Award night in Limbe also features President’s Special Recognitions as AGM draws to a close.
The Cameroon Association of English-Speaking Journalists, CAMASEJ, inducted Felix Mbayu and Dr Bertha Ndoh Bakata as its new Patron and Matron during an award night that concluded the association’s 2026 Annual General Assembly in Limbe on Saturday 31 January.
Felix Mbayu, Minister Delegate at the Ministry of External Relations in charge of Relations with the Commonwealth, was inducted as Patron in recognition of his sustained support for professional journalism and media development. CAMASEJ leadership cited his practical engagement with the media sector, notably his sponsorship of the Monica Chunji Prize for Education Reporting at the North West Media Forum. The prize, dedicated to the memory of his late mother, featured high-value awards including a high-performance laptop and cash prizes, reinforcing his commitment to excellence in reporting.
Dr Bertha Ndoh Bakata, President of the Board of SONARA, was inducted as Matron of the association. Popularly known as “Mama Bertha”, she brings decades of public service experience to the role. She served as Special Adviser at the Prime Minister’s Office from 2003 to 2019 before being appointed Board Chair of one of Cameroon’s largest public enterprises. A native of Meme Division in the South West Region, her induction was welcomed as a strong signal of institutional confidence in the work of English-speaking journalists.
Prior to the inductions, National President Viban Jude presented the President’s Special Recognitions to individuals and institutions whose contributions have strengthened CAMASEJ and supported journalists across the country.
Amindeh Blaise Atabong was recognised for being an exceptional collaborator and for his outstanding service to the association. Ndinwa Benedict Jini received a special recognition for his role as a key strategist and for mobilising resources that contributed to the successful organisation of the Limbe AGM. Ajumane Francis was honoured as a dependable ally noted for consistently holding the association at heart.
Dr Olive Ejang was also recognised for her strong engagement within CAMASEJ, reflecting a commitment that has followed the association’s activities from Kumba to Limbe and now the newly recognised Bangem Chapter. The President of the Cameroon Human Rights Commission received a special recognition for standing firm in the defence and protection of journalists’ rights.
The award night marked the end of a three-day Annual General Assembly held from 29 to 31 January 2026 in Limbe, South West Region. The AGM featured an assessment of members’ welfare nationwide, reports from regional chapters, a constitutional review and adoption, the formal recognition of new chapters in Bafoussam, Bertoua and Bangem, as well as recreational activities including football and a beach visit at Seme Beach.
By closing its assembly with high-profile inductions and special recognitions, CAMASEJ underscored its commitment to strengthening internal governance while building partnerships that support responsible journalism in Cameroon.
By Bakah Derick for Hilltopvoices online
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