Girls’ Vision for the Future

11 October 2024, Dodoma, Tanzania – Today, we gather to commemorate the International Day of the Girl Child, a day dedicated to highlighting the immense potential and rights of girls and the urgent need to empower them for a better future in Tanzania.

This event has been made possible through the collaboration of various organizations, including the Ministry of Community Development, Gender, Women and Special Groups, the Msichana Initiative, Flaviana Matata Foundation, TAI, GLAMI, C-Sema, Young Strong Mothers Foundation, and Wote Sawa.

This year’s global theme, “Girls’ Vision for the Future,” and the national theme, “Girls’ Leadership: Leveraging the Power of Digital Technology,” call us to unite in promoting girls’ rights and helping them overcome the barriers that hold them back.

UNFPA Representative's Remarks

Speaking at the event, Dr. Majaliwa Marwa, assistant representative from UNFPA in the United Republic of Tanzania emphasized the critical importance of supporting every girl's vision for her future.

“Every girl has a vision for her future, and that dream needs to be supported and protected as she journeys from adolescence to adulthood,” they stated. “Yet, for millions of girls, adolescence is a time when doors slam shut.”

The Assistant Representative highlighted alarming statistics: nearly one in three young women in Tanzania are married before the age of 18, while teenage pregnancies affect more than one in five girls. Additionally, one in twelve women have experienced female genital mutilation, and four in ten women face physical or sexual violence. “These challenges contribute to a cycle of poverty and gender inequality that stifles the potential of girls today and in the future,” the Assistant Representative warned.

Adolescent Girl's Voice

In a powerful message directed at their peers, an adolescent girl shared,

“Our vision for the future is powerful. We have unique talents, and our dreams matter. The world is changing rapidly, offering us new opportunities through digital technology. Whether through social media, online learning, or digital advocacy, we can amplify our voice and lead change in our school, family, and community.”

She also urged her fellow girls to use technology wisely and ethically. “Dare to dream big. Use your courage to advocate for your rights, challenge injustices, and reshape the world.”

Commitment to Change

The UNFPA Assistant representative Dr. Majaliwa Marwa concluded by calling for a collective commitment to eliminating the barriers that prevent girls from thriving. “Girls deserve the freedom to live in peace, to decide over their bodies, and to determine their futures. I urge all of you to advocate for girls' rights and support their dreams,” they said.

“We stand with the Government of Tanzania, civil society, and youth-led organizations in empowering girls. Together, we can create an environment where they can thrive and contribute to their communities.”

As we celebrate this International Day of the Girl Child, let us remember: “When girls lead, communities flourish. When girls are empowered, nations prosper.” Tanzania's future and its ability to realize its Development Vision for 2050 start with the opportunities we create for girls today.

Asanteni Sana na niwatakie maadhimisho mema ya Siku ya Mtoto wa Kike Duniani.

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Media Inquiries:

Dr. Warren Bright
UNFPA Communications Analyst
United Republic of Tanzania
Mobile: +255 764 43 44 45
Email: bwarren@unfpa.org