Minister Ketcha Courtes launches tourney to promote social cohesion, patriotism.

She has launched the 10th edition of holiday activities, under the banner of Ndé Vacances Utiles and Festifoot Paul Biya, to make her vision clear.

This was during a ceremony on July 14, in the town of Bangang-Fokam in Bangangte.

Speaking during the launching ceremony, Minister Ketcha Courtès highlighted the values of hard work, patriotism and social cohesion. She equally stressed on the importance of civic engagement and the fight against hate speech. She encouraged the youth to adopt a responsible behaviour on the social media.

According to her, Festi-Foot Paul Biya is not just about soccer but equally a period of communion among the population. She noted that for two months, youth of the four subdivisions that make up the Nde Division will mobilise and use the period for discovery and growth. 

The aim of the training, she said, is to keep the youth busy with activities of community interest, living together, moral rearmament, sports, arts, as well as hygiene and public health.

Minister Ketcha Courtes, in her closing remark, called on all to “come and experience this unique moment and support our young talents. Together, let's make these holiday unforgettable”.

The training will run for two months across the four subdivisions of the Nde Division viz; Tonga, Bazou, Bassamba and Bangangte.

Meanwhile, the football tournament kicked off with a thrilling match between Bangoua FC and Bangang-Fokam FC. It ended 2-1 in favour of Bangang FC.

The initiative, it should be said, is supported by the WAKECO Foundation, which underlines the importance of youth’s personal development and commitment.

Also present during the launching ceremony was the Senior Divisional Officer, SDO of Nde, Auguste Essomba; the Divisional Officer, DO of Bangangte, Olomo André Christian, as well as traditional and religious authorities of the area and the population.

 The rich and colourful ceremony also saw the participation of musician, Vanister Enama. The closing ceremony is scheduled to hold on August 20. It expected to be chaired by the Minister of Youth Affairs and Civic Education, Mounouna Foutsou. 

During the ceremony, each of the 1,000 trainees will receive a bonus of 25,000 FCFA and school kits. The winners of the Festifoot Paul Biya championship will also receive cash prizes. 

This story was first published in The Guardian Post issue No:3170 of Tuesday July 16, 2024