International Day of the Girl Child: A Call for Action, Not Just Celebration

By: Fatmata Kamara, Esq.

As the world marks the International Day of the Girl Child on the 11th of October each year, it is imperative to reflect on the essence of this day. While it is a day to recognize the rights of girls and the challenges they face worldwide, it also serves as a reminder of the substantial work that lies ahead. In Sierra Leone, as we commemorate this day, we are confronted with the pressing question of whether we should truly celebrate or solemnly contemplate the progress made.

The International Day of the Girl Child was initiated in 2012 by Plan International, a global organization dedicated to improving the lives of girls, especially in developing nations. This day found its roots in a resolution sponsored by Rona Ambrose, Canada’s Minister for the Status of Women, during the 55th United Nations Commission on the Status of Women. On December 19, 2011, the United Nations General Assembly passed Resolution 66/170, designating October 11, 2012, as the first International Day of the Girl Child. This historic resolution celebrated the strength and potential of girls, emphasizing the transformative impact of empowering them.

While Sierra Leone faithfully commemorates this day, our girls still grapple with numerous challenges, including sexual abuse, teenage pregnancy, child marriage, limited access to education, gender-based violence, discrimination, child labor, school dropout rates, and maternal mortality. Despite raising awareness, many obstacles continue to hinder their development, highlighting the need for action.

Research indicates that Sierra Leone faces significant maternal and child health challenges, ranking among the top ten countries with the highest rates of teenage pregnancy globally. Adolescent fertility rates in Sierra Leone are alarmingly high. A substantial portion of maternal deaths occurs among teenagers, further underscoring the need for transformative change.

To address these challenges, Sierra Leone and the global community must invest in tangible actions. Prioritizing girls’ empowerment, sexual and reproductive health education, offering support to victims of teenage pregnancy, expanding educational resources and scholarships for girls, delivering justice for survivors of gender-based violence, strengthening healthcare systems, and providing mentorship opportunities are vital steps toward girls’ empowerment and meaningful participation in decision-making.

In the words of UN Secretary-General António Guterres, women and girls have the power to transform societies. Their leadership can drive positive change, influence policies, and create a more equitable future for all. As we celebrate the International Day of the Girl Child, let it serve as a call to action, a reminder of the significant work that lies ahead to empower and uplift girls, not only in Sierra Leone but around the world.

Fatmata Kamara, Esq. is Vice-President for the West Africa Pan African Female Youth Leaders (PANAFYL)