17 Nov 2024

SADC convened a gathering of children aimed at establishing resolutions to advance the development agenda that will benefit future generations.

The event coincides with the commemoration of World Children’s Day, celebrated in 190 UN member countries around the globe. Dr Joan Matji, UNICEF representative to Botswana, shared insights on the eve of the event, which has expanded this year to include participation from Mozambique, Malawi, and South Africa, alongside Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, which had previously marked the occasion since 2021.

“The focus of this event is not primarily on governmental responses, but rather prioritises the voices of children,” Dr Matji said.

She noted that special attention was given to children living with disabilities and those from remote or underdeveloped areas. Throughout the lead-up to the event, promotional activities engaged over 2 000 children across the country, enabling them to express their visions for the future.

Central issues discussed by children in Botswana included the necessity for access to assistive devices, inclusive education for those with disabilities, and a call for a modernised curriculum that aligns with the demands of 21st-century learners.

“Another critical concern raised was the establishment of an effective child justice system in Botswana, where children can safely report violations and expect immediate action against perpetrators,” Dr Matji explained.

Dr Matji also pointed out that the resolutions and calls to action from previous events would be evaluated to assess governmental progress in meeting children’s needs.

“I must say we are not doing badly at all,” she remarked.

Following last year’s commemoration in Namibia, Botswana took a significant step by launching its first child justice system and developing a comprehensive road map to enhance the justice system for children.

This system aims to address not only cases involving children in conflict with the law but also those involving violations against them, ensuring timely accountability for offenders. Dr  Matji raised concerns regarding the appropriate use of electronic devices, emphasising the need for safeguarding measures to protect children from online harassment.

Reflecting on the SADC region’s progress over the past four years, she highlighted a positive trend in leadership engagement.

“The level of political commitment to children’s issues and rights is highly commendable,” Dr Matji stated.

However, she acknowledged ongoing challenges, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which resulted in many children dropping out of school, with some never returning. She stressed that significant efforts were needed to secure a better future for children.

Dr Matji noted that in 2024, the African Union (AU) would focus on advocating for improved education standards. This year’s World Children’s Day commemoration aligns with the AU’s priorities, emphasising the importance of education.

“We recognize that the pass rates in some of our countries are not favorable, highlighting the need to focus on foundational numeracy and literacy.”

Talking about the recent establishment of the Ministry of Child Welfare and Basic Education, Dr Matji said UNICEF was delighted by the move as it was one of the few governments to have a ministry dedicated to child affairs.

Dr Matji said it would not solely focus on the rights of children relating to education but would equally engage on their health.

When educating a child, attention should also be paid to their health and nutrition, Dr Matji said and further stated that welfare component must be expanded beyond education by looking at other interventions across the different sectors.

She said the theme: Educate and Skill the African Child for Posterity, was aligned with what the continent wished to achieve in the future by empowering children through education.

In Botswana context, she said the theme was perfectly timed as it coincided with a new government that established a ministry advocating for the rights of the children therefore, the forum’s recommendations would guide their agenda. ENDS