A total of fifty-three (53) field epidemiologists have received their end of training certificates as professionals in the field. This was during their graduation ceremony  that took place on January 14, 2026 at the Red Cross Banquet Hall, presided over by the Minister of Public Health, Dr. Malachie MANAOUDA. The laureates received training at the intermediate level of the CAFETP (Cameroon Field Epidemiology Training Program).

Health security has now become an issue of national sovereignty. It was with this perspective in mind that the formal graduation ceremony was held for these 53 graduates from cohorts 2, 3, and 4 of the intermediate level CAFETP. They were called upon to bolster the national response to health crises.

​The event took place in the presence of the U.S. Ambassador, His Excellency Christopher John LAMORA, who is at the end of his diplomatic mission to Cameroon.

​In his address, Dr. Malachie MANAOUDA reminded the audience that “health peace is not a passive state, but a strategic responsibility,” emphasizing that increasingly frequent health crises represent a constant test for healthcare systems. Emerging diseases, epidemic outbreaks, natural disasters, and the impacts of climate change demand rapid, coordinated responses based on reliable data.

​”We do not protect lives with speeches, but with capabilities, skills, and decisions taken in time,” he insisted.

​This statement echoes the vision championed by the Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, who believes every crisis should be an opportunity to sustainably strengthen health systems. At the heart of this strategy lies epidemiological surveillance—the pillar of all preparedness and resilience.

The training which had a lifespan of twelve intensive months, empowered the graduates with skills necessary to detect early warning signs, analyze complex data, conduct field investigations and coordinate interventions during outbreaks.

​Moving beyond theoretical learning, the program is focused on direct action. These new professionals are scheduled for deployment to their respective regions starting this January. They will serve as healthcare practitioners, surveillance network coordinators, and trainers.

Upon presentation of certificates amidst the cheers of families and colleagues, the Minister did more than offer symbolic recognition; he entrusted them with a mission of the highest order.

​”To be a field epidemiologist is to be an actor in national security—a true soldier of health,” he concluded. He urged the graduates to demonstrate commitment, rigor, and community engagement, while upholding the five operational virtues: Scientific rigor, responsiveness, ethics, cooperation and humility