SITEKI – As government works towards achieving economic development for all, investing in the girl child has been identified as one of the most powerful ways to transform society.
Senator Linda Nxumalo highlighted this during the International Day of the Girl Child commemoration held at the Siteki Town Hall, hosted by Lubombo Central High School. The event was also attended by pupils from neighbouring schools, teachers, and community stakeholders.
Empowering girls builds stronger communities
Senator Nxumalo said that the development of any society begins at the family level and extends into communities and empowering girls is a key catalyst in that process.
“An empowered girl is confident, educated, and self-reliant. It is important that we have empowered young women who will become part of a stronger workforce and build a more inclusive and prosperous society,” she said.
The senator emphasized that empowering the girl child benefits the entire nation. She added that boys must also be included in empowerment programmes to ensure balance and collective progress.
“Together, we can build a society where both girls and boys thrive, equally and fully,” Nxumalo said.
She urged all stakeholders to make gender equality not just a goal but a living reality, saying today’s actions would determine the country’s strength in the future.
Encouraging girls to speak out
Nxumalo encouraged girls to speak out about challenges they face, including abuse and social pressures. She noted that some young girls find themselves in abusive relationships disguised as love.
“If someone makes you do something you don’t want, report it as early as possible so that you get the necessary help and justice,” she advised.
The senator reminded attendees of Her Majesty the Indlovukazi’s call to empower women, emphasizing that a woman’s place is not limited to the kitchen.
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She also highlighted government initiatives promoting STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) education for girls through mentorship, scholarships, and internship programmes.
Call for schools to allow pregnant girls to continue their education
Meanwhile, some pupils called for schools to fully comply with government’s Prevention and Management of Learners of 2022 policy, which allows pregnant learners to continue their education until completion.
Speaking on behalf of the learners, Makadunyiswe Mabuza, a pupil from Lubombo Central High, said many girls face physical and emotional abuse, often driven by poverty and lack of guidance.
“Some school girls are pushed by circumstances into the hands of older men who lure them with gifts and money,” she said.
Mabuza noted that some parents unknowingly enable this exploitation due to financial hardship, leading to early pregnancies and school dropouts.
She thanked government for introducing the new policy that gives pregnant girls a second chance at education, urging all schools to comply.
“This policy gives hope to young mothers and ensures that their dreams are not cut short,” she said.
Key Takeaway
Investing in girls through education, protection, and empowerment not only changes individual lives but also shapes a stronger, more equitable Eswatini.
