By Anna Moses
Today, June 16, Africa celebrates the Day of the African Child. This day remembers the brave students of the 1976 Soweto Uprising in South Africa. Thousands of children protested against unfair and unequal education under apartheid.
The African Union started this special day in 1991 to honor those young protesters and to highlight the problems many African children still face today.
This year’s theme is “Planning and Budgeting for Children’s Rights: Progress Since 2010.” It asks African governments to look at how well they have included children’s needs in their national plans and budgets over the years—and to do more to support children’s services.
This day is a strong reminder that every child deserves the right to education, healthcare, protection, and a voice in decisions that affect them.
Everyone—governments, communities, and individuals—is encouraged to join in, share the message, and help create real change.
As Africa looks back at progress made since 2010, one message is clear: it’s time to plan, budget, and act for children’s rights—now more than ever.
