African countries urged to renew commitment to protecting rights of girls, children

ADDIS ABABA, Oct. 12 (Xinhua) -- African countries have been urged to renew their commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of girls and children.

The call was made by the Africa Platform on Children Affected by Armed Conflicts (APCAAC), which joins the world in commemorating the International Day of the Girl Child, annually celebrated on Oct. 11. "Girls face unique challenges and barriers in various societies, especially in conflict and post-conflict contexts, hence the urgent need to break down these barriers for their well-being and development," the APCAAC was quoted by an African Union statement as saying Wednesday.