The Member of Parliament for Buea Urban discusses key takeaways from the March parliamentary session and outlines plans to engage constituents on voter education, government initiatives and local development projects.
L’Action: Honourable Malomba, the Speaker expressed satisfaction with the tasks accomplished during this session. What specific achievements are you most proud of, and why?
Hon. Malomba Esembe: I am humbled to have been privileged to actively contribute to a session that was not only productive but also rich in legislative substance. Among the seven bills adopted, I took a particular interest in the one authorizing the President of the Republic to ratify the Cameroon–China tax convention. I rose during plenary to commend the government and sought clarifications on how this agreement would concretely benefit Cameroonian traders and investors, especially the small and medium-sized enterprises who do business with China. It was important, I believe, to ascertain that the bill before adoption would not only strengthen our diplomatic ties with our good friends of China but will also translate into tangible relief for our local economy.
Seven bills were scrutinized and passed during this session. Can you discuss which of the bills you believe will have the most significant impact and why?
While all the bills are important for our nation’s international obligations and domestic advancement, I believe the Cameroon–China tax treaty stands out for its economic relevance. It eliminates the risk of double taxation and establishes frameworks to prevent tax evasion and fraud. For a growing economy like ours, and in a constituency like Buea Urban where entrepreneurial initiatives are blossoming, this bill sends a strong signal that Cameroon is serious about making our business environment more predictable and competitive. Moreover, even more protect investors of both friendly countries. This is a laudable incentive to business.
The Finance and Budget Committee held a seminar to build capacity among its members. How do you think this training will influence the work of parliamentarians moving forward?
The seminar was timely and enriching for members of the Finance Committee. I am sure it deepened their understanding of public finance management, revenue mobilization, and the complex interplay between budgeting and national development priorities. This capacity-building initiative will certainly enhance the quality of debates in committee rooms and on the plenary floor as we go towards the Budgetary Orientation Debate during the upcoming June session and budget scrutiny later in the November session. Though not a member of the committee, I sat through the seminar in the gallery to gain knowledge and skills that will permit me to better scrutinize budget proposals and ensure that public spending aligns with the vision of emergence under the leadership of President Paul Biya.
You participated in a forum on climate finance organized by the parliamentary network. What are the key recommendations that emerged from this forum, and how do you see them being implemented in your constituency?
The forum underscored the need for increased domestic resource mobilization for climate adaptation and mitigation. One strong recommendation was the inclusion of climate-sensitive budgeting at local levels. In Buea Urban, I plan to work closely with local council and civil society to sensitize communities on climate-smart agriculture, renewable energy adoption, and sustainable waste management. I also intend to advocate for targeted government support for youth-led green initiatives, which aligns with the Head of State’s vision of daring, creating, and innovating.
MPs have been urged to preach peace in their constituencies with the approach of the presidential elections. In your view, what role should parliamentarians play in fostering a peaceful political environment?
In my constituency, I will continue to emphasize that democracy is not only about competition but also about coexistence, dialogue, and shared destiny. I will be preaching peace, responsibility, and patriotism, values that His Excellency President Paul Biya has consistently championed. As parliamentarians, we are the voice of the Republic at the grassroots. It is our duty to calm tensions, educate the public on electoral procedures, and promote civic-mindedness. Elections must be moments of unity, not division.
The National Assembly’s new complex has been named the « Paul BIYA Glass House. » How do you perceive the importance of this architectural marvel for the work of the National Assembly?
The Paul Biya Glass House is not just a physical structure. It is a symbol of institutional dignity, continuity, and national pride. Its architectural elegance reflects the vitality of our democracy and President Paul Biya’s foresight in strengthening republican institutions. For us parliamentarians and administrative staff of the National Assembly, it is an inspiring workspace that enhances legislative efficiency, inter-institutional collaboration, and the image of Cameroon on the global stage. It is also eloquent testimony of the efficacy of the diplomacy of President Paul Biya and the excellent relations with his counterpart of the People’s Republic of China the benefactor of the edifice.
What are your personal and professional goals for the upcoming months, particularly regarding your work back in your constituency?
In the weeks ahead, my priority will be to reconnect with my people of Buea Urban after a month long stay in Yaounde. I plan to visit communities, listen attentively to their concerns, and report back as I have been doing, on the work done in their name during the last parliamentary session. My constituency office will remain open and accessible to receive individuals and groups seeking my intervention on diverse issues. I also plan to meet with local leaders, youth groups and other community stakeholders to better understand their challenges and relay those concerns to the appropriate government authorities. This period is not just for reflection but for action, mobilizing our community around voter education, government programs, and local development efforts as we prepare for the next parliamentary session in June. My goal is to continue to serve not just as a representative but as a reliable bridge between the people and the powers that be, always available, always responsive, and always working for the happiness of the people as envisioned by my esteemed party leader and President of the Republic His Excellency Paul Biya
Interview : Chin Claudette