Cameroon Volleyball Captain Speaks Out About Unpaid Bonuses

Awal Said Ahmed Mbutngam, the captain of Cameroon's senior national volleyball team, has publicly voiced his frustration over the team not receiving promised bonuses for their participation in the 2023 African Volleyball Championship (CAN 2023). In a post on social media, Mbutngam revealed that communication between the team and the administration has been cut off for the past 9 months, with no efforts made to address the issue of the unpaid bonuses.

Mbutngam acknowledged the team's patience but emphasized that they now feel compelled to speak out, given the significant sacrifices they have made to represent Cameroon in volleyball. "Our goal is not to create problems or engage in politics, but to use the only available channel to voice our concerns," he stated. The captain also noted that some staff members who are aware of the situation have remained silent.

Cameroon's men's volleyball team, led by Mbutngam and player Steve Boyomo, have exhausted all communication channels with the administration in their efforts to receive the bonuses, but have been met with silence. The players are motivated by a desire for fairness and justice in making their grievances public.

According to the communications manager of the federation, the delay in payment is attributed to the Ministry of Sports, as the federation had already paid a portion of the bonuses. The situation has not only affected the men's volleyball team but also other national teams, including the national handball team and the U20 lionesses, who are also awaiting their bonuses.

Why this matters: The public outcry from Cameroon's national volleyball team captain highlights the ongoing issue of delayed or unpaid bonuses for athletes representing their country. This situation emphasizes the need for improved communication and timely fulfillment of financial obligations by sports administrations to ensure the well-being and motivation of national team players.

Mbutngam's public statement sheds light on the challenges faced by Cameroon's national volleyball team in receiving their rightful compensation. The team's decision to speak out, despite potential consequences, reflects their frustration and the importance they place on being treated fairly for their efforts in representing Cameroon on the international stage. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the administration will respond to the team's grievances and whether a resolution will be reached to address the unpaid bonuses not only for the volleyball team but also for other affected national teams.

Key Takeaways

• Cameroon volleyball team captain voices frustration over unpaid bonuses.
• Communication with administration cut off for 9 months, no resolution.
• Team exhausted all channels, met with silence, seeks fairness and justice.
• Delay attributed to Ministry of Sports, affecting other national teams.
• Highlights need for timely compensation and improved communication for athletes.