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With the aim of promoting the rights of girls, the United Nations General Assembly, during its session of December 19, 2011, established an International Day of the Young Girl, celebrated on October 11 each year. On this occasion, the Ministry of Public Health, Population and Social Affairs, in collaboration with UNICEF, organized the official launch ceremony of the day on Friday October 11, 2024 in Niamey. The theme chosen for this 13th edition is: “girls’ vision for the future”.
At the opening of the proceedings, the Minister of Public Health, Population and Social Affairs indicated that all measures are taken to avoid the early marriage of young girls in order to give them the opportunity to pursue long studies and to access positions that guarantee them a better future. However, specifies doctor Colonel-Major Garba Hakimi, this is only possible with the participation of everyone. This is why he reiterates his sincere thanks to all the partners who continue to support the Nigerien State through multifaceted support. “I would like to make a special mention of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), for all the support provided for the cause of the children of our country,” he underlined.
For her part, the representative of UNICEF in Niger, Ms. Djanabou Mahonde, stressed that 99% of girls married before the age of 15 were not in school, thus compromising not only their future but also endangering their health and that of the children. children they will give birth to. She also highlighted that 35% of deaths among girls aged 15 to 19 are linked to early pregnancies. “It’s not just numbers, but it’s about every girl’s life,” she said.
Furthermore, Ms. Djanabou Mohonde added that the success of the implementation of the ”End child marriage” plan will not be limited only to the situation of girls in terms of child marriages, but it will contribute to the achievement of Niger’s commitments in terms of reducing maternal mortality, education for all children, the fight against malnutrition and improving the economic and social well-being of all citizens. “Through the Global Program to End Child Marriage, UNICEF, UNFPA and all partners of the platform will continue to stand alongside the government of Niger to achieve the objectives of this plan,” he said. she reassured.
On behalf of all the girls on the platform, Miss Kadiatou Idani launches an appeal to all stakeholders, whether young people, religious and customary leaders, associations, national and international NGOs, United Nations agencies, for strong mobilization around the authorities to ensure effective and efficient implementation of this strategic plan whose slogan is ”end child marriage”.
Salima H. Mounkaila (ONEP)
