Under a theme defined by the United Nation, “A press for the planet: Journalist in the face of Environmental crisis”, press men and women this 3rd May grouped together under different associations to commemorate the 31st edition of this very important day of their profession. The World Press Freedom day.
On its part, the Cameroon Association of English speaking Journalist Douala chapter in its acronym CAMASEJ-D, under the able guidance of its ever vibrant president Maureen Ndih, though it was important to preach by example as the put the theme of the day in action by carrying out a cleanup campaign in prelude to the World Press Freedom Day at the Sandaga market entrance in Deido, accompanied by the Douala city council officials.
The Douala based English speaking journalist who showed up in their numbers for an enriching seminar organized for that special day at the Littoral Regional Linguistic Center in Bonanjo under the gentle care of Director Mrs Helen Eseme. it is needless to say that the information gurus went back home with a basket full of knowledge as far as environment is concern, considering the quality of expert in the subject that were invited.
Press men and women were so lucky to have lectures from the very person of the country Director for central Africa of WWF (World Wide Fund for nature) Mr Alain Bernard Ononino whose expose was based on how to use their profession to positively impact an environment that is seriously crying for help through the ill activities of humans. The uncontrolled exploitation of raw materials and disrespectful spillage and dumping of waste on mother earth has caused the phenomenon of climate change that is evident by the excessive heat and rain that is experienced today, including other natural catastrophes. Seconded by Mr Pegue Manga Fidelis communication manager for the international NGO, it was about time journalists understood that the World Wide Fund for nature expressed desire to work with serious and ambitious pressmen and women. Eric Ambi Ambo the guest environmentalist from Estonia was live on cable images to teach the public through journalist how important waste plastic materials could be helpful if recycled.
Among the valuable invitees of the day, Barrister Eben Nzo Nguti experienced environmentalist, all under the watchful eye and moral support of Barrister Nico Haley Patron of the Cameroon Association of Journalism, flanked by littoral delegate for communication Mrs Marie Laure Moukoko who will never shy away from CAMASEJ-D’s important events.
However it was not all rosy for all journalists, as the french speaking colleges were stopped by the forces of law and order from taking a protest walk in Bonanjo aimed at chastising the working conditions of press people in the country.