BY NONCEDO SHABANGU
MBABANE- Eswatini has joined the world in commemorating the International Day of the Girl Child 2025, celebrated under the theme “The Girl I Am, The Change I Lead: Girls on the Frontlines of Crisis.” The day is dedicated to amplifying the voices of girls, celebrating their potential, and renewing the nation’s commitment to protecting and empowering them.
Acting Deputy Prime Minister Jane Mkhonta Simelane said the occasion is a reminder to recognise girls not only for the challenges they face, but for the solutions and leadership they bring. “Every girl deserves the freedom, tools, and encouragement to lead. When girls rise, the nation rises,” she said.
According to Mkhonta Simelane, the Kingdom has made significant strides in advancing the welfare of girls, with initiatives spanning education, leadership, and health.
In education, the Reintegration Policy allows girls who previously dropped out of school to return and continue their studies. The Education Plus Initiative empowers adolescent girls in and out of school and promotes HIV prevention. Scholarships, safe learning environments, and other incentives are helping girls remain in school and realise their full potential.
The Acting Deputy Prime Minister also highlighted progress in leadership and participation. “We are seeing more girls engage in community leadership programs, mentorship initiatives, and STEM focused innovation platforms,” she said, reflecting the growing role of girls in shaping their communities.
Health campaigns further support girls’ development. Targeting girls aged 9 to14, programs include HPV vaccinations, deworming, nutritional supplements, and reproductive health services measures that improve wellbeing and reduce school absences.
Despite these achievements, challenges remain. Mkhonta Simelane acknowledged issues such as violence against women and girls, climate change impacts, family disintegration, and the rise of cyber exploitation. She urged parents, educators, community leaders, youth, and development partners to continue supporting girls. “Empowered girls are leaders, innovators, and changemakers of tomorrow,” she said, underlining the importance of collective action in building a brighter future.
