Women in Ngoketunjia Mark International Women’s Day with Call for Political Participation

Women from across Ngoketunjia Division gathered at the Ndop Municipal Grandstand to celebrate the 41st edition of International Women’s Day in an atmosphere marked by unity, cultural pride and renewed calls for greater participation in public life.

The celebration, which drew a large crowd of women from different communities in the division, featured colourful march pasts and cultural displays reflecting the determination of women to advance their rights and contribute to community development. The event was organized under the global theme “Rights, Justice and Action for All Women and Girls.”

Addressing the gathering, the Member of Parliament for Ngoketunjia North, Hon. Njingum Musa, urged women to take a more active role in shaping the political future of their communities by registering on the electoral roll ahead of upcoming municipal and parliamentary elections.

He emphasized that political participation remains a crucial tool for women seeking to defend their rights and influence decisions that affect their lives.

“Rights must go hand in hand with participation,” the parliamentarian noted, encouraging women to ensure their names are on the electoral register so they can fully take part in the democratic process.

Hon. Njingum Musa also highlighted the need for a return to peace in areas affected by the ongoing sociopolitical crisis, stressing that stability is essential for women to freely engage in farming, trading and other livelihood activities that support their families.

Beyond speeches, the celebration also included practical support for women in the division. Farming inputs such as wheelbarrows, fertilizers, improved maize seeds and watering cans were distributed to women’s groups to boost agricultural productivity.

In addition, trainees from the Women Empowerment Center in the area received their end-of-year certificates, marking the completion of their vocational training programs. Cash prizes were also awarded to participants, adding excitement to the day’s activities.

The ceremony was presided over by the Senior Divisional Officer for Ngoketunjia, who commended the women for their strong turnout and the spirit of solidarity demonstrated throughout the event.

Participants used the occasion to reaffirm their commitment to advocating for women’s rights while working collectively to address the challenges facing women and girls in the division.

For many of the women present, the celebration was not only a moment of festivity but also a reminder that unity, participation and resilience remain key to improving the lives of women in Ngoketunjia.