By Steve Chirombo
Dedza District Council says it is ready to commemorate the Day of the African Child on Thursday, July 24, with activities scheduled to take place in the area of Traditional Authority (T/A) Kasumbu.
Speaking Tuesday after a final preparatory meeting, Dedza District Social Welfare Officer Edward Chisanga said all logistical arrangements are in place for the successful commemoration of the annual event.
“The day provides a platform for children to speak their mind, thereby enabling our partners to find solutions to some challenges facing these children.
In Dedza, we are still registering cases of child abuse this is why we are urging various stakeholders to work with the council in ending harmful practices,” said Chisanga.
He thanked development partners for supporting the council in organising the event, noting that such collaborations are key to promoting children’s welfare.
Chisanga also highlighted the importance of community participation in protecting children’s rights.
“Children have rights and it is the responsibility of everyone to take part in protecting those rights. Currently, we have different interventions by government and non-governmental organisations across Dedza. Our plan is to collaborate with communities in all T/As to safeguard children’s rights,” he added.
The Day of the African Child is commemorated annually across the continent to reflect on progress made and remaining challenges in the protection and promotion of child rights.
This year’s event will be held under the theme “Planning and budgeting for children’s rights: Progress since 2010.”
