Cameroon’s northern regions have emerged as a powerful centre for volleyball development in recent years, forming a crucial part of the national federation’s strategic vision. Under the leadership of FECAVOLLEY President Bello Bourdanne, the Grand North regions—comprising the North, Far North, and Adamawa—have become essential to expanding the sport’s footprint across the country.
“The Septentrion occupies a place of choice in our vision of popularisation and promotion of volleyball throughout the national triangle,” explains Dr. Deris Ngeh Meh, Assistant Secretary General of the Cameroon Volleyball Federation (FECAVOLLEY). “We aim to visit the Septentrion once a year, though budget constraints sometimes affect this schedule.”
The federation’s commitment to northern development was demonstrated by its presence in Ngaoundéré in March-April 2023. Plans to host the Cameroon Cup qualifying rounds in Maroua this year were delayed due to facility readiness, but Dr. Ngeh Meh assures that “this project remains close to our heart” and will proceed once installation work is completed.
Growing Numbers and Competition Structure
Currently, FECAVOLLEY boasts 278 licensed players for the current season, with potential for over 300 as licenses remain valid for two years. The national championship structure includes seven men’s and six women’s teams in League 1, complemented by three men’s and four women’s teams in League 2.
The northern presence is evident with teams like Mayo Kani Evolution competing at the highest level in both men’s and women’s divisions, while Vélodrome Volleyball from Adamawa participates in the women’s League 2.
The federation organises a comprehensive competition calendar including senior championships, the Cameroon Cup, veterans’ competitions, and youth tournaments. A special focus has been placed on youth development, with competitions organised at departmental, regional, and sectoral levels before culminating in national championships. The most recent youth finals were held April 11-13, 2025, at Japoma in the Littoral region and saw the victory of sector 1 (Extreme North and North) in the male category.
Infrastructure Challenges and Solutions
One of the primary challenges facing volleyball development nationwide is infrastructure. “Volleyball is an elite sport, and this elitism comes with infrastructural needs,” notes Dr. Ngeh Meh.
Dr Deris Ngeh Meh, Deputy Secretary General of Cameroon’s Volleyball Federation
The federation commits to playing only on facilities meeting minimum standards, particularly for outdoor venues. Where necessary, FECAVOLLEY allocates resources to upgrade facilities like those at CENAJES in Bertoua and the Professional Training Excellence Centre in Sangmelima.
“At each competition, we must reinforce lines, repaint posts, and enhance lighting when playing indoors,” Dr. Ngeh Meh adds. “It’s not easy, but we strive to offer the best to our athletes.”
Future Prospects
The 2023-2024 season has seen promising developments with new teams challenging the established order in Cameroonian volleyball. The federation is identifying talented prospects to strengthen international representation.
Looking ahead, FECAVOLLEY is focused on addressing technical gaps observed in young players who have been elevated to higher levels before completing fundamental training. The federation remains optimistic about Cameroon’s prospects for the 2026 African Championships and is preparing meticulously for the upcoming Women’s World Championship, with hopes of qualifying for the 2028 Olympic Games.
