"Her Badge, Her Voice: A Woman’s Courage in Law and Community”

September 22, 2025
Diverse group posing in front of a yellow building with a sign above the entrance.

UNDP CMR Far North region formation OPJ/APJ

UNDP CMR Far North region

In the beautiful town of Kousseri, where trade and transit pulse as the lifeblood of the community, Moulda Mocsia Jeanne shines as a beacon of determination and resilience. More than just a customs officer, she is a woman boldly challenging gender stereotypes and excelling in a field traditionally dominated by men. At just 30 years old, Moulda balances her roles as a wife, mother of four, and dedicated professional, navigating the complexities of her position with unwavering confidence and grace in a crisis context

Five officials sit at a wooden table in a bright room, UNDP banner in background.

UNDP CMR Regional Stabilisation Facility (RSF) formation OPJ/APJ Far North region

UNDP CMR Regional Stabilisation Facility (RSF)

Recently, Moulda was among 63 Judicial Police Officers (OPJs) and Judicial Police Agents (APJs) who participated in a pivotal three-day training session in Logone-et-Chari, led by seasoned magistrates from the Kousseri Prosecutor’s Office. The training covered essential topics, including investigative procedures, crisis management, and ethical conduct in law enforcement.

For Moulda, the experience was transformative.

Before this training, I often felt uncertain, questioning my role in relation to other law enforcement officers,” she candidly admits. “But now, I have a clear understanding of the distinctions between an OPJ and an APJ. As a customs officer, I have a distinct and vital role, and I am confident in asserting it.”

One of the most valuable lessons for her was understanding the chain of command and the responsibilities of each agency during joint operations.

Uniformed person seated at a table with folded hands, wearing a green jacket with a flag patch.

UNDP CMR Regional Stabilisation Facility (RSF) formation OPJ/APJ Far North region. Moulda Mocsia Jeanne

UNDP CMR Regional Stabilisation Facility (RSF)

When we seize goods or vehicles, it is our responsibility as customs officers to handle them, since we issue the receipts. The police and gendarmerie are there to support—not to override—our authority,” she explains. “This clarity has significantly improved our collaboration.

Despite her growing confidence, Moulda continues to face challenges rooted in gender bias. “In areas like Fotokol, where I sometimes work, many men still believe women should stay in the background,” she says. “But I am determined to dismantle these misconceptions.

During a joint inspection at the Kousseri border, Moulda discovered a truck carrying undeclared medical supplies items meant for a nearby conflict-affected health center. Technically, the shipment violated customs regulations and the penal code. But instead of immediately confiscating everything, Moulda initiated a dialogue with the driver and verified the destination. She then coordinated with health authorities to ensure the supplies reached the clinic, while still documenting the infraction. “The law is clear,” she says, “but compassion helps us apply it wisely.” Her decision upheld the law, protected public health, and earned her deep respect from both her peers and the community.

Her resolve is unwavering. “With every confident step I take, I show that women are equally capable of leading effectively. It’s not an easy path, but I’m committed to paving the way for others.” 

Her daily routine is a dynamic blend of structured tasks and unpredictable situations—from meticulous border inspections to joint operations with police and gendarmerie.

Four uniformed men sit at a wooden table with papers in a bright green room.

UNDP CMR Regional Stabilisation Facility (RSF) formation OPJ/APJ Far North region

UNDP CMR Regional Stabilisation Facility (RSF)
Group of men seated at a long table in a bright green room, red folders in front.

UNDP CMR Regional Stabilisation Facility (RSF) formation OPJ/APJ Far North region

UNDP CMR Regional Stabilisation Facility (RSF)

Her daily routine is a dynamic blend of structured tasks and unpredictable situations—from meticulous border inspections to joint operations with police and gendarmerie.

Every day presents new challenges and opportunities,” she says. “One moment I’m inspecting goods, the next I’m resolving conflicts or managing seizures.”The training has empowered her to act with greater precision and professionalism.“It’s not just about fulfilling my duties, it’s about doing so with integrity and confidence.

However, Moulda also highlights persistent logistical challenges. “We still lack essential equipment like computers and vehicles, which are crucial for effective operations,” she notes. “I hope we’ll be provided with the necessary resources in the future.

Her commitment goes beyond her professional role.“I want to instill in my children, especially my daughters, the belief that they can achieve anything they set their minds to,” she says. “No one should ever diminish their potential because of their gender.”.

Photograph of a uniformed officer handing a document to a woman in a bright orange dress at a table.

UNDP CMR Regional Stabilisation Facility (RSF) formation OPJ/APJ Far North region

UNDP CMR Regional Stabilisation Facility (RSF)