Society

Far North: UNICEF launches initiative to empower young girls to become leaders.

by Dorcas Ekupe
17 Nov 2024 07:23
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AGAB members alongside UNICEF and Government Officials

The United Nations Children's Fund, UNICEF, has officially launched the Adolescent Girls Advisory Board, AGAB, an initiative aimed at empowering young girls to become leaders and change-makers in their communities.
It was launched Friday November 1, 2024, in Maroua.

The launching was attended by UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, Djaili Amadou Amal, who has been a champion for girls' rights and education. The AGAB is comprised of 11 dynamic young girls, aged 13 to 18, who have been selected for their passion, creativity, and dedication to making a positive impact in their communities.

The young leaders will work closely with UNICEF to promote girls' empowerment, challenge gender stereotypes, and advocate policies and programmes that support the needs and aspirations of adolescent girls.

During the launching ceremony, one of the AGAB members, Etombok Blonde, shared her personal story of overcoming discrimination and marginalisation.

"I was forced to drop out of school due to poverty and cultural norms that saw girls as less deserving of education," she said.

"But I refused to give up. I knew that education was the key to unlocking my potential, and I am determined to help other girls like me to do the same," Etombok added.

UNICEF's Goodwill Ambassador, Djaili Amadou Amal, emphasised the critical role that women and girls play in nation-building and development.

"When girls are empowered, they become a force for change, driving progress and innovation in all aspects of life," she said.

"We must listen to their voices, support their aspirations, and create opportunities for them to thrive," the award-winning advocate for Women and the girl Child added.

The Head of Communication at UNICEF, Anne Fouchard, highlighted the importance of amplifying young girls' voices in the decision-making processes. "Girls are often the most vulnerable and marginalised members of society, yet they are also the most resilient and resourceful," she said.

"By giving them a platform to express themselves and shape their own futures, we can unlock their full potential and create a more just and equitable world for all," Fouchard noted.

UNICEF hopes that through the AGAB programme, the dreams of many young girls in the Far North Region, as well as other regions of the country, will be fulfilled.

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3289 of Wednesday November 13, 2024