Ulanda leads advocacy against domestic violence through art

In 2023, Ulanda emerged not only as a musical sensation but also as a powerful advocate for women’s rights, focusing her efforts on raising awareness about domestic violence. The release of her hit single “Mon Mari” marked a point in her activism, as the song’s lyrics shed light on the silent struggles of women trapped in abusive relationships. Through her art, Ulanda was able to spark crucial conversations that had long been suppressed in many African communities.
The music video for “Mon Mari” was especially impactful. Directed with a raw, documentary-style approach, it told the story of a woman’s journey from despair to freedom. Viewers were confronted with scenes of emotional abuse, fear, and isolation, but the video ended on a note of tragedy that follows unattended abuses in relationships. Ulanda’s portrayal of this narrative was both poignant and realistic, offering hope to those who might feel trapped in similar situations.

Ulanda’s advocacy didn’t stop at her music. She soon began organizing seminars and conferences to further address the issue of domestic violence. In Limbe and Buea, two cities where cases of domestic violence had been on the rise, Ulanda worked with local organizations to provide support for women affected by abuse. These seminars featured panel discussions with leading voices from the entertainment and legal sectors, including Cameroonian actress Mbeng Lilian, known for her role as “Caro” in the hit series “Family is Everything,” and Kwoh Elonge, the creator of the “Aunty Feli” character.

These conferences were more than just awareness campaigns—they were lifelines for many women who had been suffering in silence. Ulanda and her team ensured that attendees received tangible support, including legal advice, psychological counseling, and access to financial support. Through partnerships with local non-profits and government agencies, she facilitated the distribution of financial aid to help women transition out of abusive situations.

In one particularly notable event in Buea, Ulanda worked with the Domestic Abuse Foundation (DAF), led by Emily Miki, to organize a day of empowerment workshops for women. These workshops covered a range of topics, from financial literacy to self-defense training, helping women develop the skills they needed to rebuild their lives. Ulanda’s involvement went beyond just lending her name to the cause—she was actively involved in the planning and execution of each event, often sharing her personal experiences and offering emotional support to survivors.

Ulanda’s advocacy efforts soon caught the attention of international organizations. In 2024, she was invited to perform at various Women Conference on Ending Gender-Based Violence. Her powerful message through music, in which she recounted the inspiration behind “Mon Mari” and shared stories of the women she had met through her advocacy work, received a standing ovation. During the conference, Ulanda announced plans to expand her advocacy work across Africa, with upcoming initiatives in Central and West Africa.

Through her continued efforts, Ulanda has become a beacon of hope for women across the continent. Her combination of artistry and activism has not only elevated her career but also created lasting change in the lives of many. As Ulanda prepares for her next chapter, it is clear that she is much more than just a musician—she is a leader, a role model, and a warrior in the fight for justice.