SODECAO Celebrates the 41st Edition of International Women’s Day

SODECAO enthusiastically celebrated, from March 3 to March 8, 2026, the 41st edition of International Women’s Day under the unifying theme “Rights. Justice. Action for ALL Women and Girls.” This week of activities showcased the company’s commitment to gender equality, the empowerment of women, and their full participation in all sectors of economic and social life.

The Director General of SODECAO officially opened the week on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking the launch of a series of promising events.

The tone was set for a week focused on inspiration, sharing, and concrete action in support of the rights of women and girls.

During the inaugural roundtable that followed, under the theme “The Role of Communities in the Fight Against Violence Against Women,” moderators and participants discussed the importance of the community environment in preventing and combating violence against women. These discussions addressed key local issues and proposed avenues for action to strengthen women’s empowerment, safety, and respect for their rights at the community level.

The second day was dedicated to physical and sporting activities, notably a mini handball tournament that delighted both participants and spectators, strengthening bonds and promoting a culture of solidarity and physical well-being.

 Thursday, March 5, 2026, was devoted to celebrating the cultural and gastronomic richness of Cameroon. The Amazons of SODECAO showcased Cameroon’s cultural heritage through traditional dances, traditional attire, sketches, and culinary demonstrations highlighting the country’s four major cultural areas: the Grassfields, the Sawa, the Ekang, and the Sudano-Sahelian regions.

The fourth day was marked by a visit by the women of SODECAO to Minkan, on the outskirts of Yaounde, for an excursion designed to be both educational and recreational. The activities organized on site fostered conviviality and togetherness, strengthening solidarity among women within the company.

The highlight of this week of activities took place on Sunday, March 8, 2026, with the parade of SODECAO women along Boulevard du 20 Mai, held under the high patronage of the First Lady, Mrs. Chantal Biya. In front of distinguished guests and several dignitaries, including the Director General of SODECAO and his close collaborators, the women of SODECAO proudly and elegantly marched alongside women from other public institutions and private sector organizations.

The day continued at the company’s headquarters, where the second phase of the celebration took place. The ceremony began with the performance of the national anthem, followed by an address from the Chairperson of the Organizing Committee. In her speech, she highlighted the commitment and contribution of women within the organization.

Taking the floor afterwards, the Director General congratulated the women for their dedication and their essential role in the company’s development. He also encouraged them to continue striving for professional excellence.

The ceremony continued in a friendly and festive atmosphere, marked by singing and dancing performances by the women of the organization, joined by the Director General and some of his close collaborators

Participants then shared a convivial meal, a moment of fellowship and exchange. It was on this festive note that the activities marking the celebration of the 41st International Women’s Day came to an end at SODECAO.

By Pascal Mevaa