Uganda Commerates Girl Child International Day

Uganda is today commemorating the International Day of the Girl Child, highlighting the theme "Invest in Girls Rights: Our Leadership and Wellbeing." 

The state Minister for youth and children affairs, Hon Sarah Mateke Nyirabashitsi, emphasized the country's commitment to protecting and empowering girls. "As the Minister for Girls, I am profoundly mindful of the significance of this moment. This day calls upon us to reflect upon our unwavering commitment to the protection and wellbeing of the girl-child."

The theme for this year's International Day of the Girl Child, "Invest in Girls Rights: Our Leadership and Wellbeing," reverberates deeply with our aspirations as a nation where every girl is availed the opportunity to achieve their full potential and enabled to grow into leaders of our society. It aligns with international conventions and our own foundational principles that advocate for the rights of our children.

She outlined achievements in health, education, protection, and participation, including improvements in maternal and child health, increased school enrollment, and initiatives to prevent violence against girls. Nyirabashitsi acknowledged persisting challenges such as gender disparities in secondary education and the need to combat harmful social norms. She called for further support for girls' leadership aspirations, investment in education, female role models, public campaigns against violence, and intensified HIV prevention programs. The Minister urged collective efforts to empower girls, ensuring a brighter future for Uganda.