As Cameroon joined the rest of the world in commemorating the 41st edition of International Women’s Day on Sunday, March 8, 2026, Ngom Maceline Anwi, Executive Director of the Association for the Welfare of Albinos (AWA), has urged women and communities to refocus the celebration on its original purpose, which, according to her, should be built around empowerment, equality, and reflection on the progress of women.
Speaking to Laarry Times, a day after the celebration in Bamenda, the AWA executive president emphasized that International Women’s Day should be more than a social event marked by colorful fabrics, parties, and festivities. According to her, the day carries a deeper meaning rooted in honoring the struggles and achievements of women across generations.
“International Women’s Day is not merely about wearing fabrics, organizing social gatherings, dancing, eating, or drinking,” Anwi said. “While celebration has its place, the heart of this day lies much deeper. It is a moment to reflect on the courage, resilience, and achievements of women and to assess the work that still lies ahead.”
A Call for Reflection and Purpose
Ngom Maceline Anwi noted that across the world, women have made significant strides in fields such as education, leadership, science, community development, and human rights advocacy. However, she warned that many women and girls continue to face discrimination, inequality, and social injustice.
For this reason, she said, International Women’s Day should serve as both a celebration and a platform for advocacy encouraging societies to educate, empower, and support women and girls. Her message highlighted the importance of advancing girls’ education, promoting dignity and equality for women, and strengthening solidarity among women facing marginalization.
Concerns Over Misplaced Priorities
She also expressed concern that in some communities, symbols associated with the day, particularly the traditional commemorative fabric often worn during the celebrations, have gradually shifted attention away from the day’s core message.
Originally intended to represent unity and empowerment, the fabric has sometimes become a source of social pressure and competition, she noted.
“In certain contexts, what should symbolize solidarity has unfortunately led to unhealthy competition, family tensions, and even conflicts,” she said. “There have been situations where disputes over the fabric have resulted in theft or violence, which contradicts everything International Women’s Day stands for.”
She warned that such developments risk overshadowing the fundamental objective of the day: promoting gender equality and celebrating the achievements of women.
Advocating for Inclusive Communities
As Executive Director of the Association for the Welfare of Albinos (AWA), Anwi used the occasion to spotlight the resilience of women with albinism and the families who support them. She stressed the need for inclusive communities that protect and uplift all women, particularly those who face discrimination due to disability or genetic conditions such as albinism. She praised mothers raising children with albinism and advocates working to create safer and more inclusive environments.
“These women demonstrate extraordinary strength,” Anwi said. “Their stories remind us that equality must include every woman, especially those who are most vulnerable.”
Redefining the Celebration
In her closing remarks, she urged communities to reclaim the true spirit of International Women’s Day by focusing on meaningful actions rather than symbolic displays. She encouraged women and community leaders to support girls’ education, protect the rights of women, and celebrate achievements with purpose and respect.
“True celebration is not measured by the fabric we wear or the parties we attend,” she said. “It is measured by the impact we make in advancing equality, dignity, and opportunity for all women.”
She ended her message with a call for unity and renewed commitment to the principles that inspired International Women’s Day more than four decades ago. “Let this day be a moment of reflection, solidarity, and commitment to meaningful change,” Anwi said. “Happy International Women’s Day to all women who continue to inspire courage, compassion, and progress.”
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