adminPrecious Masakara
Shamwari Yemwanasikana (SYS), a community based non-governmental organisation that seeks to promote the rights and empowerment of the girl child has launched the “Girls Rights Movement” in Harare today.
The movement seeks to amplify the voices of girls and fight for their independent rights to be recognised as a separate demographic group, not to be put under the priorities of women and children.
Speaking at the launch United Nations (UN) Women Country Representative Delphine Serumaga said she was pleased by the inclusion of girls in the initiavtive.
“The launch of this movement is a step forward to an empowered generation,” said Serumanga.
“I am happy that girls are aware of their rights and they are fighting for them, they are prepared for what might come in the future.
“More girls must join this movement because they are doing it for their generation and they should be able to stand up for themselves.”
As women continue to be celebrated this month, the launch seeks to create a space where girls can identify issues affecting their development and advocate for change as there are the women of tomorrow.
SYS Director Ekenia Chifamba said girls are the future and they need to take the lead.
“We want to see women dominating bigger positions and we have to mentor girls at an early stage so that they dream bigger,” said Chifamba.
“Girls voices need to be heard and relevant policy makers need to come on board and hear these voices.
“They have been left out when policies that concern women are made yet they are the future hence we launched this movement.”
The launch also aimed to create an advocacy strategy for the girls by the girls.
“We want to assemble like-minded girls who know their social responsibilities and do not hesitate to question the responsible authorities’ decisions,” added Chifamba.
Online Reporter