MINAT Combines Tradition and Administration to Empower Women and Girls
As part of activities marking the 41st edition of International Women’s Day in Cameroon, the Ministry of Territorial Administration, MINAT on March 5, 2026 organised a talk in the conference hall of the Ministry.
Chaired by the Secretary General of the Ministry, Yves Christian Edoa Effa, representing the Minister of Territorial Administration, the talk had as theme: “Synergy of Actions between Administrative and Traditional Authorities for the Promotion and Protection of the Civil and Political Rights of Women and Girls, to Ensure Their Effective Participation in the Management of Public Affairs.”
A series of presentations were done with the first one delivered by Anne Dale Ngolle, Chief of Petitions and Litigation Unit at the Division of Judicial Affairs, where she explained the legal framework protecting the civil and political rights of women and girls in Cameroon. The roundtable was moderated by Dr Werebesi Luther, Head of the Division of Translation and Promotion of Bilingualism (DTPB) at MINAT. The first panelist, Adeline Sop Mote, Divisional Officer of Mefou and Akono, explained the role of administrative authorities in promoting women’s civil and political rights. She explained that administrative authorities play a key role in coordinating development initiatives.
The second panellist, Bruno Mvondo, a 2nd Class Traditional Chief of Ebolowa, spoke on the role of traditional institutions in promoting and protecting women’s rights. He explained that socio-cultural norms can either support or hinder women’s empowerment; thus, traditional rulers have an important responsibility in encouraging positive cultural practices, discouraging harmful traditions, mediating family and community conflicts, and preventing violence against women and girls.
This was immediately followed by an interactive session that had participants share their experiences, ask questions, and make proposals on practical solutions. In his closing remarks, Secretary General Yves Christian Edoa Effa emphasised that the promotion and protection of the civil and political rights of women and girls cannot be achieved without strong collaboration between administrative institutions and traditional authorities. He noted that law and tradition should not oppose each other but rather complement one another in building a more just and inclusive society. The day continued with a food fair showcasing traditional dishes from the ten regions of Cameroon.
Keywords: MINAT, International Women’s Day, Secretary General, Ministry, Division of Translation and Promotion of Bilingualism, Women’s rights,
