By Asiyatu James
Every child deserves to grow up in a safe and loving environment. Sadly, many girls are forced into situations of abuse and sexual exploitation, often because of poverty, neglect or broken families.
For Tionge, a Project Officer at Eye of the Child, protecting these children is more than a job, it is her passion.
Recently, Tionge worked with the Malawi Police Service to rescue several girls from nightclubs where they were being sexually exploited. It was not an easy operation, but for Tionge, every child rescued is a life changed.
"When we met the girls, many were scared and had lost hope," she says. "Our first job was to let them know they were safe and that someone cared about them." Said Tionge.
The girls were taken to the Eye of the Child shelter, where they received food, clean clothes, medical care and counselling. Most importantly, they found a safe place where they could begin to heal.
For Tionge, the work does not end after a rescue.
Every child has a dream," she says. "Our role is to help them believe in themselves again and give them the support they need to build a better future."
Some of the girls now want to return to school. Others hope to learn vocational skills and become independent. Seeing them smile again gives Tionge hope that healing is possible.
She also wants people to understand that these girls are victims, not criminals.
"No child chooses to be exploited," she explains. "Many have experienced abuse, poverty or neglect. They need love, protection and support not judgement."
As one of Eye of the Child's child protection champions, Tionge continues to work with communities, the police and other partners to protect children from abuse and exploitation.
But she knows this work cannot be done alone. Every rescue needs trained staff, safe shelter, counselling, food, education support and long term care. This is only possible because of the support of partners, donors and people who believe every child deserves a second chance.
You can make a difference too by supporting Eye of the Child, you help rescue vulnerable children, restore hope and give them the opportunity to build a brighter future.
Together, we can protect children. Together, we can end child sexual exploitation. Together, we can give every child the chance to dream again.