Revisiting Women’s Day celebration in Baligham: Fon Gahnyam II pledges to prioritize women’s rights, well-being….

The event, organised under the Baligham Women Worldwide (BWW), the women wing of the Baligham Cultural and Development Union, BACDU, was marked by cultural displays and showcase of the industrious nature of women of the community.  

It held under the patronage of traditional ruler of Baligham, HRM Fon Doh Gahnyam II, who doubles as Mayor of Santa Council. 

It was attended by internal and external elite led by the National President of BACDU, notables, quarter heads and a cross section of the population.  

Anchored on the 2026 global IWD theme: “Rights, Justice, and Action for All Women and Girls”, the celebration doubled as a platform for advocacy for more respect of women’s rights.

Clad in the IWD commemorative fabric and traditional North West regalia, women and other members of the Baligham filled the ceremonial ground and electrified the moment with performances.

Addressing the women, HRH Fon Doh Gahnyam II thanked elite for their contributions to making the event a success and urged collective responsibility towards community development. 

“Baligham is a place to be and we have a duty to build it,” the monarch said, adding that women’s well-being remains central to progress of the village.  

“This is a beginning point in Baligham…where women have joy and love, there is progress,” the ttraditiional ruler added. 

While urging husbands to honour their wives, Gahnyam II invited the community to the palace for refreshments, continued celebrations and the distribution of washing soap and maize seeds. 

The occasion also featured the distribution of seeds, with assurances of further support to women in the days ahead.

BACDU Women Worldwide President, Dinga Judith Galabe, used the occasion to call for the protection of women and girls, in line with the 2026 theme.

“We are not fighting for our rights. We are pleading for our rights; the right to education, health, justice, action,” Dinga Judith said.

She also advised women to prioritise safety and harmony in their homes, urging them to seek protection in cases of violence. Women in Baligham continue to play a key role in farming, trade and community development, supporting families and sustaining the local economy.

The article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3739 of Monday March 23, 2026