1. EGPAF representative ends her stay with to the CBCHB
2. Chiefs of Centre enjoined to shine in their communities
3. First ever Community Counselling Clinic in Cameroon launched in Bamenda
4. CBM donates two new pick-ups for CBCHB SPD programme
5. CERAC lavishes MBH leprosy patients with gifts on 56th World Leprosy Day
6. DHS pays encouragement visit to leprosy patients at MBH
7. CBC’s DHS promises reinstating free medical care for staff in 2009
8. CBCHB Retires 13 employees
9. PEARL Community Survey final debriefing takes place in Bamenda
10. Bamenda III DO visits Baptist Center Nkwen
11. CBCHB institutions organize aggressive campaigns to commemorate 2008 World AIDS Day
12. List of successful candidates for the recruitment of Nurses/Midwives into the CBC Health Services. Doc
13. Bayangam, West Region now has CBC Health Board Health Center
14. VSO volunteer to CBCHB Palliative Care evaluates her 10-month stay in Cameroon
15. CBC dedicates new helicopter
16. Tiko Divisional Officer visits HSC
17. MBH successfully carries out second head surgery in 2 months
18. Public Health Minister lays foundation stone of new structure for NWSFH erected by CBCHB Technical Services Department
19. Infant feeding and nutrition counsellors receive three day skill upgrading in Bamenda
20. CBCHB Palliative Care Cameroon goes public
21. PTSHP Banso graduates 61 Health workers
22. CBC officially installs new leaders into office
23. Christian Internal Medicine Specialization training now available in Cameroon

The Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation (EGPAF) representative to the Cameroon Baptist Convention Health Board (CBCHB), Catherine (Catie) Harrington, has come to the end of her 13 month stay in Cameroon. In a farewell ceremony organized in her honor, Tuesday April 21, 2009, the CBC Director of Health Services, Prof. Tih Pius Muffih, praised Ms. Harrington’s relentless endeavors in her HIV and AIDS work in the Board. He also thanked God for the visible growth in her spiritual life. In the words of the DHS, “Ms. Harrington is particularly hard working, very proactive, very social, frank, honest and straight forward”. Prof. Tih thanked EGPAF for sending a tireless young person like Ms. Harrington to the CBCHB, and also for replacing her with Bob Lee who will soon be joining the Board in the grant writing department. The CBCHB Assistant Supervisor for the AIDS Care and Prevention Program, Mrs. Asongwe Evelyn takes over from Ms. Harrington as CBCHB PMTCT General Supervisor. Also present at the ceremony was the CBC Field Director, Calvin Hohn, who confessed that he does not regret that he approved Catie’s coming to Cameroon because of her great achievements.

In the last month of her stay in Bamenda, Ms. Harrington was joined by her sister who added joy to her sister’s last moments with her Cameroonian friends. Annie Harrington was equally very useful at the Care and treatment Center in Nkwen, Bamenda. She is in her final year in a nursing school in the USA. Annie thanked the Board for accepting her to come and acquire an African experience. She described her one month stay in Cameroon as the best time in her school life.

The CBCHB acknowledged Catie’s work with a certificate of service and an attestation of service. The staff dressed her and the sister in traditional African regalia and also presented them with gifts.

The CBC Health Board wishes that Catie and her sister should one day be able to come back to serve in Cameroon again as soon as possible.

In a response, Catie read the following speech. Click here to download. Back to top^  

Leprosy patients at Mbingo Baptist Hospital (MBH) were Sunday, January 25, 2009 full of joy and excitement as they received assorted gifts worth millions of CFA francs from Cameroon’s First Lady and founder of the Circle of Friends of Cameroon (CERAC), Mrs Chantal Biya. Celebrated this year under the theme “A Cameroon without leprosy”, the First Lady was represented at the 56th World Leprosy Day at MBH, by CERAC’s Delegate for the North West Region and Cameroon’s Minister of Culture, Ama Tutu Muna. CERAC is a non-governmental humanitarian and charity organization based in Yaounde and founded by its current head, Cameroon’s First Lady, Mrs. Chantal Biya.

Addressing the leprosy patients and other stakeholders in their wellbeing on behalf of Mrs. Biya during the occasion, Ms Tutu Muna said she believes that lepers are ordinary people, who can contribute significantly to the development of our country if we give them the opportunity. She disclosed that even though eradicating leprosy is a difficult task, the government of Cameroon is working hard to see that it achieves it. The representative of the First Lady called on all Cameroonians to unite their efforts and resources to help the government achieve this goal. Ms Tutu Muna equally appealed to members of communities with treated leprosy patients to help them achieve full social reintegration into these communities to help them live normally again.

Responding to the goodwill gesture from the founder of CERAC and First Lady, Mrs. Chantal Biya, the representative of the patients, Mr. Nyah John recalled that this is the 5th time the Mbingo Leprosy Centre is receiving gifts from this humanitarian organization. He lauded the efforts of the First Lady in helping needy people in Cameroon and pointed out that whatever she does for the lepers in Mbingo goes a long way to make them feel human. Mr. Nyah compared Mrs. Biya to a mother who goes to the market and never forgets her children (the disabled and the needy).

Mr. Nyah went on to thank the government for creating Government Secondary School Mbingo where most children of the lepers are now enrolled. He however noted, “Although our children are benefiting from free education, they can only perform well if they have textbooks. We will appreciate it if you consider this need and provide textbooks for leprosy patients’ children”. Commenting on the discontinuation of financial support from the American Leprosy Mission (ALM) since 2004, Mr Nyah pleaded with government to provide subvention to the Mbingo Leprosy Centre “in order to maintain the high standard of care the hospital offers” leprosy patients.

Speaking earlier on, the Lord Mayor of Belo Council in Boyo Division, North West Region commended CERAC and its leader for their tireless humanitarian activities to the nation in general and the Mbingo Leprosy Centre in particular. Mr. Tesam Nenghabi Bernard reminded the august guest that Belo Council has been doing its best to help the patients from its meagre resources, but very often, the council runs into deficit.

The consignment of gifts included gallons of palm oil, bags of rice, bags of cooking salt, dishes, pots, sewing machines, a large TV set, a computer, a live cow and a lot more. A renowned Cameroonian musician, Richard Kings, the MBH Choir, dance groups and others thrilled the mammoth crowd that turned out for the occasion with songs ranging from gospel to legend. Present to live the occasion, besides the personal representative of the First Lady of the Republic and Founder of CERAC were North West Governor, Abakar Amad among other top administrative authorities of the province, traditional authorities, Cameroon Baptist Convention (CBC) officials and thousands of family members and friends of the MBH Leprosy Centre.

It is worth noting that the Mbingo Leprosy Centre has treated 3010 leprosy patients since creation in 1952 and rehabilitated 158. Presently, there are 50 leprosy patients at MBH with 14 of them on active treatment. 7 were discharged during a grand ceremony organised for this purpose by the hospital on January 25, 2009. Back to top^

In prelude to celebrations marking World Leprosy Day come January 25, 2009, residents of New Hope Village, a residential area for leprosy patients under treatment at Mbingo Baptist Hospital (MBH) were on Sunday, January 18, 2008 happy recipients of foodstuffs and other basic necessities from the CBC Director of Health Services (DHS).

Addressing the New Hope villagers, Prof. Tih Pius Muffih told them that he and his entourage had come to commune with them and thank God for another new year. The DHS reminded the leprosy patients that it is good to thank God for being alive and remember to serve Him as their Lord and Saviour in order to have a fulfilling new year 2009. Quoting from Luke 9: 10-17, Prof. Tih told the patients that no matter how small a gift is, God can magnify it to feed as many people with it as He desires. He also gave the patients John 10: 10 as their verse for the year. The DHS also praised the staff serving the patients for sacrificing to make life worth living for the patients.

In response, the New Hope villagers lauded the Director’s gesture and kind-heartedness, describing him as the father of all, especially the disabled. They thanked the DHS for Mr. Sande Abel, CBC Health Board Leprosy Inspector, who has proven himself as a friend and carer to the patients. With songs, claps and joyful noises, the patients thanked God for the Director, praying that God should give him long life to enable him to continue doing good deeds to the needy.

Prior to visiting the New Hope Village, Prof. Tih went round all the wards of MBH give encouragement (“Ashiah”) to all the patients admitted here. Beginning with the Orthopaedic (Accident) Ward, the Director stopped at the bedside of every patient to fine out how they were feeling and shaking hands with them. He urged each of the patients (some through their carers) to trust God to help them regain their health in order to have a successful and fulfilling New Year 2009.

At the Ulcer Ward, two patients –an Air Force Captain from the Ministry of Defence in Yaounde (name withheld), and Henri Tchuidjo, 52, from Douala – highly appreciated the quality of services offered at MBH. Mr. Tchuidjo disclosed that he had been a faithful client of CBC Health Services since 2002, regularly consulting at “Mbingo Annex” (Mboppi Baptist Health Center) in Douala. He noted with satisfaction that, having been referred from Mboppi to MBH where he has been since late December 2008, the quality of care and concern from the staff of MBH have been unparalleled to others seen elsewhere.

The DHS was accompanied in this tour of the hospital by MBH Administrator, Mr. Ful Joseph Ngam, Health Services Complex Administrator, Mr. Nkfusai Joseph, MBH Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Tambe Emmanuel, CBCHB Data Manager, Mr Nshom Emmanuel and a team of reporters from the CBC Radio and HB Press Division. Back to top^

The Director of Health Services (DHS) for the Cameroon Baptist Convention (CBC) has told staff that they will again have free medical care as from 2009. Prof. Tih Pius Muffih made this pledge in his end of year address to the staff of the entire CBC Health Board read at all stations on Wednesday, December 24, 2008. In the address, the Director said, “The overall financial position of the Board remained stable throughout 2008. Thank you for the contribution you made in 2006. The various ways you have supported our services have contributed to keep us above water. We feel that you deserve your full medical care again in 2009. I say this with a lot of caution. You must promise to continue to be very careful not to abuse this privilege. If it is abused it will be withdrawn. I know that you are careful and honest.”

It is worth noting that for the past two years staff of the Board paid 50% of their medical bills within their own institution when not admitted, and treated free of charge when admitted. This decision was arrived at due to some financial constraints the Board was facing at the time.

 Among other things, the DHS appreciated all his staff from top to bottom for putting in their utmost best for the Board to score the successes it did in 2008 and laid down action plans for 2009. For other details, download full address here. Back to top^

The Cameroon Baptist Convention Health Board (CBCHB) December 13 and 20, 2008, organized two ceremonies to send forth 13 of its workers to retirement. The two ceremonies, which took place at Banso and Mbingo Baptist Hospitals on the above dates respectively, brought together CBC officials, administrative, religious and traditional authorities, family members and friends of the retirees, and well wishers. These ceremonies were also intended by authorities of the two hospitals to have their workers fellowship together as a family in the end of year festivities.

At Banso Baptist Hospital (BBH) Saturday, December 13, 2008, all 4 workers honoured were female nurses of various categories whose years of service with the CBCHB range from 30 to 44. In his sermon on the occasion, Nso Field Pastor, Rev. Bah Emmanuel dwelled on the character traits of Joseph and Mary through whom God chose to send our Saviour Jesus Christ into the world. Drawing inspiration from Luke 1: 31-38 and Matthew 1:18-26, Rev. Bah pointed out that virtues like faithfulness, humility of heart and submission to God’s will incarnated in the lives of Jesus’ earthly parents are the same qualities the four female retirees exhibited to enable them work successfully for all these years. He then charged them to continue demonstrating these virtues even during this period of rest.

Congratulating the four ladies for accomplishing such a successful brilliant career, the Delegate of Labour and Social Security for Bui Division implored them to be ambassadors of BBH in particular and the CBCHB in general wherever they go. He also urged them keep the professional secrets of the hospital and maintain a good relationship with the institution. The delegate further reminded them to stay busy and check their health regularly.

In the next ceremony at Mbingo Baptist Hospital (MBH) Saturday, December 20, 2008, 9 people (4 women and 5 men) received the honour of retiring from active service with the CBCHB after putting in from 24 to 43 years of service to mankind. Among the 9 were the MBH Administrator, Mr Ful Joseph Ngam who had served the CBCHB for 43 years, a US Missionary, Patricia Lenz, and Mr Wirngo Joseph who came to MBH in 1986 to be treated for leprosy (Hanson’s Disease) and was employed after the treatment as a cleaner with the hospital; and Mr and Mrs Lontum of Nkwen Baptist Health Centre among others.

Drawing from 2 Timothy 4: 6-8 and basing on the theme “Sharing your life’s message”, MBH Head Chaplain, Rev Nfor Ephesians cited the Apostle Paul as an example of one who passed on knowledge, skill and experience to the younger generation. He said older people constitute a fountain of experiences and wisdom, which if not passed on to young people, will leave a generation gap that, will be difficult to bridge. Rev Nfor added that this will be considered greed because the medical field offers such challenging experiences that absolutely need to be shared to help novices in the profession to grow.

On the occasion, various speakers congratulated the retirees for making it to the end in spite of all odds and encouraged them to remain part of the CBCHB family since they (the retirees) will remain as a source of inspiration and advice to the ones still serving. The Divisional Delegate of Labour and Social Security for Boyo reminded the retirees that retirement is a period of change of activity and not inactivity. On his part, the Divisional Officer (D.O.) for Belo doubling as the representative of the Senior Divisional Officer for Boyo called on people not to hide their ages when they are due retirement. The D.O. remarked that barely a few months after taking up office, this is the most thrilling occasion he has seen in his life – where people are being honoured with such a wonderful ceremony because they are retiring from active service.
Three people were particularly singled out and honoured for excellence: the US Missionary, Patricia Lenz decorated with a North West traditional regalia by the CBC Belo Field Pastor for relentlessly working with the CBCHB and the women of Belo Field even though a grandiose ceremony is earmarked for 2010 in her honour; MBH Administrator, Mr Ngam lifted to the rank of traditional prince of the Kom palace by Fon Vincent Yuh of Kom and decorated with the corresponding traditional regalia for services rendered the Kom people and Cameroonians in general for all these years; and CBC’s Director of Health Services (DHS), Prof. Tih Pius Muffih lifted by the same Fon to the rank of Ntumfoin (messenger to the Kom palace) and decorated with the corresponding traditional regalia, for meritorious services as head of the CBCHB.

At Mbingo like at Banso, the DHS thanked the retirees for sacrificing and persevering for all these years to work with the CBCHB despite the odds they all went through. He lauded them for not giving up even when the tides were high and the winds contrary. Prof. Tih reminded them that they remain part of the CBCHB because without their contributions, his present achievements would certainly have been limited. He then called on them not to forget joining previous retirees in coming for a free annual check-up and treatment every February at any CBCHB hospital.

Debriefing on Cameroon’s phase of the House Hold Survey on the Prevention of Mother To Child Transmission of HIV (PMTCT) Effectiveness in Africa, Research and Linkages to care and treatment (PEARL), which has been running in the country since May 2008 took place at the Baptist Centre Nkwen in Bamenda Monday, December 22, 2008. The debriefing marks the end of the field session of the survey. The study was carried out in four countries (Zambia, South Africa, Ivory Coast and Cameroon) to assess the effectiveness of PMTCT programmes in these countries and find out how many living children of HIV positive mothers are negative, called “HIV Free Survival”.

According to CBC’s Director of Health Services and Principal Investigator for Cameroon, Prof. Tih Pius Muffih, “Our assumption was that since Antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) are an effective prophylaxis to prevent Mother To Child Transmission (MTCT), HIV positive women who ingest the ARV medication will benefit from it. Under this assumption, we set out to survey the number of women in the population who deliver and the number who ingest an ARV intervention. This method is known as drug coverage, which only represents one surrogate for monitoring PMTCT Programme effectiveness in settings.”

The survey had three components, one of which comprised of investigating 400 households each in six communities (2,400 households) to measure the prevalence of HIV among mothers with less than 2 year old children, the use of PMTCT services and HIV-free survival infants. Another component of the study constituted a survey of PMTCT services available in health facilities that provide antenatal care to persons residing in these six communities. The last component consisted of testing 6,000 cord blood samples for HIV antibodies to determine HIV prevalence, and testing cord blood samples that are HIV positive for nevirapine to determine what proportion of HIV positive mothers actually took nevirapine.

Speaking on the occasion, the South West Regional field supervisor of the project, Paul Agho noted that the survey went on successfully with lots of collaboration from the local populations. He added that despite the rugged nature of the roads they had to use, most people they met came to know about HIV for the first time. Re-echoing Mr Agho, the 6 field research assistants recounted that most of them had to provide wholistic care to some families who badly needed it.

On her part, the EGPAF representative in Cameroon for the project, Ms Catie Harrington, thanked all who took part in the survey and promised each of them a copy of the final report as soon as it is ready. She expressed hopes that the results of the survey will be useful to the CBCHB in particular and the world at large.

To demonstrate the Board's appreciation and that of the funders (EGPAF and CDC) for a job well done, the 6 field research assistants and field supervisor each received an attestation co-signed by the CBCHB and EGPAF, a congratulation letter from the Board and a USB Flash Drive.

Present at the debriefing ceremony were the 4 German volunteers from Bread for the World on internship in Cameroon with the CBCHB, the AIDS Care and Prevention (ACP) Programme Supervisor, Mr Nkfusai Joseph and a host of other key CBCHB staff involved in the study. 

It should be noted that the PEARL study s funded by the Elizabeth Glaser Paediatric AIDS Foundation (EGPAF) and technically supported by the USA-based Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
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Less than three months after being installed as the first ever Divisional Officer (DO) for the newly created Bamenda III Sub Division, the head of this administrative unit, Mr. Balungeli Confiance Ebune visited the headquarters of the Cameroon Baptist Convention (CBC) Monday, December 15, 2008.

The DO, accompanied by one of the deputy mayors of the Bamenda III council, the Gendarmerie Company Commander and the Senior Police Superintendent for the sub division, visited every service within the center. The DO and his convoy were guided by CBC’s Education Secretary, Mr. Tetevi Bodylawson in the company of all CBC top officials: the General Secretary (GS), Rev. Donald Ndichafah, the president, Mr. Chebongkeng Joseph Kalabubse, the Vice President, Justice Mrs. Betty Luma, the Director of Evangelism and Missions, Rev. Fimba Felix among others.

At the office of the General Secretary where the DO and his convoy were received, CBC’s President, Mr. Chebongkeng Joseph informed the DO that CBC’s activities are actively planted in at least seven of Cameroon’s ten regions. These include 12 secondary and high schools, over 100 primary schools, a host of medical institutions, churches and other services.

For his part, the Director of Evangelism and Missions, Rev. Fimba Felix, who also doubles as the Station Manager for the center complained to the DO about insecurity in the primary school compound. He pleaded with the DO to do something to help stop boys who play football on the school’s pitch because this exposes the compound to outsiders, some of whose intentions may be doubtful.

In response, the Divisional Officer, Mr. Balungeli Confiance Ebune lauded the CBC for being at the forefront in nation building. Having worked in Mutengene, South West Region before, where he visited other facilities of the CBC, Mr. Ebune said he was pleased that he has at last had the opportunity to visit the headquarters of the CBC. He said the CBC is doing a commendable job in the country given that it has a wholistic approach in its activities. Mr. Ebune rejoiced that the CBC’s approach to nation building, which is both physical (in healthcare provision among others) and spiritual through churches, is yielding more fruit than can be measured. He then promised ensuring the security of the compound by concerting with his security officials to draw up a plan of action to keep outsiders away from the CBC primary school football pitch.

The new Divisional Officer (D.O.) for Tiko Sub Division in the South West Province, Mr Fonka Augustine Awa paid an acquaintance visit to the Health Services Complex in Mutengene October 31, 2008. Reports from HSC say the DO wanted to know what goes on behind the walls of the lofty fence that hems in the institution, and which is an object of curiosity to most passers-by.

To help the DO better understand the activities of the Complex, heads of various departments in the institution led by HSC’s Assistant Administrator of Finance, Mr Karawa Emmanuel guided him round, showing him various services and on-going activities. Others in the team included the General Supervisor of the Central Pharmacy (CP), Mr Wanyu Nathan and CP’s Operation Manager, Mr Ngang Paul.

Upon presentation of a brief background of the Health Board by Mr Karawa, the DO said he was very pleased with what is done in HSC. He then encouraged the staff, who had turned out massively to welcome him, to continue with the good work, especially the water bottling with which he was quite impressed.

To spice the DO’s visit, the HSC choir thrilled the occasion with melodious songs. The visit ended with a communion between the DO and his entourage, and staff of HSC through light refreshment.

The Director of the Pan African Academy of Christian Surgeons (PAACS) Residency in Mbingo Baptist Hospital (MBH), Dr. Sparks Steven has revealed that he successfully carried out a second head surgery at MBH on Friday October 24, 2008. Dr. Sparks pointed out that both the former and present patients were suffering from Epidural Bleeds (bleeding that occurs between the skull and the brain after an accident in which the victim badly hit the head).

The first case of head surgery at MBH took place on August 7, 2008. The patient in question, Mr Asah Charles, Public Relations Officer for the Cameroon Baptist Convention (CBC) Health Services, developed Epidural Bleed after a ghastly car crash on his way from Mbingo on April 12, 2008 with his family. Even though the car was completely damaged, the children had minor injuries while Mr Asah, who was driving the car, had a head injury, which caused an “internal bleeding” in the head. He continued developing various complications emanating from the impact of the shock, although his physical condition was seemingly improving. After a head scan at the Yaounde Gynaeco-Obstetric Hospital, he was told by the hospital’s officials that his condition was beyond handling in Cameroon and so he should be evacuated to Europe. However, upon contacting the PAACS program at MBH, Dr. Sparks and his team fell on Mr. Asah and within four days, he was discharged from the hospital. Today, Mr. Asah is fine and going about his life and daily activities as normally as before the accident.

In the recent case, the U.S. Missionary to the CBC, Dr. Sparks narrated that 53 year old Susan Shiri (a widow) developed Epidural Bleed after falling and hitting her head on a stone. Susan Shiri on her part recounted that she had the accident in Limbe where she lives. The external wound, she said, was treated but she continued finding herself losing memory and sometimes consciousness time and again until she went to Lacquintini Hospital in Douala where the head was operated upon about a month ago. However, after about two weeks, she lost consciousness and was taken to Yaounde for a head scan. Though the results revealed the problem, medics here seemed at a loss as they knew the problem but did not know where to get a solution since they lacked the equipment and expertise to handle the situation. When Susan Shiri’s sister inquired at Etoug-Ebe Baptist Health Center in Yaounde, she was advised to go to MBH. On arrival at MBH, she was put on close observation for one week before the head surgery, which took place on Friday October 24, 2008. At press time Dr. Sparks was hopeful that the lady was to be discharged just four days after the surgery (Wednesday October 29, 2008). When the Web Services team visited her at MBH on Monday October 27, 2008 (three days after the surgery), Susan Shiri was fine and visibly impressed with the level of growth in medical sciences in this CBC hospital. She thanked God for the MBH and its team of dedicated doctors and prayed that her life should return to normal once again and for good

According to Dr. Sparks, head surgery is minor to him compared to brain surgery (which is not handled at MBH for now). Other head related surgeries Dr. Sparks has handled at MBH over the last few months include 10 cases of Hydrocephalis in 10 children. This, according to Dr. Sparks, is a surgical condition in which a tube is placed in the person’s head to run down into his/her belly to drain water from the brain.

It is worth noting that MBH has handled and continues to handle many cases of varied degrees and complications. Back to top^

Cameroon’s Minister of Public Health, André Mama Fouda stopped over at the North West Special Fund for Health (NWSFH) on Friday October 17, 2008 to lay the foundation stone of a new structure being raised by this organisation. Though the Minister came to inspect construction work going on at the Dialysis Centre of the Bamenda Provincial Hospital, he made stops at various departments of the hospital and projects going on here. He was received at the project site by the Director of the NWSFH, the Director of Health Services for the Cameroon Baptist Convention (CBC) and Board member of the NWSFH, Prof. Tih Pius Muffih, among others.

It should be noted that the conception, architectural work and erection to completion of this one floor multi-hundreds edifice is the handiwork of the Technical Services Department of the CBC Health Board. The ultra-modern structure replaces a small old fashioned building standing nearby, which will be demolished upon completion. It is expected to house all the services of the NWSFH including a large and airy drug store, a conference room, etc.

The North West Special Fund for Health (NWSFH) is a community initiative to provide drugs to local communities of the province at affordable prices. Located within the premises of the North West Provincial Hospital in Bamenda, the Fund has as leading partner, the German Technical Cooperation (GTZ). Back to top^

Some 29 health workers (nurses, midwives and counsellors) from 22 health institutions in the country gathered in Bamenda from October 13 to 15, 2008 to upgrade their skills in infant nutrition and counselling. Participants were drawn from infant welfare clinics in Government, Catholic, Presbyterian, private and Cameroon Baptist Convention Health Board (CBCHB) institutions. The training workshop, which took place at the Baptist Centre hall in Nkwen, was organised by the CBCHB AIDS Care and Prevention Program (ACP) and sponsored by the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation (EGPAF).

According to the Nutrition Supervisor of the CBCHB, Mr Nkuoh Godlove, the training seminar intended to improve the quality of nutrition activities in the Prevention of Mother To Child Transmission of HIV (PMTCT) program. Though funding for the training had been made available, Mr Nkuoh pointed out that the increasing need for health workers to be able to determine how well fed babies are when they leave the maternity from birth, caused the training seminar to hold at this time. He remarked that from every indication, only workers in infant clinics and maternities can be able to effectively transmit this knowledge to mothers.

Topics treated included lessons on breast feeding, World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines for infant feeding, infant feeding and HIV infection, foods to fill the energy gaps, relationships between nutrition and infection, etc. Practical sessions included demonstrations on breast milk reconstitution, presentations and cooking demonstrations on highly nutritive foods.

The training was facilitated by Mr Nkuoh Godlove (CBCHB Nutrition Supervisor), John Ngum, (CBCHB ACP Regional Coordinator for Bamenda), Mrs Bumuh Mary (CBCHB Nutritionist and Adherence Counsellor) and Mary Yengong (PMTCT Coordinator, Kouhouat Health Centre).

It should be noted that this training is the first of its kind in the CBCHB. A similar training session is scheduled to hold in Mutengene from October 20 to 23, 2008. Back to top^

The Cameroon Baptist Convention (CBC) Health Services on Saturday September 27, 2008 launched another latest program in health care provision, this time targeting people living with terminal health conditions generally considered as hopeless. The ceremony which took place at the CBC Health Services Life Abundant Primary Health Care Education and Resource Centre (LAP), Bamkikai (Kumbo) brought together renowned personalities like the Director of the Bamenda Provincial Hospital and Board Chair of the CBC Health Board, Dr. Wefuan N. Jonah and Dr. Anne Meriman, Founder and Director of Policy and International Programs, Hospice Africa, Uganda. Also present were the International Clinical Trainer from Uganda, Madam Catherine Nawangi, delegations of Palliative Care providers from the Bamenda Provincial Hospital and Mbingo Baptist Hospital, a representative of the Senior Divisional Officer for Bui, CBCHB officials from all over the country, and observers.

Presenting a devotion on the occasion on the topic “Impossibilities: God’s specialties”, drawn from John 6:5-18, one of the Chaplains of Banso Baptist Hospital, Pastor Shey Felix said, someone with a terminal disease condition is humanly considered an impossible case. However, such cases, the Pastor noted, are opportunities for God to demonstrate His miraculous power in handling impossible situations. The launching of the Palliative Care program by the CBCHB, according to Pastor Shey, is therefore an acknowledgement that only faith in God can make man see God’s infinite powers in any circumstance.

According to the pioneer CBCHB Palliative Care Cameroon Program Manager, Mr. Ndikintum George, the program officially went into existence since 2006; but the launching on September 27, 2008 was simply intended to create and raise public awareness on the existence of such a hope-building program in the CBCHB for people in hopeless health conditions. Mr Ndikintum revealed that since its inception, Palliative Care Cameroon has trained 246 health personnel in palliative care related activities. He also noted that the program has three functional units based at Banso Baptist Hospital (BBH), Mbingo Baptist Hospital (MBH) and the Bamenda Provincial Hospital. A fourth center in the country, the manager announced, will soon go operational at the Yaounde Gynaeco-obstetric Hospital.

On her part, Dr. Anne Meriman, Founder and Director of Policy and International Programs, Hospice Africa, Uganda disclosed that no government-run hospital in Africa has a palliative care program that equals that of the Bamenda Provincial Hospital. She announced that Cameroon is the leading country in Palliative Care provision in Central-West Africa and all of Francophone Africa. Dr Meriman however regretted that Cameroon still has only three functional Palliative Care units (compared to South Africa with 120 and Zimbabwe with 13), which are all concentrated in the North West province alone. She nevertheless explained that this concentration could have been conditioned by the high number of HIV cases in the province which demands much more of the services of the program. She deplored the acute shortage of physicians in Cameroon (one doctor to 3,610 patients), which according to her is responsible for the high rate of suffering among people in the country.

According to Dr Meriman, Palliative Care is the most Christ like service in medicine. For this reason, she explained, Palliative Care is non-profit because it collects no money for its services and will never do, except in a situation where a client voluntarily decides to will his/her wealth to the program or the care provider before dying.

To ensure continues availability of funds to help people in such conditions, Dr Meriman launched a Palliative Care fund wherein about 106,000 FCFA was raised. This fund remains open for anyone willing to contribute to help these people. More fund raising for the program is expected to be held on October 11, 2008 during the celebration of World Palliative Care Day.

Speaking as board member of the African Palliative Care Association (APCA), the Director of the Bamenda Provincial Hospital, Dr Wefuan Jonah announced that an advocacy team is due to meet Cameroon’s Minister of Public Health in the days ahead to ensure that Palliative Care is introduced in the curricular of all nursing training programs in the country.

It is worth noting that Palliative Care Cameroon has its headquarters at Banso Baptist Hospital, Kumbo. Currently, the program has a volunteer from one of its partners – Voluntary Service Overseas (VSO).Back to top^

PTSHP Banso graduates 61 health workers

The Cameroon Baptist Convention Health Board (CBCHB) Private Training School for Health Personnel (PTSHP) in Banso has graduated sixty-one medical personnel. The ‘Recognition Service’ for the outgoing students took place August 30, 2008 at the CBC Church Kumbo. Present at the occasion were government and CBC officials, the Health Board family, friends and well wishers of the graduands.

The 61 students graduated from six different programs repartitioned as follows: 23 CBC Breveté Nurses, 4 Assistant Physiotherapists, 10 Laboratory Assistants, 5 Ophthalmic Medical Assistants, 10 Assistant Ophthalmic Medical Assistants and 9 Ultrasound Technicians.

Speaking on behalf of the CBC General Secretary (G.S), the Deputy Director of Evangelism and Missions, Rev. Fanfon Christopher rejoiced that CBC’s workforce is growing with improved quality of service being offered. He lauded the CBC Health Board for teaching its workers to be effective ministers of Jesus Christ adding that the GS’ prayer and concern for the graduates is that they should be decent and orderly in their work. Alluding to the challenges awaiting them in the field from patients with various situations, the G.S’ representative informed the graduating students that Rev. Donald Ndichafah (the GS) has called on them to be brave and responsible.

On his part, the representative of the Divisional Delegate for Labour and Social Security, Mr. Shey Samson urged the CBCHB to scrupulously respect the decree fixing the minimum guaranteed inter-professional wage in Cameroon. He thanked the CBC Health Board for training and offering employment to Cameroonians and implored the Board’s administration to use dialogue as a tool to achieve its aims. The Delegate further reminded the graduands to be good ambassadors of the CBC Private Training School for Health Personnel wherever to go.

Preaching on the theme ‘Do your work for the glory of God?’ drawn from Ephesians 6:5-10, Pastor Ebjaff Martin of Trinity Baptist Church Kumbo called on the graduates to be responsible. He reminded them of the need for them to maintain their integrity for three reasons: first, because God has called them into the healing ministry to serve him and not man; because God is the owner of all souls; and because God is a rewarder of all His faithful servants.

On behalf of the graduating students, the head prefect, James Tushie praised their lecturers for the quality of training the students have received, saying that this will enable them to function better in their different areas of specialization. He however regretted that their study period suffered some lapses due to limited space, financial constraints, limited number of staff in some programs, and lack of material for some programs in the library. The students also called on CBCHB authorities to set up a computer service, student residential area, and complete the new site to ease work for both students and teachers.

The Cameroon Baptist Convention (CBC) on Saturday August 23, 2008 conducted a joint ceremony at Nkwen Baptist Church in Bamenda for the induction of her new General Secretary, Rev. Donald Ndichafah and dedication of President, Mr Chebongkeng Joseph Kalabubse and Vice, Justice Mrs Betty Luma.  Present at the occasion were the Vice Secretary General of the presidency of the Republic, Philemon Yang, top government officials of the North West Province, the President of the Nigerian Baptist Convention, Rev. Dr. Reuben Chuga, traditional rulers, representatives of other denominations and organisations, media people, missionaries, CBC Christians, friends and well wishers from all over the world.

In a sermon captioned “Leaders worth celebrating”, the President of the Nigerian Baptist Convention highlighted two types of leadership. He said one type of leadership is God-called and worth celebrating while another is that which simply satisfies the basic instincts of leadership. Drawing inspiration from Exodus 32: 1-14, Rev. Dr. Chuga, urged CBC Christians to respect their new leaders because electing them meant that the people simply recognised God’s call on these leaders.

Rejoicing that his municipality was honoured to host this historic ceremony in the life of the CBC, and that he was blessed to speak on the occasion, the Government Delegate to the Bamenda Urban Council, Mr. Tazong Abel Ndeh praised God for CBC. He called on the old leadership of the CBC to groom their successors and help them lead the Convention in the right direction. Mr Tazong thanked God for the work of the CBC in promoting peace and social justice in the country besides healthcare provision and other activities. He pleaded with CBC Health Board authorities to raise Nkwen Baptist Health Centre to a full fledged hospital and create a Baptist University in the North West Province.

On behalf of all the traditional authorities in the province, the President of the North West Fons’ Union, Fon Chafah III of Bangolan praised the previous leaders of the CBC for partnering with traditional authorities in matters of peace, education and healthcare. He noted that his Fondom is particularly blessed because the first ever primary school (from which he himself graduated) and health facility in Bangolan were set up by the CBC. According to the Fon, where God’s word is lacking or inadequate, there is no peace, and consequently it becomes impossible for traditional authority to exist. Fon Chafah III however regretted the geometric growth in number of churches in many Fondoms, some of which discredit traditional authorities by preaching unconventional doctrines and encouraging unorthodox practices. He nevertheless called on the CBC to remain faithful to its traditional Christian practices and not be derailed by what is happening today.

Challenging himself and the whole CBC to task, the new General Secretary, Rev. Donald Ndichafah noted that he will focus his four year term of office on transforming lives by taking the people back to the Bible. He called on CBC Christians not to allow themselves to be controlled by the crisis that has rocked the Convention for some years now. Click here to download the GS’ full speech.

On his part and making allusion to the election that brought them to office, the CBC President, Mr Chebongkeng Joseph said, “Indeed, that first ever Extra Ordinary General Session of the Convention produced extra-ordinary people at the helm of the CBC: a journalist as President, a woman and Justice as Vice President, and an assertive Pastor as General Secretary. This, I believe did not happen by chance. God purposed it”. He added that “When God wanted to send the Apostle Paul, he was not the best disciple at the time but a persecutor of God’s people. He was on his way to one of such acts when God arrested him”. Click here to download the President’s full speech.
 
Defying the heavy downpour Baptist faithfuls, relatives and friends of the guests of honour – the GS, the President and the Vice President– turned up in their numbers with assorted gifts with which to encourage them. The dominant message echoed by every speaker called on the new leaders to be exemplary by setting new standards for the CBC.

It should be recalled that these new leaders were elected during the first Extra Ordinary General Session of the Cameroon Baptist Convention in April 2008 at Njinikejem – Belo in Boyo Division, North West Province. The handing over by the old leadership took place in June 2008. Back to top^

In keeping with its goals to introduce innovative changes in the Cameroon health system, the Cameroon Baptist Convention Health Board (CBCHB) has begun a residency program in Christian Internal Medicine Specialization (CIMS) at the Mbingo Baptist Hospital (MBH). The program was launched at MBH on Friday August 8, 2008 in the presence of administrative and other government officials, traditional authorities, CBC officials, representatives of other denominations and NGOs, and other well wishers.

Introducing the CIMS program during the occasion, CBC’s Director of Health Services (DHS), Prof Tih Pius Muffih said, “The CIMS program is an Internal Medicine residency organized under the auspices of the CBCHB to provide quality post-graduate medical education in a Christian setting”. To the Director, “CIMS in conjunction with the CBCHB, seeks to train committed Christian physicians who shall assist in the provision of quality, specialized care with  genuine compassion to all who need it as an expression of Christian love, and as a means of witness, in order that they might be brought to God through Jesus Christ”.

The DHS then charged CIMS pioneer director and architect of the program, American born Dr. Dennis Palmer, to design a curriculum for the program, select professors according to their specific areas of specialization and recruit them to teach in the program. The Director announced that many specialists in America are already signing up their support to the new program, and so there will be enough experts to offer lectures. On the training center, Prof Tih disclosed that as the program grows, it will be extended from Mbingo to two other centers: Baptist Hospital Mutengene and Banso Baptist Hospital.

Painting a portrait of the profile of candidates to be recruited into the program, Prof Tih made it clear that CIMS will maintain a high level of academic and professional excellence. He said, “All residents must be graduates of WHO recognized medical schools and committed Christians who have completed at least one houseman year. They must be selected by a special CIMS committee and approved by the CBC Health Board. The program is equally open to candidates from sister mission hospitals who meet the basic resident qualifications”.

In various allocutions, speakers at the ceremony praised the CBCHB for this ground-breaking program, which they said is quite timely for Cameroon. The lone Internist in the North West Province, Dr. Jonah Wefuan, Director of the Bamenda Provincial Hospital, said he envied prospective graduates of the CBCHB CIMS program. He explained that from the content of the training manuals, CIMS is unique because it will not follow the traditional standards of training in Internal Medicine. Rather, it will touch many other specialties including minor surgeries, pediatrics, spirituality, etc.

The Director of the CBCHB Center for Clinical Pastoral Education and Social Services (CECPES), Rev Ndongnde Godlove Nkwain in a devotion on the topic “Qualities of an ideal Christian Doctors”, listed four C’s worth of a Christian medical doctor: Consistent spiritual discipline since medical technology today challenges theology; have Compassionate eyes; have Comforting hands; and have Consecrated lips.  

The four year specialization program is beginning with two students (Drs. Jam Divine and Kouya Francine) and two lecturers (Kara Beth Thompson and Rodney Zimmermann) with Dr. Mrs. Nancy Palmer as Program Administrator. According to the program Director, Dr Dennis Palmer, only three candidates will be recruited into the program each year to ensure close follow-up for effective results. Back to top^

1. BHM prepares to set up library for staff
2. CBC upgrades finance management skills of Bursars, Finance Clerks
3. Bread for the World visits CBCHB
4. CBCHB Apprenticeship training program graduates first batch of trainees
5. CECPES divulges marriage-sucess techniques to singles, couples of HBCN
6. Chosen Children Program raises 351,250 FCFA on 2008 World AIDS Orphans' Day
7. CBCHB appoints malaria coordinator
8. DHS lauds Support for Africa Foundation for fruitful partnership with CBCHB
9. PAFAC offers capacity building on HIV & AIDS in Bamenda
10. Etoug-Ebe Baptist Health Center acquires more land
11. Additional CBCHB 2008 Postings and Transfers Released (PDF)
12. Ward Auxiliary Final Examination Results Out (PDF)
13. PAACS Residency graduates second batch in five year
14. Newly elected CBC leaders take up office
15. CBCHB Leaders Share Indian Experience on Quality Healthcare Provision
16. CBCHB ID Cards Production Takes Full Gear
17. CBCHB 2008 Postings and Transfers Released
18. US Ambassador visits CBC, explains her government’s mission to Cameroon
19. Director Launches New CBCHB Employee ID Cards
20. Director of Health Services Visits Bafoussam Baptist Health Center
21. PEARL Study; Community Survey Begins in Cameroon
22. World AIDS Orphans' Day: CBCHB raises voice for the voiceless
23. Labour Day 2008: Health Board Workers Highlight Importance of Sand-bay
24. 'The Mitchells' Retire After 17 years of Service in Cameroon
25. HMIS Seminar strengthens data collection/management skill in medical record staff
26. Chiefs of Center urged to be effective Administrators
27. Kumbo Mayor donates school materials to visually impaired pupils 
28. CBCHB Launches Mobile Cervical Cancer/Women's Health Clinic
29. CBC Health Board Acquires New Toyota Hilux 2.7 for Mbingo Baptist Hospital
30. Director of Health Services visits Ashong Baptist Health Center
31. Cameroon Baptist Concention Health Board Embarks on Community Oral Health Screening
    -Hundreds of Dentaal Cases Find Relief-
32. Baptist Hospital Mutengene Rescues Mother and Triplets

The administration of Baptist Hospital Mutengene (BHM) has decided to set up a library for staff of the hospital. The purpose of the library, the administration says, is to develop a reading culture in the hospital’s staff for self-improvement.

But the administration regrets that this project is tarrying due to the limited number of books already available at the hospital. To realize the project, the hospital’s administration thus appeals to all peoples of goodwill to donate books of their choice to add to what is already available.

Should you have any support, send it through any of the following contacts:

Mr Wirba Samuel or Dr Fokum Gad
Baptist Hospital Mutengene
PO Box 152 Tiko
South West Province
Cameroon
Tel: +237 77 60 54 30
Email: bhm@cbchealthservices.org

OR

Director of Health Services
PO Box 01 Bamenda
North West Province
Cameroon
Tel: +237 77 76 47 81
Email: bamendadhs@cbchealthservices.org  Back to top^

A four day seminar for Bursars and Finance Clerks of the Cameroon Baptist Convention (CBC) ended in Bamenda on July 25, 2008. The seminar which ran from July 22-25 held at the main hall of the Baptist Center in Nkwen.

Organized and sponsored by the Convention, the purpose of the seminar was to review the revised edition of the CBC Financial Regulations with all Bursars and Finance Clerks of the Convention to boost efficiency in the system as well as array the Convention’s financial management system along time. The new edition of this financial handbook published in July 2008 comes on the heels of the fourth edition published in March 2003.

According to one of the resource persons, Mr Warri Denis, Finance Manager for the CBC Health Board, the revised text of the finance regulations was necessitated by the too many changes the financial structure of the Convention had undergone since publication of the last edition. Most of these changes, according to Mr Warri were being applied through memos and service notes, which needed to be compiled into a new document.

Three representatives of Bread for the World based in Germany have rounded off a 9 day visit to some institutions of the Cameroon Baptist Convention Health Board (CBCHB). The group of Germans made up of Rev. Eckhard Rohm (leader), Rev. Hartmut Dietrich and Mr. Wolfgang Soppa came to acquaint themselves with the various activities and departments of the Board to enable them evaluate the possibility of establishing a long term Youth Volunteer program between their organization and the Board. This program is expected to begin in August 2008.

In a brief farewell ceremony on July 28, 2008 at the Director of Health Services’ office hall during morning devotion, the team leader, Rev Eckhard Rohm said they were elated at the existing prospects in Cameroon hardly known to people in his country. He said what they have seen on the ground in Cameroon shows that his compatriots are often provided with a distorted picture of Africa’s potentials. Rev Eckhard added that from their observation, the first group of young German volunteers to arrive Cameroon next August to work with the CBCHB for a year will have no problem. To Rev Eckhard and his team, anyone called to do anything for the benefit of humanity is light in a dark world and so must shine to light up the path for the lost. To demonstrate this, the team handed a candle on a candlestick to the Board and lit it. 

Talking to the team, CBC’s Director of Health Services, Prof Tih Pius Muffih thanked Bread for the World for choosing to partner with the Board. He said he was impressed with the fact that the team would help change the impression of their fellow countrymen on Africa in general and Cameroon in particular. The Director then wished them well and a safe journey back home.

It should be recalled that Bread for the World is one of CBCHB’s major partners in the provision of quality health care to all who need it. Some of its activities in the Board include capacity building through scholarships to some employees of the Board, funding of the activities of Life Abundant Primary Healthcare (LAP) and Community Initiative AIDS Prevention (CIAP) programs, etc. Back to top^

The Technical Services Department (TSD) of the Cameroon Baptist Convention Health Board (CBCHB) graduated its first batch of 28 trainees from the Apprenticeship Training Center (CBCATC) on Saturday July 26, 2008. The ceremony took place at the main hall of the Baptist Center in Nkwen, Bamenda in the presence of the CBC General Secretary, Rev Donald Ndichafah, government and local authorities, CBC officials, representatives of international and local organizations, friends, family members and well wishers.

According to the General Coordinator of the CBCHB Technical Services Department, Mr Chiambah B. Abraham, the CBCATC was created as part of Christian witness and human resources development efforts in communities where the CBC operates. He said the objective of the program is to provide affordable opportunities to destitute young people who have completed primary school as well as higher education to acquire practical skills which can enable them create jobs and generate income for themselves and their families. Mr Chiambah further disclosed that the programme, which started in September 2005 with 30 students, was officially approved by the Ministry of Employment and Vocational Training through Authorization No. 0007/MINEFOP/SG/DFOP of 23rd March 2007. Today, the centre has an enrolment of 71 trainees.

Presenting the program, the General Coordinator said the program offers training in Building Construction, Carpentry and Joinery, Electricity, Plumbing, Painting and Tiling, Auto Mechanics, Metal Works and Computer Aided Drafting at five sites (Bamenda, Mbingo, Banso, Yaounde, Douala and Mutengene).

In a speech presented on the occasion, the graduating students lambasted their tutors and the entire program for lapses which they said gave them an unfulfilled training period. To the students, these indiscretions must be corrected to avert recruiting and sending into the job market, half-baked technicians who would find it difficult coping with technological evolution in their various fields.

On his part, CBC’s General Secretary (GS), Rev Donald Ndichafah praised the initiators of the CBCATC and rejoiced that he was leading a team that is willing to formalize what is highly practised informally in Cameroon; that is, offering vocational training to fight unemployment. Rev Ndichafah then called on trainers and management of the program not to down-play the graduating students’ tongue-lashing otherwise, the program will suffer more severe setbacks in the future. To the graduating students, the GS recommended being different and outstanding wherever they find themselves given that technicians are generally dishonest and unreliable.

A seminar aimed at strengthening old marriages and building new ones took place at the Catholic Pastoral Center in Bamenda from July 18 to 19, 2008. The seminar was organized and sponsored by Hope Baptist Church Ndamukong (HBCN) and facilitated by the Director and staff of the Center for Clinical Pastoral Education and Social Services (CECPES), Rev Ndongnde Godlove Nkwain and Mrs. Ngoh Mildred (HBCN Pastor’s wife) respectively. It brought together hundreds of Christians from the said congregation.

Speaking during the program, Rev. Ndongnde pointed out that the Cameroon Baptist Convention Health Board (CBCHB) through CECPES partners with churches to offer seminars like this one, aimed at strengthening the activities of the Evangelism and Missions Board of the CBC and other interested bodies. According to the CECPES Director, knowledge shared during such seminars is intended to expose Christians to practical realities in relationships and also enable them to know where they can seek help in times of trouble.  

To ensure complex-free interaction and sharing of experiences among participants in different marital status and situations, singles in the congregation were allocated day one of the seminar while couples took day two. Singles were thus drilled on topics such as assessing the impact of the family of one’s origin on a single, communication, types of dating and sexual intimacy, preparing for a life time of singlehood, among others. At the end of the day, 113 singles pledged commitment to a life of integrity by joining the Integrity Club whose aim is to help members put into practice lessons learnt during the seminar.   

The Director of Health Services (DHS) for the Cameroon Baptist Convention Health Board (CBCHB), Prof Tih Pius Muffih has praised Support for Africa Foundation (SFA) for accepting to partner with the Board for the construction of some CBCHB health facilities in Cameroon. The DHS made this appreciation during a four day visit (July 7-10, 2008) by the foundation’s Vice President, Nigerian born Mrs Grace Coker to Cameroon.

Speaking after a familiarization visit to some CBCHB facilities under construction or earmarked for construction in the West and South West Provinces with Mrs Coker and CBCHB’s General Supervisor of Technical Services, Mr Chiambah Abraham Bujoff, the DHS said, “We do pledge to be transparent and accountable for the funds received from you”. Addressing the SFA Vice President, Prof Tih said, “We thank Mrs Grace Coker who has shown a lot of interest in the health activities here in Cameroon….She supervised the construction of the first structure from a distance but did it very well”.

The SFA Vice President visited the CBCHB facilities to have a first hand appraisal of how much funds her organization would have to help raise to enable the Board erect the structures needed for them to function in full capacity. The visit took Mrs Coker through seven (7) Baptist health facilities: Kumba, Bai-Koke, Bafia and Munyenge in the South West Province, and Bayangam, Eveche and Bapi in the West Province.

It should be noted that Support For Africa Foundation is a London (United Kingdom) based organization whose objective is to inform people of the developed world about the effects of AIDS on the people of Sub-Saharan Africa. Through this, the organization would raise funds to provide practical medical help and create awareness throughout Africa on the devastation the disease is causing on the continent so as to halt its inexorable propagation.Back to top^

organizations dealing with HIV & AIDS, human rights activists, NGOs and associations of people living with HIV & AIDS.

According to the Assistant Supervisor of the Cameroon Baptist Convention Health Board (CBCHB) Support Groups, Mr Wepnje Joseph, the training conference aimed at achieving three major goals: build capacity in members to reason at one level on issues concerning HIV, trim down duplication of services among groups in their various environments, and assist support groups in running their activities effectively.

Topics handled during the conference included HIV & AIDS and Human rights, contact tracing, HIV & AIDS impact mitigation, nutrition and practical food preparation, which hinged on local food items that can help people living with HIV boost their immune system. On the nutritional aspect of the training workshop, a field work session was organized at the CBCHB support Group Nutrition Unit at the Baptist Center in Nkwen, Bamenda. The CBC Director of Health Services and PAFAC President, Prof Tih Pius Muffih, who was unavoidably absent at the training conference, was represented by the CBCHB Regional Coordinator for the fight against HIV and AIDS for Bui and Donga/Mantung, Pastor Bambo Denis.

A land commission headed by a representative of the Senior Divisional Officer (SDO) for the Mfoundi Division in the Centre Province on Wednesday 11, 2008 paid a land evaluation visit to Etoug-Ebe Baptist Health Centre in Yaounde. According to the Administrative Assistant of the CBC Health Board based at the Health Centre, Mr Yongwa Zaccheaus, the commission came to evaluate the swamp that separates the centre from the nearby stream. He revealed that the commission’s visit was in response to an application the centre submitted to the administration in February 2008 requesting the government to let it reclaim the swamp and use it to construct a multipurpose 5 floor storey building. The centre had to apply to the government because in Cameroon, all swamps and marshy areas belong to the government.

The 11 man commission headed by the SDO’s secretary and representative (whose only name this reporter got as) Mrs Zanga, comprised of representatives from the ministries of Agriculture and Rural Development, State Property and Land Tenure, Urban Development, and other people from the SDO’s office.

Given the ever increasing patient load at Etoug-Ebe Baptist Health Centre, there is growing need for the creation of more services and the expansion of existing ones. In this respect, Mr Yongwa said the Cameroon Baptist Convention Health Board (CBCHB) is anxiously awaiting the Commission’s results of the evaluation, which he hopes will be favourable. He disclosed that the reclaimed land will enable the Health Centre to erect an ultra modern multipurpose structure to host a maternity, an in-lying ward for patients, a  theatre (services badly needed here), and a laboratory.

It is worth noting that the only existing structure at Etoug-Ebe Baptist Health Centre, in which all its services are crammed, is a two storey block which dates as far back as 1985 when the centre officially came into existence. The second floor of the block is used as a guest house and staff residence while the first floor contains the dental and eye departments, physiotherapy, laboratory, ultrasound and some offices. Meanwhile, the ground floor lodges the pharmacy, registration booth, injection and treatment room, a hall for patients awaiting consultation and other services. Back to top^

The Pan-African Academy of Christian Surgeons (PAACS) has graduated a second batch of general surgeons in five years of its existence. The ceremony took place on June 21, 2008 at the program’s headquarters, Banso Baptist Hospital (BBH), North West Province. Speaking during the graduation ceremony, the Interim BBH PAACS Program Director, Dr. Chukwudie Okorie Ogonnaya (himself a graduate of the first batch in 2007) charged the two new surgeons, Dr. Martin Salia (a Sierra Leonean) and Dr. Henry Ndasi (a Cameroonian) to distinguish themselves wherever they go by practically living out what they learnt during their study period. The Interim Director challenged the medics to make practical the certificates obtained through their service to mankind. According to Dr Okorie, the PAACS study program dwells not only on topics and ideas imbedded in surgery text books; it also gives students the practical experience of treating patients, caring for them and their carers, and bringing them to Christ.

Re-echoing the Interim Director, the Senior Divisional Officer for Bui, Mr. Panjuna Daniel urged the two surgeons to be the experts they have been trained to be so that Cameroonians and mankind as a whole will benefit from what they acquired during their studies.

Drawing inspiration from Hebrews 12:1, BBH PAACS Program Director Dr. Eugene Cleek said, to succeed one needs “to lay aside every weight that easily entangles” him/her. He explained that to be a good surgeon therefore, one at times needs to forgo family, sleep and money. On his part, PAACS Regional Director, Dr. David Thompson reminded the graduating surgeons that God will see them through if only they let Him lead them.

The two surgeons received two different certificates each: one awarded by the Christian Medical Associations and validated by the Loma Linda University in California, USA; and the other issued by the Pan African Academy of Christian Surgeons (PAACS) as a resident in surgery and specialty in general surgery. They both expressed the desire to further their studies in various specializations as soon as they are fully certified as General Surgeons. On his part, one of the new surgeons, Dr Salia rejoiced at being the first Sierra Leonean to pursue the PAACS program in Cameroon. He said he would like to remain his country’s ambassador to the program in Cameroon by serving at BBH if the given the opportunity to better emulate Dr Cleek, his mentor and lecturer.

Present to witness the ceremony were the PAACS family, CBC Health Board workers, the Director of Health Services, Prof. Tih Pius Muffih, relatives and friends of Dr. Salia and Dr. Ndasi, officials from the North American Baptist Conference and government officials.Back to top^

Secretary, Rev. Charles Tangwa by dressing him up with traditional regalia in appreciation of his relentless efforts in reconciling the break-away Belo Field to mainstream CBC. This decoration followed yet another one by the Fon of Kom on Saturday June 14, 2008 during which Rev. Tangwa led a delegation comprising the incoming General Secretary and President among others to the Fon’s palace, intended to introduce the new team to the Fon. In his allocution, Fon Yuh Vincent II paid tribute to Rev. Tangwa for his frantic moves throughout his tenure of office as CBC’s General Secretary, to heal wounds caused by differences on various issues in the system. The Fon singled out Rev. Tangwa’s indefatigable effort at reconciling the dissident Belo Field Christians of the Convention found in his Fondom, with mainstream CBC. Although Rev. Tangwa has quit office without realising this dream, the Fon said he remains reassured that the reconciliation process will continue. Fon Yuh II also decorated Dr. Tambe Emmanuel, Chief Medical Officer of Mbingo Baptist Hospital for the life-saving services he has been rendering the Fon and his subjects over the years. 
It should be recalled that the new team of CBC was elected last April 2008 during an extraordinary General Assembly of the Cameroon Baptist Convention that held at Njinikejem in Belo, Boyo Division of the North West Province. The Extraordinary General Assembly was convened following the adjournment of an Ordinary General Assembly in Limbe, South West Province in April 2007, which was disrupted by the protracted Belo Field Crisis and a Memorandum from some disgruntled fields of the Coastal Region of the CBC. Apart from the GS (Rev. Donald Ndichafah) and President (Mr Joseph Chebongkeng), other new comers included Justice Betty Luma as Vice President, Rev. Ambola David of Belo Field as President of the Pastors’ Fellowship assisted by Rev. Njini Edward of Bamenda Field as vice. Ndeley Samuel of Limbe Field was voted National Secretary to be assisted by Rev. Njobara Nelson of Soppo Field. Pastor Ngangkeng Eric was voted Financial Secretary of the Pastors’ Fellowship while Rev. Ngah Samson of Nkambe Field is Treasurer.
On its part, the CBC Men’s Fellowship elected the following into office: National President – Mr. Luma Albert of Ndian Field, Vice President – Pastor Harri Joel of Soppo Field, Secretary – Mr. Mokoko Fred still of Soppo Field, Vice Secretary – Mr. Ndosack Solomon of Belo Field, Financial Secretary – Mr. Tih Michael of Ndop Field, and Treasurer – Mr. Mekwi Joseph of Bamenda Field.
Furthermore, the Women’s Union elected Mrs. Samandi Elizabeth of Bamenda Field as its new president with Mrs. Jessy Dom of Kumba Field as vice and Mrs. Jato Patience of Ndu Field as Secretary/Treasurer.
Also, the Youth Department of the CBC voted Mr. Wango Daniel of Yaounde Field as its president, Kwalar Rene of Nso Field as Secretary assisted by Woloko Emmanuel from Soppo Field. Ms Nalova Marion of Soppo Field was elected Treasurer while Nfor Godlove of Limbe Field became CBC’s youth representative at the Cameroon Baptist Alliance (CBA). Rev. Mbunwe George emerged as Boys’ Brigade (BB) National President, Rev. Lamfu Nelson as Secretary, Rev. Peter Nyumloh as Adviser and Rev. Dr. Wilfred Fon as Chaplain. Back to top^

Leaders of the Cameroon Baptist Convention Health Board (CBCHB) met at the Baptist Centre Nkwen in Bamenda Thursday June 5, 2008 to share experiences with a team that went on a visit to the ARAVIND Eye Hospital in India. The four man team comprised of CBC’s Director of Health Services (DHS), Prof Tih Pius Muffih and three other leaders of the CBCHB were invited by Right to Sight to receive training on eye care services based on the experiences of the ARAVIND Eye Hospital in India. According to the (DHS), the 10 day training (May 17-27, 2008) was aimed at preparing the Eye Department of the CBCHB for a partnership with Right to Sight towards the creation of a full Eye Hospital in Cameroon. The Director revealed that the CBCHB was selected among 8 projects to replicate the ARAVIND Eye Care system in other African countries.

Addressing the Board’s leaders, Prof Tih said the meeting was convened “to challenge leaders of the Board to challenge themselves to work” and improve on the quality of their output. Quoting an African traditional proverb, the DHS said, “He who has never travelled believes that his mother is the best cook”. He said what they saw in India for 10 days was so inspiring that he thought it wise to share it with other leaders of the Board. This way, the Board will put in place a strong and proactive leadership to scale up health services in the Board in general and eye services in particular. Prof Tih wondered

what makes the Indians so special that the quality of their services in the ARAVIND Eye Hospital is that special as to make the hospital grow from just 11 beds in the mid 1970s to 4000 today. He added that this is not impossible in Cameroon. However, the Director cautioned that sharing these experiences does not imply that they must be implemented word verbatim in the CBCHB. Rather, he continued, it is intended to spur up positive change in the system such that everyone would emulate the good working attitude that gave the ARAVIND Eye Hospital such a rapid growth in such a relatively short period of time.

Basing his argument on a principle he called “See one, do one, teach one”, Prof Tih said it is time the Board’s leadership begin practising working with difficult employees by helping them understand themselves so that they can work better. He said delegating power/responsibility will ease work for both superiors and subordinates and improve output.

Talking on the topic Leading Change and the Role of Counselling, Mbingo Baptist Hospital Ophthalmologist, Dr Alex Wryter said change of attitude is primordial in generating demand from the community. He added that this is possible only through the setting up of adequate systems and procedures which are the main enabling factors for high quality services, which in turn can lead to high demand for these services. Dr Wryter also pointed out that counselling helps build the image of an institution especially through well counselled and satisfied clients.

In his closing remark, the Director of Health Services called on all HB leaders to go back and improve on all their services. He told them to challenge staffs in their various stations to account for their daily tasks and achieved results, and plan each day’s task the previous day in order to be effective. Back to top^

According to Ms Garvey, the US government has three missions in Cameroon. The first of them, she said, is to promote democracy and stability in the country because “the US wants Cameroon to be a strong, healthy and prosperous democracy in Africa.” She explained that promoting democracy and stability means improving on governance and ensuring that corruption is eradicated from Cameroon. This, she said will enable Cameroon enjoy an equitable distribution of its rich resources and wealth, such that the diversity in Cameroon should be a strength and not a weakness.

The second mission of the US government in Cameroon, the Ambassador went on, is to “develop the economy of Cameroon” and make it more attractive to foreign (especially American) investors given the rich economic potentials existing in Cameroon. This way, she noted, Cameroon will have a vibrant and competitive economy in the world.

The third mission of her government in Cameroon, Ms Garvey said, is to help Cameroon improve on its security, especially its borders given that Cameroon is a source of security for many of its neighbours in the sub-region. She continued that given the present security crisis facing the world, a porous maritime border like Cameroon’s can ease the promotion of pirates and terrorist activities.

Ms Garvey appreciated all the missionaries serving with the CBC and reminded them that they are saving the face of the US government in anything they are doing in Cameroon. On the on-going presidential election campaigns in the US, she reminded the missionaries that as Americans, they all need to vote if the practise of democracy they preach must be implemented. She added that provisions have been made at the consular section of the US Embassy in Yaounde to enable all Americans in Cameroon to exercise their civic rights and obligations.

Earlier on upon arrival in the CBC premises, Ambassador Garvey was shown round the compound where she saw one of the projects the US government funds in the CBC (the PMTCT and MTCT Plus programmes) and the sand-bay.

At the residence of the CBC Director of Health Services, Prof Tih Pius Muffih, the CBC General Secretary (GS), Rev Charles Tangwa in welcoming the Ambassador revisited the age-old historical relationship between the USA through the North American Baptist Conference and the CBC. He lauded American support for the CBC through the sponsorship of some programmes in the organisation like AWARE and PMTCT besides many others geared towards saving lives, alleviating poverty and the fight against HIV & AIDS. For all this, the GS asked the Ambassador to transmit the CBC’s and the Cameroonian people’s gratitude to her government. Rev Tangwa continued that the CBC is very grateful to the US government for allowing her citizens to come and work in Cameroon even as missionaries, and also for promoting democracy, good governance and the fight against corruption in Cameroon.

On hand to animate the less-than-45-minute visit was the Psalms Alive, which thrilled the American Community in the CBC with some moving songs. The CBC equally offered Ms Garvey a sealed package on which was labelled Psalm 119 verse 105 and prayed for her and her government. Other dignitaries present at the Ambassador’s reception were the heads of all three Boards of the CBC (Evangelism and Missions, Education and Health) and the newly elected CBC General Secretary, Rev Donald Ndichafa. The visit ended with a brief cocktail and family pictures. Back to top^

The Director of Health Services (DHS) for the Cameroon Baptist Convention (CBC) has launched a new CBC Health Board employee identification card. The 5 minute programme took place on Wednesday May 14, 2008 during morning devotion at the meeting hall of the Health Board’s Head Office Nkwen in Bamenda.

Signing for his own copy, Prof Tih Pius Muffih extolled the Health Board Press Division and Web Services for the effort put into the project. He prayed God to bless members of this team and to continue sending more innovative and creative people into the Board. The Director said he was very impressed with the quality of the card given that some years ago, the Board had attempted producing something similar but the project failed because it had to be done in Nigeria at a cut-throat cost. He reminded workers that the employee ID card does not in any way replace the National ID card even though it contains information from the National ID.

According to the DHS, this ID card is the property of the CBCHB and should be returned upon expiry of contract with the CBC Health Board. All workers of the Board, in spite of their category are entitled to an employee ID card to help prove who they are, wherever and whenever need be. Thus, the production team from the Press Division will have the arduous task of producing this document for all employees of the Board. Back to top^

The Director of Health Services (DHS) has continued unannounced visits to CBC Health Board institutions. Tuesday May 13, 2008 was the turn of Bafoussam Baptist Health Center. Upon arrival, the Chief of Center (COC), Mr. Kibang Eric and staff welcomed the Director, Prof Tih Pius Muffih and his entourage.  Immediately after that, the DHS embarked on an inspection tour of the Health Center premises, visiting every room including toilets, and meeting staff on duty and interacting with them. He said the unannounced visit was intended to have first hand appraisal of the working conditions and various challenges the staff face. According to him, major challenges observed were lack of space and staff. Moreover, the DHS realised that the center is in dire need of a microscope, given that the lone one in the center suffers from regular breakdown.

Staff of the Center reported that the drug availability level has risen to 90%. This increase supply of essential drugs was echoed by other Centers previously visited.  On his part, the PMTCT Coordinator reported that he now runs 107 sites in 17 of the 19 Health Districts in the West Province. However, the PMTCT coordinator for the Health Center, Mr. Yonghabi Promise reported that the service has been facing difficulties in legalising one of their 3 Support Groups for people living with HIV and AIDS. Fortunately, the DHS immediately handled the situation by visiting the Senior Divisional Office to sort things out. The COC noted that the patient load in the Bafoussam Health Center increases with every passing day.

 According to the DHS, this is an indication that the reception of patient and the quality of services offered here are good. The DHS further appreciated the COC for improving on the services at the Center:  “I have seen the work you have done and if you continue this way, we will move ahead,” he said. In response to the problem of space, Prof. Tih instructed the COC to focus on starting the new Health Center Building next year. He added, “I am going back with one message. Let us start the new Health Center building next year”.

Given that the Director’s visit coincided with the doctor’s support visit to the center, the DHS promised to visit the Health Center again before the end of the year since he could not hold any meeting with the staff for fear of keeping patients waiting for too long.

In another development, Prof Tih in his capacity as Administrator of CENAME (National Drug Supply Unit in Cameroon), and his entourage made another brief impromptu stopover at CAPP Ouest (Drug supply unit for the West Province) to appraise the working atmosphere and the drug supply here. At CAPP Ouest, the Director had a 25 minutes closed-door meeting with the General Manager Dr. Wamba Onotonouo Marie Antoine. Back to top^

The Cameroon Baptist Convention Health Board (CBCHB) has begun evaluating Prevention of Mother To Child Transmission of HIV (PMTCT) services in the country. This evaluation is part of the PMTCT Effectiveness in Africa; Research and Linkages to Care (PEARL) study in four countries (Zambia, South Africa, Ivory Coast and Cameroon). The aim of the study is to assess the effectiveness of PMTCT programs in these countries and find out how many living children of HIV positive mothers are negative, called “HIV Free Survival”.

 In prelude to data collection which began on May 16, 2008 in Nfui and Boh villages in the North West Province, a three day training to familiarise participants with the standard operating procedures of the community survey ended at the Baptist Centre Nkwen in Bamenda on Wednesday May 14, 2008. The training brought together 7 candidates and 2 supervisors from within the CBCHB. It was coordinated by CBC’s Director of Health Services, Prof Tih Pius Muffih and facilitated by the Associate Director of CBCHB AIDS Care and Prevention Programme, Dr Welty Thomas.

According to Dr Welty, interviewers are expected to gather information on the availability and quality of PMTCT care that mothers have been receiving for the past years. He said this would imply testing mothers who have given birth within the last two years for HIV, and testing children for anemia. Where possible, on the spot treatment would be provided. For mothers who would be tested positive, they would be referred to various centers for treatment and care for themselves and their families. Dr Welty added that after data analysis, it will be possible to estimate how effective the program has been in all four countries. He said information from the data will be used to improve on the quality of PMTCT services in Cameroon in particular and Africa as a whole.

The PEARL study is supported by the USA based Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Elizabeth Glaser Paediatric AIDS Foundation. The project is expected to run till the end of 2008. Back to top^

The Cameroon Baptist Convention Health Board (CBCHB) joined the world on May 7, 2008 in commemorating World AIDS Orphans’ Day under the theme, “I raise my voice; the campaign against fatality” and the slogan, “Persons raise their voices so that millions of voiceless children can be heard.”

More than 25 million children worldwide have lost one or both parents to AIDS. In sub-Saharan Africa alone, 12 million children have been orphaned by the pandemic. Besides being especially vulnerable to all forms of exploitation, these children face financial difficulties, diseases, and stigmatisation from almost all classes of human beings. (Source: www.scout.org)

In Cameroon, the CBCHB runs a Chosen Children program (CCP) (Orphan Care Program) that identifies and enrols orphans, particularly those who lost their parent(s) to AIDS, and support them with medical and school needs besides other basic needs.

According to the program Supervisor, of the over 12 million AIDS orphans in the world, about 240,000 of them live in Cameroon. To show their sympathy for and solidarity with the AIDS orphans enrolled in the CCP, various CBCHB institutions made diverse symbolic gestures in commemoration of World Orphans’ Day 2008. At the head office of the CBCHB, staff transformed their routine morning devotion into a reflection time on the plight of these vulnerable and socially discriminated children, widows and widowers. The session ended with a prayer time and cash donation to support the activities of the CCP.

To Pastor Bambo, the theme and slogan of this year’s World AIDS Orphans’ Day commemoration can only be practicalised if people can raise funds to support orphans and vulnerable children to enable them have access to medicine, school fees, food and shelter. He says, “It is shocking to learn that majority of orphans in the world have to pay

school fees. As a result, orphans and other children deprived of resources often do not go to school; and if at all they do, they end up dropping out.” The Programme Coordinator therefore concludes that, “Education is one of the most effective means of fighting AIDS because education saves children’s lives and gives them the ability to contribute to their own destiny.”

On his part, CBC’s Director of Health Services (DHS), Prof Tih Pius Muffih, issued a circular appreciating all who took part in last year’s commemoration saying, “All your support in cash, kind and prayer were received. The help you gave has made a big impact and raised the standard of living of the orphans and those of the Chosen Children Program in particular.” He reminded all that it takes 15,000 FCFA to support a child in primary school for a year and called on all to “read through the message of this day and offer special prayers to God for orphans and widows.” Prof Tih indicated that, alll donations in cash for the CCP should be paid into the programme’s account No. 7650/650, and material sent either to the CCP Coordinator for the South West, Littoral and Centre Provinces, Mrs Fonyuy Sylvia (Health Services Complex, Mutengene), or to the CCP Supervisor, Pastor Bambo Denis in the DHS’ office in Banso.

It should be noted that FXB International, an NGO dedicated to combating poverty and the AIDS pandemic, initiated World AIDS Orphans Day in 2002 to raise awareness about the plight of orphans and encourage Scouts across the globe to “raise their voice” for them. This year, the  NGO has decided to focus on advocating for the establishment of programmes and urgent measures to support AIDS orphans and other children made vulnerable by the disease.

A new website for World AIDs Orphans’ Day (www.worldorphansday.org, www.fxb.org) has also just been launched, which is designed to provide all organisations supporting children infected or affected by HIV an opportunity to exchange their experience and provide information on their activities in the field. Through the site, visitors can join the movement, search and post events and add photos and stories reflecting their support. Back to top^

Workers of the Cameroon Baptist Convention (CBC) joined other Cameroonians in celebrations marking the 122nd International Labour Day on May 01 under the theme “Let’s avoid accidents and deaths at our job sites.” In Bamenda, CBC Health Board employees took part in the march pass presided over by North West Governor, Abakar Ahamat. Various departments of the Board marched with placards bearing diverse messages for the public in connection with services the Board offers, most of which tied with the theme of the celebration. Prominent among these was the display of one of the Board’s achievements that has rescued many lives since its inception – the sand-bay located near the Nkwen Baptist Centre.

Talking on the various messages on the placards carried by the employees during a reception organised by the social department of the Director’s office, CBC’s Director of Health Services (DHS), Prof Tih Pius Muffih lauded the demonstration of the said sand-bay. He reiterated that the public absolutely needs to know that landing on the sand bay by vehicles with brake failure is free, contrary to rumours in town that it is paid.

The Director also praised staff representatives for the successful organisation of the celebrations and cautioned workers to celebrate responsibly to avoid injuries in conformity with this year’s theme. He went on to brainstorm on the reason behind celebrating Labour Day. In this light, he informed workers that the essence of this day is to recognise the contribution of human beings towards the wellbeing of mankind and the existence of organisations. The DHS appreciated all who braved the scorching sun to represent the organisation at the march pass because, as he put it, they had identified with the rest of the world.

During the reception, workers listened to five presentations of five minutes each, which helped enlighten them on various issues. Topics of the presentations included: how to obtain labour medals, CNPS and Pension Plan, the Adopt a Healthcare Worker Fund, Trade Union dues and the Mutual Health Organisation.  It should be noted that the CBCHB organises a party every Labour Day to show gratitude towards her workers for their devotion in providing healthcare and other services to all who need them as an expression of Christian love.

In other towns hosting CBCHB institutions like Bafoussam, Mbingo, Banso and so on, turnout of employees of the Board was equally impressive. Labour medals were awarded some 41 employees of Mbingo Baptist Hospital and a host of others in other stations. Back to top^

The Administrator and Systems Administrator of the Cameroon Baptist Convention Health Board (CBCHB)’s Life Abundant Primary (LAP) Health Care program, Patricia Anne and Geoff Edward Mitchells respectively have finally retired from active service in the country. The ceremony, which took place at the LAP Resource Centre Bamkikai in Kumbo April 30, 2008, brought together convention leaders of the CBC, heads of various Health Board institutions, government and community representatives, friends and LAP staff.

Highlighting the work of the Mitchells in Cameroon, the CBC Director of Health Services (DHS), Prof. Tih Pius Muffih, disclosed that Patricia Anne (fondly called Pat Mitchell) first arrived in Cameroon in 1991. She served in Tinta, Mamfe from 1991 to 1993 from where she went back to England and attended a Missionary Training College. Upon completion, Pat returned to Cameroon in 1994 and was appointed Administrator of the Life Abundant Primary Health Care program, where she took over from Ele Bender. Pat has served in this capacity for the past 14 years. During this period she has raised the LAP program to its present status of a pace setter in Primary Health Care provision in Cameroon.

On his part, Geoff Mitchell came to Cameroon for the first time in1990 for a short visit. In 1991, he joined Pat in Tinta for two years and later returned to Britain where he then enrolled into the Bible College of England. In 1994 he returned to Bamkikai where he has been serving as systems Administrator of the Life Abundant Primary Health Care program till his retirement last April 30, 2008.

In recognition of their meritorious services to disfavored communities in Cameroon, the DHS presented the Mitchells with certificates of service alongside a gift from the CBC Health Board. They also received gifts from close collaborators, friends and well wishers.

They have handed over control of the LAP program in Cameroon to one of LAP’s long serving staff, Mr Kakute Peter as Acting Administrator. Most speakers wished him courage as they described the task of administering LAP as enormous. In her handing over speech Pat expressed confidence in her successor as she shouted out “Yes you can”.
 
Main speakers at the ceremony included CBC’s General Secretary, Rev. Charles Tangwa, Associate Director of the CBC Health AIDS Care and Prevention Program, Dr Tom Welty, Administrators of Banso Baptist Hospital, Mbingo Baptist Hospital and Baptist Hospital Mutengene, and a host of others. They all lauded the Mitchells for their achievements in LAP, some of which include mentoring the staff, continuous sourcing for funds for LAP activities and infrastructure, taking up the challenge to incorporate Prevention of Mother to Child HIV transmission (PMTCT) into LAP activities, among others. The CBC Director of Health Services requested the Mitchells to keep supporting LAP activities in Cameroon even while in England and to visit the program as often as the Lord grants them opportunity. 

It should be noted that the retirement of the Mitchells also coincided with the 70th birthday of Pat Mitchells and their 48th wedding anniversary. Back to top^

The Health Management Information System (HMIS) department of the Cameroon Baptist Convention Health Board (CBCHB) has organized a capacity building seminar on the accurate compilation of monthly statistics report. The intensive seminar, which brought together twenty-six statistics and medical record staff of various institutions of the Board, took place at BBH from April 24-25, 2008. According to the Head of this department, Mr. Nshom Emmanuel, some inconsistencies and irregularities were observed in the collection, preparation and reporting of monthly statistics by hospitals and health centers. With this seminar, it is envisaged that data management will help decision-makers take better decisions based on accurate data from various institutions of the Board.

Given the central role data quality plays in planning and management, the Administrator of Banso Baptist Hospital, Mrs Nzenyuiy Rose and the Administrator in Charge of Personnel, Mr Mendah Ernest, jointly urged participants to take the seminar very seriously. As they put it, any wrong data can be very detrimental to the CBCHB, the government and the entire world health system.

During the practical sessions, participants from Mbingo Baptist Hospital (MBH) demonstrated their mastery in accurate data collection even though they had difficulty with disease prevalence. Also, it was revealed that health centers under MBH have the habit of sending in reports late, making work very difficult for the data management team. Back to top^

Chiefs of Health Centers of the Cameroon Baptist Convention Health Board (CBCHB) have been called upon to upgrade their administrative skills through reading books and listening to advice. The Director of Health Services (DHS), Prof. Tih Pius Muffih made this appeal at a meeting which brought together Chiefs of various Health Centers of the Board, LAP Administrators, the Board’s Finance manager, Head of the Chaplaincy department, Supervisor of the Technical Services Department, Supervisor of Nursing Services, hospital administrators among others. The meeting took place at the Baptist Centre, Nkwen from April 10-11, 2008. The DHS reminded the COCs that being a good administrator is a process wherein one learns and continues to grow with time. The Director also noted that such meetings offer the COCs the forum and opportunities to listen to and exchange knowledge, experiences and ideas from one another, build themselves up and enhance their output. He urged them however not to minimize the opinions of their subordinates from whom they can as well learn.

During the two day meeting, the COCs gave highlights of activities in their various centers: goals planned for the first quarter of 2008 and how far they have been accomplished; difficulties encountered; the way forward, and needs of their centers. The COCs disclosed that although some of their goals have been achieved, they still face a lot of difficulties running their centers. Inadequate water supply featured as top difficulty in the reports of most COCs. They also expressed the need for additional staff in their centers (like medical doctors, nurses and pharmacy auxiliaries).

Participants at the meeting were enlightened on some issues including financial management, health management information systems, infant welfare clinic register, building projects, drug management and the AIDS Control program (ACP). A salient need expressed in the reports of most COCs pertaining to their financial departments was that of money detectors in all the Out Patient Departments (OPDs). The COCs were however advised to use their income statement as the basis for their spending, and also plan activities based on amount of income raised. On the ACP, the chiefs of center promised to encourage their staff to support and increase contributions towards the Adopt a Health Care Worker program.

Another point of concern raised during the meeting was the issue of casual workers whose situation needs to be regularized. On this issue, the Administrator of Banso Baptist Hospital (BBH), Mrs. Rose Nzenyuiy cautioned the COCs to stop recruiting more casual workers without consulting their supervising hospitals. On his part, the DHS noted that those who are due retirement will be paid three months of their monthly allowance after retirement and a send forth ceremony will be organized for them as it is the tradition .

The Administrator of Baptist Hospital Mutengene (BHM), Mr. Wirba Samuel, advised the COCs to transform challenges they face into springboards to help them grow. He encouraged the COCs to come up with a ‘challenging article’ as he called it when they next meet. Mr. Philip Nfon, Dean of the chiefs of center, thanked the administration for handling most of their concerns, but still pleaded that the other difficulties they have tabled should also be looked into. He also pleaded that each time there is a COC meeting time should be allocated for briefing them on administrative issues especially for the benefit of their new colleagues. Back to top^

The Mayor of Kumbo Council has offered a printer and other items to the Integrated School for the Blind (ISFB) Kumbo. The consignment included a bag of corn, 20 liters of palm oil, 12 packets of sugar, a bag of rice, some Braille papers, 14 tins (1L) of peak milk and one carton of washing soap. Mr. Njong Donatus made the donation Monday March 24, 2008, a day considered the Mayor’s Day in Kumbo (the first Monday after Easter Sunday). Present at the ceremony were the Banso Baptist Hospital (BBH) Administrator, Mrs. Rose Nzednyuiy, the Chief Medical Officer for BBH, Dr. Ngong Beri, the manager of CBC Schools for Bui, the principal of Chaffee Memorial Baptist College Kumbo, the Field Pastor of Nso field and a host of onlookers. 

In his address during the ceremony, the Mayor admitted that thanks to the CBC Health Services, he is proud of Kumbo because of the existence of the ISFB here. Mr. Njong appreciated the students and staff for their bright academics performance over the years. According to HB Press correspondent in Kumbo, Ignatius Kuh, said he has a deep concern for the visually impaired children. He added that he had actually turned down an invitation from the Mayors’ Alliance Group in Athens, Greece where he is treasurer for the Cameroon chapter, just to be with the children for that day.

Expressing her joy for the Mayor’s gesture, ISFB supervisor, Madam Ndishagong Margaret said the problem of Braille paper will soon be history especially as some had earlier been sent from the office of the Coordinator of Services for People with Disabilities (SPD) in Bamenda. Other humanitarian gestures to the institute include the stop-over of the Minister of Basic education, Haman Adama February 4, 2008, and that of the Christian Women Fellowship (CWF), who brought with them some food items for the kids. According to the supervisor, one student has been registered for the GCE Advanced Level exams while five others will sit for the Ordinary Levels. Back to top^

The Cameroon Baptist Convention Health Board (CBCHB) Cervical Cancer Prevention program has launched a mobile clinic to reach women in remote areas with its services. The mobile clinic, which is a van equipped with all necessary screening and treatment material was launched March 25, 2008 at Emmanuel Baptist Church Ndu. The Program Coordinator, Mr Manga Simon said recurring and increasing incidents of cervical cancer from women who are unable to get to regular screening sites caused the launching of the mobile van.

According to the World Health Organization report of 2005, about 260,000 women died of cervical cancer that year with over 95% of them in developing countries. 500,000 other new cases were identified with more than 90% still in developing countries. Furthermore, some 1000,000 cases of early cervical cancer are still to be diagnosed, and this number will continue to rise over the years.

Giving highlights on the disease during his presentation at the launching, Mr Manga pointed out that the main cause of cervical cancer is the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), which is commonly transmitted through sexual intercourse. He said about 250 types of this virus exist but only a few of them actually do cause cancer. The most rampant of them, he added, are HPV types 16 and 18.

Exploring the risk factors of the disease, the Program Coordinator underlined multiple sexual partners, high number of deliveries, early start of sexual intercourse, tobacco consumption, malnutrition (especially Vitamin A deficiency) and co-infection with HIV. Mr Manga noted that condoms are hardly effective in preventing cervical cancer as the virus can even be picked up from the thighs of an infected person, and it can take 10 – 20 years to develop into cancer. A cervix exposed to HPV, the coordinator said, can either be infected with a

low-grade pre-cancer (which can either regress or progress, with more than 60% of cases never progressing) or with a high grade pre-cancer which develops into a full-blown cervical cancer.

On the signs and symptoms of cervical cancer, Mr Manga pointed out that a pre-cancer condition has no detectable sign or symptom. However, at an early cancer stage, a woman can suffer persistent vaginal discharge, which is resistant to treatment, bleeding after sexual intercourse and irregular vaginal bleeding. If not detected and treated, he added, it can spread to neighboring structures like the uterus, bladder, rectum and other distant structures like the lungs, bones and the brain.

To prevent cervical cancer, Mr Manga recommended two stages: primary prevention and secondary prevention. Primary prevention entails a change in lifestyle to adopt a healthy feeding habit and use of HPV vaccine, while secondary prevention constitutes early detection and treatment of a pre-cancer condition. Early detection can be done through screening, which yields on-the-spot results, causes no discomfort and has no absolute contraindication. Alternatively, if diagnosed of full blown cervical cancer, a third option will be to enroll for palliative care.

According to the Coordinator, the program started in March 2007 and has screened more than 500 women in Cameroon, with 60 pre-cancer cases treated.

Earlier on in his devotion, on the topic “Playing our own roles in a suffering world,” the Supervisor of the Centre for Clinical Pastoral Education and Social Services (CECPES) based in Mbingo, Rev Ndongnde Godlove Nkwain urged every participant to inwardly define what role they each play in this world of suffering.  He highlighted three roles each individual should play in alleviating suffering in the world: the role of an ambassador – representing Jesus here on earth (II Cor. 5:20), the role of a good neighbor, and that of a comforter. He called on all present to be that example in making their roles in this suffering world stand out.

On his part the chairman of the ceremony and District Medical Officer for Ndu, Chief Dr Fozaoh lauded this ground-breaking initiative by the Cameroon Baptist Convention (CBC) Health Board. He said he hopes the chief of Ndu would mobilize women in this community to be the first beneficiaries of this God given opportunity, and that many more women would be saved from cervical cancer in Cameroon.

Launching the mobile clinic on behalf of the CBC Director of Health Services who was called to other duties, Dr Beri Dimla Ngong, Chief Medical Officer for Banso Baptist Hospital called on the women present to spread the news of this mobile van to every woman to enable them be screened.

A team of 3 led by the Director of Health Services (DHS), Prof. Tih Pius Muffih, paid a surprised visit to Ashong Baptist Health Center Wednesday March 5, 2008. This trip was in keeping with a promise in his end of year message to CBCHB Staff to make unannounced visits to institutions he could not visit in 2007. Upon arrival, the Chief of Center (COC), Mr. Toh Gideon Loh and staff welcomed the DHS and his team who immediately embarked on an evaluation tour of the facility. Impressed with the average turnout of 18 patients a day, and about 80 patients on Dr’s Visits, the DHS recommended that water be extended to the rooms as a priority project for 2008. He added that its constant availability be ensured by installing plastic storage tanks at the Center. The DHS also promised to look into the issue of a land certificate for the Center’s piece of land among others. It was revealed that home delivery is still a common practice in the community and the COC is making plans for community sensitization. 
In a meeting with the DHS, the COC thanked the Director for choosing to visit Ashong Baptist Health Center. “Though unannounced, we had been informed in the DHS’ end of year speech to expect his visit at any time within the year”, the COC said.  He further avowed that work is going on well but not without difficulties. Some of these difficulties, he said, are handled locally, while others are sent to Mbingo Baptist Hospital Administration, and still, others are forwarded to the DHS. Some concerns raised included staff shortage, problems with landlord among others, and as a priority, the extension of water into rooms.  He praised the Board for the great improvement on the availability of essential drugs.
After the COC’s greetings, the DHS thanked the staff especially those who were off duty for coming to meet with him. He said it is during such visits that he is able to attach staff names to their faces. After introducing his team, the DHS delivered the message he brought for the staff: “We have a mission; and that mission is in our mission statement. So as we serve, we should serve as unto God and doing all we can to brighten the corners where we are as in our song of the year. The choice of this year’s theme song is aimed at illuminating our mission statement,” the DHS said. He then challenged the staff of Ashong Health Center to sing both the mission statement and the song of the year at least once every week. The Director took time to hammer on every word in the mission statement: ‘...which seeks to assist in the provision of healthcare to all who need it as an expression of Christian love....’   He said the Board is out for outstanding quality healthcare services with a spiritual touch that needs to make our patients go home glorifying God. Staffs were challenged to memorize the mission statement and reflectively recite it regularly not necessarily in the form of a song. Prof. Tih encouraged the staffs to cultivate and maintain warm relationships with their families so as to perform better at their job sites. He said, “The work place is a family place where staffs should share in both happy and hurting moments”. The DHS advised each staff to have a mentor anywhere in the Board who can help build them up in their thinking and action.
One crucial point the Director made was on staff preparation for retirement, which he said should start upon employment. He urged every staff (female or male) to put as priority in their individual goals a building project no matter how small, preferably in one’s village of origin.  The DHS disclosed that the creation of the Health Board Pension Plan was intended to facilitate the building of staff owned houses while in active service.
The DHS then thanked staff for sacrificially contributing to the drug revolving fund managed by the Board’s Finance Manger, which has greatly improved on the Board’s drug situation. He said, drugs, taxes, and salaries are all paid on time now.
The Director’s talk ended with an update on Sr. Kathy Kroll and Nyingcho Richard’s health. Sr. Kroll was still sick and in Paris pending an improvement on her health to be flown to USA, and Richard was receiving treatment at Mbingo Baptist Hospital. Separate prayer sessions were organized at Banso Baptist Hospital on Tuesday March 11, 2008 for Sr. Kroll and at Mbingo Baptist Hospital on Wednesday March 12, 2008 for Richard.

were seen. On February 22, the team moved to Fundong where another 140 people were treated. Bambui had the highest number of cases with 170 seen.

The Giving Hand Foundation is a Christian organisation that works in collaboration with the CBCHB in helping the underprivileged, supplying dental care materials and expertise in dental care provision, and training.

Of the 460 cases seen, tooth extraction and filling constituted the highest procedures performed. According to a dental staff of Nkwen Health Centre, Emelda Ngong 80% of cases necessitated tooth extractions. Patients were equally administered drugs.

For difficult cases, the CBC Health Board Dental Supervisor, Dr. Leo Ndiangang said, were referred to the Dental clinic at Nkwen Baptist Health Centre where they would be treated at a significantly reduced cost.

On his part, Dr. Keith Phillips, Head of the Giving Hand Foundation team, said it was discovered that cases of severe tooth decay and gum diseases dominated in the localities they visited. He noted that these are caused by high consumption of foods rich in starch and sugar, sometimes from some fruits, which though nutritious, are acidic and do cause bacterial actions in the mouth. This, he added, explains why most teeth were rather extracted than filled or cleaned.