Children in Africa Upbeat in Spearheading for Their Rights

Children upbeat in spearheading for their rights

Dorcas Akello

Children in Eastern and Southern Africa are playing a vital role in making it their responsibility to advocate for their rights, thanks to Plan International’s Child Protection programme.

A unique approach by the international children’s charity is emerging as a strong example of how children can be empowered to fight for their rights and place child protection and support on the agenda of national and regional governments as well as international developmental agencies.

Through the programme, Plan has created mechanisms in Africa, including establishing of Child Protection Committees in all areas of their work which include children, community members, teachers, government departments and the police.

As we celebrate the 22nd anniversary of the Universal Children’s Day, on 20th November 2011, many children across the globe continue to face challenges ranging from violence, abuse, exploitation and neglect.

According to Plan, Violence against children has a devastating impact – threatening children’s survival, development and participation in society. It is not just widespread but is a fundamental breach of their human rights.

Plan also facilitates training of children and youth to appreciate their rights and works in close collaboration with institutions to provide child protection in child-friendly environments.

In school child protection committees, children have been empowered to educate their peers about children’s rights, their responsibilities and importance of education.

For 14-year old Winfred of Kamuli Girls Primary School in East Uganda, the work of the child protection commitees is finally paying off. Winfred, is among 5 girls, who have been nominated for the International Children’s Peace Prize 2011.

She was chosen from 98 children nominated from 42 countries for an annual honour by the Dutch Children’s rights organisation KidsRights, for an outstanding child whose extraordinary acts and thoughts have countered problems affecting children around the world.

 “These days the majority of the students know their rights and dare to speak up for what they believe is right and against violence, sexual abuse and corporal punishment.

“Children now understand that they are somebody, that they can be something, and begin to understand who they are as individuals,” she adds.

Winfred also recently honoured by Plan for her outstanding contribution towards fighting for the rights of children.

Her comments are echoed by eleven years old Fredrick, Chairperson of Kamuli Boys Primary School Child Protection Committee in Uganda: “we thank Plan for workshops and training  where we learn about interacting with friends and finding out about children’s rights in their schools and how they do things.”

“In our group, we guide children and tell them about their rights responsibilities and correct them when they have wronged. And as a chairperson, I make sure that all children meet their needs and they are disciplined (well behaved).

Under the Child Protection programme, key priority areas for Plan are child protection and learning, increasing awareness and participation to both the children and parents on the importance of education and child protection issues such as early marriages, irregular migration, child neglect, violence and child labour amongst others.

“Education is crucial for the empowerment of children, young people and their communities in securing their rights,” Gezahegn Kebede, Regional Director for Plan International in Eastern and Southern Africa says.

“Through the community based and national initiatives, Plan aims to increase children’s space and inclusion in decision making and policy making processes. We do this through support to existing and emerging children and youth organisations and child media work,” Mr. Kebede adds.