Mbassi, also the head of the Cameroon Sambo Federation, was speaking in an extensive interview for the International Sambo Federation (FIAS) website.

"First, I must say that sambo is a sport that forms one's personality," he said.

"It is necessary to maintain and promote the spirit of sambo in every possible way that helps educate immature minds properly, and not only in Africa but throughout the world.

"Next is the organisational basis which includes both competitions and training.

"We need to pay more attention to organisational issues.

"We're trying to improve and amend them.

"Third is training – holding seminars, training camps and more."

Mbassi claims the fact that continental seminars for referees and coaches are being arranged in Moroccan city Casablanca is a huge step forward.

"Many thanks to FIAS and all the experts who help organise and conduct these seminars, because it is very important to do this in case we want to have good staff here in Africa," he said.

"I hope that this practice will continue and that it will bear fruit in the future.

"We would also like to see FIAS analysing our work and providing us with their vision and comments.

"Maybe we don’t notice some things from inside.

"We would be happy to receive such an analysis and are ready to work on improving our positions."

Mbassi also expressed his admiration for sambo's beach discipline, adding: "As soon as such sport emerged, it was introduced in Africa, and we also staged demonstration events in Cameroon.

"Whenever a novelty is introduced in sambo, we are ready to give it a shot and promote it."