Africa-Press – South-Sudan. The National Minister of Gender, Child and Social welfare calls upon relevant government institutions and stakeholders to protect the rights of girls, and empower them in fulfilling their dreams.
Minister Aya Benjamin Warille said adolescent girls should not only exercise their human rights now, but also as they mature to become mothers.
Speaking during the International Day of the Girl Child on Tuesday, Aya said defending the rights of girl children is a collective responsibility of everyone and that the time is now.
“We tend to concentrate on girls doing most of the work in the house and are not given property ownership. We should give equal rights to all genders,” Aya said.
Aya also urged government organs and concerned stakeholders to invest in boys who will later become men respectful of the rights of women and girls.
She added that the ministry remains committed to solving issues affecting children especially girls in the country.
On Tuesday, South Sudan joined the rest of the world in commemorating the 10th anniversary of International Day of the Girl Child.
The event, under the theme: “Our time is now—our rights, our future” is intended to engage government officials, policymakers and stakeholders to make more targeted investments that tackle inequalities experienced by girls, especially while accessing mental health and psychosocial support services in the face of conflict and other adversities.
It also brings to light human interest stories, blogs and videos of girl change-makers, and the inspiring networks and organizations that are resourcing girls, letting girls lead, and strengthening services for girls.
Nyajuok Tongyik is a South Sudanese – American author of “I am my Mother’s Wildest Dream.”
Speaking to school children at the event, she encouraged the children to focus on their studies and avoid rushing into marriage.
“Marriage can wait. Your first priority should be education. You will get married if you want to get married and later have children. But for now, your primary goal is education.” Ms. Nyajuok said.
United Nations says investments in girls’ rights remain limited and girls continue to confront a myriad of challenges to fulfilling their potential, a situation worsened by concurrent crises of climate change, COVID-19 and humanitarian conflict.
“Girls around the world continue to face unprecedented challenges to their education, their physical and mental wellness, and the protections needed for a life without violence,” noted the world peacekeeping organization.
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