Adolescent girls face risks of sexual violence – UNICEF
By Idris Ayinde
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Bauchi Field Office, says adolescent girls in a developing countries face the risks of sexual violence.
Dr Tushar Rane, the Chief of UNICEF’s Bauchi Field Office made this known in his welcome address in Gombe during a media dialogue to commemorate the 2024 International Women’s Day.
According to him, if the trend persists, the number of girls and women living in extreme poverty in sub-Saharan Africa is projected to increase by 2030.
Rane, who also stated that one in seven girls in developing countries is married before reaching the age of 15, said investing in the health, rights, and wellbeing of adolescent girls generates a transformative ripple effect that uplifts entire nations.
“Nearly half of adolescent girls in UNICEF programme countries suffer from anemia and lack access to essential health and nutrition services in the event of pregnancy,” he said.
The UNICEF Chief explained that by providing adolescent girls with the necessary support, access, and opportunities to realise their potential would enable them to become formidable agents of change.
He said “empowered girls can play a crucial role in tackling some of the most pressing global challenges, such as climate change, poverty, and conflict.
“Their contributions pave the way for inclusive and sustainable development, shaping a brighter future for generations to come.
“The investment in women through the mama2mama initiative, including strengthening women’s knowledge of community health systems has contributed to positive health outcomes in UNICEF’s intervention states”.
He called on all and sundry to push for a world characterised by equity and inclusivity where girls and boys are empowered to access and benefit from the same rights, opportunities and protections, fostering a society where every person can thrive.
The International Women’s Day (IWD) is a global holiday celebrated annually on March 8 as a focal point in the women’s rights movement.
It gives focus to issues such as gender equality, reproductive rights, and violence and abuse against women.
The 2024 IWD is themed: Invest in Women, She is the solution.
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