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 Day, brilliantly combining commemoration, creativity and innovation.
A celebration marked by excellence
March 8th marked the culmination of the festivities for this 2025 edition at OAPI. The event was enhanced by the presence of prominent figures, including the Ambassador of Côte d'Ivoire, Mr. Filbert KOUASSI GLEGLAUD, and the Resident Representative of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in Cameroon, Mr. Justin KOFFI.
The Director General of OAPI, Mr. Denis BOHOUSSOU, opened the festivities with an eloquent speech paying tribute to the women who contribute daily to the excellence of the institution, thus setting the tone for a day rich in sharing and discovery.
Women's entrepreneurship in the spotlight
A highlight of the celebration was the inspiring testimony of Ms. Lisette Claudia TAME DJOMBE, CEO of Africa Processing Company. Her journey in the agri-food industry perfectly illustrated the theme of women's empowerment. Through her entrepreneurial experience, sometimes fraught with challenges but ultimately crowned with success, she eloquently demonstrated the determination and considerable potential of women in economic development.
A festival of talent and creativity
The OAPI staff demonstrated remarkable creativity through a variety of artistic and technical displays. A fashion show highlighting traditional skills transported the audience into the rich cultural diversity of the OAPI region. Talents were also showcased through theatrical performances, paintings, and demonstrations of the artisanal production of household products such as liquid soap, bleach, and white vinegar.
A week of enriching activities. The celebrations began on March 1st with a brisk walk, followed on March 7th by a conference that opened with a thought-provoking slam poem exploring the meaning of "being a woman" in all its dimensions. This conference, focused on the crucial theme of "mental health in the workplace," brought together a panel of experts including Ms. Aminata DJEBRE, Head of Human Resources at OAPI, Dr. EYOUM DOUALA, occupational physician, and Dr. LENDA France Armelle, psychotherapist. Their presentations emphasized the importance of developing a culture of prevention around mental health in the workplace and the need for managers to be trained to identify warning signs in their employees.
A resounding success
The 2025 edition of International Women's Day at OAPI proved to be a resounding success, leaving a lasting impression on all participants. Beyond the celebration, this event reaffirmed the organization's commitment to gender equality and women's empowerment, both within the institution and in society at large.
