I grew up in this area. So, when I took on the responsibility of UNICEF’s Regional Director a year ago, I had a deeper sense of purpose and commitment that it was more than just a job.
A personal vow rooted in my own experience as one of the children I am currently advocating. For me, this role is a promise. A promise to millions of African children who endure violence every day and are not supported by rights.
All acts of violence take away childhood. Children will reach their full potential and shake up the foundations of our community.
But we are not strong and helpless.
African leadership is rising to this rapidly changing world opportunity. We see governments, communities, young leaders and children standing up and taking action across the continent.
Last November, at a historic First World Ministerial Conference to End Violence against Children in Bogota, 70% of the African government raised commitments to new levels and made ambitious pledges to better protect children from violence.
On April 23rd, I spoke at a high-level meeting on violence against children. There, we reaffirmed that real change is possible when child protection is embedded at the highest level of political decision-making. Dr Najat Maala Majid, special representative of the Secretary General on Violence against Children, made it clear.
“A society that cannot protect children is a society that undermines its own future. It is important to understand the costs of not acting to prevent violence against children.”
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Costs are measured in life, children are not protected and the future is destroyed. By 2050, over 900 million children live in Africa, accounting for 40% of the world’s children. Their happiness and opportunities will strongly shape the future of both the continent and the world.
As development funding decreases, there must be a transition to a nationally owned, sustainable, financial and effective child protection system. And I watch the momentum build up.
When I listened to participants at a high-level event, I was truly encouraged by their leadership and dedication. Ministers and senior officials of Benin, Chad and Chad in Kenya, Zambia, are supported by strong commitment from the African Committee on Rights and Welfare of Children, civil society organizations and the African Committee on Rights and Welfare of UNICEF, and shared the decisive investment they are making.
Together, we can build on this momentum and ensure that Africa is at the forefront of protection from child violence. For example, to promote change and ensure a better future for all children. There are examples, strategies and growing commitments at all levels. Now is the moment to accelerate.
Véronique Tognifodé’s words resonated deeply with me. “In 2025, children should live a life without violence.”
A year ago, I made an appointment to my kids. And today I want to turn it into a call to action for our continent. Now is the time to move forward. Now is the time to ensure that our commitment will become a reality for every country, every city, every community, and every child in this area.
