Women in Uniform Celebrate Strength and Solidarity Ahead of International Women’s Day in Bamenda

Report: Wirngo Peter Tardzenyuy

Women serving in the defense and security forces in the North West Region have begun activities marking the 2026 edition of International Women’s Day with a vibrant gathering that highlighted unity, resilience and cultural pride.

The event, organized by the North West Legion of the Gendarmerie, brought together women of the gendarmerie, police officers, teachers and other civilian women in Bamenda for a day of reflection, sports and cultural celebration ahead of March 8.

Activities began with a thanksgiving Mass held in the morning, where participants prayed for peace in the North West Region and for the safety of women serving the nation in uniform. The spiritual moment also sought divine guidance for the celebrations of International Women’s Day and the continued stability of Cameroon.

After the Mass, the atmosphere quickly shifted to celebration as participants engaged in sports dance sessions, recreational games such as sack races, musical performances and other relaxation activities designed to strengthen camaraderie among women from different professional backgrounds.

A major highlight of the event was a colorful gastronomic exhibition showcasing traditional meals from across Cameroon’s ten regions. The culinary display, described by organizers as a way of promoting national culture, attracted significant attention from guests and participants alike.

The ceremony was attended by several high-profile personalities including the wife of the Governor of the North West Region, Adolf Lele L’Afrique, senior officials from the Governor’s Office, top military authorities such as General Buba, and the Regional Delegate for National Security.

Speaking during the event, Colonel Zang Godefroy Marius, Commander of the North West Gendarmerie Legion, explained that the activities were initiated by female personnel themselves as part of the broader mobilization for International Women’s Day.

According to him, the program was designed not only to celebrate women but also to strengthen collaboration among female officers from different institutions.

He further noted that the culinary exhibition was intentionally included to highlight Cameroon’s rich cultural diversity through gastronomy.

“We wanted to promote Cameroonian culture through culinary art. Here you can find dishes from different regions of the country. It is a way of celebrating our unity and diversity at the same time,” he said.

The wife of the North West Governor also used the occasion to encourage women serving in the region’s defense and security forces, acknowledging the difficult environment in which they carry out their duties.

She praised the dedication of women who continue to serve despite the challenges in the region, urging them to remain courageous and committed to their responsibilities.

For many participants, the event was more than a celebration it was an opportunity to reflect on their role in society and in national security.

Assistant Superintendent of Police Bongwe A, who works at the Regional Delegation for National Security, described the gathering as both spiritually and professionally significant.

She explained that beginning the activities with prayer symbolized the need to commit the region and its people into God’s hands, especially in the context of the ongoing challenges faced in parts of the country.

Beyond the spiritual dimension, she said the sports and recreational activities provided an opportunity for relaxation and strengthened solidarity among women in uniform.

“Dancing and sports help us relieve stress and maintain physical fitness, which is important in our line of duty,” she said.

A student gendarme also emphasized the importance of physical fitness and confidence for women in the military, noting that the celebrations were an opportunity to encourage young girls to explore their talents beyond traditional expectations.

According to her, women today are increasingly contributing to society in multiple sectors, including defense and security.

Another police official, Assistant Commissioner Kenzo Boyinelona, highlighted that the celebrations also serve as a reminder of the struggles and sacrifices made by earlier generations of women.

She stressed that International Women’s Day should be used not only for festivities but also for reflection on women’s rights and achievements.

As preparations continue for the official celebration on March 8, participants say the activities have already strengthened bonds among women in the region while promoting a message of unity, resilience and peace.

For the women who gathered in Bamenda, the day was not only about celebration—it was a reaffirmation of their commitment to service, solidarity and the continued advancement of women in Cameroon.

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