In celebration of the International Day of the Girl Child, held in Niamey from October 9-13, 2026, the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) organized an intergenerational dialogue on October 9 at the Palais du 29 juillet. The event gathered adolescent girls, mothers, and experienced women from eight regions of Niger, providing a platform for sharing experiences and exchanging ideas. The dialogue aimed to inspire young girls to pursue entrepreneurial careers.
The gathering brought together women entrepreneurs, journalists, artists, cultural promoters, traders, and politicians who excel in various fields. They shared their professional experiences with young girls, recounting their journeys marked by challenges and difficulties. These women demonstrated that hard work, patience, and perseverance can lead to success, encouraging young girls to strive for autonomy and financial independence.
During the dialogue, the women shared inspiring stories, emphasizing the importance of dreaming big and working towards ambitious goals. They encouraged young girls to be courageous and determined in their pursuits. The event provided a unique opportunity for young girls to learn from their experiences and gain valuable insights into overcoming obstacles.
Hélène Ayika, technical advisor to the Minister of Communication and New Information Technologies, intervened at the event, highlighting the significance of the initiative, dubbed "Celles qui ont montré la voie" (Those who have shown the way). She emphasized that the program aims to equip young women with the skills to overcome challenges and view failures as opportunities for growth.
Ayika noted that young girls have immense potential but often struggle to navigate difficulties. She stressed that the environment in which they operate is not always favorable, underscoring the need for policymakers to take action. The advisor called for a change in mindset, urging young women to take ownership of their success and not rely solely on external funding.
Many young girls who participated in the dialogue welcomed the opportunity to engage directly with their elders, promising to work hard and achieve significant results alongside their studies. The event provided a platform for young girls to learn from experienced women and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in entrepreneurship.
The intergenerational dialogue is part of a broader effort to promote girls' empowerment and autonomy in Niger. Recent initiatives have focused on providing training and support for young women, enabling them to develop skills and access resources. The event concluded with a renewed commitment to fostering a culture of entrepreneurship and self-reliance among young girls in Niger.
Key points
- The intergenerational dialogue aimed to inspire young girls to pursue entrepreneurial careers and provided a platform for sharing experiences and exchanging ideas.
- The event brought together women entrepreneurs, journalists, artists, and politicians who shared their professional experiences with young girls.
- The initiative seeks to equip young women with the skills to overcome challenges and view failures as opportunities for growth.
