Senior Customs Inspector Ebah Chantal of the Douala Seaport has shared her remarkable story of transitioning from a geography graduate to a career she greatly admired and cherished. With determination and focus, Ebah pursued her passion for customs work, despite her friends’ dreams of seeking greener pastures abroad.
“When I got my degree in Geography from the University of Yaounde I, I was very intentional about developing a career in the customs sector,” Ebah revealed. “My friends were crazy to travel out of the country for greener pastures. I told them my greener pasture is in Cameroon.”
Ebah’s journey as customs inspector began when she succeeded in the entrance exams into the Advance School of Administration and Magistracy, ENAM. However, she faced challenges as a woman in a leadership position, citing societal expectations that men should always lead.
“This is frustrating at times and that is where gender-inequality comes in,” she said. “Thank God, the President of the Republic in his end-of-year speech has recognized the great role played by women.”
The Customs Inspector emphasized the importance of having a vision, mission, and strategies to accomplish goals. “You must be intentional about everything you plan to do,” she advised. She also stressed the importance of prioritizing God, self-discipline, hard work, teamwork, and humility.
As a member of the Cameroon Customs Women’s Association (CCWA), Ebah has been engaged in physical activities, including walking and marching, as part of their Women’s Day preparations. Her leadership and vision drive the organization’s efforts to promote women’s empowerment and development.
A sports enthusiast, traveler, and shopper, Ebah Chantal’s story is an inspiration to many. Her message of empowerment and resilience resonates with women across Cameroon. She encourages Kupe Muanenguba women and girls to pursue education and leadership roles, highlighting self-fulfillment, qualifications, and confidence as key to success.
The Senior Customs Inspector hails from Bermin village, Nguti Sub Division. She is married to Ebah Emmanuel of Njom-Nninong, Bangem Sub Division.
By Olive Ejang
