The funeral date for Foly Dirane, an emblematic figure in Cameroonian communication, has now been set. According to a family statement, the funeral ceremonies will take place during the first week of June 2026 in his native village of Bangoulap, near Bangangté. The announcement puts an end to a period of uncertainty following the host's death on March 26, 2026, at the Yaoundé General Hospital.
A crucial family meeting, held in Yaoundé on March 29, helped to smooth out differences and define a common program. François Xavier Tafen, brother of the deceased, chaired this meeting in the presence of Tatiana Dirane, the widow, the children, as well as mediators Duval Ebale, Jean Olivier Owona and Achille Bindzi. The main objective was to ensure that the funeral reflects Foly Dirane's stature and takes place with dignity.
A popular tribute is also being prepared in Yaoundé. Two emblematic venues are being considered to host a grandiose wake, called "Foly's Last Delirium": the Palais des Sports and the Mfandena gymnasium. This choice would respond to the wishes expressed by Foly Dirane himself, who wanted a final communion with his audience. Duval Ebale and Jean Olivier Owona have been mandated to coordinate the administrative procedures relating to this event.
Born in 1958, Foly Dirane marked generations of Cameroonians with his cult show "Le Délire de Foly", broadcast on national radio and television. His unique style and instantly recognizable voice made him an essential figure in the Cameroonian media landscape. His death at the age of 67 aroused strong emotion throughout the country.
Foly Dirane's family is calling for calm and contemplation while awaiting confirmation of the official funeral date. The coming weeks will be devoted to setting up the various organizing committees and finalizing the program of ceremonies. The scale of the preparations testifies to the profound impact that Foly Dirane had on Cameroonian society.
