The audiences on Wednesday at the multipurpose Sports Centre in Yaounde, on the occasion of the opening ceremony of the 4th National Games of Cameroon, “Dixiades 2014”, were lucky to be part of the privileged. Especially as the President of the Republic, Paul Biya, was personally represented by the Prime Minister, Head of Government, Philemon Yang.
During this opening ceremony that took almost two hours and was subject to reproduce, on a smaller scale, the symbolism of the Olympic ceremonies. There were of course some technical hiccups, but not enough to start the enthusiasm of athletes from 10 regions of Cameroon and four neighboring countries (Congo, Chad, Central African Republic and Gabon).
So the menu, cultural benefits, an Olympic anthem with entrance of CNOSC flag and the Olympic flame that will remain lit throughout the game, and the swearing in of the participants (athletes, official and coach).
Not to mention a ceremonial stage Speeches precisely, we note a common message: To Hamad Kalkaba Malboum, President of CNOSC, these Games are an opportunity for young people to show their talent to be in the world. Who knows, future sports stars may be found in the dozen delegations.
In any case, for the Minister of Sports and Physical Education, Adoum Garoua, the Dixiades position themselves as "the sieve through which the sporting elite of the future will pass."And it's not Grégoire Owona, General Coordinator of the games, which will complain about the positive developments in the competition since its inception six years ago.
He praised the mastery of the workforce and the many enhancements for this 4th edition. This means that the ball is now in the camp of athletes who are in the best conditions for successful exploits in sport.
Moreover, the competitions started well a few hours before the official opening by the Prime Minister and the first medals are expected on Thursday.
Athletes to make Yaoundé Games a success, all in compliance with the rules, respect for self, respect for opponents of course. As pointed out by the President of CNOSC, the essential thing is not to win but to have fought well.
One last tip Dieudonné Mbarga, representing the government delegate to the Yaounde City Council, "Do not miss the opportunity to have fun." Since December 22, the date of the closing of the festival is not so far away.