Mawndoé becomes the first UNICEF Chad national Ambassador for children’s rights

N’Djamena, 14 February 2026 – Chadian artist Mawndoé was officially appointed National Ambassador for UNICEF Chad during a ceremony held in N’Djamena on 14 February, in the presence of the Minister of State, Minister of Women and Early Childhood, as well as many children and adolescents.

“If changing the world positively sounds too grand or pretentious, start by changing your own life, the lives of those around you, and above all the lives of children,” Mawndoé said in his first statement as UNICEF’s new National Ambassador in Chad. He continued: “To the children and young people of Chad, you are the wealth of this country. Your dreams matter. Your future matters. Never give up hope, even in the most difficult moments. UNICEF stands with you, and from now on, I walk with you!”

This appointment follows several years of collaboration between Mawndoé and UNICEF in support of children and adolescents in Chad. Since 2021, the artist has repeatedly lent his voice to promote children’s and adolescents’ rights, including during national vaccination campaigns, regional events with other artists from West and Central Africa, and within the framework of UNICEF’s U-Report initiative to foster adolescent and youth engagement across the country.

“By officially becoming the very first National Ambassador of UNICEF Chad, Mawndoé reaffirms his commitment to placing his talent and reputation at the service of children’s rights in the country,” said Luciano Calestini, UNICEF Representative in Chad. “UNICEF is honored to count him among the allies of the cause of children and adolescents.”

Chad faces numerous challenges regarding child survival and development, including limited access to basic social services such as health, education, water and sanitation, nutrition, and protection, particularly against violence. In this context, the mobilization of popular personalities plays a key role in reaching new audiences and encouraging them to engage for children.

A committed artist, respected and followed by millions of young people, Mawndoé represents a strong and inspiring voice willing to amplify messages in favor of children’s rights. His cultural and social influence, deeply rooted in local realities, makes him a valuable ally to support UNICEF in its work.

In her remarks, the Minister of State, Minister of Women and Early Childhood, Kitoko Gata Ngoulou, stated: “By linking the influence of Mawndoé Célestin with UNICEF’s action and the Government’s sustained efforts, we are making a choice that is both strategic and profoundly human. We choose to speak to young people in their own language, with their codes, their dreams, and their aspirations.”

The ceremony brought together around 150 guests, including children, adolescents and youth, artists, representatives of public institutions, partners, media, and influencers. 
It featured:

• The screening of the anti-polio single and music video produced by Mawndoé with Chadian and West and Central African artists, including National Ambassadors from UNICEF offices in the region;
• The signing of the Letter of Appointment and the Ambassador for Children’s Rights Charter;
• The presentation of the black UNICEF Ambassadors T-shirt;
• An exclusive mini concert by Mawndoé, accompanied by artistic performances from young Chadian talents;
• The launch of the hashtag challenge #PourLesEnfantsAuTchad.