The Standard and Quality Agency (ANOR) has equipped journalists with essential knowledge about reporting on the standards and quality of products in Cameroon, aimed at increasing consumer awareness.
On December 18, over 37 journalists from private and public media organisations convened at the Welcome Garden Hotel in Soa, Yaounde, for the training.
At the opening of the event, ANOR representative Jean Matine Etoundi explained that the training was designed to guide media professionals in their reporting on product quality, ultimately protecting Cameroonian consumers.
He emphasised several key elements regarding normalisation, including how it is adopted, the major steps involved, and the roles of those who develop norms at both national and international levels. According to him, well-informed journalists will be better positioned to safeguard consumers from counterfeit products.
International Organisation for Standardisation expert, Jean Marie Mbolo, also provided insights into the evolution of standardisation and quality in Cameroon. Notably, he pointed out that ANOR was established in 2009 by President Paul Biya. Since its inception, ANOR has distinguished itself by operating in an impartial, open, transparent, and responsible manner.
In line with one of ANOR’s missions—contributing to the development and implementation of the government’s policy on standardisation and quality—Jean Matine highlighted that ANOR’s primary aim is to protect Cameroonian consumers.
ANOR plays a pivotal role in developing a quality infrastructure tailored to Cameroon’s ambitions, laying the groundwork for excellence across political, economic, social, and cultural realms. It serves as a tool and a standardisation platform that fosters a culture of quality within society.
As the body responsible for developing and approving standards, ANOR is focused on certifying conformity to these standards and promoting a quality-oriented approach among public and semi-public administrations and private sector organisations.
Looking ahead, ANOR plans to organise another seminar in 2026, where various documents will be provided. These resources will be offered to media personnel and will contain precise information on standardisation and quality norms, benefiting Cameroonian consumers and all socio-economic actors.