In Power 237, Dr Guy Gweth — President of the African Centre for Competitive Intelligence (ACCI) — reminds us that no nation can rise to greatness without placing innovation, inclusion, and leadership at the heart of its development strategy. As Cameroon aspires to become the leading African power by 2050, talents like Fotabe Elmine embody the vision, energy, and strategic insight needed to turn that ambition into reality.

A seasoned expert in Human Resources and Marketing, Fotabe Elmine is one of Cameroon’s most dynamic female leaders, with a deep understanding of African business ecosystems and a clear passion for youth empowerment. As Founder and Chair of Fotabe University, she is on a mission to train a new generation of African intrapreneurs and entrepreneurs, grounded in values of service, innovation, partnership, and inclusion.

Her leadership extends beyond academia. With Makeit, the initiative she launched to promote the education of rural children, Elmine affirms her belief that no one should be left behind on the path to national development. Her dedication to social impact has earned her major recognitions, including the American Chamber of Commerce in Cameroon Courage Award and the #G2G Courageous Women Prize, celebrating her commitment to gender equity and community advancement.

A respected lecturer and mentor, Elmine also serves as the Cameroon Country Representative for the Rome Business School, where she teaches MBA courses in Human Resources, Marketing, and Business Strategy — shaping the next generation of African business leaders.

Her entrepreneurial journey began in 2008 with the launch of Job Shop Cameroon, the first job placement agency in Buea. This project evolved into the Job Shop and Financial Solutions (JSF) Group, a corporate training institute that has supported professionals and startups across Cameroon for more than a decade. Through her 14+ years as a Corporate Trainer and HR Consultant, she has become a key actor in the fight for decent work, particularly for women and girls, founding the Association for the Promotion of Decent Work for Women and Girls.

But Elmine’s vision also includes cultural empowerment. With the African Arts Academy, a social enterprise launched under FUNIC, she champions African heritage as a driver of identity and development, proving that economic progress and cultural valorisation are not mutually exclusive — they are mutually reinforcing.

Fotabe Elmine’s profile is that of a nation-builder. Her expertise, social vision, and relentless energy align fully with the objectives of Power 237: mobilising talent, boosting innovation, and ensuring inclusive growth. In a Cameroon determined to rise, her example reminds us that with women at the top, progress becomes inevitable — and powerful.

The Power 237 Team 

Power 237 under the direction of Dr Guy Gweth aims to position Cameroon at the forefront of Africa by 2050, but this bold vision requires the commitment of all the nation’s vital forces. Power 237 highlights those Cameroonians whose journeys and expertise are cornerstones of this developing structure. Today, our attention focuses on Armand Ngaketcha Njafang, a researcher and entrepreneur whose innovative spirit and multidimensional commitment resonate perfectly with this ambition. His unique expertise, at the intersection of bioethics, entrepreneurship, and international relations, is an example of the wealth of Cameroonian talent to be mobilized.

Holding a doctorate from the Université libre de Bruxelles, Armand Ngaketcha Njafang has distinguished himself through his incisive research on the ethical issues linked to technological advancements, notably exploring the complexities of transhumanism. His 2015 book demonstrates a forward-thinking mindset and an ability to anticipate the challenges of tomorrow.

Parallel to this intellectual rigor, Dr. Ngaketcha Njafang has demonstrated a concrete entrepreneurial spirit by founding Franchise Conseils Cameroun Sarl in 2016. This consulting firm specializing in international education and mobility reveals a desire to connect talents and opportunities beyond borders. His role as a consultant for events such as Naturallia 2017 illustrates his ability to build bridges between Quebec and Africa.

His commitment does not stop at the business world. As a research assistant at the École de santé publique de l’Université de Montréal and co-promoter of the Institut Africain de Bioéthique, he continues to enrich the academic debate and promote essential ethical reflection in a rapidly changing world. His contribution to the Canadian Journal of Bioethics reinforces his status as a recognized expert.

A major asset for “Power 237”

Armand Ngaketcha Njafang’s profile is particularly relevant to Power 237. His ability to navigate between high-level ethical reflection, concrete entrepreneurial action, and the promotion of international relations represents a rare and valuable combination. His expertise can inform Cameroon’s strategic decisions in the face of emerging technological and ethical challenges. His entrepreneurial drive and his knowledge of Quebec-Africa dynamics can foster economic partnerships and exchanges of know-how beneficial for Cameroon’s development.

Conclusion:

Armand Ngaketcha Njafang embodies a new generation of Cameroonian leaders: acting thinkers, capable of connecting ideas and initiatives for a more prosperous future. His interdisciplinary vision and commitment make him an inspiring figure and an undeniable asset for the realization of Power 237’s ambitions.

The Editorial Team 

Power 237 examines the talents shaping the Cameroon of tomorrow. Today, our spotlight shines on Christian Ngan, a visionary businessman whose audacity and commitment embody the very spirit of “Power 237”. His journey, from international finance to the creation of a successful pan-African cosmetics brand, demonstrates boundless ambition and unwavering faith in African potential.

Trained in the best business schools in France and with a strong background in corporate finance, Christian Ngan could have carved out a comfortable career in European capitals. However, in 2012, at the age of 28, he made the courageous choice to return to Cameroon to launch Madlyn Cazalis. His motivation: to combat skin depigmentation and offer African women quality natural products, made locally.

This bold gamble proved to be a resounding success. Within a few years, Madlyn Cazalis became a benchmark brand in Central and West Africa, employing over 300 distributors. This success earned Christian Ngan international recognition, notably by being listed among the 30 most promising young African entrepreneurs according to Forbes magazine.

More than just an entrepreneur, Christian Ngan is a fervent promoter of Africa and its potential. He encourages young Africans to believe in their abilities and to conquer the global market. His inspiring journey and commitment make him a role model for Cameroonian youth and a valuable asset to the Power 237 project, which aims to propel Cameroon to the top of Africa by 2035.

Conclusion:

Christian Ngan embodies the vision of Power 237: an enterprising, innovative, and proud Cameroon. His audacity, determination, and success make him a key player in Cameroon’s economic development and an example to follow for the new generation of African entrepreneurs.

The Editorial Team 

Lisette Claudia Tame Njambe, CEO of Africa Processing Company SA, embodies a new era for Cameroon’s agro-industry. Highlighted by Power 237, she stands out for her commitment to revolutionising the cocoa industry in Cameroon. Thanks to her bold vision and assertive leadership, she has established herself as a key figure in the march towards an emerging Cameroon, as envisaged by the African center of competitive intelligence (ACCI) by 2050.

An exceptional journey, an asset for Power 237

Lisette Claudia Tame Njambe’s journey is an example of success that perfectly aligns with the objectives of Power 237. Her expertise can contribute to:

• Developing the Cameroonian agri-food industry: Her success in cocoa processing demonstrates her expertise in the agri-food sector, an essential pillar of the Cameroonian economy.
• Promoting local processing: Her commitment to processing cocoa beans in Cameroon helps increase the added value of local products and reduce dependence on imports.
• Creating jobs and stimulating the local economy: Her company has created numerous direct and indirect jobs, thus contributing to the economic development of local communities.
• Strengthening Cameroon’s brand image: By positioning CA’OLY (Lion Cocoa) as a benchmark brand, she contributes to strengthening Cameroon’s image as a producer of quality cocoa.

A visionary for Cameroon’s future

Lisette Claudia Tame Njambe is a visionary whose journey and commitment make her a key player for Cameroon’s future. Her expertise and determination can contribute significantly to the realization of Power 237.

The Editorial Team 

Diane Gakam, a graduate in structured finance, has successfully transformed her passion for beauty into a committed enterprise. With her brand, Natural Deific, she offers a range of natural and environmentally friendly hair care products, specifically designed for African and Afro-descendant women.

An inspiring journey, an asset for Power 237

Her initiative was noticed by the Power 237 project, initiated by the African Centre for Competitive Intelligence (ACCI) and led by Dr. Guy Gweth. This project aims to make Cameroon an African leader by 2050, relying on local talents and initiatives.

Diane Gakam’s journey is an example of entrepreneurial success that perfectly aligns with the objectives of Power 237. Her company contributes to:

• Valuing local products: Natural Deific uses selected natural ingredients, thus participating in the promotion of African resources.
• Creating added value: By transforming raw materials into finished products, Diane Gakam participates in the diversification of the Cameroonian economy.
• Promoting female entrepreneurship: Her success inspires other women to venture into entrepreneurship.
• Developing soft power: By highlighting African beauty, Natural Deific contributes to Cameroon’s cultural influence.

Untapped potential

Diane Gakam plans to develop her business by opening a physical space in Essos, Cameroon, thus offering personalized services and quality hair care. Her ambition is to make Natural Deific a benchmark in the field of hair care for African women.

Her dynamism, vision, and commitment make her a key player in the economic and cultural development of Cameroon, in line with the ambitions of Power 237.

The Editorial Team 

Under the vision and leadership of Dr. Guy Gweth, President of the African Centre for Competitive Intelligence (ACCI), Power 237 aims to transform Cameroon into a leading power in Africa between 2025 and 2050. Based on the trifecta of  “hard power, soft power, and smart power,” this initiative relies on an integrated strategy, a pragmatic action plan, and a network of high-potential individuals capable of driving this ambitious project. Among these remarkable figures, Emmanuel Nouga stands out for his multidimensional expertise and exceptional career.

A unique expertise in security and international relations

Graduating in 2000 from the United States Military Academy at West Point with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical and aerospace engineering, Emmanuel Nouga quickly put his know-how at the service of the Cameroonian government. Between 2000 and 2006, he played a crucial role as a security advisor, particularly in strengthening counterterrorism and counterinsurgency response capabilities. His work also included coordinating with multilateral organizations and NGOs to ensure the security and continuity of development efforts in the sensitive regions of northern Cameroon.

Building on this experience, he pursued a master’s degree in public administration at the prestigious John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard, specializing in business and international relations (2006-2008). This academic background propelled him to strategic positions, including an internship at the United States National Defense University and a role as program manager at the Corporate Council on Africa (2009-2011).

A key contribution to development and humanitarian aid

As Operations Manager at Pacific Architects and Engineers Incorporated, Emmanuel Nouga managed a $50 million portfolio for strengthening peacekeeping capacities and humanitarian assistance in several African countries. He notably oversaw emergency interventions in Sudan to provide care for 150,000 refugees in Maban County and led initiatives in Burkina Faso to support peacekeeping operations.

Since 2016, he has worked within USAID, where he has held strategic positions such as private sector engagement advisor and deputy chief of coordination during major crises, including in Venezuela, Ethiopia, and the Horn of Africa.

Emmanuel Nouga’s potential role in Power 237

With his expertise in security, international relations, and crisis management, Emmanuel Nouga could be an essential asset for Power 237. His experience in coordinating between public, private, and humanitarian actors is essential for building a “smart power” strategy. His ability to mobilize resources and manage complex programs can accelerate the implementation of priority projects, particularly in the sectors of security, education, and economic development.

Dr. Guy Gweth’s vision: a lever for talent

Through Power 237, Dr. Guy Gweth values leaders like Emmanuel Nouga to raise Cameroon to a higher level of competitiveness. By mobilizing experts with diverse skills and aligning them with a common vision, he creates a collective dynamic capable of making Cameroon a true African locomotive.

With a global network and a holistic approach, Power 237 positions itself as a platform for transformation, propelled by exceptional talents like Emmanuel Nouga.

The editorial team 

Cameroon, through Puissance 237, is aiming for a leading role on the African continent. This initiative, spearheaded by renowned competitive and strategic intelligence expert Dr. Guy Gweth, will be further defined by a White Paper due on January 30, 2025. This document, the product of extensive national consultation, seeks to reshape the nation’s trajectory, fostering a vision of regional power, strategic clarity exceeding the National Development Strategy for 2030 (SND30), renewed national pride, and a collective drive to achieve African leadership. In this pursuit of influence, individuals like Cyrille Balegel Bell are invaluable assets.

A state-certified naval mechanical engineer and first-class mechanical officer, Cyrille Balegel Bell embodies technical excellence and operational leadership. His diverse and accomplished career showcases his adaptability and specialized expertise in key industrial sectors. From his experience in Algeria’s oil and gas industry with SONATRACH (2011-2015) to his work in steel manufacturing with ArcelorMittal and non-woven textiles with ANDRITZ, he has developed a deep understanding of industrial challenges. His time at FIVES, managing steel production line projects in China and Europe, followed by his return to ANDRITZ to oversee galvanizing and continuous annealing lines in China, further honed his expertise in complex project management and advanced technologies.

Driven by his international experience, Cyrille Balegel Bell has chosen to dedicate his skills to his homeland. In 2024, he founded DELTA GLOBAL ENGINEERING in Douala, a bold venture aimed at supporting Cameroon’s industrialization. This demonstrates a clear vision: industrialization is crucial for economic growth and national progress. His co-founding of the ATOM think tank, which promotes African development through industrial excellence, further underscores his commitment to sustainable and prosperous continental growth.

How does Cyrille Balegel Bell’s profile align with the Puissance 237 vision? The White Paper, under Dr. Guy Gweth’s guidance, emphasizes the need to develop a competitive and innovative industrial base, along with green energy solutions, to secure Cameroon’s regional power. Cyrille Balegel Bell’s expertise, gained within multinational corporations and now channeled through DELTA GLOBAL ENGINEERING, directly addresses this need. His experience in managing complex industrial projects, his knowledge of cutting-edge technologies, and his dedication to industrial excellence position him as a key player in achieving Puissance 237’s objectives.

Specifically, Cyrille Balegel Bell can make significant contributions in the following areas:

• Industrial project consulting and engineering: DELTA GLOBAL ENGINEERING can assist Cameroonian businesses in designing, implementing, and optimizing their industrial projects, providing high-level technical expertise.
• Training and skills transfer: His international experience and commitment to industrial excellence can be leveraged to train young Cameroonians in industrial trades, fostering skills transfer and developing a qualified workforce.
• Promoting industrial investment: His network and credibility within the industrial community can help attract foreign investment and encourage entrepreneurial initiatives in the industrial sector.
• Contributing to strategic thinking: His involvement with the ATOM think tank allows him to actively contribute to discussions on industrial development challenges in Africa, offering valuable insights and practical perspectives.

In conclusion, Cyrille Balegel Bell’s background, expertise, and dedication make him a valuable asset for Cameroon’s industrial advancement. His profile is perfectly aligned with the ambitions of Puissance 237, and he is poised to play a crucial role in realizing this ambitious vision for the nation’s future. His commitment to industrial excellence is a significant advantage for Cameroon in its pursuit of continental influence.

The Editorial Team 

Samuel Tony OBAM BIKOUÉ, a rising figure in Cameroon’s agricultural sector, stands out as a pivotal leader in modernizing the national agricultural landscape and is a key figure for #Puissance237. As the National President of the Plantain Banana Sector and the National Association of Actors in the Plantain Banana Sector of Cameroon (FBPC), he embodies visionary leadership that reshapes a traditionally conservative domain.

The International Plantain Banana Festival

OBAM BIKOUÉ is the brain behind the International Plantain Banana Festival, an innovative initiative aligned with the government’s Import-Substitution policy. Held in locations such as Ebolowa, Mvangan, and Limbe during its first two editions, this festival showcased the immense economic and social potential of the plantain banana sector in Cameroon.

For the third edition, slated for December 2024, the event adopts an ambitious itinerant format, spanning four regions of the country. This approach underscores his commitment to inclusivity and his vision of uniting all stakeholders within the sector.

Transformational Leadership

Beyond organizing events, OBAM BIKOUÉ is dedicated to enhancing the entire plantain banana value chain. His efforts include:

• Training and support for stakeholders: Strengthening the technical skills of professionals in the sector.
• Innovative financing mechanisms: Developing solutions to support agricultural ventures.
• Strategic international partnerships: Collaborations with countries like Brazil elevate Cameroon’s plantain banana sector globally.

Awards and Recognitions

His outstanding work has earned him several accolades, including:

• Grand Prize “Agri-d’Afrique”
• Excellence in Managerial Leadership Award 2023

These honors reflect the tangible impact of his initiatives on the development of Cameroon’s agricultural sector.

Multidimensional Impact

1. Economic: Strengthening the plantain banana sector and creating business opportunities.
2. Social: Enhancing stakeholder skills and promoting inclusivity.
3. Cultural: Showcasing Cameroon’s agricultural heritage.
4. International: Bolstering exchanges and strategic partnerships.

A Vision for the Future

OBAM BIKOUÉ redefines Cameroon’s agricultural sector by positioning it as a catalyst for economic and social development. His holistic vision, blending innovation and tradition, makes him a role model for young African agricultural entrepreneurs.

Through his leadership and strategic initiatives, Samuel Tony OBAM BIKOUÉ is revolutionizing a critical sector of Cameroon’s economy. His efforts to modernize the plantain banana value chain illustrate a clear ambition: to make agriculture a central driver of food sovereignty and sustainable development in Cameroon.

The Puissance237 Team 

Olivier Ngueda, a Cameroonian native, has emerged as a prominent figure in the world of project management. As the Vice President of Project Management Office at Measurement Incorporated (MI), a renowned American company in the field of educational assessment, he has propelled MI to new heights through his expertise and leadership.

With 20 years of experience in top-tier companies, Olivier has successfully navigated through complex and ever-evolving environments. At Google Inc., he managed global projects for flagship products like Google Docs and Gmail, with an operational budget exceeding $28 million. His role at IBM was equally impactful, leading business transformation initiatives and establishing an advisory committee to integrate sales systems with IBM Red Hat technology.

His time at Cisco Systems was also significant. As the head of the WebEx Communication merger and acquisition team, he managed a $17 million budget, ensuring a smooth transition to the SFDC platform. Olivier also made a major impact at Genentech, orchestrating change management initiatives affecting over 100 million clients worldwide.

At the helm of the PMO at MI, Olivier Ngueda is committed to setting new standards in project management. He implements standard operating procedures and best practices to assess and enhance MI’s values. By focusing on growth and customer satisfaction, he also develops mentoring and career development programs for employees, preparing the company to tackle future challenges.

Beyond his professional responsibilities, Olivier Ngueda is also a dedicated community leader. As the president of HEMLE FC, he has invested in the development of his hometown, Botko, by building a regulation-sized football stadium and a 180-room hotel. He has also established a clean water supply system, demonstrating his commitment to improving the living conditions of his fellow citizens.

Olivier Ngueda embodies the essence of a modern leader: a seasoned professional, an inspiring mentor, and a change agent serving his community. His exceptional journey, according to Puissance 237, blending professional success and social involvement, makes him a role model for future generations. 

The Editorial Team

In the firmament of African entrepreneurs, Albert Nkemla stands out as a star whose brilliance illuminates the financial landscape of Cameroon and beyond. A bold visionary, this discreet businessman has turned adversity into opportunity, building a financial empire where others would have seen only ruins.

The genesis of a vision 

It was in the 1990s, when Cameroon was going through a devastating economic crisis, that Albert Nkemla, a financier by training, was faced with a crucial choice. Rather than give in to the despair of unemployment, he embraced entrepreneurship with unshakeable determination. His first foray into business – growing and exporting medicinal plants – became the fertile ground from which his boldest ambition would germinate.

The birth of a financial giant

In 1997, in Bafoussam, the capital of Western Cameroon, Albert Nkemla laid the foundation stone of what was to become an imposing financial edifice: Crédit Communautaire d’Afrique (CCA). What started out as a modest credit cooperative quickly metamorphosed under the impetus of its founder’s strategic vision. In the space of two decades, CCA transcended its origins to become a leading banking institution with a capital of 34.4 billion FCFA.

A Diversified Empire

Albert Nkemla’s entrepreneurial saga does not stop at banking. With remarkable foresight, he is extending his influence through a diversified conglomerate, Afrigroupe, which encompasses entities such as :

• AFRIMED: The original pillar, specialising in agriculture and medicinal plants.
• OFFICE SA: Meeting the office supplies needs of the group and beyond.
• VIDECOM SA: A foray into information technology.
• SCI-AFG: Managing the Group’s property assets.
• AFRIASSURE: Offering innovative insurance solutions.
• AFRIFOOD: Exploring opportunities in the agri-food industry.
• AFRILUX: Lighting up new business horizons.

This diversification testifies not only to Nkemla’s commercial acumen, but also to its holistic vision of African economic development.

The Art of Discretion and Leadership

Albert Nkemla embodies the antithesis of the flamboyant tycoon. His legendary discretion is matched only by his effectiveness. Far from the spotlight, he orchestrates the growth of his empire with silent mastery, weaving a network of partnerships based on mutual trust and a shared vision of a prosperous Africa.

A New Chapter: The Majestic Headquarters of CCA Bank

The forthcoming inauguration of CCA Bank’s new head office in Douala, scheduled for 19 October 2024, marks a significant milestone in Sir Nkemla’s odyssey. This building, a veritable architectural jewel, symbolises CCA Bank’s meteoric rise and its deep roots in Cameroon’s economic fabric.

This avant-garde building is more than just a structure; it is the tangible manifestation of Nkemla’s vision for a modern, efficient African bank that is close to its customers. Equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure, it will serve as the nerve centre for CCA Bank’s 54 branches across the country, optimising operations and enhancing the customer experience to unparalleled levels.

Heritage under construction

Albert Nkemla’s story is that of a man who turned challenges into opportunities and vision into reality. His journey illustrates the power of African entrepreneurship and the ability of an individual to positively impact the economic destiny of a nation.

As the new headquarters of CCA Bank prepare to open their doors, there is no doubt that this is just another chapter in Albert Nkemla’s epic story. His legacy is measured not just in terms of financial assets, but in the lasting transformation of the African banking landscape and the inspiration he provides to a new generation of entrepreneurs.

In a continent in the throes of change, Albert Nkemla is the discreet but decisive architect of Africa’s financial future, proving that vision, combined with boldness and perseverance, can truly move mountains.

The Editorial Team