As is customary every November 15, Cameroon's First Lady, Chantal Biya (photo), has conveyed a heartfelt message to commemorate the anniversary of African Synergies, the humanitarian organization she co-founded in 2002 with fellow First Ladies from across the continent. This year, Paul Biya's wife has chosen to reaffirm her dedication to the cause of aiding the underprivileged and alleviating suffering.

"As far as I am concerned, as long as God gives me the strength, and with the precious support of my husband, President Paul Biya, I will always be at your side, resolutely committed to continuing my fight for a more united and inclusive world," writes Chantal Biya.

This statement seems to be a response to the financial challenges faced by international organizations like African Synergies. A few months ago, the shrinking funding compelled the International Red Cross to announce it would be cutting 1,500 positions.

Undeterred, Chantal Biya remains resolute: "Despite the challenging economic climate, African Synergies, this unique and exhilarating human endeavor, continues to progress serenely."

It is worth mentioning that African Synergies is dedicated to combatting child labor and various forms of child abuse. The organization's mission extends to promoting, through various initiatives, the improvement of living conditions for rural African women and providing steadfast support for the effective implementation of the Geneva Declaration on the Rights of the Child and other global commitments in this sphere.

Michel Ange Nga