By Walter Wilson Nana
The CEO and Founder of the Miss Africa USA Pageant, Cameroonian-born, Lady Kate Atabong is the Commissioner for African Affairs for the State of Maryland, USA. Atabong was appointed by Governor Martin O’Malley in a decision made public February 11 2014.
The appointment decision of Governor Martin O’Malley partly read; “Having great confidence in your dedication to public service, it is my pleasure to appoint you a member of the Governor’s Commission on African Affairs for a term of four years. Thank you for
African Commissioner, State of Maryland, USA, Lady Kate Atabong
making this strong commitment to service and for the best interests of our citizens. With your assistance and support, I know we will succeed in our goal to make a positive difference for all Marylanders. You are also expected to execute the duties of the said position with fidelity and zeal for the interest and advantage of the State of Maryland.”
In a message from Governor Martin O’Malley on May 14, 2009 he made public an executive order to establish the Governor’s Commission on African Affairs to effectively address the concerns of the African community. “Diversity is one of Maryland’s greatest strengths. For this reason I believe it is important to recognise the African community which plays a vital role in moving the State forward. By identifying and addressing issues in the African Diaspora, I am confident that this Commission will help strengthen and grow our One Maryland. As we make steady progress in our One Maryland, I will rely on the Governor’s Commission on African Affairs to help expand opportunities for the growing African community in business, employment, education and many other areas,” the message partly indicated.
Reacting to her appointment, Atabong said; “As a Commissioner she is hoping to make a positive difference in the lives of Marylanders and Africans across the United States of America. Also serving as the Vice Chair of the Legislative Committee for the Commission, I will work hard to facilitate Sister City and Sister State programmess with the State of Maryland and other African countries including Cameroon and the benefits of such relationships is priceless. Facilitating educational programmes, trade, investment opportunities, cultural exchanges and more are in the package.”
The Gubernatorial Decision appointing Lady Kate Atabong Njeuma
For nine years in the USA, the Cameroonian-born fashion and health promoter and organiser of the MISS Africa USA Pageant has been working on giving young African women resident in the USA another perspective of life through the MISS Africa USA Pageant. This initiative has built and entrenched a strong network with the African Diplomatic Community in Washington, well known to most African Ambassadors.
In Cameroon, Lady Kate Atabong is noted for organising free medical campaigns and donating medications in some hospitals across the country.
