A vibrant array of colours and a strong sense of resolve filled the celebration grounds in Ekona this morning as International Women’s Day was marked with great importance. Each year on March 8th, the worldwide celebration recognises the accomplishments of women. For the women of Ekona, today was more than just a celebration – it served as a strong call to action.
This year’s theme, “Invest in Women; Accelerate Progress,” struck a chord with many. The conflict in Cameroon, arising from linguistic and cultural marginalisation, creates a sense of insecurity over Ekona and other communities in the English-speaking regions.
There is no denying the economic impact. Rising expenses are putting pressure on family finances, leading women to find creative solutions. However, their challenges do not stop there. Reports of a concerning rise in gender-based violence contribute to the existing challenges.
Despite facing obstacles, the women of Ekona remain strong and united. Today’s lively event demonstrated their strength and determination. It was a day to celebrate their accomplishments and, more importantly, a stage to push for advancement. By focusing on women’s education, economic opportunities, and safety, Ekona, and the broader Anglophone community, can pave the way for a more promising future.
