The Union de la Presse Francophone (UPF) Cameroon has re-elected Dr. Evelyne Mengue A Koung, a prominent figure in Cameroonian media, as its president. Following a unanimous vote at the General Assembly last Friday at L’UPF’s headquarters in Bastos, the Editorial Director of CRTV and former CRTV 8:30 news anchor begins her second three-year term.
Presiding over the assembly, Jean Lambert Nang, the representative of the Minister of Communication, announced Dr. Mengue’s re-election with a resounding 62 out of 62 votes. This landslide victory highlights the trust and confidence her peers place in her leadership. This election further cements her position at the helm of the Francophone Press Union’s Executive Bureau until 2027.
Vision for the Future
In her acceptance speech, Dr. Mengue reaffirmed her dedication to advancing key projects and fostering growth in the Francophone media community. She however, prioritised the development of the Press Club initiative, which seeks to establish a Press House—a hub for Cameroonian journalists and visiting media professionals.
“My focus remains on strengthening the journalistic community, improving journalists’ working and living conditions, and ensuring broader access to essential information,” she declared.
Additionally, she committed to tackling challenges faced by young journalists, particularly the pervasive sense of defeatism. “We need a press that not only informs but inspires, a press that fulfills its social role with vibrancy and credibility,” she stated. Her agenda continues to emphasize professionalism, ethical standards, and advocacy for media practitioners.
Upholding Francophone Media Excellence
Under Dr. Mengue’s leadership, L’UPF Cameroon has consistently championed quality journalism, the defence of press freedom, and the promotion of French language and culture across Francophone nations. The organization, founded in 1950 in Paris as the Union Internationale des Journalistes et de la Presse de Langue Française (UIJPLF), remains committed to collaboration among French-speaking media professionals worldwide.
Dr. Mengue further highlighted the importance of ongoing training for journalists to navigate the rapidly evolving media landscape. By equipping media practitioners with modern tools and skills, L’UPF Cameroon aims to maintain its reputation for excellence while addressing contemporary challenges in the sector.
Historic Leadership
Dr. Evelyne Mengue’s presidency is a landmark achievement. She succeeds Aimé Robert Bihina, who led UPF Cameroon from 2012 to 2021. As such, she became the first woman to assume the role. Her tenure began in 2021 after years of dedicated service as Secretary General and Vice President of the organisation.
Her leadership has been defined by a relentless pursuit of media professionalism and advocacy for journalists’ rights across Francophone regions. As she embarks on her second term, her vision continues to inspire confidence and propel the Francophone press toward greater unity and impact.
