News Center — In recent years, Mauritania has witnessed a series of arrests targeting prominent female activists defending women’s rights, often due to their participation in peaceful protests or human rights activities. These actions have drawn both local and international criticism as attempts to silence voices calling for justice and equality.

The Association of Women Heads of Households (AFCF) issued a statement on Sunday, November 30, addressing the public and relevant authorities. The statement strongly condemned the “unjustified” arrest of activist Diénaba Ndioum, known for her advocacy against racism and gender-based violence.

The association emphasized that Ndioum’s arrest, along with several women from her association and supportive youth, contradicts the core principles of the globally recognized “16 Days of Activism” campaign dedicated to defending women’s rights.

According to the statement, Ndioum was arrested during a peaceful demonstration commemorating the “28 Soldiers Executed” as part of the 30th Independence anniversary. AFCF stressed that such a tragic event and the ensuing peaceful resistance should have been supported, not repressed. “In a context where the international community calls for the protection of women, we are deeply concerned by the silencing, intimidation, and even imprisonment of women simply for daring to express themselves and demand their fundamental rights,” the statement read.

The AFCF underlined that repression is not an effective solution and condemned the increasing trend toward silencing freedom of expression in society. “Women and youth who bravely fight for their rights and those of their mothers, sisters, and relatives should not be treated as criminals. Their voices, carrying truths and hopes, must be respected. Ignoring or suppressing these voices only deepens injustice and stifles the possibility of necessary change,” the statement added.

The association also highlighted the suffering endured by many women due to violence and injustice, stressing that November 28 should be a day for reflection and solidarity, not repression.

AFCF called for transitional justice that restores dignity, ensures safety, and protects the rights of all Mauritanian women, demanding the immediate release of Diénaba Ndioum and a reassessment of repressive policies targeting human rights defenders.

The statement concluded by emphasizing that this stance is a call for unity and solidarity with all voices striving for positive change, aiming to build a future where human rights are respected and freedom of expression is safeguarded for all.

Ndioum, a women’s rights activist and politician, has previously faced threats of assassination and harassment due to her political activism in a country marked by overlapping forms of oppression, including militarization, racism, slavery, and ethnic, class, and gender discrimination.

She is also active in feminist and political movements advocating for the rights of non-Arab groups in Mauritania, including the “Oulan” campaign, which calls for the recognition of Pulaar, Soninke, and Wolof as national languages.