It was a spectacular show of colour, pride and renewed commitment as Cameroon joined the rest of the world to commemorate the 41st International Women’s Day in the nation’s capital, Yaoundé.
The 20 May Boulevard came alive as thousands of women gathered in celebration of womanhood, resilience and the ongoing struggle for equality. After a few years of absence, women of the Ministry of Justice of Cameroon made a remarkable return, proudly joining in commemoration.
Cameroon’s First Lady, Chantal Biya, presided over the grand ceremony, watching with admiration as waves of women marched past the ceremonial grandstand in a vibrant display of unity and solidarity. Delegations representing government ministries, administrative institutions, parastatals, civil society organisations, international NGOs and women’s rights movements took turns parading in honour of the day.
Cameroon marked the celebration in line with the global theme “Rights. Justice. Action. For All Women and Girls.” The message resonated strongly with participants, particularly women serving within the justice sector.
Clad in their elegant ceremonial fabric, the women of the Ministry of Justice marched with confidence and determination, drawing applause from spectators. Their spirited parade symbolised their firm commitment to standing against injustices faced by women around the country.
Beyond the elegance of the march-past, their participation carried a deeper message. It served as a reassurance to Cameroonians that the justice system remains alert and determined to confront crimes against women, including the troubling rise in femicide cases reported in recent times.
The celebrations did not end with the parade. Post march-past activities featured a brief educative talk by Marie Theodule BENG ELINGUI (MD), focusing on women’s healthcare, empowerment and social advancement—topics that continue to shape the national conversation on women’s rights and wellbeing.
One of the key highlights of the gathering was the message from the Minister of State, Minister of Justice, Keeper of Seals, Laurent Esso. Delivered through the coordinator of the celebrations, Magistrate Honorine Suzanne DIKANDO KOUEDI, the minister encouraged the women of the ministry to remain steadfast in promoting strong family values, particularly by ensuring that young girls receive proper upbringing and quality education.
According to him, girls represent the future mothers of humanity and must therefore be equipped with the moral and intellectual foundations needed to build a stronger society. The minister also reassured the women of his unwavering support, reiterating his commitment to safeguarding their rights and welfare as workers within the justice sector.
Adding further prestige to the celebration, several judicial institutions participated in the event, including the Court of Appeal of the Centre region, the Special Criminal Court and the Supreme Court of Cameroon. Their presence underscored the collective determination of Cameroon’s justice community to champion fairness, equality and protection for women and girls.
As the celebrations drew to a close, the atmosphere remained festive, marked by camaraderie, reflection and renewed hope. The 41st International Women’s Day celebration in Yaoundé was not only a moment of splendour and pageantry, but also a powerful reminder that the quest for justice, dignity and opportunity for every woman and girl continues.