Gender inequality and violence against women have traditionally been a part of the culture in Africa. Girls are often denied education and jobs, forced to marry early, and many suffer female genital mutilation, rape and beatings. But many organizations are working to change this through education. Sending girls to school gives them more choices and more control of their lives. And even women who weren’t able to go to school, can still be educated. It’s been shown that if we educate women and help them start sustainable businesses, they use money they make to get health care, and feed, clothe and send their children to school. Empowered women can break the cycle of poverty, and allow the next generation of girls to be educated.