Visionary Reports

In a vibrant display of corporate pride and institutional gratitude, Union Bank of Cameroon (UBC Plc) hosted its Long Service Medal Ceremony on February 20, 2026. Held at the Sawa Cultural Center, the event served as a definitive tribute to the men and women whose dedication has fueled the bank’s growth for over two decades.

The ceremony was presided over by His Excellency Mr. Grégoire Owona, Minister of Labor and Social Security, alongside UBC leadership and a distinguished assembly of administrative and religious figures.Since its inception in 1999 and the commencement of operations in early 2000, UBC has evolved from its roots in the Cameroon Cooperative Credit Union League (CamCCUL) into a pillar of the national banking sector. Today, with the Cameroonian government as its principal shareholder, UBC operates 11 branches across five regions.The ceremony saw 143 medals conferred upon 108 recipients, categorized by their years of unwavering service:65 Silver Medals,63 Vermeil Medals,15 Gold Medals.In a moving address, Ms. Charlotte Kouecheu Chekep, CEO of UBC, highlighted that the bank’s success is inseparable from the loyalty of its staff. “Your hard work has shaped our institution and laid the solid foundations that support our growth,” she stated. “Progress is only worthwhile if it is shared.”Beyond mere celebration, the CEO used the platform to advocate for the future well-being of her team. She proposed enhancements to retirement benefits, suggesting a more advantageous employer contribution structure to ensure long-term financial security for employees.Staff Representative Jean Bernard MBE echoed the sentiment of pride while grounding the ceremony in the current reality. He acknowledged the professional hurdles faced by staff, particularly those serving in the Northwest and Southwest regions.“You are heroes for our institution,” Mr. MBE remarked, urging those not receiving awards this year to view their decorated colleagues as blueprints for professionalism and commitment.Nevertheless,the ceremony concluded with a powerful endorsement from Minister Grégoire Owona. He characterized the event as more than just a corporate milestone, but as a model for the Cameroonian labor market.“What we have seen here today is a powerful testament to what dedication and teamwork can achieve. UBC remains a benchmark of success for the entire nation.”As Union Bank of Cameroon continues its journey toward becoming an indisputable regional leader, this ceremony reaffirmed that its greatest asset is not its balance sheet, but its people. Armed with an ambitious vision and a newly decorated workforce, UBC moves into 2026 with renewed momentum and a unified spirit.

By HENRY WANA