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Yesterday, 11 October 2024 was the International Day of the Girl Child, and the African Union Special Envoy on Youth, Ms. Chido Mpemba, joined forces with organizations across the globe to celebrate this important day.
Ms. Mpemba, alongside her partners, honoured the tireless efforts of organizations dedicated to supporting the rights and empowerment of women and girls, particularly in Africa.
Initiatives established with the United Nations Foundation, such as the “Panel of the Future” with 60% representation of young women, help to champion inclusion in the future of multilateralism in Africa.
This year, Ms. Mpemba, as co-convenor of the Lead(H)er Fellowship in partnership with Plan International and YouLead Africa, marked the day by hosting a dynamic webinar, engaging participants from across the continent. The fellowship, which has impacted over 100 girls in Africa, provides capacity development, mentorship, and small grants for fellows to execute community-based projects.
“The Lead(H)er Fellowship is a pan-African initiative aimed at empowering young African women to take leadership roles in politics, business, trade, entrepreneurship, and peace and security,” said Ms. Mpemba.
Observed annually on October 11th, the International Day of the Girl Child highlights the challenges girls face worldwide and promotes their empowerment. The day serves as a platform to amplify girls’ voices, address their rights and aspirations, and underscore their pivotal role in shaping the future.
Under this year’s theme, “Girls’ Vision for the Future,” the Lead(H)er Fellows from the third cohort reflected on the significant roles girls play in international trade, peace and security, and advocacy. Their discussions focused on how girls’ voices can inspire hope and action toward a more equitable future.
Ms. Mpemba concluded, “By celebrating this day, we are not only recognizing the importance of investing in girls’ futures but also promoting leadership, innovation, and equality for girls across Africa and beyond.”