Uasin Gishu Sets Stage for International Day of the Girl Child
This day isn’t all about celebration. It is a reminder that we all need to be reminded to reaffirm our commitment to safeguarding and empowering girls
The forum convened the county government representatives, civil society organizations, and community-based organizations. The attendees brainstormed how to best commemorate the global day
By Juliet Jerotich
Preparations are also being made in Uasin Gishu County for this year’s International Day of the Girl Child, set for October 11. The County Department of Gender, Education, Vocational Training, Culture, and Social Protection, joined forces with the Uasin Gishu Civil Society Network led by Benadine Kipruto , SMARTKEY organization , B0y Child Mentor’s and Rising shujaaz, convened by the HKSAI to host the first planning meeting last Thursday in Eldoret.
The forum convened the county government representatives, civil society organizations, and community-based organizations. The attendees brainstormed how to best commemorate the global day that not only raises awareness but also initiates action at the community level that is sustainable.
The United Nations established the International Day of the Girl Child in 2011 to celebrate the rights of the girls and the unique challenges they encounter in the world. Besides identification, the day aims to amplify their voices, build leadership, and promote empowerment in marginalized communities.
In the meeting, officials from the county emphasized the need for unity in tackling challenges that girls experience. The County Chief Officer for Education remarked that despite gains made to enhance opportunities for girls, ugly impediments such as teen pregnancies, child marriages, and gender violence still hamper progress.
This day isn’t all about celebration. It is a reminder that we all need to be reminded to reaffirm our commitment to safeguarding and empowering girls,” the officer stated. “As a county, we would like to create a place where they can confidently develop and fulfill their aspirations.
Civil society leaders also made demands for practical steps, like increased investments in mentorship, education, and healthcare. The County Gender Director urged the partners to go beyond token actions and create people-initiated projects that will bear long-lasting effects.
IN attendance included SMARTKEY Organization leaders led by Benadine kipruto , Boychild Mentors leaders, Rising Shujaaz leaders, and Uasin Gishu CSO Network leaders. They assured that they would collaborate closely with the county government in a way that festivities will not only highlight challenges but success stories of young girls overcoming educational, leadership, and innovation barriers.
A joint task force will now oversee the preparations. Activities on the agenda are mentorship, awareness drives, and schoolgirls’ talent shows across the county.
In conclusion, the conveners extended an invitation to the public to join them: “We invite all partners of goodwill to stand with us. Together, let us champion the #GirlChild.”
The world theme for the year will be launched by the United Nations, yet Uasin Gishu County has already committed to connecting its activities to the reality and needs of the girls in the region.
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