Today, we join voices across the continent to mark the International Day of the African Child — a powerful reminder of the dreams, struggles, and incredible strength that live within children all over Africa.
This day honors the courage of students who, in 1976, marched in Soweto, South Africa, demanding their right to education. Decades later, the cry for access, dignity, and protection still echoes. Too many African children continue to grow up in conditions where opportunities are few, and survival becomes a daily struggle.
But every African child deserves so much more than mere survival.
They deserve to be safe.
They deserve to be seen.
They deserve to be heard.
And above all, they deserve to be educated.
Children across the continent are not asking for luxuries — they are asking for the basics: books instead of bullets, hope instead of fear, dreams instead of despair.
This day is not just about celebration. It is a call to reflect and recommit. A call to action for all of us — parents, educators, policymakers, and communities — to do better, to give better, and to build a future where every child can thrive, lead, and contribute to the growth of Africa.
Let us not just honour them with words. Let us show up for them with action.
Happy African Child Day!
