Students And Youth Working on reproductive Health Action Team (SAYWHAT), observes the International Day of the Girl Child, a day dedicated to recognizing the rights and potential of girls around the world. This year’s theme, “Girls’ Vision for the Future,” invites us to listen to the voices of girls and young women as they articulate their dreams, aspirations, and the changes they wish to see in society.
Empowering girls is not just a moral obligation; it is crucial for sustainable development. When girls are educated, healthy, and free from violence, they can contribute significantly to their communities and economies. Yet, many girls face barriers that hinder their potential, from lack of access to education and healthcare to societal pressures and discrimination.
Despite significant progress in recent years, girls continue to face numerous challenges, including gender-based violence, limited access to education, and reproductive health discrimination. At SAYWHAT, we believe that every girl has the right to live free from fear, to make informed choices about her body, and to pursue her dreams without barriers.
As an organization dedicated to youth empowerment, we are committed to addressing the unique needs of young girls, particularly in the areas of health, education, and social justice. We recognize that girls are not only the leaders of tomorrow but are also catalysts for change in their communities today. By investing in their education and well-being, we can break the cycle of poverty and create a more equitable society for all.
Through the Girls Education Advocacy in the Region (GEAR) Alliance, SAYWHAT has been at the forefront of advocating for quality and accessible education for young women and girls in rural and farming communities. Our advocacy efforts have been visible in Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Malawi, where organizations such as the Farming Communities Educational Trust, National Action for Quality Education in Zambia, and Girls Activist Youth Organisation have tirelessly engaged with governments to fulfill their commitments to quality education as outlined in the Dakar Declaration.
SAYWHAT applauds the Zimbabwean government for fast-tracking the passing of the Criminal Laws Amendment Act, which aims to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Such developments are crucial for fostering an environment where adolescents can grow, pursue their dreams, and avoid disruptions like child marriages and teen pregnancies.
On Monday, SAYWHAT participated in Zimbabwe’s nationwide public consultations for the 2025 national budget, initiated in Harare by the Parliament Portfolio Committee on Budget, Finance, and Investment Promotion. Our key requests focused on two critical areas:
By prioritizing health and education, we can build a stronger, more resilient Zimbabwe where the needs of the girl child are met. The future is bright when girls are empowered to shape it. As we commemorate the International Day of the Girl Child, let us honor their visions and work together to create a world where every girl can achieve her dreams. By investing in girls today, we are investing in a better tomorrow for everyone.
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