Empowering the Girl Child in Leadership: A Call to Amplify Her Voice

By - Najjat Omar.

As the world marks the International Day of the Girl Child, Tanzania Media Women's Association (TAMWA) Zanzibar, alongside its partners, is gearing up to highlight the pressing need for girls to be included in leadership roles from a young age. On Thursday, October 17, 2024, a celebration at the ZURA Maisara Hall in Zanzibar will gather 70 participants, including girls from primary, secondary, and university levels, civil society organizations, and government officials, to discuss the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

This year’s theme, “Empower the Girl Child, Amplify Her Voice,” resonates deeply in a world where gender disparities continue to affect the dreams and aspirations of many young girls. The event will feature the presentation of an assessment reviewing the current state of leadership opportunities for girls. This assessment aims to shed light on the gaps that exist and encourage stakeholders to prioritize the preparation and empowerment of girls for leadership positions.

Despite notable efforts by various organizations, girls in Zanzibar still face significant challenges. Cultural attitudes that favor boys, harassment, and a lack of equal opportunities remain barriers for many girls, preventing them from reaching their full potential. These barriers not only limit their educational and professional growth but also their ability to step into leadership roles where they can drive change for future generations.

Dr. Mzuri Issa, Director of TAMWA Zanzibar, emphasized that the need for gender equality in leadership begins at the earliest stages of a girl’s education. "By giving girls equal opportunities to lead, we enable them to fulfill their dreams and become the change-makers of tomorrow," she said. The event aims to inspire decision-makers and the community at large to focus on breaking down these barriers and creating an environment where every girl can thrive.

The International Day of the Girl Child, established by the United Nations in 2012, is a day to recognize the rights of girls and raise awareness about the unique challenges they face around the world. This day calls on communities, governments, and organizations to tackle the obstacles standing in the way of girls' education, health, protection, and gender equality.

As we commemorate this day, let us remember that empowering girls is not just about giving them a seat at the table; it’s about ensuring that their voices are heard and valued. It’s time to amplify their voices and support their leadership journeys because when girls lead, we all benefit.