SDG Media Zone
The SDG Media Zone, 19-23 September. The United Nations department conference took place during the 23-27 September organised by the UN Department of Global Communications in collaboration with SDG Media Zone.
At UNGA79, First Lady of Sierra Leone – Fatima Maada-Bio, Executive Director of UN Population Fund – Natalia Kanem, Assistant Secretary-General of UN Women – Nyaradzayi Gumbonzvanda and I took part in a vital discussion on Africa Renewal: Protecting the Rights of Women and Girls aimed to empower women and girls, and ensure their rights are safeguarded as essential components of sustainable development across the continent.
This topic is of paramount importance to Nigeria and the broader African continent. Protecting the rights of women and girls is not just a matter of social justice; it is integral to our collective progress. The medical implications of neglecting these rights are profound. According to UNICEF, over 7 million girls under the age of 18 die each year from preventable causes related to pregnancy and childbirth. Additionally, many girls face severe mental and psychological effects stemming from gender-based violence, early marriage, and lack of access to education, leading to issues such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and suicide.
Empowering women and girls leads to transformative changes in our societies, fostering healthier families, driving economic growth, and enhancing community resilience. In many African nations, the empowerment of women can significantly contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in areas like education, health, and economic participation.I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to have engaged with such esteemed panelists, each bringing unique perspectives and expertise to the discussion. Together, we explored actionable strategies and innovative solutions aimed at elevating the voices of women and girls across the continent.
A heartfelt thank you to the UN department of Communications, SDG media zone and the Moderator of this panel Kayode Akintemi involved in facilitating this important dialogue. It is only through collaboration and commitment that we can pave the way for a brighter, more equitable future for all.
