Maseru ___ The story of the Girlchild in Lesotho echoes the global call for equality, protection, and opportunities, especially for Basotho girls residing in remote and rural communities.

This is according to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)-Lesotho in its statement released in commemoration of International Day of the Girl child whose theme is "The girl I am, the change I lead: Girls on the frontlines of crisis".

UNFPA indicates that girls living in remote and rural communities face challenges that threaten to dim their potential, from early and unintended pregnancies to child marriage and limited access to education and reproductive health services.

It adds that the ongoing impacts of climate change, poverty, and migration have deepened these vulnerabilities, often forcing girls to make adult choices far too soon.

"Yet, across the country, girls continue to rise with resilience and determination, demanding the right to stay in school, access healthcare, and make informed decisions about their bodies and futures" it adds.

It therefore indicates that UNFPA Lesotho stands alongside adolescent girls, working with the Government to safeguard their rights and expand their opportunities.

It highlights that plans are underway to revitalize Youth Development Centres, creating spaces where young people can gain skills and access accurate information to make informed life choices.

It states that through youth-friendly corners and comprehensive sexuality education, UNFPA is helping adolescent girls build the confidence, knowledge, and support they need to navigate adolescence safely and with dignity.

It also indicates that in commemoration of Girl child day, Lesotho reaffirms its commitment to ensuring that every girl, whether in the highlands of Thaba-Tseka or the urban heart of Maseru, can dream, decide, and thrive in a world that listens to and invests in her.

The International day of the girl child is commemorated annually on October 11 with the objective to recognise girls' rights and the unique challenges they face around the world.

It focuses attention on the need to address the challenges girls face and to promote girls' empowerment and the fulfilment of their human rights.