For many of the guests, it was more than a ceremonial appointment; it was one of the most anticipated moments of the year.
Dresed in their finest gowns, tai- lored suits and elegant traditional wear, they stepped into a décor worthy of a festival, an explosion of pink, red, white and orange flowers announcing that this was a day of joy. As in previous years, the mythical and his- toric Unity Palace welcomed its guests with warmth. From the early hours, laughter, smiles and excitement filled the air as visitors took turns on January 9 to greet the First Lady. Each appearance of Chantal Biya was met with applause, cheers and ululations, to which she re- sponded with her trademark broad smile and generous waves, sometimes with both hands, reinforcing the spirit of closeness The ceremony unfolded like a grand communion. Far from being a distant fig- ure, the First Lady embodied a familiar presence – a woman whose humanitarian commitment to the most vulnerable con- tinues to inspire. Away from the cameras, exchanges flowed naturally, especially with the spouses of accredited diplomats, who opened the ceremony under the leadership of Jones Josephs Langa, spouse of the South African High Com- missioner to Cameroon.
Women from national institutions, public and semi-public enterprises, political and associative circles, trade unions and civil society followed, all sharing the same en- thusiasm. Photojournalists captured these precious moments, preserving memories of a celebration where protocol gave way to human warmth.
The feast extended beyond greetings. Guests were treated to a rich luncheon featuring a variety of dishes, with local cuisine taking pride of place. Music soon took over, transforming the palace grounds into a dance floor. Renowned artists such as K-Tino, Salle John, Calvino, Blacky Star, Vanister and Jean- Philippe Ahanda thrilled the crowd, re- viving familiar rhythms and drawing guests into spontaneous dancing.
As tradition dictates, souvenir gifts were offered to each guest, a final touch that reinforced the spirit of sharing. The cel- ebration ended as it began: with close- ness. The First Lady’s final walk through the crowd, exchanging smiles and greet- ings, brought the festive gathering to a warm and memorable close.
For one day, the Unity Palace truly lived up to its name, becoming not just a seat of power, but a house of shared happiness, where the New Year was celebrated as a people’s feast.
Jude VIBAN
