Powerful Messages Define the Pan African Women’s Day Celebration in Bamenda
The Pan African Women’s Day has been commemorated today, July 31, 2025 under the theme “Advancing Social and Economic Justice for African Women through Reparations”. Organized by the National Women’s Convention for Peace in Cameroon, CAGEAD, together with SNWOT, and other organizations and Peace Club members, took part in the peace walk dubbed ‘Waka-Waka 4 Peace’. The walk which kick started at Mile 1 junction right up to the Governor’s office, had in attendance stakeholders like the Delegate of Women’s Empowerment for the North West Mr. Wirba Asan, North West Regional Coordinator for National Women’s Convention for Peace, Mme Munteh Florence Chea and Mme Clotilda Andiensa Waah, the Coordinator for SNWOT and CEO of CAGEAD.
Participants carried placards and banners bearing powerful peace messages that emphasizes the importance of unity, peace and women’s leadership. CAGEAD stood out in crafting outstanding messages on the placards which included; “I stand with women for peace and security", showing solidarity with women in their quest for peace and security. “In diversity, there is beauty", celebrating the diversity of the region and promoting unity in diversity. “I pledge to support women's leadership in conflict situations", highlighting the importance of supporting women's leadership in promoting peace and stability.
Other messages were "Peace grows through respect and dignity" highlighting the importance of treating each other with respect and dignity in promoting peace. "Women choose peace always", showcasing the commitment of women to peace and stability in their communities. "North West heals through peace", emphasizing the need for peace to heal the wounds of conflict in the North West region. “Dialogue opens the way", stressing the importance of dialogue in resolving conflicts and promoting peace.
Furthermore, there were significant messages like, "Enough! Let peace guide us" which is a call to action for stakeholders to prioritize peace in their decision-making processes. “We women of Cameroon are longing for peace", highlighting the desire of women for peace and stability in their communities.
The T-shirts worn by participants also carried messages such as ‘She Builds Peace’, "Waka-Waka 4 Peace, honoring women peace builders", which recognizes the important role women play in promoting peace and stability in their communities.
During the event, coordinators delivered inspiring speeches, emphasizing the need for continued peace efforts. Mme. Munteh Florence Chea, North West Regional Coordinator for The National Women’s Convention for Peace in Cameroon, highlighted that the Pan African Women’s Day is celebrating the resilience of the African Woman and the Peace efforts women have put in place since the beginning of the crisis in the North West and South West regions of Cameroon. The Representative of the Governor's Office and Regional Delegate, MINPROFF also delivered remarks, stressing the importance of peace in promoting development and stability. Mme Clotilda Andiensa Waah, Coordinator for SNWOT and CEO of CAGEAD praised the participants for their strong turnout saying “We are passing a message of Resilience, Support, Commitment and Engagement while reiterating our continuous call for peaceful coexistence...”
The peace walk was characterized by singing, drumming, and dancing, showcasing the region's unique cultural heritage. The songs that were sung stressed the importance of peace with participants passionately voicing their desire for a peaceful and stable community. Notably, the Women’s Anthem was sung, which is a powerful symbol of women’s unity and solidarity in the pursuit of peace and equality. The Anthem serves as a rallying cry for women to come together and advocate for their rights and interests.
By Dorian Kuma
CAGEAD Intern