WORLD CHILDREN'S DAY SPARKS FRESH COMMITMENT TO CHILD SAFETY AND WELL-BEING
SOS Children's Village The Gambia, commemorated World Children’s Day with a renewed call for societies to prioritise the "rights, safety, and well-being of children worldwide." Observed annually, the day serves as a powerful reminder of the collective responsibility shared by governments, communities, and institutions to safeguard children from harm while ensuring access to opportunities that nurture their full potential. A march-past by banner-wielding and chanting schoolchildren, teachers, youth advocates, and child-rights organisations on the streets of Bakoteh, marked the start of the commemorations and created an atmosphere of unity and determination. This year’s celebration is anchored on the theme “Listen to the Future and Stand Up for Children’s Rights,” a message that urges stakeholders to place children at the centre of decision-making processes.Fatima N. Jarju of the Children's National Assembly encouraged her fellow children to “speak up, stay confident, and support one another.”There were calls for stronger protections, better educational opportunities, and increased representation of children in national dialogue.Jean Pierre Kouamin, National Director of SOS Children’s Villages, encouraged children to stay “hopeful and committed to their dreams” while urging parents, communities, and institutions to “redouble efforts to ensure children are safe, nurtured, and empowered.”Children performed a play centred on the realities many young people face, including abuse, neglect, and the struggle for basic rights. The goal was to highlight the importance of “protection systems and community support.” The captivating play also served the dual purpose of entertainment and advocacy.Dillo Bah, the Deputy Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Welfare, described children as the “heartbeat of the nation,” stressing that their welfare is “central to national development.” Jallow urged communities to “strengthen” their role in child protection. He appealed for “renewed dedication to building safer neighbourhoods,” adding that children depend on the “efforts of everyone around them.”The energy and enthusiasm demonstrated by the children set an inspiring tone for the rest of the programme. It illustrates how powerful young voices can be when amplified and supported.This year’s World Children’s Day commemorations in The Gambia, concluded with “renewed” hope and a “strong call” for action. Stakeholders acknowledged that the future “belongs to children—and that society must be willing to listen, invest, and stand up for their rights at every turn.”
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