First Lady Chantal BIYA Joins 21,000 Women to Advocate for Gender Equality in Cameroon
Women in Cameroon have unanimously expressed their gratitude to the President of the Republic, His Excellency Paul BIYA, and his wife, First Lady Chantal BIYA, for their constant and substantial support towards the empowerment of womenfolk.
It was in a spirit of solidarity and patriotism that over 21,000 women from all walks of life conveyed this wonderful message of appreciation in the presence of Mrs. Chantal BIYA on the occasion of the 39th edition of the International Women’s Day, which was commemorated on the 8th of March 2024.
The traditional march-past at the 20th May Boulevard in Yaounde was equally an opportunity for women to make a clarion call for gender parity in tandem with the theme of this year: “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress”.
In a special message to the women, First Lady Chantal BIYA said “The 39th edition of the International Women’s Day urges us to pool our efforts to advocate for the promotion of female leadership in all domains… and the protection of women and girls against sexual exploitation and abuse”.
The UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for Education and Social Inclusion noted that achieving effective equality between men and women may appear tentative, but relevant measures that have been taken to address women’s issues in Cameroon need to be reconsidered in the ongoing reflections on adequate strategies.
A gala offered by Mrs Chantal BIYA at the Hilton Hotel closed the day that was characterized by a powerful demonstration of unity and optimism.
In a significant stride for gender equality in Cameroon, First Lady Chantal BIYA has joined forces with 21,000 women to advocate for this vital cause. This remarkable gathering underscores the ongoing efforts to enhance the status of women in the nation and reflects a broader global movement toward gender parity.
First Lady BIYA’s commitment to gender equality is not a standalone effort; it is part of a larger tapestry of her advocacy work. Over the years, she has been a vocal proponent for the protection, education, and health of women and children, particularly in the context of HIV/AIDS. Her foundation and the non-profit organization African Synergy against AIDS and Suffering have been pivotal in advancing these causes.
The recent event is a testament to the First Lady’s dedication to creating a more inclusive society. It is reported that the assembly of women delivered a powerful message advocating for female leadership across all domains and the protection of women and girls against sexual exploitation and abuse. This aligns with the First Lady’s previous statements denouncing violence, intimidation, and discrimination against women, which she expressed on International Women’s Day.
The participation of such a large number of women also highlights the collective resolve to address gender-based disparities. The march included women from diverse backgrounds, symbolizing solidarity, unity, and a shared vision for a future where gender equality is not just an aspiration but a reality.
First Lady BIYA’s efforts are complemented by the work of the International Reference Centre Chantal Biya (IRCCB), which aims to support national programs fighting HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and STDs. The IRCCB’s objectives resonate with the broader goals of gender equality, as it seeks to promote mother and child health, transfer of technology, research, and training in the fields of infectious diseases.
The advocacy for gender equality in Cameroon is a crucial step towards social inclusion and empowerment. It is a call to action for all stakeholders to contribute to a world where women can thrive without barriers. The First Lady’s leadership and the collective voice of 21,000 women serve as a beacon of hope and a catalyst for change, inspiring others to join the crusade for a more equitable society.
