How African Governments Invest Public Funds Towards Girl’s Rights

What is it about?

Close to 35 years after the adoption of the African Children’s Charter, the progress made in the realisation of the rights and interests of girls remain slow. The lack of laws and policies that adequately address the socio- economic needs and vulnerabilities of girls as well as weak systems and mechanisms to protect girls from harmful practices, sexual violence, and exploitation explain, albeit partly, this slow progress in many African countries. Furthermore, the commitment of some governments to invest in the healthcare, nutrition, and the survival and development of girls remains low despite the widespread deprivation they face. Issues of girls’ rights are often marginalised in child rights and gender programming. This contribution illustrates that there is a need to spotlight and rekindle the commitment to invest in the rights and interests of girls in Africa in view of its many- fold social and economic benefits for the society. Using the doctrinal methodology, the chapter relies on recent studies and literature that discuss how, if at all, African governments are investing in the rights and wellbeing of girls. The chapter uses the Girl- Friendliness Index (GFI) – a rights-based and credible statistical tool that hinges on the African Children’s Charter and the UNCRC – to examine how African governments are investing in girls’ rights and to demonstrate that there is an urgent need for action. The chapter calls for renewed commitment of African governments to fulfil the socio- economic rights of girls and achieve long- term social, economic and political benefits.

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Why is it important?

Effective public financial management is a critical part towards the protection of the rights of vulnerable groups, especially girls. Thus, it is essential to be able to track how public spending is utilised to protect and promote the rights of girls.