Women defy stereotypes, take lead at polls, reaffirm their voices matter in shaping cameroon’s future.

The premises of Government School (GS) Buea Town, host to one of the over 200 authorised polling stations in Buea, saw women streaming into the station to cast their votes, in favour of their preferred presidential candidate. Their presence sent a strong message to the few that show up at the station, a reminder that women also have a decisive role to play, in Cameroon’s democracy.

At a time when political engagement is often dominated by men, the sight of women standing confidently in groups of mothers, traders, students, and first time voters, was evident at the polling station, creating wareness that change will not come unless women take part in shaping it. Amongst these women was Julie Njie, a mother and businesswoman who confessed to pausing everything that morning, to ensure her vote is counted.

“As a Cameroonian woman I left my home, my children and work to come here and vote, because we need change and it won’t be possible without our votes. That’s why I left everything just to come and cast my vote” Julie shared

Like mah Julie, Nalova Claris, a first-time voter whose excitement could hardly be contained, says they are a new generation of women, ready to step out of the shadows of political apathy.

“It’s not only the actions of men that are supposed to be seen, women are also supposed to be seen and heard. We have the right to express our civic rights because we are also part of this country and we are leaders of tomorrow” Nalova declared boldly.

She also believes that young women should no longer see politics as a man’s affair, but as a collective responsibility. For her, the simple act of voting carries a deep sense of empowerment and identity.

“It’s my first time to vote and I’m very excited. Some people of my age are sitting and relaxing at home, saying they want change but yet they don’t want to take part in creating the change. So I’m excited I was able to make my voice heard through my vote” she added

In a country where women make up nearly half of the population but remain underrepresented in decision making, the presence of voters like Julie and Nalova symbolizes more than participation, but also progress. Their actions on this day reflect a quiet but growing revolution among women, who are determined to move from the margins of politics to its very heart.

To Mah Julie who has voted in multiple elections, she has learned from experience that democracy depends on consistency. Her message to other women was simple yet powerful.

“At my age it’s obvious it’s not my first time voting. So I want to encourage all the women out there that when it is time to vote, they should all answer present because it is not only via civic right, but also the only way through which they can be part of the decision making process in our country” she states firmly.

It is now evident that these women’s motivations go beyond loyalty to political parties, but about reclaiming their identity and elling the world that their opinions, dreams, and struggles matter, just as much as those of their male counterparts.

Their laughter, determination, and unity transformed what might have been an ordinary Election Day scene, into a  place of joy in a conflict setting. And as each woman walked out of the polling station, she was not just a voter, but a voice, a leader, and a symbol of the change she seeks.

It should be noted the turnout of women at GS Buea Town stands as a testament to the shifting landscape of political participation in Cameroon. From seasoned voters like Julie Njie to enthusiastic newcomers like Nalova Claris, these women remind the nation that democracy flourishes when every voice is heard. Their courage to step forward, to speak, and to vote is not only shaping the outcome of an election, but also the narrative of what it means to be a woman in Cameroon.

By Nai Vonna Nubeh