Invest in girls: end child marriage, Dr Gwajima tells parents heading to the Day of the Girl Child
DAR ES SALAAM: THE Tanzanian government has called on parents, guardians and society at large to strengthen efforts to protect and empower girls by ensuring they have access to education, proper care and safe environments in which they can grow and achieve their aspirations.
The call was made by Minister for Community Development, Gender, Women and Special Groups, Dr Dorothy Gwajima, in Dar es Salaam while speaking to media outlets ahead of the International Day of the Girl Child, which will be observed on October 11, 2026, under the theme “Invest in Girls: End Child Marriage.”
Dr Gwajima said parents and guardians have a major responsibility to ensure girls receive the support and upbringing they need to reach their full potential, stressing the importance of taking measures to end child marriage and violence against children.
She said investing in girls goes beyond providing access to education and also involves protecting them from violence, abuse, discrimination and practices that could disrupt their education and jeopardise their future.
The minister also urged girls, particularly students, to work hard in their studies, set ambitious goals, believe in themselves and develop their talents and skills. She encouraged them to use technology and social media safely and constructively to support their future development.
Dr Gwajima urged girls not to accept child marriage, violence, abuse or pressure from others that could force them to drop out of school or abandon their aspirations.
She said children facing challenges should report them to their parents, guardians, teachers, community leaders or relevant authorities so they can receive appropriate assistance and protection.
The minister also called on journalists to continue educating the public and challenging cultural practices, traditions and attitudes that may undermine girls or prevent them from reaching their full potential.
She said the media has an important role to play in raising awareness about children’s rights, the consequences of child marriage and violence against children, while ensuring that the dignity, safety and privacy of children are protected in news reporting.
For his part, Deputy Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Advocate Amon Mpanju, who represented Permanent Secretary Eliakim Maswi, said the government would continue working with education stakeholders, families, communities and relevant institutions to ensure girls have opportunities to continue their education.
He said the collaboration would also focus on protecting girls from child marriage, violence, abuse and discrimination, while ensuring they grow up in safe environments that enable them to achieve their aspirations.
