At launch of Women’s Day in Nkoteng: Minister drums equal rights, inclusive justice for women, girls.

This was during a ceremony to launch activities for the 41st edition of the International Women’s Day to be commemorated this year under the theme: “Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL women and girl”. 

In attendance were members of government among them; the Minister of Secondary Education, Prof Nalova Lyonga, and the Minister Delegate at the Presidency in charge of the Supreme State Audit Office, Mbah Acha Rose.

Other senior State officials, administrative and religious authorities, representatives of women’s associations also attended the event.

According to Minister Abena Ondoa, this year’s Women’s Day is “an opportunity to strengthen actions in favour of equal rights and effective, equitable and inclusive justice for all women and girls”.

The minister also urged stakeholders to commemorate the Day in peace, respect for institutions, unity, dignity and social cohesion.

She commended the media for its key role in ensuring national harmony and in amplifying the voices of women and families.

National theme

She noted that for this 41st edition, Cameroon has adopted the theme: “Rights. Justice. Action. For All women and girls”. 

The theme, the minister stated, mirrors that of the international community and places emphasis on four key pillars viz; rights, justice, action and inclusion.

Minister Prof Abena Ondoa noted that on the issue of rights, although the Constitution guarantees equality between men and women, the principle is often undermined by harmful socio-cultural practices, structural inequalities and high levels of Gender-Based Violence. 

She argued that, despite government efforts, challenges remain in eradicating violence against women and improving access to education, employment, training and decision-making positions.

Gaps in legal frameworks, application

Prof Abena Ondoa also highlighted gaps between legal frameworks and effective application. She cited persistent problems such as impunity in gender-based violence, women’s limited access to legal services, procedural bottlenecks and the weight of customary norms. 

According to her, justice must go beyond the existence of laws to ensure equitable and inclusive access to judicial services and equal protection for all citizens.

The minister said there is need to transform rights enshrined in laws and policies into lived realities that have a tangible impact on women and girls. 

This, she enthused, requires the mobilisation of all actors to prevent violence, strengthen protection mechanisms and transform harmful social norms.

The minister insisted that no woman or girl should be left behind, especially the most vulnerable.  She recalled the renewed commitment of President Paul Biya to place women and youth at the heart of national development. 

President Biya’s commitment, he said, must guide public action in promoting and protecting women’s rights.

Minister praises women, promises more 

Prof Abena Ondoa paid glowing tribute to the women of Nkoteng for their dynamism and courage. She described them as a symbol of resilience and determination. 

The member of government acknowledged concerns raised by their spokesperson, particularly requests for the creation of a Women and Family Empowerment Centre and a Sub-Divisional Delegation in the locality.

The minister said actions will be taken progressively to address the requests. The President of the Network of Women’s Associations of Nkoteng, Nga Molo Julienne, thanked the minister for her continuous efforts in support women and girls. 

A parade, award of gifts, exhibition and donation of farming inputs to the rural women in Nkoteng marked the event.

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3713 of Tuesday February 24, 2026