Voices of Africa's Future Unite on World Children’s Day: A Call for Action to Transform Education
Tafadzwa, a 14-year-old from Mashonaland West, a province in Zimbabwe, summed it all up with the resolve of an adult: “We came, we spoke, and now it is up to you.”
The curtain came down to mark the end of World Children’s Day 2024. There was a Regional Call for Action, a BLUE Victoria Falls bridge that dazzled and imposed itself like a colossus, a united front of children marching for their rights, and most of all, a region eager to make it right!
Tafadzwa, a 14-year-old from Mashonaland West, a province in Zimbabwe, summed it all up with the resolve of a motivated future leader: “We came, we spoke, and now it is up to you.”
They spoke, indeed, empathetically.
Faith Nzumara of Malawi told the leaders, “As children, we recognise the efforts of our governments to uphold our rights, but more must be done. We call on leaders to listen to us, include us in decisions, and invest in our present and future. Together, we can build a world where every child is valued, empowered, and protected.”
She added that the unified Call-for-Action on World Children’s Day, aligned with the specific theme of the 2024 Regional World Children’s Day commemorations "Educate and Skill the African Child for Posterity," was meant to drive progress in the education sectors.
“Our Call for Action is informed by broad national consultations involving more than 5,000 children across our seven countries, organised among our peers with the support of our governments and civil society partners,” Faith clarified.
Zimbabwe hosted the 2024 Regional World Children’s Day commemorations in Victoria Falls from 15 to 17 November. Children from Botswana, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe participated.
Theo T. Rabotlhale from Botswana added her call to action: “Access to education must be universal, inclusive, and empowering. Governments must support disadvantaged children financially, enrich curricula with practical skills, and create innovative learning environments. Quality education thrives when educators are equipped, and children’s voices are included in shaping their future.”
She added that educators should be equipped to deliver quality education, making learning fresh and impactful. This education should be delivered in pleasant environments and infrastructures conducive to learning, including well-equipped labs and libraries.
More voices asked for action.
From Namibia, Uyatera Jagger zoomed in on inclusive education system values.
“An inclusive education system values every child, providing equal opportunities for those with disabilities and in remote areas. Integrated learning environments and well-supported, qualified teachers are essential to shaping a future where no child is left behind,” said Uyatera.
There was an emphasis on ensuring integrated learning environments, allowing students to interact and collaborate with peers with special education needs from a young age instead of being separated.
Zambia, a landlocked gem in southern Africa, is renowned for its breathtaking Victoria Falls, abundant wildlife, and warm, welcoming people.
And from that country came a strong point.
Chola Coreen said, "To ensure no child is left behind, we must build child- and disability-friendly schools, provide solar-powered learning environments, and involve communities in creating inclusive education systems that support every child, especially the most vulnerable."
South Africa reinforces this point through Tsepho Sean Fisha: “We call for a globally aligned curriculum that prioritises digital literacy, robust ICT infrastructure, and climate change education. Let us learn in safe environments, equipped to tackle global challenges and emergencies with knowledge and resilience.”
World Children’s Day was a moment of reinforcing the ideas of education that aligned with the theme.
Children from Botswana, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe have united to pledge their commitment to building a brighter future. They vow to actively engage in platforms like child parliaments and junior councils to shape education systems that truly reflect their needs. Furthermore, they commit to advocating for public libraries and recreational facilities to foster growth, learning, and creativity among their peers.
“We believe our voices and actions can drive change. By engaging in student forums and championing spaces for growth, we are taking steps to ensure a better future for all children in our region,” said Yurha Tayob from Mozambique.
Ropafatso Mutsago from Zimbabwe envisions a future where schools and communities are inclusive, collaborative, and environmentally conscious. He passionately embraces diversity and advocates for accessible spaces where everyone feels safe and valued.
Ropafadzo is also dedicated to using technology responsibly, leading ICT programs to enhance digital literacy and share skills with peers. His commitment to sustainability is evident in his efforts to educate others on climate change and spearhead community clean-up initiatives.
“Together, we can create an environment where everyone thrives, belongs, and feels safe,” says Pious, highlighting his belief in teamwork and mutual respect. His efforts exemplify how small, consistent actions can inspire significant change, proving that young leaders can drive progress toward a better future for all.
The voices of leaders.
Put in the spotlight as leaders, the President of Zimbabwe, Emmerson Mnangagwa, presided over an event attended by UN officials and government representatives, including the President of Botswana, Duma Gideon Boko, and about 7,000 children. The UNICEF Regional Director, Etleva Kadilli, also attended and gave a rousing speech.
“As duty bearers, it is our responsibility to listen to children and redouble our efforts to give them the best possible chance for a brighter future,” the regional director said. “Every time you speak up, your voices make a difference—shaping a world where all children can learn and feel safe. I’m eager to hear from you today and take notes. Together, we embark on this journey of joint efforts, and we will not stop until progress is achieved.”
President Mnangagwa acknowledged the vital partnership between UNICEF, other UN agencies, and respective governments in promoting dialogue and creating an enabling environment for African children and young people to thrive. Reflecting on last year’s celebrations in Namibia, he emphasised the importance of implementing the children’s Call to Action, highlighting the need to improve the quality and relevance of education in a rapidly evolving world.
Addressing the challenges in the SADC region, the President underscored the cross-cutting nature of issues affecting children and the need to strengthen child protection mechanisms while setting measurable targets to achieve tangible results. He urged SADC stakeholders to enhance collaboration on transboundary matters and consider establishing a regional child protection framework.
"Our coordinated efforts create an enabling environment that will undoubtedly result in children and young people of Africa who are 'fit for the future.' Let us continue to act on their voices and create lasting impact,” President Emmerson Mnangagwa said.
BLUE Victoria Falls Bridge
The lighting of the Victoria Falls Bridge in UNICEF Blue was a breathtaking spectacle that encapsulated the essence of unity and hope. As night descended over the majestic falls, the bridge, a towering symbol of connection between Zimbabwe and Zambia, was bathed in a vibrant blue hue.
The striking colour, chosen to represent UNICEF's mission to protect and empower children, created a stunning contrast against the natural grandeur of the surrounding landscape. The illuminated bridge stood as a beacon of solidarity, a visual reminder of the collective commitment to children's rights and the drive for a better future.
This moment marked a memorable highlight of World Children’s Day and a powerful symbol of the region’s shared aspirations for change and progress.
In Zimbabwe UNICEF works in close collaboration and with the support of the Government of the United Kingdom and the Global Partnership for Education to increase the access to quality of education, with the Government of Sweden to ensure child protection and promote the rights of children and with the Government of Germany through the KfW Development Bank to roll-out cash transfer programmes and organize school feeding activities.
