Under the theme "For all women and girls, rights, equality and empowerment", the African Intellectual Property Organization (OAPI) organized a memorable celebration of the 40th International Women's Rights Day, brilliantly combining commemoration, creativity and innovation.
A celebration under the sign of excellence
The day of March 8 marked the peak of the festivities of this 2025 edition at the OAPI. The event was enhanced by the presence of eminent personalities, including the Ivory Coast ambassador, Mr. Filbert Kouassi Gleglaud, and the resident representative of the United Nations Fund for the Population (UNFPA) in Cameroon, Mr. Justin Koffi.
The director general of the OAPI, Mr. Denis Bohoussou, opened the festivities by an eloquent discourse paying tribute to the women who contribute daily to the excellence of the institution, thus giving a tone to a day rich in sharing and discoveries.
Female entrepreneurship in the spotlight
A highlight of this celebration was the inspiring testimony of Ms. Lisette Claudia Tame Djombe, CEO of Africa Processing Company. Its career in the food industry has perfectly illustrated the theme of the empowerment of women. Through her entrepreneurial experience, sometimes strewn with pitfalls but crowned with success, she has eloquently demonstrated the determination and considerable potential of women in economic development.
A talent and creativity festival
OAPI employees have shown remarkable creativity through various artistic and technical demonstrations. A fashion show highlighting traditional know-how has transported assistance in the rich cultural diversity of the OAPI region. Talents have also expressed themselves through theatrical services, paint works and artisanal manufacturing demonstrations of household products such as liquid soap, bleach and white vinegar.
A week of enriching activities The celebrations had started on March 1 with a sporting march, followed on March 7 of a conference opened by an evocative slam on what it means "to be a woman" in all its dimensions. This conference, focused on the crucial theme of "mental health in a professional environment", brought together a panel of experts including Ms. Aminata Djebre, head of the OAPI Human Resources Service, Dr. Eyoum Douala, occupational doctor, and Dr Lenda France Armelle, psychotherapist. Their interventions highlighted the importance of developing a culture of prevention around mental health in business and the need for managers to be trained in the identification of alert signs in their employees.
Resounding success
This 2025 edition of International Women's Rights Day at OAPI has proven to be a real success, leaving a lasting impression for all participants. Beyond the celebration, this event has reaffirmed the commitment of the organization in favor of gender equality and the empowerment of women, both within the institution and in the whole of society.
