On Friday, 11th October, 2024 the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection (MoGCSP) marked the 2024 International Day of the Girl Child with an event held at the Ministry’s conference room. Themed “Girls’ Vision for the Future,” the celebration highlighted the dreams and aspirations of girls across the world, emphasizing the importance of empowering them to shape a brighter future.

The event brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from government agencies, international development partners, civil society organizations, and the media.

The celebration also featured the participation of girls from various schools who shared their visions and aspirations for a better, more inclusive world.

In her keynote address, the Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Protection, Hon. Dakoa Newman, emphasized the critical need to support and empower girls, who make up a significant portion of the global population. “Today, we recognize the incredible potential of the world’s 1.1 billion girls. Despite facing numerous challenges, girls continue to demonstrate courage, resilience, and hope. They envision a future where they are protected, respected, and empowered; a future where their voices are heard, their rights are upheld, and their contributions are valued,” she stated.

Hon. Newman expressed optimism and hope for the future, thanking all participants, partners, and organizers for their dedication to the cause. “As we leave here today, let us carry forward the spirit of this celebration. Let us continue to advocate for the rights of girls, invest in their education, and create environments where they can thrive,” she urged.

On behalf of the Chief Director of the Ministry, Dr. Afisah Zakariah, the Director of the General Administration Directorate, Mr. Ebenezer Charway, called for collective action from all sectors of society to invest in the education, healthcare, and leadership development of girls, noting that the success of girls has a profound impact on communities, families, and nations at large.

The celebration included a range of activities, such as school engagements, intergenerational dialogues, and a girls’ media takeover. These activities provided platforms for girls to discuss critical issues like gender equality, climate justice, and the role of girls in sustainable development.

The 2024 celebration of the International Day of the Girl Child in Ghana aims to amplify the voices of girls, increase awareness of the challenges they face, and inspire action to support their empowerment and leadership.

Source: MoGCSP Ghana