African Child Day: Celebrating Progress and Recommitting to Protection
The Significance of African Child Day
Celebrated on June 16 each year, African Child Day commemorates the signing of the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child—a landmark commitment to child protection across Africa.
Progress We've Seen
Across African countries, we're witnessing increased awareness of child sexual abuse, more government investment in protection services, and growing involvement of communities in prevention efforts.
Challenges That Remain
Despite progress, child sexual abuse remains prevalent. We still see limited resources for survivor support, insufficient prosecution of perpetrators, and persistent silence around abuse in many communities.
The Path Forward
Our commitment remains unwavering: to build safe environments, train communities and organizations, support survivors, and advocate for policies that protect African children from sexual abuse.