GABORONE, Nov. 15 (Xinhua) -- Youth delegates from nine African countries on Saturday gathered at the Parliament of Botswana to mark World Children's Day, issuing a strong call for their fundamental rights to safety, education, and health.
Children from Botswana, Namibia, Mozambique, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Eswatini, Lesotho, and South Africa demanded an end to violence, poverty, and high school dropout rates. They also called for guaranteed access to nutrition, menstrual products, sanitation, and inclusive education with trained teachers for learners with disabilities.
Botswana's President Duma Boko said this year's theme, "My Day, My Rights," challenges governments and global leaders to move beyond promises and deliver tangible change. He stressed that children across the region still face significant barriers to education, healthcare, safety, and freedom.
"We must do more to improve their lives and livelihoods. We must act now," Boko said. "We're here to reaffirm that the rights of every child matter, that every child deserves to grow up safe, healthy, loved, and free to dream."
Outlining Botswana's strategy to modernize youth engagement, Boko said the plan includes overhauling the education system, extending high-speed and reliable internet access to every school, implementing targeted cybersecurity measures, prioritizing teacher training with updated skills, and upgrading school facilities. These initiatives form part of the country's broader commitment to improving children's education, digital access, and overall welfare.
World Children's Day, celebrated annually on Nov. 20, promotes the rights and welfare of children globally and commemorates the adoption of the Convention on the Rights of the Child. ■