The aid organization Plan International handed over its South Sudan country director duties to a 17-year-old girl Monday in a symbolic takeover to mark the global Girls Takeover initiative.
The event, part of a wider international campaign, aims to promote gender equality and empower girls to pursue leadership roles. For one day, Maneno Christine, a senior student from Nimule Secondary School, stepped into the role normally held by Country Director Paul Lusato.
Lusato described the occasion as “a powerful shift in leadership.”
“This symbolic takeover is more than a ceremonial gesture. It is a bold statement that girls are not just the future, they are the present,” Lusato said.
The international initiative allows girls to temporarily assume leadership positions in various government, diplomatic and U.N. agencies.
Lusato said the action is a call to ensure every girl is safe, educated and protected, and to challenge harmful norms. He noted that more than half of South Sudanese girls are married before age 18, which often ends their education and can lead to early pregnancy and gender-based violence.
Plan International said it works to support girls through education programs, community awareness campaigns and safe spaces. The organization also provides vocational skills and health services, while engaging with traditional and religious leaders to promote girls’ education.
Lusato cited cultural beliefs, limited funding and weak enforcement of child protection laws as major challenges.
“Our message to government, donors, and partners is clear — ending child marriage requires collective action,” he said.
After taking over the office, Maneno Christine said the experience inspired her and boosted her confidence.
“This experience has encouraged me and taught me that I am important in my community,” she said.
She urged girls to stay in school and reject early marriage.
“Girls should follow their dreams and focus on education,” Maneno said. “I hope all married and unmarried girls will one day be back in school.”