World Children's Day celebration in Mahajanga: ‘Together, let’s look at the future for and with children’
Mahajanga, 20 November 2024 – The Ministry of Population and Solidarity and UNICEF Madagascar celebrated World Children's Day together in Mahajanga, around the following theme: ‘Together, let’s look at the future for and with children’. Several events and activities were organized to highlight children's rights and the importance of building a future where children are at the heart of all decisions.
Symbolically, for one day, Olgina, a 14-year-old girl with albinism, took on the role of governor of Boeny region. She first chaired the weekly meeting of the governorate's staff, then visited a centre promoting inclusive education. She was able to witness the management of a region, share her concerns and propose ideas to improve the situation of children. This initiative aims to drive the idea that children are full members of society, capable of participating in decision-making, especially in a country like Madagascar where half the population is under 18. It was an opportunity for Olgina to learn more about regional initiatives and the responsibilities of a governor and to bring the voice of children to a high level.
The adoption in 1989 by the United Nations of the Convention on the Rights of the Child is commemorated on 20 November. It was ratified by Madagascar in 1991. This year's theme follows on from the Summit of the Future, which was organised by the United Nations in September and brought together all Heads of State to New York. In the Pact for the Future adopted at the Summit, all Heads of State committed to investing in the economic and social development of children and youth to enable them to reach their full potential, but also to consult them when making decisions.
In Mahajanga, creative and participatory drawing workshops were also organised to encourage the expression and creativity of children. Four murals were collectively created on key themes such as climate change, education, the empowerment of young girls and access to healthcare. These workshops provided an opportunity to highlight their ideas and aspirations for building a better world. The day was also filled with activities and awareness-raising events focusing on the importance of guaranteeing children's rights to education, health, participation and a safe environment.
In addition, as it does every year, Madagascar joins the global ‘Go Blue’ campaign, one of the flagship initiatives of World Children's Day. It symbolises the country's commitment to defending children's rights and creating a safer and more equitable environment for their future. In Mahajanga, this campaign is visible with a large baobab tree illuminated in blue from 18 to 24 November. In Morondava, another powerful symbol will take shape on the Avenue of the Baobabs, where the famous baobab trees are illuminated in blue to mark this day.
“World Children's Day is not only a symbolic event, but an important reminder of our responsibilities towards children and youth under the Convention on the Rights of the Child. It is an opportunity to highlight the challenges children face, but also to celebrate their talents, dreams and potential,” said Christine Jaulmes, the UNICEF Representative in Madagascar.
