First Lady, Mrs Chantal Biya, joined scores of women at the 20th May Boulevard to mark the 42nd National Day celebration.

Gone are the days when women were relegated to the backstage and considered as secondary elements in society. Today, they are not only put in the forefront of nation building but are also seen taking command in vital events.

Such was the case yesterday May 20, 2014 at the 20th May Avenue in Yaounde, where women from all walks of life, particularly those in the Defence Forces, marched-past the Avenue displaying signals which depicted that "what a man can do, a woman can do and even better". On hand to encourage these women, was Cameroon's First Lady, Mrs Chantal Biya, whose arrival at the ceremonial ground gave a special touch to the event.

Women participating in the Armed Forces, civilian march past as well as those amongst political parties made their presence felt in a unique manner as they marched past the 20th May Avenue in an aesthetic and colourful manner.

The population at the 20th May Avenue began feeling the prowess of women some 30 minutes before the march-past when the Second-in-Command of the troops at the 20th May Avenue, Colonel Anne Bella Nkoto, an assistant parade commander of troops, ushered into the ceremonial ground, the flag of the country. With a commanding tune, Colonel Anne Bella Nkoto held the crowd spellbound as they all in a standing ovation, gave the flag the solemnity it deserves. Also outstanding was Major Marguerité Mfegue who commanded the female detachment of 149 female gendarmes in light blue uniforms.

Women were not left out in the Armed Force as Major Marguerité Meffand Loaw commanded the female detachment of the Headquarters Brigade (BQG) comprising 149 female personnel in battle dress with Green Beret. The female folk also made their presence felt when they marched-past with the Presidential Guard, Combined Arm Services Military Academy (EMIA), Police corps, Penitentiary Administration, Customs, Ex-servicemen as well as amongst school people and political parties. The 20th May Boulevard yesterday lend credence to this.