President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah wants greater investment in children, stronger protection of their rights and universal access to water, sanitation and hygiene as Namibia commemorates the Day of the African Child and the 50th anniversary of the 1976 Soweto Uprising.
“Investing in children is investing in Africa’s future,” Nandi-Ndaitwah said, amplifying Namibia’s efforts since independence to expand opportunities for children through education, healthcare and social protection.
She said the 8th Administration’s commitment to subsidised tertiary education at public institutions to equip young people with the knowledge and skills was a necessary move to contribute to national development and shape the country’s future.
The President urged parents, families, communities, educators, faith-based organisations, civil society and government to work together to ensure every child is protected, valued and given opportunities to reach their full potential.
“The responsibility to protect, guide and empower our children belongs to all of us,” she said.
Marking 50 years since the Soweto Uprising, Nandi-Ndaitwah urged action in honour of the young people who stood up against injustice.
“Let us honour the legacy of those brave young people not only in remembrance but also through action,” said Nandi-Ndaitwah.
She also lamented challenges facing children across the continent, including abuse, neglect, exploitation and violence, saying, "We must speak out against these injustices and work collectively to ensure that every child grows up in a safe, caring and supportive environment."
This year’s Day of the African Child is commemorated under the theme “Ensuring Universal Access to Water, Sanitation and Hygiene for Every Child in Africa".
The President said access to clean water, proper sanitation and hygiene is central to the wellbeing and development of children.
The Day of the African Child honours thousands of those who participated in the Soweto Uprising in 1976 in South Africa and is observed on June 16 every year since 1991, when the Organisation of African Unity first initiated it.