Advocacy and Communication

In Guinea-Bissau, deeply rooted social norms continue to limit the rights and opportunities of children, particularly girls. Practices such as female genital mutilation, early marriage, and gender inequality persist in many communities, sustained by silence, social pressure, and a lack of safe spaces for dialogue.

Access to information remains unequal, especially in rural areas. Low digital literacy, high connectivity costs, and limited communication infrastructure restrict young people's participation in decisions that affect their lives.

Sustainable behaviour change relies on trust, community engagement, and consistent messages delivered in languages and formats accessible to the populations.

UNICEF’s Response

To promote the inclusion and protection of children, UNICEF focuses on community dialogue and youth empowerment, ensuring that the population's voices actively guide changes and decisions.

Social Change and Community Engagement

In 2025, UNICEF supported social and behavior change initiatives that directly engaged 1,734,294 people through community dialogues, radio broadcasts, and sessions with parents, caregivers, and local leaders. Thirty-eight community radio stations broadcasted over 200 radio lessons in Gabú and Bafatá, addressing topics such as gender equality and child protection.

Youth Participation and Digital Platforms

In September 2025, UNICEF launched U-Report in Guinea-Bissau, in partnership with the Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sports and a consortium of local NGOs. The platform offers free and anonymous participation via SMS and WhatsApp, allowing young people to contribute to the dialogue on issues affecting their lives. In the first three months, more than 19,000 young people registered.

Reach and Impact

In 2025, UNICEF reached 274,000 people through digital platforms, generated over 15 million engagements, and secured 375 mentions in national and international media. A total of 3,346 community health workers were trained in interpersonal communication and gender equity, and the National Strategic Communication Plan for Immunization 2024–2028 was developed.