January 3rd, 2026 – A Day on the Radio
Good day, January 3rd, 2026. Today was the day I went in for a radio interview with CRTV Radio, as I had mentioned earlier. The interview took place around 1:30pm. It wasn’t very long — just a matter of answering a few questions — and it is scheduled to air this coming Tuesday.
Hopefully, I’ll be able to get access to the recording at some point. That would be major fun. The way this opportunity came about — through coincidence and happenstance — is absolutely amazing. It’s exciting because it helps more people learn about what’s happening, especially with Bridges to Development and the Burn Design Lab.
Meeting Professor Joseph Kamenev
After the interview, I had been communicating with Professor Joseph Kamenev, the CEO of the Higher Institute for Scientific Research, as well as the head of the Department of Public Health at the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Yaoundé.
Despite being an extremely busy person, he chose to pick me up and show me parts of Yaoundé. This connection came through bridges2development.org, where they have collaborated on work related to neglected tropical diseases and other public health challenges.
Research in a Challenging Environment
He showed me his office and several sites around Yaoundé, explaining more about the work he does. Before his involvement, research opportunities were limited. There has traditionally been more focus on treating immediate problems rather than investing in long-term research, at least from the government’s perspective.
While government participation is limited, other organizations recognize the importance of research and provide funding — typically in five-year cycles. After that, the process starts all over again. Still, the government ultimately benefits from the results. It’s Africa at its best, in many ways.
An Evening of Hospitality
Not only did I get to see many sights around Yaoundé, but when dinner time came, Professor Kamenev invited me to his home. His wife prepared an amazing meal, and we had wonderful conversation throughout the evening.
We were joined by four of their six children. Each one is remarkable in their own way. One is studying medicine, another is still young and in primary school, and one is training to teach individuals who cannot speak. She herself communicates through sign language and is already teaching others.
Their home, largely built over time by the family themselves, is impressive and full of warmth. It was truly a most enjoyable evening.
Grateful for the Experience
Thank you for coming along and being part of this journey. We’ll see you tomorrow.
