Exploring Cameroon: A Visionary Journey into Africa's Economic Future By Dr. Abdul Manaff, Chairman First Holdings, WEDO, VWC, SHEFINANCE &Dstack Corp
Dr. Abdul Manaff
Chairman @ FIRST HOLDINGS INTERNATIONAL I Forbes Council I Speaker I Mentor I Investor I Fundraising I Board Leadership
Recently, I had the distinct privilege of visiting Cameroon as part of the African Economic Development Week, an inspiring event organized by the African Economic Development Agency , under the astute leadership of Dr. Ruth Tembe Biz . This journey proved to be more than a mere tour; it was an immersive experience into the heart of a nation that, in many ways, embodies the vibrant and diverse spirit of Africa.
Cameroon, often hailed as a miniature Africa due to its rich cultural and geographical diversity, welcomed me with open arms. My visit provided me with the invaluable opportunity to engage with various organizations and stakeholders, deepening my understanding of this dynamic country and its immense potential for economic growth and development.
A Warm Welcome and Insightful Discussions
My official visit commenced with a meeting with His Excellency Issa Tchiroma Bakary, the Minister of Employment and Vocational Training. The encounter was profoundly impactful, marked by the Minister’s genuine warmth and passion for his country’s progress. Our discussions revolved around critical topics such as the importance of education, the creation of international-standard vocational training centers, and job creation strategies. His commitment to these issues was evident and served as a strong foundation for my subsequent engagements.
Following this, I had the pleasure of meeting His Excellency Tasong Njukang Paul, the Minister of Economy Planning and Regional Development. His expertise as a planner and his ability to listen attentively provided me with a clearer understanding of Cameroon’s developmental needs and opportunities. He graciously encouraged me to engage with the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, His Excellency Mbiarobe Gabriel, which led to an enlightening discussion on group farming, rural development, and the availability of agricultural land throughout Cameroon.
Empowering Women and Promoting Gender Equality
One of the highlights of my visit was the meeting with Her Excellency Abena Ondoa née Obama Marie Thérèse, the Minister of Women’s Empowerment and the Family. Her dedication to addressing gender discrimination and promoting employment for women, particularly in rural areas, was truly inspiring. During our conversation, I shared our organization’s initiatives, including WEDO - Women Entrepreneurship Development Organisation , Visionary Women Circle , and #SHEFINANCE and introduced our one-billion-dollar fund aimed at empowering women. Her enthusiasm for collaboration was encouraging, and I eagerly await the project proposals from her office to integrate into our funding plans.
A Visionary Leader: Prime Minister Dion Ngute
The culmination of my ministerial meetings was with His Excellency Joseph Dion Ngute , the Prime Minister and Head of Government. The Prime Minister’s vision for Cameroon was both clear and compelling. His openness, simplicity, and assurance were a testament to his commitment to improving his country. His willingness to support and facilitate investment opportunities was deeply reassuring. With a budgetary allocation of $48 billion for Africa from my companies, the Prime Minister’s assurance that his team would support our endeavors was a significant boost to our investment plans.
A Journey of Collaboration and Hope
This journey, facilitated by Dr. Ruth Tembe Biz and coordinated by Mr. Tamba Yvan Blackwell Keyaka from the Ministry of State Property and Land Tenure, was a remarkable exploration into the economic and developmental landscape of Cameroon. The engagement with various ministers and stakeholders has not only broadened my perspective but also solidified my confidence in investing in Cameroon’s future.
As I reflect on this visit, I am filled with optimism and excitement about the potential collaborations and investments that lie ahead. Cameroon’s strategic vision, combined with the dedication of its leaders, provides a fertile ground for economic growth and innovation. I look forward to working closely with the government and local organizations to contribute to the country’s ongoing development and prosperity.
In conclusion, this visit has reaffirmed my belief in Cameroon as a beacon of opportunity in Africa. With its rich resources, passionate leaders, and emerging entrepreneurial spirit, Cameroon stands poised to make significant strides on the continental and global stage. The journey was not just a tour but a step towards a promising future, one where our collective efforts will pave the way for sustainable development and economic success.
#AfricanEconomicDevelopment #InvestInAfrica #Cameroon #EconomicGrowth #AfricanDevelopment #VocationalTraining #WomenEmpowerment #AgriculturalDevelopment #GroupFarming #GenderEquality #Entrepreneurship #EconomicCollaboration #SustainableDevelopment #AfricanLeaders #InvestmentOpportunities #DevelopmentPartnerships #RegionalDevelopment #CameroonVision #YouthEntrepreneurs #EconomicInnovation
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African Centre for International Trade and Economic Development - AfriCITED African Centre for Green Economy (ACGE)
African Leadership Academy African BioGenome Project African Economic Scholars Program (AESP) African Farming and Food Processing
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Emmerson Mnangagwa
Founder of Mendax Media | Advertiser who writes about: Marketing, Sales and Psychology
4 个月What an inspiring and insightful account, Dr. Manaff! ?? Your visit to Cameroon seems like a truly transformative experience, offering a deep dive into the nation's untapped potential. The emphasis on vocational training, empowering women, and fostering agricultural development is so vital for building a sustainable economy that can thrive globally.? I love how you highlighted the importance of strategic collaborations with leaders like the Minister of Economy Planning, the Prime Minister, and the Minister of Women’s Empowerment. Their dedication, combined with your focus on women’s entrepreneurship and a one-billion-dollar fund, can truly accelerate positive change in the region.? It’s especially inspiring to see how you’re positioning Cameroon not only as a land of opportunities but as a hub for innovation and growth in Africa. The future looks bright, and your efforts in supporting the country’s economic growth, gender equality, and vocational training will no doubt be pivotal in shaping a prosperous tomorrow. Looking forward to seeing the fruits of these collaborations. Here's to Cameroon’s exciting future and the collective efforts that will make it thrive! ????
permenent Secretary at mosohcameroun
7 个月Je n'ai pu vous rencontrer en terre camerounaise. Cependant je suis heureux de savoir que votre séjour au Cameroun a été positif. Le développement durable et inclusif ne sera atteint que si toutes les catégories sociologiques y sont inclues. C'est pourquoi notre combat pour les couches vulnérables et les personnes handicapées en particulier, qui retient déjà votre attention, trouveront dans votre séjour une source d'inspiration dans l'attente de votre séjour prochain. Courage, succès.
Associate / CSR & Sustainability Expert at Kedi Build Group
7 个月Your optimism and commitment to fostering win-win partnerships with Cameroon across different social and economic sectors will go a long way to boost sustainable development for the Country and especially for our local communities.
Innovative Healthcare Specialist & Educator | Entrepreneur | Aspiring M&E Project Management Consultant
7 个月Your optimism about future collaborations and investments in Cameroon is palpable, driven by the country's strategic vision and the dedication of its leadership. The visit indeed seems to have solidified your belief in Cameroon as a beacon of opportunity in Africa, poised to make significant strides in the global arena. Overall, your experience in Cameroon reflects a promising partnership between international organizations and local stakeholders, aimed at contributing to the country's ongoing prosperity and sustainable development.
Directrice Générale à SOCIETE ROMHUARD HUMAN RESOURCES SARL
7 个月Congratulations!