What an honour to serve ! By Mabi Azefor Fominyen.

In my capacity as the Master of Ceremonies, I recently joined the diplomatic community in Rome, authorities from the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation,  Permanent Representatives, Embassy staff,  Distinguished guests and my fellow Cameroonians based in Italy; to celebrate our country 's National Day,  under the auspices of Cameroon 's Ambassador to Italy, H. E. Sebastien Foumane. 

It was the 54th National Day of The Republic of Cameroon. 

Various speakers spoke so highly of the long-standing relationship between Cameroon and Italy and also highlighted the need for continuity,  further cooperation, development and mutual understanding.

It was a beautiful gathering and another opportunity to showcase Cameroon' s rich culture, traditional regalia, diverse cuisine, it's legendary hospitality: all in an atmosphere and style that left many guests in awe. 

BEYOND THE INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY 2026

By Mabi Azefor Fominyen.

On March 8, 2026, women in several parts of the world commemorated and celebrated yet another International Women's Day. 

Several Women's Associations, Civil Society Organisations, gender advocates, government authorities, UN Women and many other organisations as well as individuals; used the occasion to highlight issues affecting women and girls worldwide (such as gender-based violence, abuse, social injustice, inadequate financial resources, lack of education etc) and also recognised efforts made towards gender equity & development, the respect of women's right and the rule of law among other points.

 Over the years,  I have realised that some people continue to ask why women celebrate on March 8? I dare say the reasons are many and varied!

 I HONOUR AND CELEBRATE THE EXTRA-ORDINARY WOMEN WHOSE VOICES, COURAGE AND RELENTLESS ADVOCACY HAVE IMPACTED GLOBAL ADVANCEMENT OF WOMEN AND GIRLS. 

 The road to;

- Equal opportunites for men and women/girls/boys

- Social justice and fairness 

- Ecomonic empowerment for every girl - - An end to all forms of abuse 

- An end to female genital mutulation

- An end to early child marriage

- Respect of women's rights .............etc hasn't been an easy one for many. Nonetheless, several women/ girls, communities, organisations, governments, individuals and different steakholders continue to advocate for these measures as well as for the overall wellbeing of women and girls, beyond the International Women's Day . 

 To know more about March 8, you can read here https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Women%27s_Day