Mukudzei Chingwere in GABORONE, Botswana
Placing children at the centre of a global response to their needs is essential for achieving tangible and sustainable outcomes, Vice President Dr Constantino Chiwenga has said.
He was speaking at the Sub-Regional World Children’s Day Commemorations held here yesterday.
Regional leaders gathered to deliberate on effective pathways to meet children’s aspirations. During the event, the Zimbabwean delegation led by VP Chiwenga outlined its ongoing programmes and future plans for advancing children’s rights.
“This commemoration reaffirms our shared duty to protect and empower our children — the heartbeat of Africa’s future,” said VP Chiwenga.
At the national level, VP Chiwenga highlighted Zimbabwe’s investment in child-centred policies, such as the Heritage-Based 5.0 Curriculum, designed to equip learners with innovative skills. Initiatives like home-grown school feeding programmes and health and wellness initiatives are ensuring no child is left behind. VP Chiwenga acknowledged emerging threats, including climate change, trafficking, substance abuse and online harm, noting that Zimbabwe has launched a robust multi-sectoral response to drug and substance abuse and established psycho-social support centres nationwide.
“Placing children at the centre of dialogue reflects our genuine intent to listen, learn and act on their aspirations. We have heard the voices of our young people through the Children’s Consultative Forum.
“Their priorities, inclusion, dignity and resilience echo our regional goals. Zimbabwe stands committed to transforming their aspirations into tangible outcomes.”
VP Chiwenga reiterated the importance of listening to and acting on the aspirations of young people, as voiced through the Children’s Consultative Forum.
“Their priorities — inclusion, dignity and resilience — are aligned with our regional goals. Zimbabwe is committed to transforming these aspirations into tangible outcomes,” he said.
At the national level, VP Chiwenga highlighted Zimbabwe’s investment in child-centred policies, such as the Heritage-Based 5.0 Curriculum, designed to equip learners with innovative skills. Initiatives like home-grown school feeding programmes and health and wellness initiatives are ensuring no child is left behind. VP Chiwenga acknowledged emerging threats, including climate change, trafficking, substance abuse and online harm, noting that Zimbabwe has launched a robust multi-sectoral response to drug and substance abuse and established psycho-social support centres nationwide.
Speaking at the event, Zimbabwe’s Child President, Lionel Mazarire, expressed pride in the country’s efforts to uplift children’s rights, stressing the importance of equitable education for all children, regardless of background.
Children from several Southern African countries called for an end to violence, poverty and high dropout rates, while demanding guaranteed access to nutrition, menstrual products, sanitation and inclusive education with trained teachers for learners with disabilities.
This year’s theme, “My Day, My Rights”, challenges governments to move beyond promises and enact real change.
Although World Children’s Day is globally observed on November 20, SADC commemorated it five days earlier to maximise participation.
Following Zimbabwe’s hosting last year, and Botswana this year, Lesotho will take the reins next year.
Lesotho Prime Minister Ntsokoane Matekane emphasised society’s role in protecting children’s rights, while Namibia’s Vice President Lucia Witbooi highlighted the need for more resources to prepare children for the future, insisting their views must inform policy decisions.
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