Monthly Archives: March 2026

31, March 2026

Céline Dion makes her big comeback with concerts in Paris after six-year hiatus ⁰

Canadian singer Céline Dion announced on Monday, her birthday, that she will return to the stage this fall with 10 concerts scheduled in Paris, spread out over September and October.

The much‑anticipated announcement followed an ad campaign in the streets of Paris that had fuelled speculation that the French‑speaking Canadian star, best known for her powerful ballads, would stage her comeback in the French capital.

“This year, I will receive the best gift of my life. I will have the chance to come and see you and to sing for you again in Paris starting this autumn, in September,” Dion, who turned 58 on Monday, said on French TV station France 2.

The announcement was simultaneously advertised through a light show on the Eiffel Tower. Pre-sale tickets will go on sale on April 7, while the general sale will start April 10.

The performer rose to global stardom in the late 1990s with “My Heart Will Go On”, the theme song of the blockbuster “Titanic”.

She put her career on hold in 2022 for medical reasons, saying at the time that she had been diagnosed with a rare neurological disorder called Stiff‑Person Syndrome, which causes severe muscle spasms. It left her unable to sing.

The diagnosis led her to postpone, then cancel, her “Courage World Tour”.

One of the world’s all-time top earners from combined album sales and concert revenue, Dion performed two residencies in Las Vegas from 2003 to 2007 and from 2011 to 2019. At the time, these were considered the most profitable gigs ever.

She made a first reappearance after two years of silence during the 2024 Olympic Games opening ceremony with a version of Edith Piaf’s “Hymne a l’amour”.

Her performance then led to speculation that she might one day return to major stages around the world.

Source: Reuters

31, March 2026

Russian Foreign Minister says US, Israel seeking to pit Arab states against Iran ⁰

Russian Minister of Foreign Affairs Sergei Lavrov says the United States and Israel are seeking to pit the Arab states of the Persian Gulf region against Iran amid the US-Israeli military aggression against the Islamic Republic.

The top Russian diplomat said on Tuesday that Washington and Tel Aviv did not want normalization of ties between Tehran and its neighbors.

He cautioned that the war of aggression in the West Asia region could spiral into a wider conflict.

Lavrov highlighted that the US plots against Iran and Venezuela are aimed at gaining control over their oil and gas reserves.

The United States and Israel launched a bloody onslaught against Iran on February 28, assassinating Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei and several high-ranking military commanders despite indirect Tehran-Washington negotiations on Iran’s peaceful nuclear program.

In response, Iranian Armed Forces have carried out waves of retaliatory missile and drone operations against US interests across West Asia and Israeli positions in the occupied territories.

Source: Press TV

31, March 2026

CPDM Crime Syndicate: France flags payment delays as risk to investment climate ⁰

France has raised concerns with Cameroon over delayed payments to French companies working on public contracts, flagging the issue as a growing strain in economic ties between the two countries.

Following talks with Cameroon’s finance minister, Louis Paul Motaze, France’s minister delegate for foreign trade and attractiveness, Nicolas Forissier, identified the issue as a key obstacle to expanding business relations.

“There is an important issue that needs to be resolved if we want to bring in more companies or build new partnerships, and that is the fact that payments are sometimes delayed,” he said.

Behind the warning is a recurring problem: late settlement of government contracts. French authorities say these delays weigh on investor confidence and make the business environment harder to assess.

Cameroonian officials acknowledge the issue, particularly in the public works sector. A senior official at the Ministry of Public Works said the state owes tens of billions of CFA francs to a French company involved in urban and intercity road projects. Such arrears have fueled concern among companies operating in the country, even as investment needs remain high.

For Paris, the issue goes beyond unpaid bills.

Faster settlement of public debts is seen as a direct way to improve the business climate. “There are always reasons, I understand that perfectly, but anything that helps eliminate payment delays also improves the attractiveness of Cameroon’s economy,” Forissier said.

France is offering to deepen technical cooperation with Cameroon, particularly in public financial management and administrative processes, to help reduce payment timelines. “France is ready to provide its expertise to find solutions that improve the business climate and encourage more French companies to invest in Cameroon,” he added.

Paris has also pointed to broader concerns about the investment environment. Forissier cited “certain uncertainties” that may be holding back economic activity, including the need for greater predictability, transparency, and clarity in regulations.

He also highlighted issues related to regulatory stability, administrative processes, and corporate taxation, suggesting that improvements in these areas would help create a more stable and attractive environment for long-term investment.

France remains a major economic partner for Cameroon. According to Forissier, it is the country’s sixth-largest trading partner, with more than 200 French companies operating locally and employing over 20,000 people.

Trade between the two countries reached nearly CFA1,000 billion (about €1.5 billion) in 2023, according to French government data. That figure was down 9% from 2022 but up 57% compared with 2015.

Over the same period, French exports to Cameroon fell 11% to CFA376 billion, while imports from Cameroon declined 9% to CFA602 billion, leaving the trade balance in Cameroon’s favor.

For France, the priority is clear: maintain strong economic ties while securing progress on payment timelines, regulatory clarity, and administrative stability—conditions seen as essential to restoring investor confidence.

Source: Sbbc

31, March 2026

Biya regime looks to Poland to advance transport infrastructure plans ⁰

Cameroon is exploring closer ties with Poland to help move forward long-delayed transport infrastructure projects, as it looks to expand its pool of technical and financial partners.

On March 27, on the sidelines of the World Trade Organization’s 14th Ministerial Conference, Cameroon’s transport minister met with Aleksander Siemaszko, director of trade and international cooperation at Poland’s Ministry of Economic Development and Technology.

During the meeting, Cameroonian officials outlined investment opportunities across air, road, rail, and maritime transport. The Polish side presented the technical capabilities it could bring to these sectors.

According to Cameroon’s Ministry of Transport, the Polish delegation expressed readiness to support the country through a structured technical and strategic partnership. In aviation, this could include training programs and closer cooperation between specialized institutions.

Rail transport remains a top priority for Cameroon.

Polish officials showed interest in supporting the modernization of the rail network, including through the involvement of specialized companies, the supply of equipment, and the transfer of expertise. Potential cooperation could also extend to infrastructure and rolling stock maintenance.

The maritime sector is another area under discussion. Poland has indicated it could contribute to port upgrades, logistics capacity building, and training in maritime professions—areas seen as critical for improving Cameroon’s transport and supply chains.

This is not the first sign of interest from Warsaw. In February, Poland’s ambassador to Cameroon, Michal Cygan, held similar talks with the transport minister, Jean Ernest Ngalle Bibehe.

At the time, Cameroon highlighted several priority projects, including new railway lines linking Douala to Ngaoundéré, Edéa to Kribi and Campo, and Douala to Idenau. Plans also include rehabilitating existing infrastructure such as bridges and viaducts, acquiring new rolling stock, and potentially signing a bilateral air transport agreement.

For now, discussions remain at an early stage. But the repeated exchanges point to Cameroon’s broader effort to diversify partnerships as it seeks to accelerate the modernization of its transport networks.

Source: Business in Cameroon

31, March 2026

Cameroon struggles with chronic blood shortage despite policy efforts ⁰

An acute blood shortage is unfolding in Cameroon. At the Yaoundé Central Hospital, the blood bank has reached critical levels. In a message relayed on March 24 via its Facebook page, the hospital reported “near-zero stock” and urged the public to donate blood urgently to save lives.

However, the pressure extends beyond a single facility. The national bilingual daily Cameroon Tribune reported that several healthcare facilities across the country have faced blood shortages for weeks. This situation raises concern in a health system where transfusions remain essential for emergencies, childbirth, severe anemia, and surgical procedures.

Structural Supply Gap Persists

Cameroon estimates its annual blood needs at around 400,000 units. However, collection levels remain significantly below this target. The report states that “less than a quarter of this demand is covered,” although 165,708 units were collected in 2024, representing more than 40% of estimated needs. The underlying conclusion remains unchanged: supply remains insufficient.

Historical data confirm this fragility. In 2022, authorities collected 147,034 units, or about 36.8% of national requirements. A large share of this supply came from so-called replacement donors—typically relatives of patients—rather than regular voluntary donors, which the World Health Organization recommends as the safest and most sustainable source.

This structural weakness stems largely from low participation in voluntary, unpaid blood donation. Several barriers persist, including limited awareness, the absence of a strong donation culture, and lingering fears, particularly concerns about contracting or transmitting diseases. As a result, blood banks struggle to maintain adequate reserves and rely heavily on emergency, case-by-case donations.

Efforts to Reverse the Trend

Health authorities are attempting to organize a more structured response. The National Blood Transfusion Center has developed a strategy to promote voluntary, unpaid donation as the cornerstone of a safer and more sustainable system.

Cameroon already operates a relatively extensive network, with nearly 473 healthcare facilities performing blood transfusions as of 2022, according to official data. Some facilities have received equipment from the WHO under the National Blood Transfusion System Strengthening Project (PRESYNATS), financed by the Islamic Development Bank.

In addition, authorities have validated a new national strategic plan for 2025–2030. The plan aims to overhaul the transfusion system by strengthening governance, improving blood product safety, enhancing hemovigilance, and decentralizing the CNTS. Authorities ultimately aim to achieve self-sufficiency in safe blood products.

The WHO recommends that countries collect the equivalent of 1% to 3% of their population in blood units annually. Cameroon has set a target of 400,000 units, or about 1.65% of its population. However, a significant gap persists between this ambition and actual collection volumes.

In this context, appeals for blood donations continue to increase. Behind the statistics, the stakes remain high: each unit of blood can save multiple patients, and each donor represents an additional chance for those in need.

Beyond short-term campaigns, specialists emphasize a deeper challenge. Cameroon must build a culture of regular, voluntary, and unpaid donation. Only this shift can ensure a sustainable blood supply and guarantee safer and more equitable access to transfusions nationwide.

Source: Sbbc

30, March 2026

Iran hits US-Israeli pilot hideouts, drone hangers ⁰

Iran’s Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) says it has hit American-Israeli command centers, drone hangars, and pilot hideouts in new missile strikes on their military installations in the region.

In a statement, the IRGC said the targets were hit using ballistic missiles as part of the 87th wave of Operation True Promise 4.

Source: Presstv

29, March 2026

Yaoundé eyes wind energy partnership with Canada to diversify power mix ⁰

Cameroon’s Minister of Water and Energy, Gaston Eloundou Essomba, met Canada’s High Commissioner to Cameroon, Marie-Claude Harvey, on March 17, 2026, to discuss strengthening bilateral cooperation, with a focus on investment in the energy sector.

A key issue in the talks was Cameroon’s need to diversify its energy mix, which remains heavily reliant on hydropower and exposed to climate variability. Wind energy was among the options discussed. The ministry said potential had been identified in the western region, notably in the Bamboutos Mountains, as well as along coastal areas, supported by recent technological advances.

A Long-Delayed Project

The focus on wind energy is not new. In 2015, following a cabinet meeting, the government announced plans for a 42 MW pilot wind farm in the same area, with capacity expandable to 80 MW. The project aimed to support a more diversified energy mix. It has since made little visible progress, but several indications suggest it has not been abandoned. According to sources, it remains in the study and land acquisition phase, pointing to a possible revival in the medium term.

At the same time, the government is working to improve the investment climate for renewable energy. In a circular signed on Feb. 12, 2026, Finance Minister Louis Paul Motaze listed equipment used for solar, wind and biomass energy production that would benefit from a 12-month exemption from customs duties and taxes. The measure aims to lower costs and accelerate deployment, particularly in rural areas where electricity access remains limited.

Limited Use of Renewables

Alternative renewable energy sources, excluding hydropower, currently account for less than 5% of Cameroon’s energy mix, despite significant potential. At the 2024 Forum on the Promotion of Renewable Energy, Eloundou Essomba set a target of raising their share to 25% by 2035, equivalent to around 1,500 MW of installed capacity.

In this context, Canada stands out as a strategic partner, with recognized expertise in wind energy, which accounts for a growing share of its electricity mix. Wind farms operate across several provinces, including Ontario, Quebec and Alberta, where conditions are particularly favorable.

These projects rely on turbines that convert wind into electricity and are typically located in high-wind areas close to grid infrastructure to facilitate transmission. Canada’s experience shows that wind power can diversify energy sources, reduce dependence on hydropower and fossil fuels, and strengthen electricity supply security—expertise Cameroon could leverage to advance its energy ambitions.

Source: Sbbc

29, March 2026

Biya regime advances talks with South Korea on Yaoundé emergency care project ⁰

Cameroon’s Health Minister Manaouda Malachie is in South Korea to fast-track discussions on the rollout of Cury 2, the expansion phase of Yaounde’s Emergency Care Center (Cury).

During his visit, which began on March 25, 2026, the minister met his South Korean counterpart, Jeong Eun-kyeong, to review the project, which authorities say is key to improving long-term emergency care in the capital, with plans for a gradual rollout to other cities.

The project builds on an agreement signed on Nov. 28, 2023, between the two countries. The deal covers the expansion of Cury, with two main objectives: increasing patient capacity and improving care for critically ill patients in Yaounde.

However, Cameroonian authorities say the project goes beyond infrastructure. “We are developing, with the Republic of Korea through Koica (the Korea International Cooperation Agency), phase 2 of Cury. This phase is not just about infrastructure. It includes a full medical emergency management system. This is why we are in Korea,” Manaouda Malachie said.

South Korea has committed 8.5 billion CFA francs in grant financing to support the project. The funds will be used to expand infrastructure and strengthen technical capacity.

The program includes increasing capacity to treat critically ill patients, improving emergency care, training specialists and technicians, and setting up a call center to coordinate emergency responses. The Cameroonian delegation also requested the integration of an automated laboratory to speed up diagnostics and improve response times.

Project already under way

Preparatory work for Cury 2 is already under way. On Feb. 13, 2026, an emergency tender was launched for an environmental and social impact study, estimated at 30 million CFA francs.

According to the Ministry of Public Health, the mission to Korea reflects “the government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare delivery and improving the rapid and effective management of medical emergencies nationwide.”

Inaugurated in 2016, Cury was built with $84 million in financing from Koica. The first center of its kind in Central Africa, it specializes in treating patients in life-threatening conditions, including heart attacks, pulmonary embolisms and severe trauma cases.

The facility introduced more modern standards in emergency care in Cameroon and has since become a leading reference center nationally and across the sub-region.

Authorities now plan to replicate the model in other regions. Koica has proposed a broader initiative to establish a nationwide emergency medical services system, including regional centers.

For now, Yaounde remains the only city with such infrastructure. The goal is to expand access to quality emergency care across the country.

Source: Business in Cameroon

29, March 2026

Bamenda Airport passes test flight ahead of Papal Visit ⁰

Authorities in Cameroon’s North West Region have confirmed the successful completion of a critical test flight at Bamenda Airport, as preparations intensify for the upcoming visit of Pope Leo XIV.

The test flight, conducted on Wednesday, marks a significant step in restoring the airport’s operational capacity after years of limited use. The facility had largely been reserved for military operations amid the ongoing Anglophone Crisis, which has affected civilian aviation activities in the region.

Leading the inspection exercise was the Governor of the North West Region, Adolphe Lele L’Afrique, accompanied by the President of the North West Regional Executive Council, Professor Fru Angwafo III, alongside senior administrative and security officials.

The mission aimed to assess the airport’s readiness to handle the Papal aircraft and ensure that all systems meet the required operational standards ahead of the high-profile visit scheduled for next month.

The test flight was completed without incident, confirming the functionality of key infrastructure. These include the runway, navigation and communication systems, as well as ground handling operations necessary for safe aircraft movement and passenger reception.

Security arrangements were also a major focus of the exercise. Authorities reviewed coordination mechanisms between civil aviation services and security forces, expressing satisfaction with the level of preparedness observed on the ground.

In parallel with aviation readiness, rehabilitation works have intensified on the main road leading to the airport. The access route, considered vital for the smooth movement of the Papal convoy and accompanying delegations, is currently undergoing upgrades to improve safety and traffic flow.

The planned visit of Pope Leo XIV is expected to be a landmark event for the region, drawing thousands of faithful and dignitaries. Bamenda has been selected as one of three cities on the Pope’s itinerary during his apostolic journey to Cameroon.

The test flight was led by the Governor of the North West Region, Adolphe Lele L’Afrique, alongside the President of the North West Regional Executive Council, Professor Fru Angwafo III

Beyond its immediate purpose, the rehabilitation of Bamenda Airport could have lasting benefits, potentially paving the way for the resumption of regular civilian flights and boosting connectivity to the region.

Authorities have added that efforts will remain focused on ensuring that all logistical, security, and infrastructural requirements are fully met. The successful test flight is widely seen as a strong indication that Bamenda is ready to host the historic visit, with officials expressing confidence that the city will deliver a smooth and memorable visit for the Holy Father.

Source: Pan African Visions

29, March 2026

Archbishop of Canterbury to visit Cameroon and Ghana ⁰

The Archbishop of Canterbury is to make a 12-day visit to Ghana and Cameroon in July.

Most Rev Dame Sarah Mullally has been invited by the Primate of West Africa Dr Cyril Kobina Ben Smith, who attended her recent Installation at Canterbury Cathedral.

The Church of the Province of West Africa covers 19 dioceses in eight countries and announcing the visit, the archbishop’s office said that the aim is to “to learn and listen, to strengthen the ties between the See of Canterbury and the Province, and to foster deeper ecumenical relationships.”

The statement added that the visit is part of Archbishop Sarah’s commitment to building relationships across the Anglican Communion, and sharing in the life, witness and mission of Anglicans around the world.

Archbishop Sarah has faced criticism by many in the worldwide Anglican Communion over issues such as sexuality and the role of women in the church. In early March the group of conservative Anglicans known as GAFCON unveiled a new leadership council headed by Rwanda’s Archbishop Laurent Mbanda.

However, 32 provinces of the Anglican Communion including 26 primates and four official representatives were represented at the archbishop’s Installation.

Following the service, Archbishop Sarah met with ecumenical and regional delegations of Anglican Primates and spent further time in fellowship, conversation and prayer.

The visit to Ghana and Cameroon will take place from 26 July to 8 August 2026.

Source: Premier Christian News