Cameroon’s once-unshakable dominance in African volleyball has come under pressure in recent years, prompting a strategic shift through the FIVB Volleyball Empowerment Programme. The West African nation, which proudly represented Africa at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games and clinched three consecutive CAVB African Nations Championship titles in 2017, 2019, and 2021, saw its reign interrupted in 2023 when Kenya claimed the continental crown on Cameroonian soil. Now ranked 43rd globally and second in Africa, Cameroon is determined to reclaim its top spot by revitalizing its women’s national team.
In a bold move, Cameroon appointed Brazilian coach Paulo de Tarso Milagres in March to replace long-serving veteran Jean-René Akono, who led the team for nearly a decade. Backed by an $84,000 investment from the FIVB Coach Support Project, Milagres has begun reshaping the squad ahead of the FIVB World Championship, scheduled from 22 August to 7 September in Thailand. His selection signals a new era, with notable absences including seasoned leaders Simone Bikatal, Stéphanie Fotso Mogoung, and Korea-based Laetitia Moma Bassoko—players who have long been central to Cameroon’s international campaigns.
Milagres has retained key veterans such as setter Henriette Koulla, opposite Estelle Adiana, and middle blocker Emelda Piata to anchor a younger lineup. Cameroon will compete in Pool H alongside defending champions Serbia, Japan, and Ukraine, facing Japan in their opening match on 23 August at the Huamark Indoor Stadium, followed by Serbia on 25 August and Ukraine on 27 August. Despite this being their fifth World Championship appearance, Cameroon enters as the underdog, with the tournament serving as a critical testing ground for Milagres’ new vision and a stepping stone toward the 2026 African Nations Championship, which offers a pathway to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.
Emerging talents like opposite Carine Blamdai and middle blocker Arielle Olomo, who debuted in the 2022 edition, are eager to secure regular starting roles. Outside hitter Brandy Gatcheu, also from the 2022 squad, is poised to fill the void left by Simone Bikatal, while Grace Bikatal, Simone’s younger sister, will compete with Koulla and Yolande Amana for setting responsibilities. Veteran libero Davina Ngameni brings crucial experience to the backcourt and will be relied upon for reception and floor defense as Cameroon aims to make a statement in Thailand. With a blend of youth and experience, the team is embracing a fresh chapter—one that could redefine its legacy on the global stage.