Maintain dignity and seize opportunities, girl-child told

Motivational voices rang loud and clear in Amagoro, Busia county, as this year’s International Day of the Girl Child celebrations turned into a rallying call for empowerment, resilience and self-belief.

At the Amagoro Knut Multipurpose Hall, women who have walked the long road to success shared moving stories meant to inspire a new generation of girls to dream boldly—but also to stay grounded in dignity and patience.

Taaka Awori, the proprietor of The Urban Loft Café in Busia town, recounted humble beginnings in Funyula village, Samia.

“I used to milk one cow and my sister two before trekking to school,” she said.

“There was no running water—we fetched it from the river and washed everyone’s clothes before class.”

Her sister, Pamela Awori, now serves as the Busia county executive for lands, housing and urban development—proof that hard work and discipline can transform even the simplest beginnings.

Taaka also shared how adversity birthed her business success after a landlord’s betrayal forced her to buy land and build her own café. “Your voice is vital. Know your principles and your values. Time changes everything,” she told the girls.

Dr Elizabeth Asegu urged women to uphold strength and forgiveness amid marital challenges, while Cynthia Atieno of KCB Malaba encouraged girls to chase their dreams relentlessly—recalling her own journey from 271 marks in KCPE to graduating with first class honours in accounting.

Hosted by Jenga Afrihub, a local non-profit working with adolescents and youth, the event carried the theme 'I am the Change, I Take the Lead'.

Declared by the United Nations in 2012, the International Day of the Girl Child is a call to expand opportunities for girls and dismantle barriers—from access to education and healthcare to protection from violence and discrimination.

This year in Busia, that call was echoed in one powerful message: the future belongs to the confident, courageous girl who believes in her worth.

Instant analysis