Girls Account For 75% Of New HIV Infections Among Adolescent- UNICEF

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has warned that 75 per cent of the new HIV infections among adolescents globally occur in girls.

Chief of the UNICEF Field Office for South-West Nigeria, Celine Lafoucriere, gave the warning in a statement on Friday to commemorate the International Day of the girl-child.

Lafoucriere also disclosed that one in three adolescent girls suffers from anaemia, a severe form of malnutrition.

She noted that too many female children were confronted by extreme challenges that deny them their rights, restrict their choices and limit their futures.

She added that nearly one in four partnered or married adolescent girls had experienced sexual or physical abuse.

“The good news is that change is possible, however, girls alone cannot bring about the desired change.

“They need allies who listened to and responded to their needs – like you and me. Together, we can build a future in which every girl’s rights are protected.

“Evidence shows that with the right support, resources and opportunities, the potential of girls around the world is limitless.

“When girls achieve their goals, we all move closer to achieving our global goals,” she stated.

Lafoucriere, however, said that findings from UNICEF analysis revealed that girls were not only courageous in the face of challenges, but hopeful for the future.

“As you well know, October 11 is a key global moment to celebrate girls and amplify their voices, actions and leadership.

“The day also belongs to everyone who cares about girls and taking action to advocate for the full spectrum of girls’ rights,” she said.

The International Day of the girl-child is celebrated October 11 annually.

The theme for this year’s International Day of the Girl is ‘Girls’ Vision for the Future,” which seeks to empower girls, amplify their voices, and support their agency to shape strategies and policies that ensure a better future for all.