to put in place, to be able to realize these goals in Cameroon? The government effective and sustainable mechanisms to fight pov- erty, such as providing jobs, incentives for businesses, construction of roads especially farm to market roads, rural electrification and most importantly, the sensitization and education of the community to take , understand that their health is first and foremost the responsi- bility of each individual. ity of patients to afford for care and the under equipment of most health Doctor, we have a steady increase in the number of abandoned units are some of the challenges faced by medical practitioners today. babies and other patients in our hospitals today. What could be (i) the cause of this? (ii) What often do you do when you have such Doctor, what advice do you give to young Cameroonians who want to situations in your hospital? (iii) What can the government do to become Medical Doctors and what does it take to become a Medical check this evil? Doctor? When a baby is abandoned, it is surely clear that the pregnancy was For young Cameroonians who want to become medical doctors, I advise undesired. The pregnancy could be undesired for many reasons like hard work, devotedness and the love and sympathy/ empathy for human poverty, the desire to pursue further education, or some other activity life. and a desire to freedom amongst others. The medical profession itself will not make you rich, but will surely make For abandoned patients, the main reason is poverty but in some cases, you comfortable, if you practice in good faith. it is the lack of a caring family or every body involved in the case of the patient is busy with other commitments considered a priority. Doctor, any last words to our readers? In both cases of abandonment, initial care is initiated by my hospital, In-so-far as government and other sectors are doing much to deliver while necessary contacts with the family /other services are made for health services, individuals should always understand that their health is long term care and social re-insertion. first and individuals’ responsibility and only a healthy person can be happy For the government to check this evil, a sound health insurance policy and productive. Thus, there is no way by which development can be should be put in place, hospitals should be fenced, so that we check achieved with people who are not healthy. who enters/or who goes out and their purposes. Health as defined by W.H.O is not only physical or mental disease, but also psychological, financial and social wellbeing. What are some of the challenges faced by medical professionals today? Thank you Dr. EBONG Charles EWANG, Our wishes for Gods’ The emergence of new diseases, the absence of effective cure for Choicest Blessings. some disease, the late turn up by patients for treatment and the inabil- Interviewd by Prince Fotabong Chris
About Cameroonians at Home and Abroad 17 ostracized by those around them, so we try to counteract this through our education and help those in trouble with legal advocacy The last main area of focus within Reach Out is centered upon the empow- erment of women. The women we work with are usually in already-formed Women’s Groups, so we tend to primarily work through these organiza- tions. In fact, this method has proven so successful that part of our work is dedicated towards forming these groups. To help the groups out, and sub- sequently the female members, we try to do projects and educational activi- Welcome to Success Story E-Magazine, Madam. We would love ties that aid capacity building. A good example of this would be some fi- to start by asking you this embarrassing question: Who is Omam nancial work we have done in the last few months. We started August with Esther? several classes on basic financial management, training over 50 groups in I don’t know, to tell you the truth, this is a bit complicated. So, I the process, and finishing the year with a strong microfinance program and guess I should start by saying that I am first and foremost the foun- the establishment of numerous income generating micro-projects der and director of Reach Out NGO. I formed Reach Out in re- (cooperative store, piggery, etc.)
sponse to the plight of the women and youths of Cameroon. This Let’s look at the reproductive health, how efficient have your strategies effort is really what has provided me meaning, an effort that gives been in promoting good reproductive health in Cameroon. Could you my life purpose; I have dedicated almost my entire energy towards give us some specific examples? the betterment of the least fortunate. This is not to say that I travel A lot of our work has been under the direction of a Peace Corps volunteer through the world by myself, as I have a great staff and a caring, assigned to Reach Out, Jessamyn Bowling. She and our staff have been understanding and wonderful family that supports me in these ef- caring out educative talks on best-practices on HIV and STIs prevention forts and I have the example of Christ to guide me in my efforts. and birth control methods in schools and within our women’s groups. You are the dynamic team leader of REACH OUT. What is the These talks actually get the participants to demonstrate these methods and mission of this organization? finish by making male and female condoms widely available. We find our Reach Out is an NGO that supports underprivileged groups within methods to be quite effective in reaching out to many people of varied age the local communities on health issues, wealth creation, capacity groups, sexes and geographical spread.
building, and the spread of information through the use of participa- How do you judge the quality of healthcare in Cameroon and how tory approaches and advocacy. The common types of underprivi- could it be improved? leged groups I am talking about are orphans and vulnerable children, Even though much has been done, Health Care Delivery services are still minorities, people living with HIV/AIDS, the disabled, widows, below the standards which we think they should be up to. Many hospitals single teenage mothers and those living in far-off places that are lack professional ethics, essential drugs, and adequate equipment, and this is difficult to even get to. not even to talk about the areas which are completely lacking even the most Could you give us some of the areas in which your organization basic facilities. Things could improved in Cameroon with refresher courses has been very active? for doctors and nurses, subsidized drugs to make them affordable and One of the places we dedicate a lot of work is in the care and sup- port of orphans and vulnerable children through programs that pro- vide the children and their families money and supplies for school, bags of nutritional food, and better access to medical and psycho- logical support. Another one of our activities is in the support of People Living with HIV/AIDS. For instance, we run a treatment center in the city of Limbe that provides free testing, psychological/medical support, and nutritional education. One of the major problems we have here in Cameroon is a society that is ill-informed on many different as- pects of HIV/AIDS, so we carry out sensitization and education on the pandemic, hopefully leaving everyone with an understanding of what AIDS is and how to avoid it. However, another one of the issues arising from this ignorance is that those living with HIV/AIDS become stigmatized and
18 About Cameroonians at Home and Abroad widely available, and more aid to build better facilities and provide more equipment.
REACH OUT has also been active in the protection of orphans and vul- nerable children. Has the experience been a success story on the field? Yes, we are becoming a reference point throughout the area on OVC care and support, owing from our successful past experiences with Care Camer- oon, Plan Cameroon, OSIWA, Hope for African Children Initiative, the Na- tional Program for OVCs, and several other projects. From the success of our work in this field, we were invited to Ghana to spread our best practices and replicate our efforts. We think that our reputation has come from trying to provide the best support as possible. The measured results from the field can best be seen in several important facts: we have now already identified over 19,000 OVCs while supporting almost 6,000 of these. This indicates that our work has spread out exten- sively, but it also shows that much is left to be done. Whenever we go into the field, those OVCs we work with run to us with smiles and hug us. It is definitely a sign that we have provided these children hope and given them opportunities for the future that would not have been there otherwise.
What provoked your interest to work for the Civil Society? The suffering of others I saw through myself. I grew up in a house where my parents did not have the means to bring up their children in the way they would have wanted to. Many looked down on us and made us feel that we were not equal to them. I see these suffering today and this cruelness that tries to make people unequal. I have come to learn that the Lord blessed me and allowed me to have a good life and raise a good family, so I have to give back to those who need help.
How do you fund your activities? We get most of our money through partner support. Typically, the partner comes to us or we write a project proposal, and we work with a partner on a specific project. While this funds the majority of our activities, we also get money from our affiliated women’s groups and members.
How do you mobilize human resources in your organization? The main source of labor in Reach Out is our volunteer corps, which com- prises both national and international citizens. Our international volunteers arrive via internet platforms like idealist.org and our website, while also arriv- ing through cooperative agreements with organizations like AISEC. Many of our national volunteers come from the University of Buea on internship, often staying for much longer stints than their original terms of work. Our other form of labor, our salaried workers, comes from the government (social workers), others who are paid via our funders on specific projects, and consultants who we occasionally hire for pay.
Why are youths not very interested in volunteering in civil organization organizations? I do not know how to answer this question, as my experience shows the op- posite: most of my workers are youths. The problem I have is getting them to stay for long periods of time, making it hard to make my operations sus- tainable. They tend to leave after several months or years for greener pas- ety Organizations Network, a network which brought about tures. contacts important for starting a relationship with one of our What are some of the challenges faced by civil society organizations? main funders. Lastly, Dynamic Citoyenne, a national network Besides a staff not committed for the long-term, I think that Reach Out’s that conducts independent follow-up of public investments main problem is funding. It is hard for us to get adequate funding for our within Cameroon, has been important in providing legitimacy to projects. While the main issue is finding a funder, we sometimes even have Reach Out on the national stage, leading to another important problems with getting enough money to carry out the project from the fun- relationship with a funder. der. Finding funds is a never ending aspect to our work, as is the effort to try What do you think about THE SUCCESS STORY E- and stay up with the escalating demands placed on us by funders. Part of our magazine? problem is access; we just don’t get our name out enough. Opportunities I think it is incredible for opening this opportunity to Reach such as this interview are an invaluable part of our work. Out. Your efforts are truly appreciated; we understand how Problems a bit more specific to Reach Out that might be indicative of other important it is for us to gain this level of exposure. organizations around the world is that it is hard for us to keep a permanent site for our office. While this is tied in with our funding issues, it presents a Your last word to our readers around the world? problem large enough to be listed on its own. We should make life richer and fuller, not only for ourselves but for the sick and the marginalized, to give them a reason to live Does your organization belong to any Network and does it benefit from and be happy. networking therein? We belong to several networks that help Reach Out considerably. One exam- Thanks so much Madam OMAM Esther for talking to us. ple would be idealist.org, where several of our international volunteers have Thank you also and meet you another time. located us from. A more local example would be the South West Civil Soci- Interviewed by Nkeng David
About Cameroonians at Home and Abroad 19 ameroonian-born Ebeny Amstrong recently won the prestigious Biomedical Engineer of the Year 2008 Award organised by the Georgia Biomedical Engineers’ Association. He received his Award during a colourful banquet in Macon Georgia. Mr Eben was praised for his praised for his dedication and commitment to service, working for Med- CShare International as the sole Biomedical Engineer. His job has taken him to various international assignments in Africa and South America. Recent trips include Sierra Leone, Ghana, Honduras, Liberia and Nigeria. While on duty in Honduras, Mr. Eben quickly repaired a failing Anesthesia equipment during surgery thereby saving the life of the patient who was undergoing a surgical operation. Most Cameroonians know him as a videographer. He is the one many will call to film family events etc. He worked with the Shrine of Africa in the production of Dream Kweens movie and has produced several videos in Partnership with the Shrine of Africa and the African Women's Foundation. There is another side to this multi-talented gentleman from Mayemen Annex in Cameroon. Eben Tah a.k.a EBENY AMSTRONG is also the Proprietor of Ebeny Amstrong Productions and Studio 105 located in Downtown Austell Georgia.
Who is Ebeny Amstrong?
Eben Amstrong is in charge of the biomedical Engineering department of MedShare International origi- nally from Cameroon - West Africa. His primary duty is to ensure that all Medical equipment be shipped or do- nated are in excellent working condition with the necessary manuals and accessories included before shipment. Eben also travels out of the United States to evaluate, train and install medical equipment in recipient countries. Eben has 17 years of International Professional experience as a Biomedical Engineer. So far, Eben has worked, repaired Medical equipment and trained Engineers and Technicians in Fourteen different Countries in the World. Studying in Cameroon some years ago, he obtained City and Guilds of London Advance Certificate in Electrical/ Electronic Engineering and Baccalauréat from FESS Technical College Muyuka and Government Technical High School ( GTHH) Kumba - Cameroon respectively. He obtained his Higher National Diploma (HND) in Electrical electronics from College of Management and Technology - Nigeria. He received with Distinction Post Graduate Diploma (PGD) in Medical Electronics Engineering and Physics from University of London and spe- cialized as a Biomedical Engineer. Because of his brilliant performance, he was offered 1 year scholarship by the University to do Masters Degree in Biomedical Engineering. Before moving to the United States of America in 2004, Eben worked as a senior lecturer and Head of Electrical Electronics Department of FESS TECHNICAL HIGH SCHOOL in Cameroon for two years. He also worked with the PRESBYTERIAN MEDICAL INSTITUTIONS in Cameroon as a Biomedical Engineer. He was the Coordinator/Technical Adviser of 9 Presbyterian Hospitals and 18 Health Centers of the Presbyterian Church in Cameroon for 7 years. During this period, he organized in-service training for local Technicians, re- paired, serviced, ordered and Installed Medical Equipment. He served as a Biomedical Engineer in ECHO IN- TERNATIONAL in England and St. Bartholomew's Hospital in London were he was honored as the Best Worker of the Millennium in 2000. While in US, Eben took special course in Chattahoochee Tech - Marietta to be familiar with the American Biomedical Engineering terms. With his broad experience in biomedical field, he was immediately recommended by the Senior Professor of Biomedical Engineering Department of the College to work in different facilities in Georgia. Prior to joining MedShare in May 1, 2007 Eben started volunteering to check and repair medical equip- ment in MedShare. He worked with WELLSTAR Hospital Austell, Grady Hospital, Well Star Marietta, Fayette- ville Hospital and R & F Imaging in Atlanta, Georgia. He is brought up in a Christian Family and loves going to Church. He loves singing, plays guitar and soc- cer. He is fluent in French and English. By Lady Kate Njeuma of Georgia
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Given the response and reaction to all the delicious flavors Yummy SpoonfulsTM has to offer, Agatha Achindu, CEO & CYO (Chief Yummy Officer) is off to a great start! he Presidential Couple attended the 63rd ordinary session of the UN General Assembly that held in New York in September 2008 under the theme “The impact of the global food crisis on poverty and hunger in the world as well as the need to democ- Tratize the United Nations.” Mounting the rostrum, President Paul Biya said “...Cameroon, like other countries throughout the world, recently experienced social upheavals, provoked by the high cost of living. On that occasion, we decided on and implemented a series of corrective measures, ranging from a reduction of taxes and custom duties on some basic commodities to an increase in salaries of State employees and the stabilization of fuel prices. These measures which were lauded by the International Monetary Fund undoubtedly had positive effects. They however did not totally eliminate a problem with a global import and which equally calls for global responses…” Meanwhile, the First Lady Chantal Biya met with other First Ladies at different meetings that discussed the promotion of alphabetization in the world; the reduction of mortality among pregnant women; and autism. She equally received Dr. Djibril Diallo, who was bearer of a special mes- sage from the Deputy Director of UNAIDS.
he Head of State and wife were in Quebec from September 15 to 20 2008 to participate in the 12th Summit of the Organisa- tion Internationale de la Francophonie. The main speeches delivered at the summit dwelled on: the need to preserve the TFrench Language; good economic governance; the current financial crisis hitting the global economy and the necessity for the Francophonie Or- ganisation to take active part in topical world issues. Another issue that inevitably arose during the speeches was the global food crisis. President Paul Biya used the opportunity to meet with several Statesmen, personalities and envoys from other nations as well as investors who expressed interest in promoting the aluminum and energy industry in Cameroon.
ameroon’s legendary Olympic double a colourful ceremony organised at the Hilton Gold Medalist, Françoise Mbango Hotel Yaoundé on Wednesday September 3 Etone has been honoured with a 2008. This was to praise her performance Medal of the Cameroon Order of during the 29th Olympic games in Beijing MeritC by Prime Minister Chief Inoni Ephraim in China . She won the first ever consecutive gold medal in the triple jump discipline on Sunday 17th August 2008 after jumping 15,39 metres. Thanks to this performance Cameroon was ranked 4th in Africa and 50th out 204 na- tions that participated in the Beijing Olympic games. ady Kate NJEUMA was recently inducted into the Clayton County ROTARY Club. She joins the family of about 3 million Rotarians worldwide to do hu- manitarian and philanthropic work around the world Lin order to make a difference in the lives of people in need. The ceremony was grandiose and marked by the conspicuous presence of Cameroon’s Vice President of the National Assem- bly and committed philanthropist, Honorable Rose Abunaw Makia, who helps youths and orphans through her Foundation CAYA-AFRICA. Lady Kate plans to involve the Rotary Club in some of the projects that her organization, the African Women’s Founda- tion embarks on. Present at the ceremony were eminent per- sonalities like State Representative Mike Glanton, Dr Anita Llyod, Rotary President Ron Corbin, Mr. Jackson Nanje and Mr. Isaac Njeuma - Lady Kate’s spouse.
riends and relatives in Colorado (USA) and Kumba (Cameroon) joined Prince Beldon Lefang to celebrate his 1st Birthday and Baptism on the 23-24th of August 2008. CelebrationsF in Colorado began with the Baptism con- ducted by Father Bill in the presence of Prince Bel- don’s parents and Godparaents. The Birthday party followed with a barbecue and a countryside trip. Back in Kumba, Cameroon, Prince Beldon’s grandpar- ents mobilized the family and friends to wine and dine to celebrate the birthday. Prince Beldon’s birth was Cover Story in the first Issue of the SUCCESS STORY E-MAGAZINE. elegates from several African countries met at the Hilton Hotel in Yaounde from the 23rd to 25th of September 2008 for a workshop aimed at mobilizing the african civil society around issues related to Governance in the Transport Sector. The workshop was organised by theD Global Transport Knowledge Partnership (gTKP) in partnership Cameroon’s National Road Fund and the Sub-Saharan Africa Transport Policy Program (SSATP). After the opening ceremony that presided over by the President of Cameroon’s Presi- dent of the National Anti-Corruption Commission, Dr. Paul Tessa, the participants listened to several presentations from several participating countries that shared ex- periences on the efforts made to involve the civil society in the governance of the transport sector. Under the guidance of gTKP’s Governance theme champion, Stephen Vincent, the participants split into groups for the discussion sessions that brainstormed on: what the civil society needs to know about road and transport issues; making comparisons and raising awareness; how the media could provide useful assistance; and plans for the future. The discussion groups then presented their ideas in plenary after each session. After three days of enriching debate and exchange the workshop was closed by Dr. Paul Tessa. GTKP is an innovative partnership approach to making effective use of available road transport knowledge and encouraging strong participation and experience- sharing from developing and transition countries. The partnership covers seven key themes in global road transport Climate Change and Environment; Finance and Economics; Governance; Rural Transport; Road Safety; Rural Transport; Road Safety; Social Development; and Urban Transport. Welcome to Success Story E-Magazine , Mejah. M. Gabi Laurent Wambo, Récemment secteur et les Who is Mejah? vous avez participé à l’atelier africain Frederick Mejah is 33 years old Tanzanian grew up in Tanzania, but organisations de la société sur la mobilisation de la société civile civile ne sont pas en currently lives in Dar es Salaam city. In January 2006 with other autour de la gouvernance dans le sec- few people started an NGO dedicated to fight for the rights of marge de ce travail qui se teur des transports. Que vous a-t-il veut participatif. Leurs cyclists known as Umma wa Wapanda Baisikeli (UWABA) inspiré, cet atelier ? Comment la société contributions ici passent literary means Cyclists’ community in Swahili Language civile peut -elle être impliquée? Could you present this organization to us? par des actions de Cet atelier m’a permis de comprendre une plaidoyers, de lobbying, la The main aim of UWABA to provide safe environment for cyclist chose, c’est que l’Afrique est une et connaît after founders observed that this category of road users was facing danger of being knocked mobilisation des les mêmes problèmes dans tous ses pays. populations pour une by cars in the city of Dar es salaam. So UWABA does the following: Lobby with government to Trois jours de réflexion avec les confrères pass policies which will create safety environment for cyclists and road users in general; Help road agencies like prise de part effectives de la société civile et des administrations de dans les initiatives en faveur des infrastructures TanRoads and Tanzania Road Fund to identify need of the road users; Work with traffic police in the issues plus de trente autres pays Africains présents of road safety in general; Educate and disseminate proper information related to road safety to both dans le secteur, l’investigation sur les mauvaises nous ont permis d’analyser et comprendre pratiques qui ont cours dans le secteur et leur UWABA members as well as community in general; Raise awareness to the drivers and other road users the jusqu’à quel point la mal Gouvernance a importance of cycling and cyclists with our community. For more, visit www.geocities.com/uwabaDar dénonciation, le recensement de bonnes contribué au retard alarmant que l’Afrique pratiques et initiatives locales du secteur et le You just participated in a gTKP African Workshop on Mobilising the Civil Society on accuse aujourd’hui dans un secteur comme the issue of Governance in the Transport Sector. What are some of the lessons that partages de ces expériences avec les confrères celui des transports qui constitue pourtant de la scène internationale à partir du réseau qui you learned from the workshop? un stimulateur incontournable pour son The Gtkp workshop was an opportunity to meet people who believe as I do. I learned what été mis sur pied à l’issus de cet atelier. développement. L’exposé que j’ai personnellement préparé et other civil society organisations as well as individuals are doing in their countries especially in « Là où la route passe, le développement the field of transport and get the first hand information on case studies concerning with présenté à cet atelier africain et qui a été suit » l’a-t-on toujours dit ; mais les gens transport policy, fighting corruption and advocating for good governance. apprécié à sa juste valeur par les confrères semblent ne pas encore mesurer la portée What message are you taking back to Tanzania? présents est la parfaite illustration du rôle que de cette affirmation. L’heure est donc Message I am taking back is; Problems facing African continent are almost the same, and we doit jouer désormais les acteurs de la société venue pour impulser une révolution dans le as Young African can fight it ,if we really dedicated and believe in what we are doing. civile dans le secteur.
he US PRESIDENTIAL 2008 is gearing toward the end and both candidates have made “If Africa works strong steps in a commitment Tto restoring American leadership. The together with US Senator two presidential contenders have vowed BARACK OBAMA and for continued leadership for the United States of America in a very challenging Vice President hopeful 21st century. JOE BIDEN, we can In January 2009, the world could witness a shift toward a new US foreign policy. ensure Africa has a A new US White House might challenge brighter future.” the International Community to stand strong on peace and political stability, while dignity, security and justice will remain the core values of a new first We must all be proud of this precious class US diplomacy. moment of African success in world America will remain the world’s most affairs in a competitive American po- powerful democracy on the aftermath of litical arena. Africa should celebrate as a bloody war in Irak; wide uncertainties the United States of America is making on the future of the world’s energy re- serious and strong progress toward a sources make Africa an important part- world free of hatred. ner in the new US foreign policy agenda. America is taking another bold step In their respective plans for American into empowering African Americans. renewed leadership, Senator JOHN Together with them, Africans are all in McCAIN and Senator BARACK the making of history. Africa can no OBAMA both stand for American gran- longer afford to be left aside while a deur in foreign affairs. new international order for world pros- In the wake of the Second World War, it perity and international peace is high was America that largely built a system on major industrialized countries’ dip- of international institutions that carried lomatic agenda. Africans have been the world through the Cold War. You given a true opportunity to adjust. will have to believe it, the American US Presidential 2008 will remain for people will be ready to see America lead the continent a decisive moment of again. The American moment has not truth, justice and reconciliation in yet passed. The American moment is world affairs. here. And like generations before us, we A US born citizen of Kenyan origin and will seize that moment and begin the the American political leadership are World anew, said US Senator Barack once again betting on Africa in a world OBAMA. of terror and economic recession. Thus in US Presidential 2008, the conti- Notwithstanding African colonial heri- nent of Africa shall not be left behind. tage, challenges for a new world heri- US Senator BARACK OBAMA’s candi- tage had given Africa a powerful trib- dacy for the White House shows oppor- and indigenous people. une to formally and strongly say what tunities for a new African diplomatic US Senator BARACK OBAMA has proven in it wants from the next US President. leadership in World Affairs. Africa this campaign that the continent can be a If Africa works together with US Sena- could get a reliable link in US politics to place where Western Civilisation can nurture. tor BARACK OBAMA and Vice Presi- better promote its new political, eco- In the past, the American nation had made dent hopeful JOE BIDEN, we can en- nomic, trade and cultural agenda for the Africans and people of African descent proud sure Africa has a brighter future. millennium partnership with the United of their cultural legacy and heritage. They are States of America. It is now crucial for doing it once again. By Dr. NGUE Africans to raise critical and key issues Let’s face it, US Presidential 2008 has broken of mutual interest during this Presiden- once and for all gender and racial discrimina- Patrice tial Campaign backing a candidate with tion in American presidential politics as an US-Africa Investment serious credentials in African affairs. American of African descent and the nominee Consultant, Yaounde, Cameroon In any case, Africa will no longer be the of the Democratic Party is challenging the same remote continent of uncivilized free world for change in Washington politics. Tel: (237) 96 34 51 55 he United States is battered and drifting after Both candidates have renounced torture and are com- eight years of President Bush’s failed leadership. mitted to closing the prison camp in Guantánamo He is saddling his successor with two wars, a Bay, Cuba. scarred global image and a government system- But Mr. Obama has gone beyond that, promising to Tatically stripped of its ability to protect and help its citi- identify and correct Mr. Bush’s attacks on the democ- zens — whether they are fleeing a hurricane’s floodwaters, ratic system. Mr. McCain has been silent on the sub- searching for affordable health care or struggling to hold ject. on to their homes, jobs, savings and pensions in the midst Mr. McCain improved protections for detainees. But of a financial crisis that was foretold and preventable. then he helped the White House push through the As tough as the times are, the selection of a new president appalling Military Commissions Act of 2006, which is easy. After nearly two years of a grueling and ugly cam- denied detainees the right to a hearing in a real court paign, Senator Barack Obama of Illinois has proved that and put Washington in conflict with the Geneva Con- he is the right choice to be the 44th president of the ventions, greatly increasing the risk to American United States troops. Mr. Obama has met challenge after challenge, growing as The next president will have the chance to appoint a leader and putting real flesh on his early promises of one or more justices to a Supreme Court that is on the hope and change. He has shown a cool head and sound brink of being dominated by a radical right wing. Mr. judgment. We believe he has the will and the ability to Obama may appoint less liberal judges than some of forge the broad political consensus that is essential to his followers might like, but Mr. McCain is certain to finding solutions to this nation’s problems. After nearly two years of a pick rigid ideologues. He has said he would never In the same time, Senator John McCain of Arizona has appoint a judge who believes in women’s reproductive retreated farther and farther to the fringe of American grueling and ugly campaign, rights. politics, running a campaign on partisan division, class The Candidates warfare and even hints of racism. His policies and world- Senator Barack Obama of It will be an enormous challenge just to get the nation view are mired in the past. His choice of a running mate back to where it was before Mr. Bush, to begin to so evidently unfit for the office was a final act of oppor- Illinois has proved that he is the mend its image in the world and to restore its self- tunism and bad judgment that eclipsed the accomplish- confidence and its self-respect. Doing all of that, and ments of 26 years in Congress. right choice to be the 44th leading America forward, will require strength of will, Given the particularly ugly nature of Mr. McCain’s cam- character and intellect, sober judgment and a cool, paign, the urge to choose on the basis of raw emotion is President of the United States steady hand. strong. But there is a greater value in looking closely at the Mr. Obama has those qualities in abundance. Watch- facts of life in America today and at the prescriptions the “victory.” As a result, he has offered no real plan for extracting Ameri- ing him being tested in the campaign has long since candidates offer. The differences are profound. can troops and limiting any further damage to Iraq and its neighbors. erased the reservations that led us to endorse Senator Mr. McCain offers more of the Republican every-man- Mr. Obama was an early and thoughtful opponent of the war in Iraq, Hillary Rodham Clinton in the Democratic primaries. for-himself ideology, now lying in shards on Wall Street and he has presented a military and diplomatic plan for withdrawing He has drawn in legions of new voters with powerful and in Americans’ bank accounts. Mr. Obama has another American forces. Mr. Obama also has correctly warned that until the messages of hope and possibility and calls for shared vision of government’s role and responsibilities. Pentagon starts pulling troops out of Iraq, there will not be enough sacrifice and social responsibility. In his convention speech in Denver, Mr. Obama said, troops to defeat the Taliban and Al Qaeda in Afghanistan. Mr. McCain, whom we chose as the best Republican “Government cannot solve all our problems, but what it Mr. McCain, like Mr. Bush, has only belatedly focused on Afghani- nominee in the primaries, has spent the last coins of should do is that which we cannot do for ourselves: pro- stan’s dangerous unraveling and the threat that neighboring Pakistan his reputation for principle and sound judgment to tect us from harm and provide every child a decent educa- may quickly follow. placate the limitless demands and narrow vision of the tion; keep our water clean and our toys safe; invest in new Mr. Obama would have a learning curve on foreign affairs, but he has far-right wing. His righteous fury at being driven out schools and new roads and new science and technology.” already showed sounder judgment than his opponent on these critical of the 2000 primaries on a racist tide aimed at his Since the financial crisis, he has correctly identified the issues. His choice of Senator Joseph Biden — who has deep foreign- adopted daughter has been replaced by a zealous abject failure of government regulation that has brought policy expertise — as his running mate is another sign of that sound embrace of those same win-at-all-costs tactics and the markets to the brink of collapse. judgment. Mr. McCain’s long interest in foreign policy and the many tacticians. The Economy dangers this country now faces make his choice of Gov. Sarah Palin of He surrendered his standing as an independent thinker The American financial system is the victim of decades of Alaska more irresponsible. in his rush to embrace Mr. Bush’s misbegotten tax Republican deregulatory and anti-tax policies. Those ideas Both presidential candidates talk about strengthening alliances in policies and to abandon his leadership position on have been proved wrong at an unfathomable price, but Europe and Asia, including NATO, and strongly support Israel. Both climate change and immigration reform. Mr. McCain — a self-proclaimed “foot soldier in the candidates talk about repairing America’s image in the world. But it Mr. McCain could have seized the high ground on Reagan revolution” — is still a believer. seems clear to us that Mr. Obama is far more likely to do that — and energy and the environment. Earlier in his career, he Mr. Obama sees that far-reaching reforms will be needed not just because the first black president would present a new Ameri- offered the first plausible bill to control America’s to protect Americans and American business. can face to the world. emissions of greenhouse gases. Now his positions are Mr. McCain talks about reform a lot, but his vision is Mr. Obama wants to reform the United Nations, while Mr. McCain a caricature of that record: think Ms. Palin leading pinched. His answer to any economic question is to elimi- wants to create a new entity, the League of Democracies — a move chants of “drill, baby, drill.” nate pork-barrel spending — about $18 billion in a $3 that would incite even fiercer anti-American furies around the world. Mr. Obama has endorsed some offshore drilling, but trillion budget — cut taxes and wait for unfettered mar- Unfortunately, Mr. McCain, like Mr. Bush, sees the world as divided as part of a comprehensive strategy including big kets to solve the problem. into friends (like Georgia) and adversaries (like Russia). He proposed investments in new, clean technologies. Mr. Obama is clear that the nation’s tax structure must be kicking Russia out of the Group of 8 industrialized nations even before Mr. Obama has withstood some of the toughest cam- changed to make it fairer. That means the well-off Ameri- the invasion of Georgia. We have no sympathy for Moscow’s bullying, paign attacks ever mounted against a candidate. He’s cans who have benefited disproportionately from Mr. but we also have no desire to replay the cold war. The United States been called un-American and accused of hiding a Bush’s tax cuts will have to pay some more. Working must find a way to constrain the Russians’ worst impulses, while pre- secret Islamic faith. The Republicans have linked him Americans, who have seen their standard of living fall and serving the ability to work with them on arms control and other vital to domestic terrorists and questioned his wife’s love of their children’s options narrow, will benefit. Mr. Obama initiatives. her country. Ms. Palin has also questioned millions of wants to raise the minimum wage and tie it to inflation, Both candidates talk tough on terrorism, and neither has ruled out Americans’ patriotism, calling Republican-leaning restore a climate in which workers are able to organize military action to end Iran’s nuclear weapons program. But Mr. Obama states “pro-America.” unions if they wish and expand educational opportunities. has called for a serious effort to try to wean Tehran from its nuclear This politics of fear, division and character assassina- Mr. McCain, who once opposed President Bush’s tax cuts ambitions with more credible diplomatic overtures and tougher sanc- tion helped Mr. Bush drive Mr. McCain from the 2000 for the wealthy as fiscally irresponsible, now wants to tions. Mr. McCain’s willingness to joke about bombing Iran was fright- Republican primaries and defeat Senator John Kerry in make them permanent. And while he talks about keeping ening. 2004. It has been the dominant theme of his failed taxes low for everyone, his proposed cuts would over- The Constitution and the Rule of Law presidency. whelmingly benefit the top 1 percent of Americans while Under Mr. Bush and Vice President Dick Cheney, the Constitution, The nation’s problems are simply too grave to be digging the country into a deeper fiscal hole. the Bill of Rights, the justice system and the separation of powers have reduced to slashing “robo-calls” and negative ads. This National Security come under relentless attack. Mr. Bush chose to exploit the tragedy of country needs sensible leadership, compassionate The American military — its people and equipment — is Sept. 11, 2001, the moment in which he looked like the president of a leadership, honest leadership and strong leadership. dangerously overstretched. Mr. Bush has neglected the unified nation, to try to place himself above the law. Barack Obama has shown that he has all of those necessary war in Afghanistan, which now threatens to Mr. Bush has arrogated the power to imprison men without charges qualities. spiral into defeat. The unnecessary and staggeringly costly and browbeat Congress into granting an unfettered authority to spy on war in Iraq must be ended as quickly and responsibly as Americans. He has created untold numbers of “black” programs, possible. including secret prisons and outsourced torture. The president has A version of this article appeared in print While Iraq’s leaders insist on a swift drawdown of Ameri- issued hundreds, if not thousands, of secret orders. We fear it will take on October 24, 2008, on page A30 of the can troops and a deadline for the end of the occupation, years of forensic research to discover how many basic rights have been New York Times (New York edition) Mr. McCain is still talking about some ill-defined violated.
here is a very revealing moment in the oft replayed Sen. McCain biography on CNN. With a smile on his face, Sen. McCain re- counts the events of one of his plane crashes while in the navy. He goes on to say that he realized only during the crash that he had notT read the critical information on ejection during a crash. McCain had somehow made the determination that the chapter or chapters on emergency ejection were optional reading. This decision is worthy of note. Intrinsic intelligence is a baseline requirement for the highest office in the US and, arguably, the world. Intelligence does not necessarily translate into lead- ership success but it is a pre requisite in the rapidly changing environment of the 21st century. More than ever, the president of the ‘free world’ must have the intellectual girth and depth to devour and synthesize vast amounts of information in real time and make decisions that can profoundly affect the US and the world. Our current circumstance offers clues as to the need for intellectual fortitude in the Whitehouse. President Bush gleefully told the American people that he was proof that a ‘C’ student can make it to the White House. He won the presidency by using the well worn path of some of his Republican predeces- sors. He told the masses that the Democrats were for big government, big deficits, high taxes, more spending; that they are soft on security and low on family values. And then for good measure, he applied a good dose of vile negative attack ads. George Bush, with the aid of a sidekick who can recite the Republican ideol- ogy text in his sleep, won the day, and the results of their stewardship and the application of Republican ideals to new global realities are clear for all to see – except for those who believe that even a comatose Republican is better than any Democrat in the White House. History will provide many reasons for the failure of the Bush presidency. But many will posit that a lack of intrinsic intelligence and the attempt to substitute ideology for knowledge are the real reasons for the Bush debacle. It is time for the American people to make the ultimate choice again. John McCain, like Bush, finished at the bottom of his class. Like Bush, McCain ended up in a prestigious school only because of the last name he bears. In 2000 and 2004 many voted for G. Bush because he was ‘the kind of guy you “In Obama we have a man with an earned “Obama has the nimbleness of mind, borne intellectual pedigree, of of intrinsic intellect and a true understanding humble origins and one of the human condition that is required to who is firmly rooted in steer America into the 21st Century…” the realities of middle Plumber’ to score cheap political points without vetting ‘Joe the Plumber,’ an unli- class America…” censed plumber who is bold enough to lie about his earnings and stands to gain more from the Obama tax plan. could have a beer with or invite over for a BBQ.’ In order words, G. Bush is Obama has the nimbleness of mind, borne of intrinsic intellect and a true under- st the genuine American article and deserved to be president in spite of his standing of the human condition that is required to steer America into the 21 Cen- dwarfed intellectual stature. Today some plan to vote for Send. McCain be- tury. Obama is the one who represents the true face and reality of the American Melting cause they feel ‘comfortable’ with him. Meanwhile, those who voted for Pot, and the convergence of the world. And with the support of most of the world President Bush are yet to share a beer with him but are drunk penniless, already behind him, he can rebuild our image around the world and easily build the thanks to his policies. global alliances that are required to deal with the difficult challenges that confront the In Obama we have a man with an earned intellectual pedigree, of humble world today. origins and one who is firmly rooted in the realities of middle class America. By Eric M. Tande MIC He is a man who would know that it is important to read Ejection Procedures Tel: 630 670 5551 before getting into the cockpit of an aircraft. He is a man who knows that it is Fax: 630 898 8214 important to properly vet the Vice President because the Vice President is a Email: [email protected] heartbeat away from the presidency and the VP decision is the first critical Web: www.makunainternational.com judgment call a presidential nominee makes. And Obama will not use ‘Joe the "I think he is a transformational figure, he is a “I will be new generation coming into, voting onto the world stage and the American stage, and for that for Scott McClellan reason I'll be voting for Senator Former Bush White Barack Obama," Powell House Spokesman OBAMA” Success Story E-Magazine About Talented Cameroonians at Home and Abroad
"My ancestors are from the region now called Cameroon." I grew up in Brooklyn, New York and I always felt envious when my Italian American friends in the summer, they go back to Italy to visit their families. My Puerto Rican friends go back to Puerto Rico. My Irish American friends, in the summer would go back to Ireland. And then, my people were in Ala- bama and Georgia, but that's not where we're from and now because of sci- ence and DNA, African Americans are finally able to find where their ances- tors are from. It's called African Ancestry Company. My wife her mother's ancestors are from the region of Sierra Leone. On my father's side of the family, my ancestors are from the region now called Cameroon and on my mother's side, my ancestors are from a region now called Niger, so my wife and I had to sit down when we got the results—for me, it was this great mo- ment of empowerment just knowing where my ancestors were stolen from.