U.S. – Cameroon to promote education through basketball

On September 16, the U.S. Embassy in Yaoundé welcomed Mr. Yves Tsala, Regional President of The Cameroon Basketball Federation (FECABASKET) for the Centre Region, to discuss the United States’ interest in partnering with Cameroonians in promoting education through sports.

Mr. Tsala was met by Public Affairs Officer Roberto Quiroz II, Cultural Affairs Specialist Gladys Viban, Cultural Affairs Assistant Gerald Chilla, and Education USA Advisor Richard Ewane.

During their discussion, Mr. Tsala outlined his organization’s mission to expand basketball clinics throughout the country in order to increase the participation of young men and women in the sport.

“We believe in expanding our partnership with National Basketball Association (NBA) players and Cameroonian coaches, whose participation in our events would lend unparalleled expertise and prestige as they are role models for all citizens.

We also believe in expanding our partnership with Cameroonian boys and girls to promote basketball because the teamwork of the sport will help them become better citizens.”

Mr. Quiroz and the U.S. Embassy staff lauded FECABASKET and the Ministry of Sports for their vision and determination to serve the youth, adding: “As Ambassador Michael S. Hoza has said, promoting basketball diplomacy programs for youth in partnership with leaders like you is one of his top priorities in Cameroon.

As you noted, the lessons learned through basketball – teamwork, perseverance, dedication, learning how to win, how to lose, and how to compete again with sportsmanlike spirit - are all essential tools towards attaining an education. We look forward to our strengthened partnership and cooperation!”

Sports Diplomacy has emerged as an integral part of efforts to build ever-strengthening relations between the United States and other nations.

Sports diplomacy uses the universal passion for sports as a way to transcend linguistic and sociocultural differences and bring people together.

Participation in sports teaches leadership, teamwork, and communication skills that help young people succeed in all areas of their lives.