LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-Vice President Dr. Michael Usi has underscored the importance of incorporating children’s rights into national planning and budgeting frameworks as a fundamental step toward safeguarding the future of African children.
Speaking on Monday during the Day of the African Child (DAC) commemorations, Dr. Usi emphasized that prioritizing children’s welfare aligns with Malawi’s long-term development blueprint, the Malawi 2063 agenda.
He outlined a number of interventions that the government, international partners, and civil society organisations have undertaken to promote and protect the rights of children across the country.
Among these interventions, Dr. Usi acknowledged efforts to boost child participation, enhance social protection mechanisms, and eliminate harmful practices such as early marriage and child labor.
He stated that continued collaboration across all sectors is vital to building an inclusive and child-friendly society where every child can thrive.
In her remarks, Minister of Gender, Community Development and Social Welfare, Jean Sendeza, called for greater synergy among stakeholders to improve the delivery of services to children.
Sendeza reiterated her Ministry’s commitment to providing policy direction and technical guidance to ensure that children’s services are effectively implemented at all levels of government.
She also took the opportunity to encourage children to raise their voices and become active participants in shaping policies and environments that affect their lives.
Sendeza emphasized that empowering children to speak out is key to building a safe and nurturing society where their rights are respected and upheld.
Also present at the event was Wilson Almeida Adão, Chairperson of the African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (ACERWC), who applauded Malawi for the progress made in advancing child rights.
Adão noted positive developments such as increased school attendance and improved access to healthcare services, which he said reflect meaningful strides in child protection efforts.
He called on African governments to sustain these gains through targeted investments and policy reforms that prioritize the best interests of children.
The Day of the African Child, celebrated annually on June 16, serves as a platform to reflect on the challenges facing African children and to recommit to collective action for their protection, empowerment, and development.
This year’s commemorations served as a reminder that investing in children today is investing in the future of the continent.
