Women’s Rights Day

Women’s Rights Day is a holiday that’s observed annually on April 17th in Gabon. Gabon is a country that’s located on the Atlantic coast of Central Africa. This holiday was enacted to celebrate the women who have broken the glass ceiling and have assumed jobs in the government.

This holiday is observed on the anniversary of the death of Rose Francine Rogombรฉ, the very first female head of state for the country of Gabon. She became the first acting president of the country after President Omar Bongo Ondima passed away from a heart attack.

The History Of Women’s Rights Day In Gabon

Rose Francine Rogombรฉ was born on September 20, 1942, in Lambarene, French Equatorial Africaโ€”which is now called Gabon, of course. After spending a period of time studying in France, she took a job as a magistrate in Gabon. She would also take a position as Secretary of State for the Advancement of Women and Human Rights during the 1980s.

During the 2008 local elections, she would become elected as municipal councilor in Lambarene. She was then elected as a Senator during the January 2009 Senate election. On February 16, 2009, she was elected as President of the Senate.

When President Omar Bongo died on June 8, 2009, the President of the Senate was the next in line in succession. On June 10, 2009, she was sworn in as president.

Observing Women’s Rights Day In Gabon

This holiday is observed with memorial services for Rose Francine Rogombรฉ and by participating in events that advocate for women’s causes. On social media, the hashtag #WomensRightsDay is often used to spread the word about this holiday.

Where is it celebrated?
Gabon (Public holiday)
When is it?
This year (2024)
April 17 Wednesday
Next year (2025)
April 17 Thursday
Last year (2023)
April 17 Monday