In commemoration of the International Day of the Girl Child, the Secretary-General of the SADC Parliamentary Forum, Boemo Mmandu-Sekgoma, has urged the African community to invest in programmes and initiatives to bridge existing gender gaps.

Mmandu-Sekgoma emphasised that these efforts are vital for empowering girl children with the skills and competencies necessary for them to assume leadership positions in the future.

Recognising the remarkable potential of the girl child in shaping a brighter tomorrow, the Secretary-General underscored the fundamental importance of providing these young minds with essential resources, including adequate food, shelter, healthcare, and education.

Through these provisions, Mmandu-Sekgoma said girls can be prepared to lead and contribute meaningfully to their communities and the broader world.

She drew attention to the Sustainable Development Agenda 2030, emphasising that gender equality is a cornerstone of this global framework.

Parliaments across the region are also urged to step into important roles in advocating for legislation that protects the rights of girl children, adopting budgets dedicated to empowering them through targeted programmes, and exercising oversight to ensure the effective implementation of measures that provide access to quality education, healthcare, and stable life for young girls and adolescents.