The Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD) joins the international community in commemorating the International Day of Women and Girls of African Descent, observed annually on 25 July.
The 2025 International Day of Women and Girls of African Descent commemoration is held under the theme: “Rising Together: Women and Girls of African Descent Leading with Strength.” This day recognises the invaluable contributions of women and girls of African descent globally, while highlighting the ongoing challenges they face, including harmful practices such as child marriage.
African women and girls of African descent continue to face significant social challenges, including harmful practices such as Ukuthwala (abduction for marriage). These practices violate the fundamental rights of African children and perpetuate cycles of inequality and abuse. Between April 2024 and April 2025, 399 child marriages involving girls aged 14 to 17 years were officially registered in South Africa, predominantly within rural communities through customary unions.
Child marriage remains a significant barrier to the empowerment, education, and development of girls across the continent. The Department welcomes the recent decision by the Karnataka Cabinet in India to criminalise child marriage and engagements involving minors, as well as the 2024 landmark legislation in Sierra Leone banning all marriages under 18, as progressive examples of protecting children’s rights.
The Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilites calls on African governments, civil society, and communities to strengthen legal frameworks, promote access to education, and end practices that undermine the rights of girls. Protecting the girl child is essential for achieving gender equality and sustainable development across the continent. On this day, the Department reaffirms its commitment to advancing the rights and wellbeing of all women and girls of African descent, ensuring that no girl is left behind.
Media enquiries:
Cassius Selala – Head of Communications
Tel: 060 534 0672
Nompendulo Mkhatshwa – Spokesperson: Ministry of Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities
Tel: 083 406 6496
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