Save the Children Commemorates Day of the African Child in Chikwawa

Save the Children joined the Malawi Government and stakeholders in organising, supporting and commemorating the 2015 Day of the African Child which annually falls on 16th June. Malawi commemorated the day on 30th June 2015 under the theme “Accelerating our collective efforts in ending child marriages as we launch the National Plan of Action for Vulnerable Children.”

The event drew participants from across the Malawian society including children themselves, Government officials, UN Agencies (UNICEF, UNFPA, UN Women); international organisations including Action aid, Plan Malawi, World Vision, HiVOS and Save the Children among others as well as local organisations, chiefs, Members of Parliament and community members. During the event children presented a number of activities such as poems, a press conference, songs and dances through which different messages on ending child marriages were made. Different organisations also showcased various interventions on addressing child protection issues including child marriages. 

The event allowed children to raise concerns on the plight of children in the country and how children continue to be affected by child marriages. A speech delivered by a child representative reminded government and stakeholders on the importance of accelerating efforts in tackling child marriages. Malawi remains among the countries with high incidents of child marriages. Remarks made by the Minister of Gender, Children, Disability and Social Welfare, UNICEF Representative, End Child Marriages Campaign Chairperson, Member of Parliament for the area and the Paramount Chief echoed the need for stronger collaboration and commitment of all stakeholders especially in the wake of the newly passed Marriage, Divorce and Family Relations Act.

Written by Brenda Phiri, Child Protection Specialist