Cameroon is feeling the brunt of climate change like never before. Rising temperatures, devastating floods, and unpredictable weather patterns are putting pressure on communities across the country. From health crises to food shortages, the effects are everywhere, and it’s clear that action is urgently needed.  2024: The Year of Unbearable Heat The heatwaves of March and April 2024 were a wake-up call. Temperatures in regions like the Far North soared to record highs, with daytime averages of 41.5°C in March and 42.3°C in April —the hottest months since 1981. At night, it wasn’t much better, with minimum temperatures averaging 25.6°C and 27.5°C. These extreme conditions weren’t limited to the Far North. Other regions, including the Centre, Adamaoua, and parts of the North-West and South-West, recorded temperatures 1°C to 3°C higher than usual (WFP Cameroon Climate Change Report, July 2024).  These intense heatwaves hit people hard. Hospitals in Maroua saw a spike in cases of dehydration and heat-related illnesses, especially among the elderly, pregnant women, and young children. Tragically, civil society organizations reported deaths caused by the heat (RFI).  The Ripple Effect on Agriculture  Cameroon’s agriculture—already vulnerable—suffered badly. Off-season crops like sorghum, tomatoes, and onions struggled in the extreme heat. Water sources dried up, irrigation systems failed, and poor harvests pushed food prices through the roof.  Livestock farming wasn’t spared either. Cattle in the Far North faced moderate to severe heat stress , leading to reduced milk production and lower reproductive rates. Farmers, desperate to find water and pasture, had to travel further, putting even more strain on their livelihoods (DNM).  With agriculture employing so many people, these challenges don’t just hurt farmers—they ripple through the entire economy. The World Bank predicts that climate change could shrink Cameroon’s GDP by up to 10% by 2050 if no action is taken.  Floods Add to the Misery  While some regions are baking in the heat, others are drowning in floods. In 2024, over 200,000 people in the North region were affected by flooding, and 8,000 homes were destroyed. This wasn’t just an inconvenience; it disrupted children’s education, wiped out livelihoods, and left communities struggling to rebuild.  In the Centre and Littoral regions, heavy rainfall caused similar chaos. Rural schools were damaged, making it harder for kids to get an education. Cameroon loses around $130 million every year due to flooding, according to the UNDRR. And it’s not just the direct damage—blocked roads and disrupted trade add to the economic toll.  More Than an Environmental Problem Climate change isn’t just about extreme weather—it’s driving conflict too. In places like the Extreme North, where water and fertile land are becoming scarcer, tensions are rising between farmers, herders, and fishermen. The Logone Birni commune has already seen violent clashes over resources.  The situation is even worse for people already displaced by conflict. Over one million Cameroonians are internally displaced, and many more have fled across borders. Climate shocks, like floods and droughts, are making a tough situation even harder for these vulnerable communities.  Health Risks on the Rise  Beyond the immediate dangers of heatwaves and floods, there are longer-term health risks to worry about. Farmers are increasingly relying on chemicals like pesticides to make up for poor yields. But these chemicals come with their own problems. Experts warn they’re contributing to antimicrobial resistance and foodborne illnesses, which could have serious consequences for public health.  Why Progress is Slow Cameroon has plans to tackle climate change, from promoting climate-smart agriculture to building stronger infrastructure. But progress has been slow. The country still lacks a strong legal framework for climate action, and limited funding is holding back major projects.  Private sector involvement is also a big challenge. In 2019-20, only 2.6% of total climate financing came from private businesses. Without more investment in sustainable practices and green technologies, it’ll be hard to make real progress.  What Needs to Happen  There’s no quick fix to climate change, but here’s what Cameroon can do to start turning things around:  1. Invest in Resilient Infrastructure: Build roads, schools, and systems that can withstand extreme weather.  2. Support Farmers and Herders: Provide better tools and training to help them adapt to changing conditions.  3. Raise Awareness*: Educate communities about climate risks and how to protect themselves.  4. Encourage Private Investment: Partner with businesses to develop innovative, low-carbon solutions.  Organizations like the Cameroon National Climate Observatory (ONACC) are already providing valuable tools, such as local climate forecasts. But these efforts need more support to make a real difference.  A Fight We Can’t Afford to Lose Climate change is hitting Cameroon hard, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. From struggling farmers to displaced families and overwhelmed hospitals, the impacts are everywhere. But with the right investments, policies, and partnerships, there’s hope for a more resilient future.  Cameroon’s fight against climate change isn’t just about protecting the environment—it’s about safeguarding lives, livelihoods, and the country’s future. Let’s act before it’s too late. 

On Friday, August 30, 2024, Pierre Thierry Noah Foundation had the honor of welcoming the beneficiaries of the pilot phase of the Betta Place project, affectionately nicknamed « The Heroes. » Accompanied by their parents or guardians, as well as representatives from the schools where they will complete their final year of primary education, these young talents participated in a day filled with emotions and sharing. A Rich and Rewarding Program The day began with a detailed reading of the grant agreement, followed by an interactive Q&A session. This crucial step allowed all participants to fully understand the terms and conditions of the program, ensuring complete transparency in our approach. A Concrete Gesture for Academic Success The highlight of this meeting was the pleasure of offering each child a complete package for the new school year. Bags, pens, pencils, notebooks, and many other essential supplies were distributed, thus equipping our Heroes for a successful school year. This moment was particularly touching, tangibly illustrating our commitment to their education. Generosity at the Heart of Our Action This event would not have been possible without the generous support of people deeply concerned about children’s education, true architects of the future of our country and our continent. We express our most sincere gratitude to all those who have contributed to making this project a reality. Join Us in This Adventure! You too can make a difference! If the education of future generations is close to your heart, several options are available to you: – Make a donation to support our actions – Contact us for any form of non-material contribution Stay Connected! To not miss any of our activities and be at the heart of the action, follow us on our various social media platforms. Don’t hesitate to share our message around you – together, we can have a lasting impact on the future of our youth! Thank you all for your continued support. Together, let’s build a better future for our children!

We are thrilled to share an exceptional moment in the history of the Pierre Thierry Noah Foundation. Recently, VoxAfrica produced a report on our sustainable development workshops, marking the initial phase of our ambitious project, Betta Place. A Rewarding Collaboration We extend our deepest gratitude to the VoxAfrica team for their dedication and professionalism. Their report not only highlighted our efforts to promote the education of children in need but also raised awareness of our mission and values to a broader audience. Their support is invaluable to us, and we are honored by this rewarding collaboration. The Sustainable Development Workshops The Pierre Thierry Noah Foundation’s sustainable development workshops aim to educate and raise awareness among young generations about environmental issues and sustainable practices. During these workshops, children have the opportunity to learn interactively and playfully about simple actions to preserve our planet. They discover principles of recycling, water conservation, and other eco-friendly practices. A Call to Action We warmly invite everyone who shares our vision of a better world to get involved. You can contribute in various ways: Make a Donation: Your generosity enables us to continue paying school fees and materials, offering educational workshops and to carry out our projects. Participate in Activities: Join us at our events and workshops to learn about our actions and contribute directly. Become an Ambassador: Help us spread the word about our mission by sharing our work with your networks. For Our Future Heroes Our children, our heroes of tomorrow, deserve to grow up in a healthy and sustainable environment. With your help, we can provide them with the tools and knowledge they need to become positive change-makers. Once again, thank you to VoxAfrica for their support, and thank you, dear friends of the Pierre Thierry Noah Foundation, for your continued commitment. Together, we can make a difference. To stay informed, visit our social media. Together, let’s make every child a hero of sustainable development.

A few days after the prize-giving ceremony for the Hopefuls of the Betta Place project, a crucial stage was about to begin for the young Hopefuls: the final selection to join the project definitively. On Tuesday, June 18, 2024, in a specially reserved room at the Nkoabang Parish, two workshops were held that would determine their future. Introduction to Sustainable Development Workshop The afternoon began with a workshop dedicated to sustainable development, a central theme of the Betta Place project. The aim was clear: to raise awareness and educate participants about environmental issues, while introducing them to agro-ecology through the production of bio-fertilizer from organic waste. The inquisitive and enthusiastic youngsters learn how to transform banana peel into a natural fertilizer, using precise steps and minimal equipment. Under the careful supervision of the instructors, they cut, soak and ferment banana peels in bottles, discovering the process of creating a simple but effective organic fertilizer. By the end of the workshop, the objectives have been achieved: participants have a better understanding of today’s environmental challenges and feel able to actively contribute to preserving their environment, one banana peel at a time. Introduction to Leadership workshop After a short break, it’s time for the leadership workshop. The young laureates come together to learn about each other, take on responsibilities and work together towards a common goal: keeping their daily environment clean. The workshop begins with presentation exercises and discussions about responsibilities at home and at school. Participants share their dreams for the future and discover the passions that drive them every day. Then comes the time for collective action: they organize teams to clean up the classroom, each playing a specific role to achieve a common result. Finally, a simple but meaningful evaluation test closes the workshop, where young people write down their aspirations and what they have learned from this enriching experience. This intense day of workshops enabled participants to demonstrate their commitment and interest in the Betta Place project. They not only developed their practical environmental and leadership skills, but also strengthened their desire to make a positive contribution to their community. Many thanks to YELNET for their invaluable contribution to this event. What’s next? Only ten of the eleven Hopefuls present will have the opportunity to continue the Betta Place adventure and become tomorrow’s ecological leaders, ready to make a difference in their environment and beyond. Are you inspired by the efforts of these budding young leaders and want to contribute to a more sustainable future? Join us on this wonderful adventure! How can you help? Make a donation: Your financial support is crucial to the continuity and success of our workshops. Every contribution, however modest, enables us to provide educational resources, sustainable development materials and opportunities for more young people. Take part in our future workshops: Do you have skills or knowledge to share? We’re always on the lookout for passionate volunteers to run workshops and mentor our young participants. To get involved as a volunteer, contact us through our various networks.

On Saturday June 15, 2024, the party room of the Nkoabang Parish Youth Hostel was the scene of a memorable event: the Hopefuls awards ceremony, organized by the Pierre Thierry Noah Foundation as part of the Betta Place schooling project. Here’s a look back at a day rich in emotion and discovery. In the morning, specially chartered buses picked up the prizewinners, their families and representatives of the various schools selected. This dedicated transport enabled everyone to reach the event with complete peace of mind, and to start this exceptional day under the best possible auspices. On arrival, guests were warmly welcomed and seated in the party room, carefully prepared for the occasion. The atmosphere was both solemn and festive, ready to celebrate the efforts and successes of the young talents. One of the highlights of the day was the video projection of the founder’s welcome address. Thanks to technological advances, guests were able to see and hear the woman behind this wonderful initiative. It was a precious moment, giving a face to the visionary spirit of the foundation and strengthening the bond between all participants. The ceremony continued with an in-depth introduction to the Betta Place project and its components. This ambitious project aims to create an environment conducive to the personal and professional development of young people, and the presentation aroused keen interest among the guests. An interactive question-and-answer session followed, giving participants the opportunity to better understand the objectives and prospects of the Betta Place project. The exchanges were enriching, and lifted the veil on many aspects of the project. The long-awaited moment of the awards ceremony finally arrived. The winners, moved and proud, received their awards to the applause of the audience. Souvenir photos immortalized this moment of joy and recognition. After the awards ceremony, a moment of conviviality allowed guests to relax and share refreshments and miniardises. This break was appreciated by all, offering a great opportunity to network and exchange ideas in a relaxed atmosphere. To round off this exceptional day, closing remarks were made, giving all participants an appointment for the next introductory workshops on sustainable development, scheduled for Tuesday June 18, 2024. Finally, the guests were escorted back to the various pick-up points by the buses provided for this purpose, thus ending the day on a positive and well-organized note. Pierre Thierry Noah Foundation warmly thanks all those who contributed to the success of this event, and invites you to follow the next stages of this groundbreaking project. Together, let’s continue to build a promising future for our young heroes!

We are delighted to announce the results of the call for applications for the Betta Place schooling project, initiated by Pierre Thierry Noah Foundation. During the month of May, we deployed calls in the Mefou-et-Afamba region, reaching the following schools: We received a total of 72 applications, of which just under half were shortlisted as Hopefuls. After contacting parents and guardians, we have drawn up a final list of 15 winners. Congratulations to all! We look forward to seeing them at the awards ceremony. Stay tuned to our networks so you don’t miss any of the next steps and upcoming events. If you’d like to get involved in the Betta Place project, whether by making a donation or assisting us during the workshops, we invite you to get in touch. Your support is essential to help us give these young heroes a better future. Thank you all for your participation and support!

May 10, 2024 marks the close of the call for applications for the pilot phase of the Betta Place project. We received an impressive number of applications, testifying to the enthusiasm and potential of the region’s children. As we review the various submissions, we are amazed by the promising profiles on offer, and the choice looks set to be a difficult one. However, this selection stage is crucial to move our project forward. As a reminder, the call for applications aimed to select 15 beneficiaries, the Hopefuls, to implement the program in the Mefou-et-Afamba department, in the Centre region. Of these, only 10 will be admitted to the pilot phase of the program, thus becoming our Heroes. But what will our selected Hopefuls have the opportunity to receive? The initiation phase is not limited to a simple selection process. Each child selected will benefit from support throughout the 2023-2024 school year, including : These initiatives will offer our young participants a valuable introduction to the tools they need to develop their communities and themselves. As for the Heroes, the 10 selected candidates, they will benefit for the 2024-2025 school year: A great adventure awaits our Hopefuls, and we can’t wait to share it with them. Would you like to take part in this noble cause for education? Don’t hesitate to contact us via our social networks or by email. If you’re an education professional or a service provider working in the field of sustainable development and would like to contribute to our action, your support is most welcome! If you’re inspired by our work and would like to make a financial contribution, don’t hesitate to make a donation. Discover the impact that each of your donations can have in the life of a future hero here!

This week, the last of May 2024, a crucial meeting was held to select the beneficiaries of the Betta Place project, initiated by the Pierre Thierry Noah Foundation. Members of the teaching staff of Complexe Scolaire Saint Cœur de Marie, accompanied by their principal and representatives of the Foundation, gathered to complete this demanding task. The Selection Meeting The previous month, application forms were distributed to ten elementary school in the Mefou-et-Afamba district, including seven private and three public schools. A total of 56 compliant applications were received. Each application was carefully examined to select the 15 most promising children, known as the “Hopefuls”. A rigorous selection process The selection process was rigorous and arduous. The team reviewed each application form, analyzing the academic records, motivations and needs of each applicant. This step is crucial to ensure that the scholarships and resources allocated benefit those who need them most and show exceptional potential. Hopefuls and Heroes The 15 Hopefuls selected will receive scholarships, special prizes and take part in two introductory workshops on sustainable development. These workshops are designed to raise awareness and educate children about the importance of sustainability and environmental protection. But the adventure doesn’t end there. Of these 15 Hopefuls, only 10 will finally be chosen as the “Heroes” of the Betta Place project. These Heroes will receive ongoing support for their schooling, offering them a chance to realize their full academic and social potential. Announcement of results The results of this selection will be announced in a few days’ time. For the children and their families, the wait is both exciting and stressful. They can’t wait to find out who the lucky ones will be. Follow us for more information To find out more about the Betta Place project and its various components, follow this link. Also stay tuned to our social networks for the latest news and upcoming developments. If you would like to contribute to the project, whether through a donation or other means, please contact us directly on our networks for more information. Together, we can make a significant difference to the lives of these promising young talents. Thank you for your support and commitment to education and sustainable development. Let’s continue working together for a better future!

The Betta Place project aims to shape a promising future for our future heroes on several fronts. Our primary ambition is to provide an opportunity for underprivileged children to access quality education at lower cost, by covering virtually all the beneficiaries’ school fees. But that’s not all: we’re also committed to offering them personalized academic and extracurricular support, including an introduction to innovative trades to help them achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These include sustainable agriculture and renewable energies. Our ultimate goal is to empower young people so that they are financially independent after high school. In so doing, we are helping to train a new generation of leaders capable of energizing their home communities and promoting the importance of rural schooling. But we can’t do it alone. That’s why, for this initiation phase, we have established a partnership with the Collège Sacré-Cœur de Marie in Omvan, which will host the various beneficiaries selected for the project. In this way, Betta Place not only remains an ideology, but is taking shape as a physical place, with infrastructures and staff dedicated to the holistic care of beneficiaries. Who are these beneficiaries? Our future heroes… The call for applications for the initiation phase was officially launched on April 8, 2024. The initiative covers all elementary school in the Mefou-et-Afamba department in Cameroon’s Centre region. This choice of location is not accidental: it aims to guarantee continuity and a territorial anchorage for future beneficiaries. Indeed, once selected, they will have the opportunity to either study at Collège d’Omvan, located in the same department or remain in their individual schools. This geographical consistency has been carefully thought out to ensure that the beneficiaries do not feel out of place, thus promoting their integration and development within their new learning environment. (Learn more about Omvan) Candidates are schoolchildren with high academic potential. A total of 15 children will be selected for this introductory phase, the Hopefuls, and only 10 will be admitted to the actual pilot phase of the program, the Heroes. Of these 10, only 5 will benefit from phase 1 of the Betta Place project, to stimulate excellence and ambition. Students eligible for the project must be in Cours Moyen I (CM1) and eligible for promotion to Cours Moyen II (CMII). They must be between 10 and 12 years of age at the start of the 2024-2025 school year, have an excellent academic record and demonstrate creativity. In addition, a parent or guardian must agree to participate in phase 1 of the project. Particular attention will be paid to children from large and/or very low-income families. The call for entries closes on May 10, and the results will be announced to the general public on May 31. Dear reader, do you know one or more children who meet these criteria? Are you interested in the project and would you like to participate in any way? Don’t hesitate to contact us via our various social networks or by e-mail. If you’d like to find out more about the work of Pierre Thierry Noah Foundation, follow this link. Are you as excited as we are to see how this project unfolds? You can already take part by making a donation! Your interest and support are vital to building a bright future for our future heroes and the communities they represent.

Since 2023, Pierre Thierry Noah Foundation has been committed to a project of the utmost importance, devoting all its resources to making it a reality. Today, we are proud to unveil this project that is so close to our hearts: the schooling of underprivileged children in rural areas, in what we affectionately call “Betta Place”. Our mission and vision are clear (see Betta Place), but now we need to make sure the project is feasible and relevant to the targeted children. That’s why we’re launching a pilot phase we call the “initiation phase or phase 0”. But what does this initiation phase actually entail? With the aim of reducing inequalities in access to education, Pierre Thierry Noah Foundation is setting up a special schooling program for rural children with high academic potential. Our aim is to break the vicious cycle – under-schooling, illiteracy, unemployment, precariousness, rural exodus, frustration and the urban scourges that follow – in which many rural communities are plunged. Our focus is on quality education, adapted to local culture and sustainable development objectives. Our aspiration is to create a healthy, serene environment where children can flourish and become the heroes of tomorrow, in what we call Betta Place, a better place to raise future generations. Our objectives are manifold: To provide beneficiaries with a quality education with almost complete financial coverage, introduce them to innovative trades to help achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, and strengthen their empowerment skills to better prepare them for their adult lives. By now, you’re probably wondering: when will the project start? Who will be the beneficiaries? What will be the different components of the project, and what results do we hope to achieve? All these questions will be answered in future articles. In the meantime, you can find out more about what we’re doing by following this link. We’d also be delighted to hear from you on our various social networks. Take part in our action and support our future heroes by making a donation for a better future for all. Together, we’re stronger!