On March 20, 2025, the Catholic school complex Saint François de Sales in Kintambo, Kinshasa, hosted a celebration in honor of International Women's Day, with Vice-Minister of National Education and New Citizenship Jean-Pierre Kezamudru Musisiri as the keynote speaker. During his address, he emphasized the United Nations theme for the day: “For all women and girls: rights, equality and empowerment,” stating that it aimed to empower future generations as catalysts for sustainable change.
The government endorsed a separate theme for the day, “The Congolese woman at the center of all our ambitions.” Kezamudru highlighted this by paying tribute to President Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, who prioritizes the education of Congolese children. He declared, “This manifest will of the President of the Republic is reflected in the special emphasis placed on free primary education and the construction of school infrastructures across the Republic through the development project of 145 territories in our country.”
Kezamudru also expressed gratitude towards the President for appointing a woman, Judith Suminwa Tuluka, as head of government, which he pointed out as evidence of women being at the core of national ambitions.
In his speech, Kezamudru encouraged everyone to internalize the “Serment du citoyen,” a pledge available to all Congolese, which states: “I swear to serve at all times, with fidelity and loyalty, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, to love and respect my compatriots, to protect common goods and to promote national unity and brotherhood.”
Meanwhile, at Masbou College, the celebration of women's rights took a creative turn on March 11, 2025. Students crafted bookmarks, which were distributed throughout the school, and teachers were invited to display portraits of famous women on classroom doors. The song “Mesdames” by Grand Corps Malade resonated through the halls as part of the day's celebrations.
Masbou College has turned the International Women's Rights Day into a much-anticipated event, especially for the members of the Student Life Council who organize it. The occasion allows adults to explain the achievements of notable artists, writers, and scientists, showcasing their struggles for the same recognition afforded to men.
An exhibition in the entrance hall of Masbou College featured figures such as Olympe de Gouges and Malala Yousafzai, providing examples of inspiring journeys for both girls and boys. Additional posters provided by the Hubertine Auclert center bore the slogan: “Professional equality, it takes work,” highlighting the statistic that only 11% of computer science students today are women, despite Ada Lovelace being a pioneering programmer.
On March 8, 2025, the Togolese Volleyball Federation (FTVB) similarly celebrated Women's Day by organizing several events across the country. At the Lomé Omnisports Stadium, a volleyball gala took place, blending sport and festivities, with players gathered to honor women through volleyball and social cohesion.
A significant highlight of the day involved a friendly match between Noël Tadegnon, FTVB President, and Essanfo Alagbé, President of the Grand Lomé League, who took on the roles of co-coaches for women's teams. This creative and engaging format added a playful element to the sports celebration.
Kara, located over 400 kilometers from Lomé, also participated, with a friendly match taking place between military personnel and civilians, fostering community spirit.
Looking forward, a volleyball competition is scheduled for March 22, 2025, at the Lomé Omnisports Stadium, featuring several schools with matches commencing at 7:30 AM. Teams from CEG Tokoin Nord and the French Lycée of Lomé will compete in both male and female categories, showcasing the FTVB’s commitment to embedding volleyball deeply within Togolese youth culture.
On the same day, March 22, 2025, the association Escale solidaire will host a gathering in Villenave-d’Ornon with a focus on the difficulties faced by single mothers, commencing at 2:30 PM. This poignant discussion is a result of the merger of Escale solidaire with Femmes villenavaises solidaires et citoyennes, broadening their mission to encompass social grocery management and defending the rights and dignity of women and their families.
The afternoon event will feature various activities, including debates, personal testimonies, and a photography exhibition. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with professionals from various fields, including representatives from the CAF, Plie, Centre d’Information sur les droits des femmes et des familles (CIDFF), and psychologists.
This gathering aims to help attendees navigate the precarious circumstances often faced by single mothers, fostering a sense of community and support.
Overall, these diverse celebrations across different institutions and regions underscore the significance of International Women's Day in 2025, promoting awareness, inclusion, and empowerment for women and girls.
