Cameroonian writer Calixte Awondo presented and dedicated her book "My Passion, My Country" at the National Museum of Yaoundé on Thursday, February 19, 2026. The event took place in a warm atmosphere, in the presence of her family, friends, and representatives of the Ministry of Arts and Culture.
"My Passion, My Country" is more than just an autobiography. This 200-page story traces Calixte Awondo's journey from her birth in Gabon to her jubilee in France, while addressing the political and social realities of Cameroon. In it, the author shares her life experience, her marriage, her motherhood, and her deep attachment to the traditions of her country. Above all, she wishes to share her experience and testify to her commitment to Cameroon.
Born in Mvog Mbi, Calixte Awondo expressed her love for her native land, a commitment she has demonstrated for more than 30 years through her work with street children via the Bernède Foundation. This foundation takes care of the basic needs of these children, providing them with housing, food, clothing, and education. For Calixte Awondo, this is an investment in the future of the country.
Her return to Cameroon is motivated by a desire to present herself again and explain her projects, particularly in the social and humanitarian field. She recognizes that she cannot change mindsets on her own and calls for collaboration with her compatriots to lift Cameroon out of poverty.
Calixte Awondo insists that this return is also linked to a call from her ancestors and the need to preserve her heritage and land in Cameroon, despite a comfortable life in France. Her book is an invitation to the Cameroonian diaspora to engage positively in the development of the country.
"My Passion, My Country" is available in several bookstores for 5000 FCFA. This autobiographical account testifies to Calixte Awondo's long-standing commitment to Cameroon, motivated by a deep love and a desire to help the most vulnerable populations. Her book advocates an honest and realistic approach to the challenges facing Cameroon, recognizing the need to confront realities in order to progress. Family ties, ancestral ties, and a sense of belonging to her Cameroonian land are the driving forces that prompted her to return.
The work is seen as a contribution to a "positive diaspora", focused on constructive actions for Cameroon.
