Raissa Initiative demands harsher punishment for sexual abusers of girls

The Founder of the Raissa Child Protection Initiative, Ms Raissa Sambou, has urged authorities to impose severe punishment on individuals, including teachers and guardians, who sexually abuse young girls.

Speaking in an interview to mark this year’s International Day of the Girl Child (October 11), Ms Sambou condemned the increasing cases of sexual exploitation involving minors, describing such acts as “heartless, criminal, and a total betrayal of trust.”

She noted that those entrusted with the care and education of children must not be the same people who violate them, stressing that “anyone found guilty of abusing a girl child must face the full rigours of the law without leniency.”

The International Day of the Girl Child is observed annually to promote the rights of girls, empower them to reach their full potential, and draw attention to the challenges they face worldwide.

Ms Sambou lamented that poverty continues to push many young girls into vulnerable situations, exposing them to exploitation.

She expressed concern that some headmasters, teachers, and community members who should protect girls rather take advantage of them.

“This must stop immediately. The safety of every girl must never be compromised,” she said, urging the public to report all forms of abuse to the appropriate authorities and called for swift action by law enforcement agencies against perpetrators.

Addressing girls directly, Ms Sambou encouraged them to take their education seriously and to believe in their potential.

“It is possible to be young and responsible. Your future is bright, protect it, believe in it, and never let anyone dim your light,” she advised.

She further urged girls to choose their friends wisely, stay disciplined, and speak up if anyone makes sexual advances toward them.

Ms Sambou concluded with a rallying call for collective action, saying “speak up, protect them, and empower them. Together, we can end the sexual exploitation of girls.”

By Esinam Jemima Kuatsinu

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