Editorial: The Relevance of CBCHS’ Mission and Vision

The Good Book says, “Where there is no vision, the people perish" - Proverbs 29:18. The importance of mission and vision for the health of any Organization cannot be over-emphasized! More

A Mission statement defines the primary objective of an organization; the business, products or services, and customers. It provides detailed information about what the organization does, how it does, and who it does it for. So indeed, it helps focus the Organization on what really matters - to itself as well as to its stakeholders. Whereas, the Vision statement focuses on its goals and aspirations, which describes how the future will look if the organization achieves its mission. The mission and vision of any veritable organization should be timeless.

The vision and mission statements provide a focal point that helps to align everyone with the organization, thus ensuring that everyone is working towards a single purpose. This helps to increase efficiency and productivity in the organization. (From Blog Article by Colour Infusion, Cochrane AB - https://colourinfusion.ca)

Not having clear mission and vision statements would be like going on a journey without knowing the direction you are to follow or the destination.

The CBC Health Services is a Nonprofit, Faith-based, Humanitarian and Inclusive healthcare Organization that addresses both clinical, social, and public health problems affecting individuals and communities in Cameroon in particular and Africa at large. It is one of the departments of the Cameroon Baptist Convention (CBC). CBC founded in 1954 is a living fellowship of churches growing in grace, strengthening one another in faith and working together in obedience to the Great Commandment and the Great Commission of Jesus Christ through worship, preaching, teaching, healing and social ministries. (www.cbc-cm.org).

Quality care to all!

The Cameroon Baptist Convention Health Service (CBCHS) has as mission to provide care to all who need it as an expression of Christian love and as a means of witness in order that, they might be brought to God through Jesus Christ. Thus, the CBCHB shall provide exemplary Health care with genuine compassion and with overriding purpose of evangelical witness. This is drawn from Matthew 9:35-36. Her vision is, “Quality care to all”.

The CBCHS since its establishment has been operating in Cameroon striving to further her mission and by no means deviating from it. They strive to PROVIDE CARE TO ALL WHO NEED IT AS AN EXPRESSION OF CHRISTIAN LOVE AND AS A MEANS OF WITNESS. If you go through the Scripture, Jesus ministered to all – those with leprosy, the prostitutes - I mean all who were rejected in the society; even those who hated Him. He had a goal in mind, His goal was the salvation of mankind. As the arm of the church, the CBC Health Services seeks to provide Care to all who need it as an expression of this Christian love and equally as a means of evangelical witness. Jesus fully aware that Judas Iscariot would later betray Him did not disown him but ministered to him as well.

Quality care to all!

The CBCHS has stood the test of time even in the current crisis situation; She has never deviated from providing care to all who need it. She has been seen in hard-to-reach areas. This is because, she developed a clear sense of her values even before the crisis. CBC Health Services' mission statement indicates a clear concern regarding a commitment to "quality and maintaining the highest standards of honesty and integrity in its dealings with all stakeholders”.

We equally praise God for the transformational leaders in the CBC Health Services who inspire, energize, and intellectually stimulate and stir employees to look beyond their own self-interest for the benefit of individual work groups and the organization as a whole.

The CBC Health Services has used her mission statement as a constant guide for her actions. She is out to satisfy customers’ needs. The mission of the CBCHS is clear: equality ("the proposition that all men are created equal and in the image of God")

Persevering through tragedy is not easy. The CBCHS has not let her shortcomings to keep her from her work. Staying true to her mission and vision has kept her in focus to learn from any challenges and sailing through when and where many are failing!!!
Baptist Vocational Training Centre (BVTC) Graduates 2023 Batches

The event took place on November 31, 2023, at the Baptist Center Nkwen, Bamenda during a common meal between the school administration More

and the graduating trainees. The graduating batch comes from two sections of the school; the Hotel Management class and the Industrial class.

According to the Principal of BVTC, Mr. Kimbi Peter, 27 candidates are graduating from Hotel Management and Catering Services as the 4th Batch while 21 trainees are graduating as the 16th Batch of the Industrial training. Some of the graduates also wrote the National Examination on teaching, bar, and restaurants management.

Administrator of TSD challenging graduands to be job creators

The Principal disclosed that all the trainees scored a hundred percent success at the internal examination and he envisages a positive outcome when the national results are released. Mr. Kimbi encouraged the trainees to apply to work with the CBC Health Services catering service department and to any other places they might love to work in.

In response, the graduating trainees expressed their appreciation to the administration for organizing the training and giving them the opportunity to be trained. They pledged to put into use the skills they have acquired.

The Industrial Batch of the Graduating Class (standing)

To the Administrator of the Technical Services Department (TSD), Dr. Nyuonguo Kenneth, the trainees who have undergone a one-year training made of theory, practical sessions and internships in reputable establishments in major cities in Cameroon are well equipped to offer quality catering services in hotel management, catering and hospitality industry. He encouraged them to be job creators and to make a difference in the hospitality industry which is experiencing falling standards in the country, by applying the sound teachings and practical experience they have acquired during their training. “Value your skills,” the TSD Administrator advised.

The next batch of trainees are currently undergoing training at the Training Center in Nkwen Bamenda.
MIVA, Liliana Foundation donate Vehicle to Emmanuel Sisterhood to empower Vulnerable Rural Communities

In a heartwarming act of generosity, MIVA, an international organization dedicated to supporting development projects in developing countries, More

and the Liliana Foundation, through the EDID Program, have donated a vehicle to the Emmanuel Sisterhood of the Bafut Prowess. The vehicle will be instrumental in enabling the Emmanuel Sisters to reach vulnerable rural persons and provide them with essential services.

The Emmanuel Sisters are a dedicated group of women who have committed their lives to serving the most marginalized communities. They work tirelessly to provide healthcare, education, and other vital services to those in need. With this new vehicle, the Emmanuel Sisters will be able to expand their reach and provide even greater assistance to those they serve, making sure they can reach everyone in need.

Deputy Director, Mr Warri Denis handing over keys to the Emmanuel Sisters

“We are incredibly grateful for the generosity of MIVA and the Liliana Foundation,” said Sister Shalom of the Emmanuel Sisterhood. “This vehicle will make a world of difference in our ability to reach those in need and provide them with the essential services they deserve.”

The CBC Health Services Deputy Director of Administration and Finance, Mr. Warri Denis, echoed Sister Shalom’s sentiments, commending the Emmanuel Sisters for their dedication in serving others. “We are proud to see the Emmanuel Sisters receive the support they deserve, to continue in their important work,” he said. “This vehicle is a symbol of our joint commitment to helping those in need.”

The EDID Program Manager, Mrs. Agho Glory also expressed her satisfaction with the ongoing work of the Sisters and expressed gratitude to MIVA and the Liliana Foundation for their generous donation. “This vehicle will be a valuable asset to the Emmanuel Sisters and the communities they serve,” she said. “We are grateful for their partnership.” She further reiterated the commitment of the CBC Health Services as a Strategic Partner Organisation to MIVA, to continually support her Partner Organisations in the process of seeking, acquiring, and properly utilizing the resources needed to provide care to the vulnerable populations.

Prayer of dedication offered for good use of vehicle

The Emmanuel Sisters, who have faced difficulties in reaching vulnerable children in remote areas, expressed their appreciation to the EDID Program for assisting them in getting the funding, and to the MIVA for considering their request valid enough.

“This vehicle will allow us to reach children in need who have never had access to basic healthcare services,” said one of the Emmanuel Sisters. “We are so grateful for the generosity of MIVA and the Liliana Foundation.”

The donation of the vehicle is a testament to the ongoing commitment of MIVA and the Liliana Foundation to supporting vulnerable communities around the world. With this new vehicle, the Emmanuel Sisters will be able to continue their important work of providing essential services to those in need.
A New Dawn for Rehabilitation Services in Cameroon: Baptist School of Public Health Celebrates the Graduation of Multi-skilled Rehabilitation Technicians and Community-Based Rehabilitation Workers

In a landmark achievement, the Baptist School of Public Health (BSPH) proudly celebrated the graduation of its inaugural cohort More

of Multiskilled Rehabilitation Technicians (MRTs) and Community-Based Rehabilitation (CBR) workers, in Palais de Sport Yaounde on November 24, 2023. This momentous occasion, held under the esteemed Minister of Social Affairs’ patronage, marked a pivotal step in addressing the shortage of qualified rehabilitation professionals in Cameroon and expanding access to quality rehabilitation services for persons with disabilities.

The colourful graduation is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the graduates and proof of the significant partnership between the Ministry of Social Affairs and the CBC Health Services, with important funding from the Liliana Foundation and AFAS Foundation through the EDID program. This also marks a significant milestone in the school's commitment to empowering individuals to provide quality rehabilitation services to those in need.

Leaders of MINAS and CBC witnessing the ceremony

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 15% of the world's population, or one billion people live with disabilities. In Cameroon, statistics indicate that 5.4% of the population, or approximately 1.4 million people live with disabilities. This translates to a significant need for qualified rehabilitation professionals to provide essential services to this underserved population.

Gracing the occasion as the chief guest, the Minister of Social Affairs who commended the BSPH for its commitment in nurturing a cadre of skilled rehabilitation professionals, highlighting the crucial role they play in promoting inclusive and accessible societies. "With the number of persons with disabilities, we have in the country and the limited number of centers or institutions skilled enough to cater for their welfare, the graduation of these MRTs and CBR workers is a significant milestone in our efforts to strengthen the rehabilitation workforce and improve the lives of individuals with disabilities. They are filling an important gap. In 2019, Cameroon recorded just 250 physiotherapists which is a very low value compared to the number of persons with disabilities. I advise you to be worthy professionals willing to change the lives of these persons for the better and bring smiles to the faces of families with this target group," the Minister encouraged.

Award of certificates by H.E. the Minister of Social Affairs

Echoing the Minister's sentiments, the Executive President of the Cameroon Baptist Convention (CBC), Rev. Dr. Nditemeh Charlemagne applauded the graduates for their unwavering commitment to serving others, emphasizing the importance of Godly compassion and empathy in the field of rehabilitation. "Your work extends beyond technical expertise; it is a calling to make a difference in the lives of others," the Executive President declared.

In a heartfelt address, the Director of Health Services praised the graduates for choosing to delve into rehabilitation, emphasizing the importance of delivering quality care to all, especially to persons with disabilities. "You must shine the light and be a beacon of hope to these persons. This is a higher calling and you have been taught the necessary skills to bring about positive change in Cameroon and the world," Prof. Tih Pius stated.

Young student with a disability, proof of hard work by CBR student, now worker

A young university student who went through many perils as a child with a disability was presented to the entire public. She was identified by a CBR worker when she could not walk, abandoned by her family due to a mobility impairment and with the help of the EDID Program funded by the Liliane Foundation and AFAS Foundation, she can now walk with assistance, is an honor roll student in the university and has won the Miss Easter competition in school. She is proof of the work done by the rehabilitation technicians.

The graduation ceremony is evidence of the unwavering dedication and resilience of the graduates, who have undergone rigorous training in various aspects of rehabilitation, for a wide range of conditions. The MRT program equips graduates with the skills to work in community and primary healthcare settings, providing essential rehabilitation services to children and adults with disabilities. The CBR program emphasizes the importance of community engagement and collaboration, empowering graduates to work alongside community members to identify and refer individuals with disabilities to appropriate services.

Director of CBCHS Pr Tih Pius Muffih welcoming H.E. Mme Pauline Irene Nguene to the graduation ground

The graduation of the first batch of Multiskilled Rehabilitation Technicians (MRTs) and Community-Based Rehabilitation (CBR) workers is not merely the culmination of a training program; it is the dawn of a new era in the landscape of rehabilitation services in Cameroon. Their expertise and dedication will undoubtedly make a profound impact on the lives of individuals with disabilities, creating a more inclusive and accessible society for all. As these graduates embark on their professional journeys, they carry with them the hopes and aspirations of those they will serve, empowered to transform lives and ignite a beacon of hope for a brighter future.
Prof. Tih Communes with CBC Health Services Leaders for the Last Time as Director

The fellowship was pregnant, yet only the Director of Health Services (DHS), Prof. Tih Pius Muffih More
could midwife the baby in his speech when he took to the rostrum. The speech, presented here in its entirety, serves as an appraisal of his journey as DHS together with the leaders in the hall. Like Jesus and his 12 disciples at the Last Supper table, Prof. Tih congratulates the leaders for their exceptional quality. He also encourages them through a clear road map. Feed your eyes and minds in the wisdom in the following speech….

A SPEECH FROM THE DIRECTOR OF HEALTH SERVICES DURING THE FELLOWSHIP MEAL IN MVAN WEDNESDAY 22^ND NOVEMBER 2023.

Tih Pius Muffih, Director

My dear leaders of the CBC Health Services.

Welcome to this unique opportunity which brings together the cream of our beloved Department of Health Services. Many of you traveled to Yaounde last week but some of you came just yesterday to be a part of this fellowship. I asked that you be invited to come so that we can share a meal, share a smile, share in prayers, and above all, participate in a Lord Supper service to mark the end of our goals and budget session for 2023. The fellowship is also to mark the end of the year 2023. More importantly, it is one of the symbolic events that led to my formal end of service as the Director of Health Services. There will be other opportunities to meet again but this is most significant. It is not every time that a team of seasoned leaders of this nature assemble to fellowship.

You are a special team and I feel that it is an honor to address a team that consistently demonstrates dedication, innovation, and a shared commitment to our mission and vision. I want to extend a warm welcome to each one of you and to ask that you greet everyone sitting by you very warmly. Fellowship with one another and share information freely.

As a system, we have done well over the years despite the different challenges that we have faced. It is not enough to succeed but more important to sustain the success over time.

The CBC Health Department is an example of a successful health system in Cameroon and the question is, “FOR HOW LONG WILL THIS SUCCESS LAST?” We have built a great health system together and should sustain it together. We have heard a lot and seen pictures of failed health systems mostly church run hospitals. Faith-based organizations (FBO) health services that have been the hope of the poor currently face many challenges and some have declined in quality and quantity. The transition from missionary to national leadership has witnessed a tremendous discordance in leadership styles and philosophies. The missionaries were fully devoted and needed no supervision to perform their duties. There was no power tussle, no hierarchy, and God was seen as the owner or Proprietor of the services they rendered. At moment the struggle for positions within the church is visible and on the increase. It is a pity that poor patients, suffering patients, should be funding administration, and giving other benefits to keep healthy people healthier. What a pity! What a shame! If this trend continues then more and more church run health services will collapse. There are many negative forces fighting to destroy what is working. What should we do? My beloved servants of the Lord do not blame the darkness, light the candle.

Visionary leadership will keep us focused on the path of success and ensure sustainability. We have all it takes to the light shining in a spirit of love, compassion, and unity. We have the old and the new people in place that know where we have come from and where we are now as well as where we should aim at being in future. No one should be left behind. Do all to bring on board all stakeholders to reason together and sustain the gains of the CBC Health Department.

Some of the people may not be workers of the CBC Health Department but they are all important if they buy into our mission and vision and feel committed and ready to sacrifice for the sustainability of the CBC Health Department. There is strength in unity, there is success in synergy. We are stronger together. We must put away tribal sentiments and adopt the spirit of brotherhood.

The CBC health department has survived the post-missionary era, the post-1994 currency devaluation, the post-HIV pandemic of 1981 to 2023, the post-Anglophone war of 2016 to 2023, and the post-COVID-19 pandemic of 2019 to 2022. We need to pray more and add strategies and resilience to survive the challenges that plague the church and the health sector in Cameroon and Africa.

I encourage all of you to be servant leaders. You are all visionary and God-fearing leaders. That is what is helping us to succeed. Such leaders are not appointed as a favour or to please a particular tribe. A leadership position should be an opportunity to be a servant of all and to serve God and mankind. Leaders should be chosen because of the content of their character, commitment to God, proven performance, proven experience in the field, honesty, integrity, balanced mind in decision making, and the sacrifices they make. It is important to separate tribal sentiments from the choice of servant leaders. Everyone wants to be in charge but not everyone is a leader. We all have different gifts and if you do not have the gift of leadership, you still have another gift. No one is without a gift. Find out where your gifts are.

My beloved leaders of the CBC Health Services,

As we stand at the summit of our collective achievements in the health system in Cameroon, I want to charge each and every one of you with the responsibility and honor of sustaining the gains and successes we have built together.

The journey to this point has been marked by dedication, resilience, and a shared commitment to improving healthcare outcomes for our community.

Here are my charges to you:
1. Mission and Vision: Keep to our mission and vision. Do not deviate from the them nor from our policies. Respect them and defend them always.
1. Caretakers of Compassion: In healthcare, compassion is as vital as medical expertise. Continue to be caretakers of compassion—embrace empathy, kindness, and understanding in your interactions with patients, their families, and each other. Our ability to provide not just medical care but compassionate care is at the core of our sustained success.
2. Guardians of Excellence: Consider yourselves guardians of the excellence we have achieved. Uphold the highest standards in patient care, service delivery, and professionalism. Each interaction matters, and it is through our collective commitment to excellence that we will sustain the trust and confidence of those we serve. Quality care to all should be always our vision.
3. Custodians of Innovation: The world is ever-evolving, and so must we. Embrace innovation in your respective roles—seek out new ideas, technologies, and processes that can enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of our services. Sustainability is not just about preserving resources; it's about evolving to meet the needs of the present and future. Innovation has been the heartbeat of our progress. Embrace a culture of continuous improvement. Challenge the status quo, be open to change, and strive for innovation in every aspect of our work.
4. Champions of Collaboration: We are a system. The CBCHS is one and indivisible. Our successes are the fruits of collaboration and teamwork. Be champions of collaboration within and beyond your respective roles. Break down barriers, share knowledge, and work seamlessly across departments. Our ability to collaborate determines our capacity to address complex healthcare challenges and sustain our impact. Our strength lies in our unity. Foster open communication and collaboration within and between teams. Share your insights, experiences, and ideas. By working together, we can ensure that our services remain not only sustainable but also adaptable to the changing landscape.
5. Stewards of Resources: Sustainability is not just about maintaining our achievements but also about being responsible stewards of the resources entrusted to us. Be mindful of resource utilization, minimize waste, and explore maximum use of resources. This stewardship extends to both financial resources and the environmental footprint of our operations.
6. Guardians of Community Health: Our impact extends beyond the walls of our facilities. Be vigilant guardians of community health. Engage with the community, understand their needs, and actively contribute to initiatives that promote overall well-being. A thriving community is the ultimate measure of our sustained success.
7. Leaders in Education and professional growth: Share your knowledge and expertise generously. Be leaders in education, both within our organization and in the broader healthcare community. By fostering a culture of continuous learning and knowledge-sharing, we contribute to the growth and resilience of the entire healthcare ecosystem.
Our ability to provide cutting-edge services is directly linked to the skills and knowledge of our team. Invest in your professional growth and encourage your colleagues to do the same. Attend workshops, pursue certifications, and stay informed about health trends. A well-equipped team is essential for sustaining excellence.
1. Cultivate a Culture of Sustainability: Sustainability is not a one-time effort; it's a mindset. Let us collectively commit to integrating sustainable practices into our daily operations. From reducing waste to optimizing energy consumption, each small step contributes to the greater goal of a sustainable future.
2. Listen to Our Stakeholders: Our services impact a wide range of stakeholders, from clients to the communities we serve. Actively listen to their needs, feedback, and concerns. By understanding and responding to the voices of those we serve, we ensure that our services remain relevant, impactful, and sustainable.
Ladies and Gentlemen,

In taking up these charges, remember that each one of you plays a crucial role in the continued success of our CBC health system. Together, let us not just sustain the gains we've made but build upon them for a future where healthcare excellence is not just a goal but a constant reality.

I want to take a moment to express my deepest appreciation for each one of you. Your unwavering dedication to providing exceptional healthcare has left an indelible mark on our community and has been a source of inspiration for me and for many.

Together, we've faced challenges, celebrated victories, and, most importantly, made a difference in the lives of those we serve.

The compassion, skill, and professionalism you bring to your roles are the foundation of our success, and I am truly honored to have had the privilege of leading and working alongside such an exceptional group of healthcare providers.

As I move on to new roles, I carry with me the memories of the meaningful moments we've shared and the profound impact we've had on the health and well-being of our community. While I may be leaving this role, please know that the bonds we've forged will always hold a special place in my heart. I will not be far from you. I remain a part of you in this noble service.

I want to express my gratitude for the remarkable work each of you contributes to our shared mission and vision. Together, let us continue to build a legacy of sustainability, innovation, and service excellence. I am confident that the passion and expertise you bring will continue to drive us forward.

As I conclude, please be reminded that the CBC Health Board will be electing a new Director of Health services in December. We are talking about sustainability and I want to say “There is no success without a successor”. I have been preparing many leaders including you. Jesus prepared twelve leaders, but he pointed to Peter as the leader of the disciples. He could have appointed John. Peter was not without fault. Peter was weak and would even deny Jesus but neither Jesus nor the disciples refused Peter as a leader. God looks at the heart and will choose he who is willing not the perfect person. We are all weak vessels in His hand. The disciples knew that Jesus chose Peter as their leader. Jesus himself publicly declared his choice of Peter to the hearing of all the disciples. I may not do that, but I expect all of you to know who the Peter is and will give your full support to him or her when the time comes, and when the Board decides. I am not imposing on the Board. The Board has its own criteria to use.

I do not pray to be here much longer but whether I am here or not, I want to hear good news and the observance of the love we have shared over the years.

I have a supportive role that will be very beneficial to the entire CBCHS and to the CBC as a whole. Pray only for good health. I will be here with you. Fear not.

I have the utmost confidence in each one of you and the continued success of our healthcare team. Your commitment to excellence and patient care is unmatched, and I have no doubt that you will continue to thrive and make a positive difference in the lives of those who rely on our services. Do not blame the darkness, light the candle. Keep the light burning. To God be the glory.

In His service, Tih Pius Muffih
Ekoumdoum Baptist Hospital acquires 20 Computers to boost Electronic Hospital Record

Nowadays, computers are used in various fields because of their characteristics and powerful functionalities. More

Computer plays an important role in various fields such as educational institutions, entertainment, homes, medical, businesses, government offices, research organizations, and many more.

Computers play an important role in almost every field and make our day-to-day tasks more manageable. In previous times, computers were only used to perform complex numerical calculations, but they have reached too far and now perform many different roles. Now computers are performing diverse set of functions from complex calculations to generating business reports, development to entertainment, programming, etc.

In this line, Ekoumdoum Baptist Hospital acquired 20 new laptops on November 27, 2023 in order to replace the old ones and solve the difficulties link to EHR (Electronic Health Record) in the various departments. The presentation of this new equipment was done by the Administrator of Ekoumdoum Baptist Hospital, Mr. Jonathan Nteff and the prayer of dedication by Mrs. Ndive Marie.

Since then, the computers are radically changing the diagnosis methods in the facility. They are used for multiple tasks such as maintaining the information of patients, records, live monitoring of patients, X-rays, and many more.

The new system enables doctors to exchange the data of patients easily with other medical specialists. These are some major advantages of the EHR in the facility: