The women of Bangui, capital of the Central African Republic, responded massively to the call of the organizers of the 100% female canoe race on the Oubangui River.
In a crazy atmosphere, the women paddled their muscles out onto long canoes. For this year, in Bangui, they wanted to celebrate International Women's Day, this event, differently. At the edge of the river, a heated audience exulted at the arrival of the winners.
"You know, it’s our husbands who are used to shopping, but for this day, we said to ourselves why not us! We are also capable of doing what our husbands do and we are proud of it. I am very happy that my village Bokassi 1 can occupy first place in this race" declares Jupsie MAMELEYABI, captain of the Bokassi women.
For these women, we had to do something other than parade, as we are used to, every March 8. Images which, according to the UN Women resident representative for the Central African Republic, demonstrate all of their bravery, commitment and determination.
"I am very proud to have participated in this race, I saw the bravery of the Central African women, the Central African girls, they were brave, they were committed determined and that's it on March 8. March 8 is to celebrate the victory of women, the commitment of women and they demonstrated this this afternoon. So congratulations to the Central African Republic which wins and congratulations to the Central African women and girls. Law, justice and actions for all women and girls in the Central African Republic", explains Rachel MIAM DIAGONE, UN Women Resident Representative in the Central African Republic.
Thousands of spectators, especially men, wanted to respond to this invitation launched by the women. A challenge, according to the mayor of the city of Bangui, which was met with force by the fairer sex of the capital.
"Women’s rights, you saw. Women when they decide to do something, they always succeed, that's the result. It’s a challenge that we set ourselves and you saw it was met", says Léontine YANGBAWEBONA, Mayor of the city of Bangui.
With this year's theme "Rights, Empowerment and Opportunities for All Displaced Women and Girls, Everywhere", the aim here is to celebrate the political, economic and cultural achievements of the world's women.
