Many Cameroonians no longer remember Gilles Njamkepo. Yet, not only is he the first Cameroonian engineer of civil aviation, but equally the first Cameroonian Director of Federal Civil Aviation (DACF).

 Appointed to this post March 24, 1961 to replace a French Michel BOMMIER, he was to spend 11 years. At this position , as director  he laid the foundations for Cameroon's civil aviation by establishing not only a regulation (drafting of Law No. 63 / LF135 November 05, 1963 on Code of Civil Aviation in Cameroon) was  also be behind the reorganization of the DACF after Decree number 641DF1314 of 14 July 1964.

Gilles NJAMKEPO will also work with other future member countries to the establishment of Air Afrique. At the creation of the Pan African Company, he will be one of two representatives of Cameroon to its board of directors. When Cameroon decided to leave Air Afrique, Mr. NJAMKEPO will still be amongst those who will work for the creation and establishment of Cameroon Airlines.
In June 1972, Gilles NJAMKEPO is appointed Representative of ASECNA for Cameroon, replacing Mr. CAMARES, a French engineer of Roads and Bridges. Mr. NJAMKEPO held that position until his retirement in July 1985.
In tribute for his imminent contribution to Civil Aviation, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), in celebration of its 50th anniversary in 1994, awarded him a medal of honor. This man, who has 6 other awards, including the Knight Decoration of the Legion of Honor (France) and the Knight of the Black Star of Benin, is a true living library.

Joël
WADEM