Kah Walla is an entrepreneur, activist and politician, who have strives to change Cameroon and Africa as a whole. Explore her story so far

Kah Walla is a successful Cameroonian entrepreneur who runs her own consulting firm, but that's just one side of the story.  

Kah Walla is also a dedicated activist and politician who's not afraid to challenge the norms in her environment as this is demonstrated in her activisim and fight for women empowerment.

She even made history by becoming the first woman to ever run for president in Cameroon!  We have brought to you her inspiring journey and the ways she's fighting to make a difference in her country. 

Summary

• Kah Walla is a prominent figure in Cameroon who has made a significant impact as an entrepreneur, activist, and politician.
• She is the founder of STRATEGIES!, a consulting firm focused on leadership and strategy development with a global clientele. 
• As an activist, she champions social causes through organizations like Cameroon Ô'Bosso and fights for women's empowerment and electoral reform.
• Kah Walla became the first woman to run for president of Cameroon in 2011 and currently leads the Cameroon People's Party.

Early Life and Education of Kah Walla

Born on February 28, 1965, in Ibadan, Nigeria. Her father, John Solomon Walla, held distinguished positions throughout his career, while her mother, Grace Ebako Walla, a double doctorate holder in public health and health education, actively led the NGO CAMNAFAW (Cameroon National Association for Family Welfare)

Seeking higher education, Walla earned a Bachelor of Science degree in zoology at Howard University in Washington D.C. There, she. Howard also equipped her with business acumen as she pursued a Master of Business Administration (MBA), graduating in 1990.

Kah Walla's educational background, coupled with her strong family background, laid the groundwork for her future success as a leader in business, activism, and politics.

Kah Walla's Social Activism

Kah Walla is a powerhouse for social change in Cameroon. Her activism extends beyond her home country, offering a voice for a more just and equitable Africa. 

Championing the Grassroots:

Central to Walla's activism is empowering the people. She believes true change comes from the ground up. This philosophy is evident in her founding of Cameroon Ô'Bosso, a citizen movement. Ô'Bosso equips ordinary Cameroonians to organize, defend their interests, and have a say in shaping national policy.

Empowering Women and Entrepreneurs:

Walla recognizes the crucial role women play in Cameroon's development. She served as President of the Cameroon Gender and Development Network, advocating for women's rights and economic participation. Her work with over 500 market women in Douala to strengthen their entrepreneurial skills is a prime example. This project's success is being used as a model for market reform across Africa.

Building a Stronger Civil Society

Walla isn't just about advocacy; she's about creating lasting change. Her business acumen translates into her social activism. Through her consulting firm, STRATEGIES!, she facilitates discussions on critical issues like police reform and racial justice, not just in Cameroon, but across the continent.

Promoting Free and Fair Elections:

One of the biggest hurdles to progress in Cameroon is the lack of transparent elections. Walla has been a vocal critic of the status quo and a champion for electoral reform. Her 2011 presidential run, though unsuccessful in securing the office, was a significant step in raising awareness about the importance of voter registration and participation.

Kah Walla's Entry into Politics

Kah Walla's journey in Cameroon's political landscape began with the Social Democratic Front (SDF), the leading opposition party at the time. In 2007, she took the plunge and joined the SDF, showcasing her commitment to democratic ideals. Her dedication was recognized as she secured a seat on the municipal council of Douala I, a major city in Cameroon.

However, by 2010, a difference in strategies with the SDF led Kah Walla to resign. This wasn't the end of her political aspirations though. In a bold move, she declared her candidacy for the 2011 presidential election, making history as the first woman in Cameroon to ever run for president. This act shattered a glass ceiling and paved the way for future generations of women in Cameroonian politics.

Around the same time, Kah Walla's leadership qualities were acknowledged by the Cameroon People's Party (CPP). In April 2011, she was elected as the party's president, taking the reins from its founder, Samuel Tita Fon. This marked the beginning of a new chapter for both Kah Walla and the CPP.

Kah Walla's Awards and Recognition

Kah Walla has been recognized for her work as a businesswoman and activist with several awards.

In 2015, Kah Walla earned the Vital Voices Global Leadership Vanguard Award. Vital Voices Global Partnership is a non-profit founded on the simple idea that nations and communities cannot move forward without women’s voices in leadership positions

Also, in 2014, she earned the DVF Award (2014), because she was named one of 150 women who shook the world and, most importantly, Kah Walla’s contribution through STRATEGIES so far. 

In 2011, her dedication never go unnoticed. She was listed among the Africa’s 100 most influential leaders by New African Magazine 

Conclusion

Kah Walla is a true force for positive change, not just in Cameroon, but across Africa. Through her success in business, her unwavering activism, and her groundbreaking political endeavors, Kah Walla is a source of inspiration for those who seek a brighter future. 

Her unwavering commitment to empowering the people, advocating for the marginalized, and promoting good governance paves the way for a more just and prosperous continent.