This article will explore the gender dimensions of the AIDS pandemic, focusing on its impact on the girl child. It will draw on the rights-based approach and argue that the protection and recognition of the rights of the girl child are essential in the face of the AIDS pandemic in Southern Africa. The article will also give insights into some innovative programmes that have been developed in Zimbabwe. Finally it will give recommendations for improving the conditions of, and paving the way for the empowerment of, the girl child.