International Day of the Girl Child was observed on Sunday to recognize girls' rights and the unique challenges girls face around the world.

This year theme of the day is "My Voice, Our Equal Future".

The International Day of the Girl Child focuses attention on the need to address the challenges girls face and to promote girls' empowerment and the fulfilment of their human rights.

Adolescent girls have the right to a safe, educated, and healthy life, not only during these critical formative years, but also as they mature into women.

Empowering women and girls and promoting gender equality is crucial to accelerating sustainable development.

Ending all forms of discrimination against women and girls is not only a basic human right, but it also has a multiplier effect across all other development areas.