January 5th, 2026 – A Day of Introductions and Insight
Good day. January 5th, 2026. An exciting day indeed. Arrangements had been made by Professor Joseph Cumming—who I shared roasted fish with the night before—for me to visit his office, meet several colleagues, and also be introduced to representatives from the health department.
To make things easier logistically, he suggested that Alan, his driver and general right-hand man for transportation and coordination, pick me up. That made keeping to the schedule and navigating town much simpler. I really appreciated that. Sure enough, Alan arrived and drove me to the Institute’s office.
Inside the Institute – Passion for Research
At the office, I met several researchers with laboratories and PhDs who are clearly passionate about their work. They have access to solid equipment and are doing research they genuinely love. Professor Joseph truly values the fact that this kind of work can be done locally, helping move Cameroon forward rather than relying entirely on research from other countries.
He even has long-term plans to establish a private university one day. The idea is already there, and sometimes that’s the biggest step toward making it happen.
A Visit to the Health Department
After the introductions at the Institute, Alan drove me to the health department, where I met the deputy director, Dr. Ko Ayisi. We had a brief but meaningful 10–15 minute conversation. I shared some of the experiences and efforts that brought me to Cameroon.
He mentioned Insect Shield (insectshield.com), clothing treated with permethrin that helps repel insects. Of course, uncovered skin can still be bitten, but it’s another useful tool in the toolbox. We also discussed general health issues in Cameroon and the cooperation that exists between countries. There is quite a bit of collaboration, though there’s always room for more.
One important detail is that medical education is largely conducted in English. This may create challenges for French-speaking countries in keeping up with certain developments, though it’s difficult for me to fully assess that. It was simply an observation.
Addressing River Blindness
Next, I visited Dr. Mapaba Mincket Theophelus Mistral—thankfully I don’t have to carry that full name around. He serves as the permanent secretary of the National Onchocerciasis Control Program. Onchocerciasis is better known as river blindness, a disease affecting around 20 million people worldwide, with many cases in Cameroon.
The program, run by a team of about ten people, focuses on gaining better control of the disease. A key challenge is eliminating black flies in certain regions, as they transmit the infection. River blindness is a gradual disease. It can affect the skin and eventually the eyes, and in severe cases can be fatal.
Dr. Mbabi—who is a pharmacist by training—is very proud of his work and sees it as a major challenge worth tackling. I again shared information about insect-repellent clothing. When you connect ideas and people, you build bridges—and that’s what it’s all about.
Back to the Hotel – Everyday Realities
Alan helped with translation where needed and efficiently navigated us around town. The visits were truly enjoyable, and while I don’t know what will come from them, it certainly can’t be a bad thing.
He dropped me back at the hotel, and I had the rest of the day to relax. I could have left town already, but it felt right to take it easy. I went for another walk and later had dinner at a place where there were—unsurprisingly—a few mosquitoes around.
Dinner was ndolé, a traditional vegetable dish, along with my favorite plantains—deep-fried and delicious. While waiting for the food, the power went out. It only lasted about ten minutes, which is not unusual. These are the kinds of things you get used to, and most people are prepared for them.
Looking Ahead
All in all, it was a truly awesome day. I learned a great deal, gained new perspectives, and strengthened connections. Looking forward to tomorrow. Thanks for coming along.
