Make Her Smile Africa Leads Call to End Child Marriage

Stakeholders gathered in Ibadan to advocate for stronger community action to end child marriage and safeguard the health, rights, and future of adolescent girls and young women. Ibukunoluwa Adebowale, Executive Director of Make Her Smile Africa (MHSA), emphasized the need for collective responsibility in creating safer communities for girls during the event commemorating the International Day of the Girl Child.

The event, part of the EmpowerHer Project, included a panel discussion titled “The Role of the Community in Ending Child Marriage: How Barriers to Healthcare Access Can Affect Child Marriage.” Professor Rotimi Jaiyesimi, a consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist, underscored the importance of addressing challenges that threaten girls' health and development. Students from five schools and out-of-school girls participated, sharing their views on health and safety.

Attendees included representatives from government, religious institutions, and civil society organizations. The event was supported by Her Voice, The Global Fund, and the Y+ Global Network of Young People Living with HIV, aiming to amplify girls' voices and promote their wellbeing.