Celebrating the International Day of the Girl Child with 100 Adolescent and Young Women in Fundong

CAGEAD, in partnership with the African Women’s Development Fund (AWDF), marked the International Day of the Girl Child 2024, under the inspiring theme, "Girls’ Vision for the Future", with close to 100 AGYWs in Fundong. The event took place in the presence of key stakeholders, including local leaders, educators, and community advocates, who came together to acknowledge the potentials of young girls and the importance of their voices in shaping a better tomorrow.

Girls from various schools and communities gathered to share their aspirations and showcase their talents, turning the event into a vibrant festival of creativity and empowerment. 

 The day commenced with an overview and the significance of the International Day of the Girl Child, emphasizing the unique challenges faced by girls worldwide, from educational disparities to early marriage and gender-based violence. The speakers highlighted the critical need for proactive measures to ensure girls have equal opportunities to dream, aspire, and achieve their goals. These sessions encouraged the girls to think big and pursue their passions, regardless of societal norms or barriers. 

"Today is a reminder that girls are the catalysts for change in our communities," emphasized the Director of the women’s empowerment center, Fundong. 

According to the representative of the Imam of the Fundong central mosque, ‘everything starts and ends with prayers’ he therefor urged the girls to commit all their plans into God’s hands because He never disappoints. 

participants highlighted their challenges and dreams for the future, which ranged from becoming engineers and doctors to artists, ministers, layers, teachers, environmental activists, just to name these. 

   As the sun set, the celebration culminated, the AGYWs showcased their skills in a debate, general knowledge, and games, dazzling the audience with their brilliance. The event concluded with a powerful call to action to the stakeholders present, to empower girls and ensure that their voices are heard in shaping a brighter future for all. Fundong's celebration of the International Day of the Girl Child not only honored the potential of every girl but also reaffirmed the community's commitment to supporting them in their journey toward success.