The 1st of May, date dedicated to the labor day in most countries of the world for almost half a decade, was rich in actions, colors and emotions this year again at ONACAM. Honor to the workers for their hard work and solemn occasion for the hierarchy of ONACAM to encourage its staff and recognize their merits and their contribution in improving the services of the Office.

It is in this vein that ONACAM joined the rest of the international community on Monday, May 1, 2023 to celebrate the 137th edition of the International Labor Day.  The theme chosen for this edition: "Resilience and decent work: acting together in the world of work to improve living conditions and social inclusion" is very evocative and awakens the professional consciousness of workers within the structure.

In Yaoundé, the Boulevard du 20 Mai was the setting for the great parade of workers presided over by the Minister of Labor and Social Security, His Excellency Grégoire OWONA.

This march was attended by several administrations, public establishments and private structures from all sectors of activity. The National Office for Veterans, Former Military Personnel and Victims of War of Cameroon (ONACAM) was part of the event; among the marchers were the staff of ONACAM, proud to participate in this celebration.

After the big march on the Boulevard du 20 Mai, the staff was treated to a cocktail offered by the Director General. Two highlights marked this reception: the speeches of Mr. Akono Arsène, Head of the Human Resources Office and Colonel Alfred FULLER, Director General of ONACAM.

In his speech, the head of Human Resources noted that at one time, the celebration of International Labor Day was an opportunity for staff to present a series of claims to the hierarchy; today the complaints have decreased because some requests have begun to succeed. They are summarized in the improvement of the social climate, the raising of the standard of living of each person and the general improvement of the working conditions; for proof, the personnel benefited from an improvement of the wages which are regularly paid. The problems of the CNPS are gradually being solved. Some staff who have submitted their periodic documents receive family allowances; the same is true of pensioners. The careers are a little more followed and the related benefits are taken into account without forgetting the bonuses granted from time to time to motivate the staff who invest in their work. In addition, we can also note the appointments and assignments made last year and the election of staff delegates, to mention only these points. For all these reasons, the head of Human Resources presented, on behalf of the staff, his thanks to the Director General for the improvements made and reiterated the commitment of the staff to respect professional ethics in order to achieve performance.

The Director General, COLONEL ® Alfred FULLER, happy to be with his collaborators on the occasion of this celebration said, and I quote: "This is a special day that celebrates the worker for his merits and his contribution to the structure. I would like to take this solemn opportunity to congratulate you, who never cease to invest in improving the quality of the services we offer to our members. It is also my duty as Director General of this institution, to castigate the behaviour of those of you who are slow or unwilling to join the train of change in behaviour and mentalities.

Top management recognises the many efforts made by the staff on a daily basis. ONACAM has made significant progress, particularly in terms of the massive support of its members and the trust they place in the Office, the result of effective and efficient support and assistance that is in line with the government's objectives set out in the 2020-2023 strategic development plan, particularly the improvement of assistance and support for its members with a view to ensuring their well-being and health.

The theme of this year's edition should challenge every employee of the Office in the way they serve and their ability to overcome certain situations, especially pressure. Thus, it is important, even necessary, to promote synergy and to improve the relationship between employers and employees in order to overcome the challenges and difficulties encountered. Every worker should be able to carry out a productive and well-paid activity and should enjoy social protection, in a working environment that meets safety and health requirements.

After the speeches, a gourmet dinner was held at the end of this celebration, which was enlivened by the musical sounds of the region, much to the delight of ONACAM workers.

(é) Carole TCHAPTCHET TEUPA
CELCOM/ONACAM