Mpho Manesa
Lesotho’s women have long been at the forefront of societal change, advocating for gender equality, economic empowerment, and social justice. However, last weekend’s celebrations in Cameroon for International Women’s Day offered a valuable opportunity for reflection and inspiration. The way Cameroonian women embraced the occasion last weekend highlights lessons that women in Lesotho can adopt to advance their own struggles and aspirations.
This was the second year I have witnessed the celebration of International Women’s Day in Cameroon, and from what I gathered, local businesses including bars, eateries, and transport, were all prepared to host and honour women for the work they do. Nation-wide preparation for this day showed that this day was taken as a national event, attracting Cameroonian women in diaspora for the festivities. Hidden beneath those celebrations are a few lessons women in Lesotho can learn.
Cameroon’s Women’s Day celebrations were not just a moment of festivity but a powerful statement of resilience, unity, and advocacy. Women from various walks of life gathered in colourful attire, displaying their traditional heritage while emphasising the importance of economic and political inclusion. Their parades, discussions, and engagements with policymakers underscored a critical message: Women’s voices must be heard, and their contributions acknowledged in all spheres of life.
One of the most striking aspects of the celebrations in Cameroon was the emphasis on economic empowerment. Women showcased their entrepreneurial skills through exhibitions featuring handmade crafts, agricultural products, and other locally produced goods. This was not just about celebrating their creativity but also about demonstrating the necessity of financial independence.
For women in Lesotho, this serves as a reminder of the need to strengthen local entrepreneurship and support networks that help women thrive economically. Investing in female-led businesses and cooperatives can be a transformative step toward financial security and community development.
In addition to economic empowerment, Cameroonian women used the occasion to engage in policy discussions with government representatives, emphasising issues such as gender-based violence, education for girls, and improved healthcare services. This level of engagement is crucial in Lesotho, where women continue to face similar challenges. Women’s Day should not only be a moment for celebration but also a platform for advocacy, pushing for laws and policies that protect and uplift women in society.
The power of unity was another lesson evident from the Cameroonian celebrations. Women from different backgrounds, ethnicities, and professions came together, setting aside their differences to speak with one voice. This solidarity is crucial for women in Lesotho as well. Collective action has the power to influence policy and shift societal norms. By forming strong networks and alliances, women can create a more significant impact and drive meaningful change in their communities.
Moreover, Cameroonian women infused cultural expression into their celebrations, using dance, music, and storytelling to highlight their struggles and triumphs. These cultural elements served as a medium for education and awareness, demonstrating how art can be used as a tool for advocacy. In Lesotho, integrating cultural traditions into activism can help spread important messages in a way that resonates deeply with communities. Whether through traditional dances, songs, or poetry, cultural expression can be an effective way to educate and mobilize people toward gender equality and social justice.
Cameroonian women have shown that Women’s Day is more than just an annual event, it is a movement. Their approach to the celebration was dynamic, combining cultural pride with serious discussions on gender equality. This should inspire women in Lesotho to rethink how they mark the occasion, turning it into a springboard for action. Beyond wearing matching outfits and attending speeches, Women’s Day should be a catalyst for long-term strategies aimed at improving women’s lives.
The key takeaway for women in Lesotho is that change requires deliberate action. Advocacy, economic empowerment, cultural expression, and mentorship are all critical components of a successful movement. Women must use every opportunity, including Women’s Day, to amplify their voices, hold leaders accountable, and create spaces where their contributions are valued. By learning from their Cameroonian counterparts, women in Lesotho can build a stronger, more unified movement that drives real change for generations to come.
Truth be told, those posters shared by big companies, businesses and different organisation means nothing if women do not take charge to celebrate this day by making it a spectacle, an event of the year or something to look forward to. It’s time to women in Lesotho, from all the district to come together and celebrate the work they do both domestically and in their career. Its time for women to celebrate womanhood for that one single day.
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