The U.S. Embassy in Yaounde welcomed the distinguished visit of four members from the Cameroon Muslim Women’s Association (CAMWA) on April 14.

They included National President Aminatou Saher, Regional President Aïssatou Mohamadou, and Secretary General for the Center Region Maïramou Haman Adji.

They were met by Public Affairs Officer Roberto Quiroz II, Cultural Affairs Officer Merlyn Schultz, Cultural Affairs Specialist Gladys Viban, and Cultural Affairs Assistant Olivia Mukam.

Ms. Aminatou Saher stated that their organization is committed to building the capacities of Muslim women and girls, noting: “We are inspired by the fact that Cameroonian women do great things each day for their communities. We do not allow extremists to define Islam. We define it through our identity as proud Cameroonian women who together with others who love their country to represent Islam, a religion of love and peace.”

Mr. Quiroz thanked them for their visit and observed: “As President Obama has said, you represent the future of Africa and Cameroon. You are VIP’s. In you, Cameroonian women and girls have an example of resilience, patriotism, and commitment to excellence. Together with your fellow citizens, your own talents, ideas, and efforts will build Cameroon’s future in support of ‘Vision 2035.’”

Ms. Schultz presented them with Nouveaux Horizons books on Muslim Americans and noted: “As women, your voices and contributions are necessary to promote development, and we congratulate you in your vision of empowering women and girls.”

Ms. Viban and Ms. Mukam briefed the young women on U.S. Embassy youth and women’s outreach programs, and noted those areas are key priorities established by President Obama and reaffirmed by Ambassador Michael S. Hoza.

“Young women like you continue to inspire hope and possibility. Through your ground breaking and innovative programs you are empowering women regardless of age, religious affiliation, or linguistic adhesion. You are true examples of Cameroon’s unified diversity.”

The CAMWA officials also visited the James Baldwin Information Resource Center (IRC), where they received briefings by Director Mathias Tientcheu and Education USA Advisor Richard Ewane.