The Deputy Secretary General at the Presidency of the Republic, Minister Elung Paul Che has empowered women of Tombel Sub Division with four cassava grinding machines to enhance their livelihoods, promote financial independence, and self-sustainability.
The beneficiaries; Etam Women’s Group, Bangante Women’s Group, Sumediang Women’s Group, and Elung Women’s Group of Peng, received the machines on March 8, 2026 during the celebration of the International Women’s Day in Tombel.
While handing the machines to the women on behalf of Minister Elung Paul, the Divisional Officer of Tombel Sub Division, Nyam Leonard Njowon congratulated the beneficiaries and urged them to make good use of the equipment.
He said as farmers, the machines would help them process cassava into other by-products, in line with the import substitution policy of the Head of State, President Paul Biya.
Panny Kwene, President of Sumediang Women’s Group couldn’t contain her excitement. “This is a game changer for us. The cassava grinding machine will save us so much time and energy. We can now process more cassava and increase our income,” Kwene disclosed. “We thank the minister for thinking of us. We are grateful for your support.”
The Sub Delegate of Women’s Empowerment and the Family, Tombel, Epie Vivian Emade, on behalf of women in Tombel, lauded Minister Elung for supporting her women. She equally thanked all stakeholders who supported Women’s Day activities in Tombel.
Reflecting on the theme, “Rights, Justice, Action for all women and girls,” Emade disclosed that while the government is striving to recognize the rights of all women and girls, to give them access to fair and inclusive justice, women should be participatory in the battle.
The Sub Delegate however questioned whether women and girls really want rights, justice and action. “We organize meetings and conferences to educate our women and girls, you don’t attend. There is free legalization of marriages, women don’t take advantage of it. Mothers don’t stay behind.” She pleaded.
She said if women know their rights, they will be able to achieve gender equality, justice and action.
The Member of Parliament of Kupe Muanenguba I and III, Hon Cecilia Dione Epienjumbe called on women of her constituency to keep shinning, keep pushing boundaries, and know that their voices matter. “Your strength, resilience, and contributions are the backbone of our community. Together, let’s continue to empower and uplift each other.” She added.
Other activities that took place at the Tombel grandstand included a presentation by Miss Kupe Muanenguba 2nd Runner-up, Etake Vanissa Emade, march past, choral singing, traditional dancing, display by female chainsaw operator, female bike rider, award of prizes, amongst others.
By Olive Ejang
