Women in Bangem have expressed their frustrations over insufficient flow of potable water, frequent electricity cuts, and poor farm to market roads.
On March 8, 2026, at Paul Biya Stadium, the President of Bangem Women’s Empowerment Forum, Mejang Jennet Abwe, highlighted these issues during the 41st International Women’s Day celebration under the theme “Rights, Justice, and Action for all women and girls.”
Mejang Abwe stated that the deplorable water situation affects daily activities, causing lateness and absenteeism in schools and offices. “It is often said that water is life. We plead with the Mayor of Bangem Council, Ekungwe Christopher Kang, to leave no stone unturned until water flows from every home in Bangem,” she appealed.
The President also urged the administration to address rampant theft ongoing in Bangem. She emphasized that women and girls face significant challenges in work, business, decision-making, land ownership, and domestic life.
“Without justice and systems that work for women and girls’ rights, women’s rights will continue to be a promise that will hardly be fulfilled,” Mejang Abwe noted. She called on women to commit to action for a more just and equitable Bangem, where women and girls enjoy protection in offices, families, businesses, and leadership.
The Divisional Delegate of Women’s Empowerment and the Family, Ngwene Cecilia Mbolle, encouraged women to remain united and continue playing their crucial role in the division’s development. She reminded them that International Women’s Day is an opportunity to reflect on women’s rights, equality, and empowerment.
Mbolle congratulated women for their resilience and contribution to community development, advising them to empower themselves through education and skills acquisition to support their families.
The Senior Divisional Officer, Nguia Beina Theophile, appreciated the people of Kupe Muanenguba for their peaceful nature and recognized women’s role in preserving social stability and peace.
The 2nd Deputy Mayor of Bangem Council, Mesode Evelyn Nkwelle, stated that women are the backbone of the municipality’s social and economic life. She urged authorities to promote policies and initiatives that support gender equality and women’s empowerment.
The celebration included a march past, choral singing, traditional dances, a fashion parade, football finals, and prize awards. The event highlighted the need for collective action to address the challenges facing women and girls in Bangem and promote a more equitable society.
By Olive Ejang
