By Own Correspondent in Windhoek, Namibia

As the world commemorates the International Day of the Girl Child on 11 October 2024, the Secretary General of the SADC Parliamentary Forum, Ms. Boemo Sekgoma, has called for inclusive policies that empower young girls and women across the African continent.

Noting the UN theme for this year, “Girls’ Vision for the Future,” the Secretary General urged Member Parliaments and governments to ensure that the voices of girls are heard in decision-making processes.

“It is imperative that girl children in Africa are not only heard but are active planners and visionaries of their own futures,” Ms Sekgoma stated in a statement to representatives of Member Parliaments, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders.

She highlighted the importance of creating a conducive society that respects gender equality and offers equal opportunities for all.

Ms Sekgoma strongly condemned practices that include child marriage, betrothals, and Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), which continue to hinder the development of girls in Africa.

“These practices are abhorrent to democracy and must be eradicated if we are to see any real progress,” she said.

The Secretary General reiterated the SADC PF’s commitment to advocating for the domestication of essential legal frameworks, including the SADC Model Law on Eradicating Child Marriage and Protecting Children Already in Marriage, the Model Law on Gender-Based Violence, and the Model Law on Public Financial Management.

While acknowledging progress made through legislative measures, Ms Sekgoma said that significant divides remain in the legal and regulatory frameworks aimed at protecting girls.

“The protection of girls is not an option, it is a must,” she said, stressing that neglecting this issue would stall socio-economic development in many regions. She warned that a society that fails to recognise the worth of its girl children was destined for failure.

Looking ahead, Ms Sekgoma said the SADC PF would continue to  work closely with Member Parliaments and partners to create enduring changes in laws and policies on child protection.

Calling on inclusivity and empowerment, Ms Sekgoma said, “We must ensure that our laws not only exist on paper but transition into reality.”

She urged all stakeholders to collaborate towards realising a better future for Africa’s girls.

(C) TPA2024