The remains of Jean-Pierre Biyiti Bi Essam, former minister and Cameroon's ambassador to Israel, who died on April 23, 2026, in Tel Aviv at the age of 76, are expected in Yaoundé this Friday, May 8, 2026. An official Cameroonian delegation traveled to Israel to organize the repatriation and prepare for the national funeral.
The delegation, led by the Secretary-General of the Ministry of External Relations, CHINMOUN Oumarou, includes administrative officials and consular staff. Their mission includes assisting with the funeral in Israel and coordinating the transfer of the remains.
A ceremony was held on May 7, 2026, in Israel, preceding the departure of the body to Cameroon. The arrival of the remains in Yaoundé is scheduled for the early afternoon of May 8. The program for the official funeral will be established after the arrival of the remains in Cameroon.
A trained journalist, Biyiti Bi Essam began his career at the daily newspaper Cameroon Tribune before becoming Director of Information at CRTV in 1990. He then held various administrative positions, including at the Ministry of Higher Education and the General Secretariat of the Presidency of the Republic.
He served as Minister of Communication from 2007 to 2009, and then as Minister of Posts and Telecommunications from 2009 to 2015. In May 2018, he was appointed Ambassador of Cameroon to Israel. His career is marked by his time in the media, administration, and diplomacy.
Holding a doctorate in semiology and sociology, Biyiti Bi Essam left his mark on the Cameroonian political landscape. His death has prompted numerous reactions, praising his commitment to serving the nation.
The official funeral program will be communicated later, allowing a final national tribute to this prominent figure of Cameroon.
