The book “Power 237,” the result of extensive consultation initiated and led by Dr. Guy Gweth, president of the African Centre for Competitive Intelligence (ACCI), aims to equip Cameroon with a strategy to become a regional power by 2050. The preface, written by Professor Jean-Emmanuel Pondi, Rector of ICT University and Honorary Director of the Institute of International Relations of Cameroon (IRIC), provides valuable insights into this initiative. His analysis, summarized here, highlights the importance and originality of the author’s approach.
At the outset of his preface, Professor Pondi emphasizes Cameroon’s strategic geographical position, often referred to as “Africa in miniature” due to its geographical and cultural diversity. He then highlights three major qualities of the book; the originality and importance of the theme of continental leadership for Cameroon, it’s focus on methods to achieve this goal and the necessity train human resources to meet challenges.
Professor Pondi notes that “Power 237” has a clear and precise ambition: to position Cameroon as a continental leader by 2050. This ambition, building on previous initiatives such as “Cameroon Vision 2035” and the GESP, stands in stark contrast to the more timid approaches observed until now. Hence a shift from the mere desire for development to the pursuit of an assertive leadership.
The book, spanning over 500 pages, goes beyond merely articulating an ambition. It lays out detailed public policy strategies to be implemented across various sectors, including diplomacy, culture, education, sports, research, and information and communication technologies. This proactive and systematic approach stands in stark contrast to the improvisation often criticized among African stakeholders. Additionally, the incorporation of assessment and scoring tools for thorough monitoring of the transformation process underscores the rigor of the competitive intelligence approach.
Professor Pondi emphasizes another critical aspect: the need for both qualitative and quantitative transformation of human resources. The book advocates for innovation and the acceptance of radical changes to enhance development indicators. This includes combating corruption, promoting financial inclusion, converting brain drain into brain gain, and ensuring access to electricity, clean water, and healthcare. Such transformation necessitates a comprehensive overhaul of the education system to prepare learners to effectively tackle the challenges facing the country.
In conclusion, Professor Pondi views “Power 237,” as a ‘healthy shock’ that can mobilize the nation’s vital forces to achieve this ambitious and attainable goal. He raises the crucial question of whether Cameroonians can meet such a challenge, recalling the saying “impossible is not Cameroonian.” He expresses hope that this forward-looking reflection, will empower Cameroon to fully embrace its responsibilities on the continent. Professor Pondi’s preface underscores the book’s relevance and importance as a tool for reflection and action regarding Cameroon’s future.
About Professor Jean-Emmanuel Pondi
Professor Jean-Emmanuel PONDI is a specialist in political science and international relations. He is a former Director of the International Relations Institute of Cameroon (IRIC) (1999-2006), and is presently the Vice-rector of the University of Yaounde I in charge of Research, Cooperation and Relations with the Business World, after having been Secretary General of the same university (2006-2017). He is a graduate of Cambridge University (Pembroke college, 1983), The London School of Economics (1981), and holds a PhD from the Pennsylvania State University (1986). He is the author or editor of 22 books and 70 scientific articles published in renowned journals such as The Cambridge review of international affairs, Johns Hopkins University’s SAIS review (School of Advanced International Studies) and the Cameroon review of international studies. He has a long experience in teaching international relations in general, and African international relations in particular. He is a full professor at IRIC and has been a visiting fellow/visiting professor in several African, European, American and Asian Universities, including, among others, the University of Nairobi, the University of Cambridge, The Diplomatic Academy of Vienna, Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS) in Washington, D.C., and the Chinese Diplomatic Institute in Beijing. In addition, Professor Pondi is the Dean of the College of Social Sciences of the Cameroon Academy of Sciences.
The editorial team