As conflict and hardship continue to test families in Bamenda-Bali, former MP Fobi Nchinda Simon says International Women’s Day must move beyond ceremony to real action that secures rights, justice and opportunity for women and girls.
Dear Mothers, Sisters and Daughters,
As we observe International Women’s Day on March 8, I stand
in solidarity with the women and girls of Bamenda-Bali under this year’s theme,
Rights, Justice, Action for all Women and Girls. The theme speaks to the
reality many still face and the responsibility we all share to act with
purpose.
Over the years, we have supported initiatives aimed at
empowering women and girls because we understood that when women are
strengthened, families are stable and communities progress. From backing small
income-generating activities to encouraging girls’ education and community
participation, the objective has always been clear: to create opportunity,
dignity and fairness.
Yet significant challenges remain. Too many women continue
to struggle with limited access to economic opportunities. Too many girls face
barriers to education and exposure to violence and insecurity. Justice must not
be distant or selective. Rights must not exist only on paper.
This day calls for practical steps. It calls for communities
that protect women from abuse, institutions that enforce the law fairly, and
families that support the ambitions of their daughters as much as their sons.
It calls for collective responsibility.
To every woman and girl in Bamenda-Bali, your resilience in
difficult times has kept hope alive in our society. May this day renew our
shared commitment to ensuring that rights are respected, justice is accessible,
and meaningful action continues for all women and girls.
Happy International Women’s Day.
Hon. Fobi Nchinda Simon