Colonel Ghislaine Léa Yangongo’s journey in the Central African Republic’s (CAR) military reflects her remarkable leadership and groundbreaking efforts to reshape the armed forces. Joining the military as a volunteer in 1997, she quickly made her mark and defied the expectations placed on women in the military.
After completing her training at the Air Force Academy, Colonel Yangongo became the first female officer to command the Bangui Air Force Base, breaking through a significant barrier in a male-dominated environment. Her leadership role expanded further when she was appointed as the Secretary-General of the Superior Council of the Military Condition, where she influenced key decisions in military strategy and reform.
Throughout her career, Colonel Yangongo has been a strong advocate for women’s inclusion in the military. Working with the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA), she helped implement the Women, Peace, and Security National Action Plan. This initiative aimed to ensure that women were represented at all levels of the military, participating directly in peacekeeping and security operations.
Colonel Yangongo’s rise through the ranks is a testament to her ability to overcome the challenges faced by women in the military. Despite the obstacles, she earned the respect of her male counterparts and became a symbol of leadership and competence.
Her impact extends beyond her own career, as she has encouraged many women in the Central African Republic to pursue military service. By challenging traditional gender roles, she has opened doors for women to take on roles that were previously reserved for men, inspiring a new generation to aspire to leadership positions within the armed forces.
Colonel Yangongo also acknowledges the complex balancing act that women in the military often face, managing both their professional responsibilities and family life. She advocates for greater support from society and families to allow women to thrive in military careers, calling for more educational opportunities to help women contribute to national defense and security.
Colonel Ghislaine Léa Yangongo’s legacy lies in her efforts to transform the military landscape of the Central African Republic, creating a more inclusive environment for women and setting the stage for future generations to follow in her footsteps.
