State Engagement

Saturday, August 22, 2026, will go into the annals of Cameroon soccer history as a date when the entire nation communed with its AFCON Champions. The sunny afternoon was not only a suitable climate for a football match that ended with a 3-0 score, but also a suitable atmosphere for the number one sports personality to deliver, and he did deliver. In an eloquent, precise, and straight-to- the-point speech, President Paul Biya announced the unflinching engagement of the State to the Lionesses as they prepare for future competitions. Saturday’s announcement did not come as a surprise to any keen sports lover knowing the track record of President Paul Biya’s largesse. Prior to the final game on August 16, 2026, the Head of State had far-sightedly chosen a Chief in the person of Prime Minister Joseph Dion Ngute to carry his special message to the ladies. When the message hit the cardinal point, the result was palpable: a high-profile reception at the Unity Palace to showcase the State’s gratitude to the Lionesses and their staff. For over an hour, the Unity Palace vibrated to the rhythm of African Champions. From special match bonuses to the allocation of houses to the Lionesses, President Paul Biya did not only set the pace, but sent a signal to each and every stakeholder to put hands on deck to maintain the winning spree. For this to be a reality, the Ministry of Sports and Physical Education (MINSEP) and the Cameroon Football Federation (FECAFOOT) must start working as early as possible in order to get the Lionesses ready for the 10th edition of the FIFA Women’s World Cup to take place in Brazil from June 24 to July 25, 2027. It therefore implies that, while the State is providing the necessary financial and logistical backing, the football federation is leaving no stone unturned by making sure players are selected on merit and negotiate for veritable sparring partners for the Lionesses during the preparatory phase of the competition. Nine months to the competition might seem long, but not too long to fine-tune another winning strategy after that of the 2026 AFCON in Morocco. All eyes are now on the Lionesses. Henceforth, each of their outings will be meticulously scanned and analysed. The huge en­ gagement package an...