Day of the African Child – Overview and Profiles of 22 African NGOs

Today is the Day of the African Child.

In 1991, the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) (now African Union) designated 16 June as the Day of the African Child (DAC) to commemorate the 1976 student uprising in Soweto, South Africa. Thousands of students protested against the poor quality of education they received and demanded to be taught in their languages. Many students lost their lives during the protests.

The Soweto Uprising garnered international attention and condemnation, highlighting the injustices of apartheid and the struggles faced by African children for their right to education and freedom from discrimination.

DAC serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges African children face and raises awareness about the need to improve their rights and welfare. It is celebrated annually with a theme identified by the African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (ACERWC).

The theme for 2024 is "Education for all children in Africa: the time is now ". It is an opportunity to take stock of the progress achieved and identify challenges to realising the right to education in Africa.

This theme aligns with the African Union's focus on education for 2024 under the theme, "Educate an African fit for the 21st Century: Building Resilient Education Systems for Increased Access to Inclusive, Lifelong, Quality, and Relevant Learning in Africa ".

Although African countries have made much progress in adopting inclusive education policies and increasing access to education, education for all is not a reality for many African children. The continent still needs to achieve its targets for universal education. According to UNESCO , 20% of children between 6 and 11, 30% between 12 and 14 and 60% between 15 and 17 years are out of school in Africa. Even where school enrolment has increased, there is a high rate of school dropouts. Key factors that affect enrolment and retention include poverty, gender-based discrimination and violence, sexual exploitation, conflict and emergencies, teenage pregnancy and lack of access to sanitary pads.

The population of African children is estimated to reach one billion in 2055, making it the continent with the most children. Investing in children, especially their education, is therefore crucial to achieving Africa's development agenda and objectives.

African NGOs' contributions are critical in responding to the challenges African children face.

The following profiles highlight the work of 22 African NGOs focussing on children's issues in Ethiopia, Kenya, Mauritius, Nigeria, South Africa, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda and Zimbabwe:

# African Child Policy Forum (ACPF) (Ethiopia)

“The Day of the African Child serves to celebrate children of Africa as well as inspire a sober reflection and action towards addressing the challenges that children in Africa face daily.” Dr Joan Nyanyuki , Executive Director, ACPF

ACPF is an independent, not-for-profit, Pan-African institute of policy research and advocacy for the African child. Based in Ethiopia, ACPF was founded in 2003 with the conviction that putting children first on the public agenda is fundamental to realising their rights and well-being and bringing about lasting social and economic progress in Africa. ACPF has worked tirelessly to achieve its vision of an Africa where every child enjoys all rights and attains their full human potential, founded on its mission to be a leading advocate for policies that are inclusive of all children.

ACPF’s work is rights-based, inspired by universal values, informed by global experiences and knowledge, anchored in African realism and committed to internationalism. Its work is guided by the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (ACRWC), other regional and international human rights instruments and African values, especially the African humanist philosophy of Ubuntu (“I am because we are”) - the belief in a universal bond of sharing that connects all humanity.

ACPF leverages its internationally respected position to ensure a two-way flow of knowledge, research and evidence between Africa and the global child rights community. It combines research, reports, conferences, training and advocacy to protect vulnerable children, end discrimination, exploitation and violence, advance state accountability, promote legal protection, and strengthen partnerships.

ACPF has undertaken pioneering work in child protection, documenting a comprehensive analysis of violence against children in Africa and drawing attention to neglected policy and programme areas such as the rights of children with disabilities and the protection of children from witchcraft accusations and ritual killings. It consistently advocates for child law reform and for countries to align their laws to international and regional standards. ACPF has undertaken ground-breaking work in child justice and made a significant contribution to enhancing accountability for children, notably through analysing government performance using its Child Friendliness Index (CHI) and the publication of The African Report on Child Well-being series.

ACPF has well-established relationships with strategic Pan-African institutions such as the African Union Commission (AUC) and its organs, specifically the African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (ACERWC) and the African Commission on Peoples and Human Rights (ACPHR), Regional Economic Communities (RECs) and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA). It is also a member of the Steering Committee of the Global Coalition to End Child Poverty, the INSPIRE Working Group on Violence Prevention and the International Society of Child Indicators (ISCI).

ACPF has won multiple international awards for its work, including the Juvenile Justice Without Borders International Award (2012 and 2020) and the International Society for Child Indicators Impact Award (2017).

# AfriChild Centre (Uganda)

"The International Day of the African Child is a significant occasion to reflect on the progress made and the challenges that remain in ensuring the rights and well-being of African children. It serves as a reminder of the importance of continued advocacy, research, and action to create a better future for every African child. We use this day to reaffirm our commitment to our mission and to renew our efforts in partnership with others to make a meaningful impact in the lives of children across the continent." Timothy Opobo , Executive Director, AfriChild Centre

The AfriChild Centre generates evidence and advocates for the rights and well-being of children in Africa. Founded in 2013, its mission is to promote research, knowledge dissemination, and capacity building to inform policy and practice for improving children's lives. Its primary beneficiaries are children in Africa, particularly those facing vulnerabilities and marginalisation.

The Centre's objectives include conducting high-quality research on child rights and well-being, providing evidence-based recommendations for policy and practice, building capacity among researchers, policy-makers and practitioners, and advocating for child-centred policies and programmes.

The Centre has successfully conducted and published numerous research studies on critical issues affecting children in Africa, influenced policy changes and the implementation of child-friendly practices in various parts of Uganda, established itself as a leading centre for child rights research and advocacy in Uganda, and hosted and organised high-profile conferences and workshops bringing together stakeholders from across the continent and beyond.

The Centre collaborates with various partners, including academic and research institutions within Africa and globally, government agencies and policy-makers, NGOs and CBOs, and international organisations focused on child rights and development, such as UNICEF, Child Fund and Save the Children.

# Child's Destiny and Development Organisation (CHIDDO) (South Sudan)

"The International Day of the African Child is an important anniversary to advocate, popularise and reflect on the chronic educational, social, economic, cultural and psychological challenges many African children face." Riing Garwech Kuol, National Director, CHIDDO

CHIDDO envisions a transformed and flourished life for every vulnerable and needy child to contribute positively to society. Founded in 2001, it is committed to the dignity, development and welfare of all children in South Sudan by providing a protective, healthy and friendly environment to realise their potential. Its primary target audience is boys and girls between 6 and 17 years.

CHIDDO's objectives are multifaceted, encompassing the provision of a basic and protective education environment for children and quality child protection and GBV prevention and response services for vulnerable boys, girls and women, improved access to WASH among internally displaced people and host communities for vulnerable children and adults, and increased access to quality maternal, child health care and nutrition education services for vulnerable children and adults.

CHIDDO's primary programmes and activities focus on education, child protection, GBV, WASH, maternal and child healthcare education, school meals and nutrition, climate change and clean energy.

CHIDDO partners with UN agencies such as UNICEF, WFP and IOM, NEAR Network, DCA and Christian Aid. It is also an active member of various national, regional and international networks, associations and forums, including the Child Rights Coalition in South Sudan, South Sudan NGO Forum, National Education Coalition, AHON, Charter for Change, ECPAT International, Global Partnership to End Violence Against Children, Global Partnership to End Child Marriage, Consortium of Street Child, Pledge for Change, Brave Movement, GNDR and Men Engaged South Sudan.

# Children’s Dignity Forum (CDF) (Tanzania)

"The International Day of the African Child is a reminder of African children's enduring spirit and potential. At Children's Dignity Forum, we are committed to continuing our work to ensure every child can grow up with dignity, respect and the opportunity to realise their full potential. Let us all join forces to create a brighter future for the children of Africa." Koshuma Mtengeti, Executive Director, CDF

CDF is a Tanzanian children's rights organisation founded and registered in 2006. Headquartered in Dar es Salaam, with offices in the Dodoma and Mara regions, it is a leading agency in ending Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), child marriage, teenage pregnancy and other harmful practices and providing a critical platform for dialogue on issues affecting children and young women in Tanzania. Its mission is to promote children's rights for the most vulnerable children by creating working forums that empower children, families and communities.

CDF's programme activities focus on transforming lives through influencing public attitudes and policies on issues affecting children; safeguarding and promoting rights through strengthening the capacity and agency of both duty bearers and right holders on legal and human rights issues to prevent and respond to children's human rights violations; and building evidence and amplifying children's voice through forums for dialogue and exploring new and contentious issues that affect children. Its specific thematic areas include girls and young women empowerment, child protection and participation, violence against children and girls prevention, access to quality justice among child survivors and offenders, and men and boys engagement.

CDF has already engaged over 9 000 men and boys on children's and women's rights, supported the establishment of both formal and informal structures for protecting women and children, enhanced the knowledge of over 1 425 duty bearers on national and international instruments for children and women protection, and mobilised communities through awareness campaigns, resulting in increased reporting and intervention in cases of violence against children.

CDF collaborates with various stakeholders, including international organisations such as Comic Relief, AidsFonds, Segal Family Foundation, FORWARD UK, UNICEF, UNFPA, Plan International, Save the Children, Sonke Gender Justice, Y+PLUS Global, PATA, ARASA, development partners, academic institutions and government entities such as the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Community Development, Gender, Elders and Children, and the Ministry of Home Affairs. It serves as the secretariat for the Tanzania Ending Child Marriage Network (TECMN) and MenEngage Tanzania, and participates in numerous national and international coalitions, including the Anti-Female Genital Mutilation Coalition, Tanzania Human Rights Defenders Coalition and Girls Not Brides.

# Children’s Voice Today (CVT) (Rwanda)

"The International Day of the African Child, with its theme, "Education for All Children in Africa: The Time is Now," amplifies the urgency of prioritising education as a fundamental right for every African child. This theme is a powerful call to action for governments, organisations and communities to intensify their efforts in ensuring equitable access to quality education." Omar Tony Nsengumuremyi, Legal Representative, Children's Voice Today

CVT promotes the rights of the child and creates a safe environment for all children in Rwanda through meaningful participation. Founded in 2001, its mission is to be the voice of children, empower them to advocate for their rights and to fight violence against children. It operates in fifteen districts in four provinces and the City of Kigali and also supports child-led initiatives in South Sudan and Somalia to promote and lead actions towards the realisation of children's rights.

CVT's three strategic objectives include promoting children's right to protection, promoting children's right to participation, and promoting culture and language amongst children. It implements interventions targeting and involving children, their families, different institutions, duty-bearers and the Rwandan community in general.

CVT emphasises promoting, protecting, fulfilling and respecting children's rights. It has empowered children through organising trainings, workshops, dialogues, press conferences, roundtable discussions, campaigns, exhibitions, study tours, and radio and TV shows to advocate for children's issues and to empower them to advocate for their challenges on their own.

CVT is a member of the African Movement of Working Children and Youth (AMWCY), the Rwanda Civil Society Child Rights Coalition ("Umwana ku Isonga") and the Consortium of Street Children in the United Kingdom.

# Concern for the Girl Child (CGC) (Uganda)

"On International Day of the African Child, CGC joins the world in celebrating Africa's girls' remarkable spirit and resilience. We remember the Soweto Uprising of 1976, where young people bravely demanded a better future. Their courage inspires us to continue the fight for equal access to quality education, especially for Uganda's most vulnerable girls. Despite progress, many girls in Uganda still face barriers to education, hindering their ability to reach their full potential." Marjorie Sseruwo , Executive Director, CGC

CGC stands as a beacon of hope for marginalised girls in Uganda. It focuses its efforts on the Kampala, Nakawa Division, Luwero, Nakaseke and Nakasongola Districts, empowering these young girls to reach for the stars.

Founded in 2001, CGC's primary programmes and activities focus on education support, child protection, sexual reproductive health and WASH, economic strengthening, and organisational development. It has already provided educational support to 1345 girls, reached over 40 000 children through child protection projects implemented in collaboration with partners, and supported over 490 adolescent girls through the Safe Space Approach, both in and out of school.

Progress has been made, but the journey is far from over. While 8 out of 10 Ugandan children aged 6 to 12 years are enrolled in primary school, that number drops dramatically at the secondary level, with only around 1 in 4 children making it that far. This disparity is even more concerning for girls, with poverty, cultural norms, and early marriage creating even higher barriers.

CGC's objectives are to increase access to quality education for vulnerable girls in CGC target districts, strengthen formal and informal child protection structures at school, community, sub-county and district levels for the safety of the girl child, increase access and utilisation of SRH information services and WASH among CGC beneficiaries and communities, build the capacity of CGC beneficiary communities through economic strengthening and livelihood interventions, and strengthen the capacity of CGC for efficiency, effectiveness and long-term sustainability.

For the last 20 years, CGC has been passionate about commemorating the Day of the African Child through various activities and messaging, elevating the pride of the African child. School outreaches beyond partner schools, talking about the history of this day and releasing children's voices, have raised the cognisance of adults in the community, duty-bearing leadership, and the media to promote, fulfil, and protect the African child. Key benefits included protecting the identity features of children when reporting child abuse or neglect news in the media, defending children when applying cultural norms by confronting negative ones and holding duty bearers accountable through child rights governance (creation of clubs, councils and parliaments) at the grassroots.

CGC is a member of the Uganda Child Rights NGO Network (UCRNN) and Girls Not Brides: The Global Partnership to End Child Marriage, an international organisation that aims to end child marriage.

# C-Sema (Tanzania)

"The International Day of the African Child holds special significance for C-Sema. Serving as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for safe, quality education for all children, the day reaffirms C-Sema's commitment to advocating for children's rights, raising awareness, mobilising stakeholders, and driving policy changes to create nurturing, violence-free environments." Kiiya JK , Chief Executive, C-Sema

C-Sema is a pioneering NGO dedicated to promoting and protecting children's rights in Tanzania. Founded in 2006 and officially registered in 2013, its mission is to create a safer, more supportive environment for children.

C-Sema has implemented various impactful programmes and initiatives over the years. Its critical strategic programme is the 116 National Child Helpline, a toll-free 24-hour service operated in collaboration with the Government of Tanzania. Receiving over 5000 calls daily, the Helpline provides a crucial platform for children to voice their concerns. In partnership with the Internet Watch Foundation, C-Sema also addresses online child sexual abuse by removing sexual images through a dedicated online portal. It also leverages social media to disseminate parenting, nutrition and child protection information.

C-Sema's initiatives span across Tanzania and Zanzibar and address various critical issues, including child trafficking for domestic servitude, child sexual exploitation and abuse (CSEA), gender-based violence (GBV), and mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS).

The primary beneficiaries of C-Sema's work are children and youth who receive support through the Helpline and various outreach projects. They are given a voice and access to resources that can protect them from abuse, exploitation, and neglect. However, the impact of C-Sema's work extends beyond the immediate needs of children. Parents and caregivers are supported through educational programmes that teach effective parenting and child protection strategies. Social welfare officers, law enforcers and local government actors benefit from training and capacity-building initiatives that enhance their ability to protect children's rights. Educational and health institutions are equipped with resources and knowledge to create safer environments for children, while policy-makers are engaged to drive legislative and policy reforms that safeguard children's welfare.

C-Sema has had numerous achievements over the past 15 years. Initially starting with a single project-based donor in 2013, C-Sema now enjoys direct funding relationships with major organisations like UNFPA and UNICEF and strategic partnerships with the Oak Foundation and the Segal Family Foundation.

C-Sema is an active member of several global networks, including Childline International, Lifeline International, ECPAT, We Protect Alliance and the Internet Watch Foundation.

# Eastern Africa Child Rights Network (EACRN) (Kenya)

"The International Day of the African Child celebrates African children and calls for serious introspection and commitment towards addressing the numerous challenges they face." Benedict Omillo , Regional Coordinator, EACRN

EACRN aims to coordinate efforts by civil society organisations in Eastern Africa to advocate for children's rights. Founded in March 2014, its mission is to enhance the capacities of national coalitions and promote evidence-based advocacy on child rights within the East African region. It envisions an East African region where children enjoy their rights to survival, development, protection and participation.

EACRN's target audience includes national child rights coalitions, civil society organisations, child-led initiatives, youth-led organisations and various government, regional and multilateral entities. Its programmes focus on movement building, including expanding its membership and enhancing child rights CSOs' effectiveness; child rights governance and reporting, including building the capacity of national coalitions and other child rights networks on child rights governance and engagement with treaty bodies and regional mechanisms on child rights; and child participation, including creating more platforms where children can freely participate through its child-led initiative programme.

EACRN co-hosts the CSO Forum for the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (ACRWC) with the Child Rights Network of Southern Africa (CRNSA). It interfaces with the African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (ACERWC) and is a member of the Data for Governance Alliance and the East African Civil Society Organisations Forum (EACSOF). EACRN also partners and collaborates with regional and international civil society advocacy platforms and frameworks such as Child Rights Connect, ECOSOC and UPR mechanisms.

# Fundi Bots (Uganda)

“We know that somewhere in our classrooms and communities, in a town, a city, or a village, thousands of children are excitedly explaining to their parents how the world works because they finally understand and love science. They are why our teams crisscross the entire country daily, reaching more communities, schools, and homes.” Solomon King Benge , Founder and Executive Director, Fundi Bots

Fundi Bots is on a mission to accelerate science learning in Africa. With a vision to transform Africa through science, it aims to provide learning resources and skills training for at least one million African youth by 2030.

Fundi Bots is the dream of an African child trying to learn science amidst challenges and not giving up. It is passionate about seeing this dream become a reality and making the once-impossible, possible.

Founded in 2011 by Solomon King Benge, Fundi Bots is an educational non-profit organisation that operates in four regions in Uganda, namely Eastern Uganda (Mbale Office), Western Uganda (Mbarara Office), Northern Uganda (Gulu Office) and Central Uganda (Kampala Office). It has also conducted training in Tanzania, Zanzibar, Kenya and Rwanda.

Fundi Bots uses two main learning experiences to implement its activities: Robotics/STEM training and the Enhanced Science curriculum. These interventions provide practical, hands-on training for students in everything from building robots and coding to project-based learning experiences.

The Fundi Bots Science Curriculum is embedded directly into the national curriculum, supporting learning implementation and outcomes from an academic perspective. It also provides pedagogy and skills training for science teachers. Since 2016, Fundi Bots has improved science learning for 284 schools and trained over 43,000 students and more than 600 teachers.

Fundi Bots is about changing the mindset of youth and empowering them to become problem-solvers as they learn skills to succeed and inspire change in their communities.

# Gufasha Girls Foundation (GGF) (Uganda)

"The International Day of the African Child is a moment to reflect on the challenges African children face, including lack of access to education, healthcare and protection from violence, and to reaffirm our commitment to their rights, well-being and future. By commemorating this day, we honour African children's resilience and potential while highlighting the need for continued action, advocacy and investments to ensure they thrive and contribute meaningfully to their societies." Joan Kembabazi , Founder and CEO, GGF

GGF 's mission is to end child marriage and empower girls and young women in Uganda through advocacy, capacity-building and education support. Founded in 2016, its objectives are to advocate for gender equality and an end to child marriage, support girl child education, and promote sexual and reproductive health rights and services. Its primary target audience is adolescent girls, teenage mothers, victims and survivors of child marriage, and rural women engaged in small-scale and agricultural businesses.

GGF's leading programmes and activities focus on gender equality advocacy, menstrual hygiene, girls' education sponsorships, women's economic empowerment, sexual reproductive health and rights advocacy and services, and adolescent girls' leadership and empowerment.

GGF has successfully implemented community-led projects that challenged harmful social and cultural norms that hinder girls' potential by building the capacity of local leaders and various community stakeholders to take part in efforts to end child marriage and promote gender equality. It has empowered more than 9000 adolescent girls through initiatives that build their confidence, leadership skills and self-esteem, equipping them with the tools they need to advocate for their rights and make informed decisions about their lives in the communities of Kayunga district in central Uganda.

GGF has also provided support services for adolescent girls and young women, including access to sexual and reproductive healthcare, menstrual health products and knowledge, safe spaces and counselling and guidance.

# Halley Movement (Mauritius)

"The voice of the African child needs to be valued and heard. We have the resources, knowledge and means to make positive outcomes for children a reality. Let's join and create alliances of diverse stakeholders working in unison dedicated to upholding child rights without leaving any child behind." Mahen Busgopaul, Founder and Secretary General, Halley Movement

Halley Movement is a coalition of charitable organisations working for the welfare of children and families in Mauritius and the Southern African region. Founded in 1989, its mission is to protect and promote children and family rights, human rights, youth empowerment and gender equality. At the core of its services lies a commitment to uplifting marginalised communities and amplifying the voices of the unheard. It is committed to driving change and paving the way for a more equitable and compassionate society.

Halley Movement empowers marginalised groups through its advocacy, education and community development programmes and promotes inclusive and equitable policies and practices. One of its key initiatives is Internet safety and digital literacy, which targets vulnerable groups such as children, women and the elderly. This programme informs the community about cyber wellness and aims to educate youth and adults on safe and responsible Internet usage. Halley Movement has conducted research and published a report on the “Impact of the Internet on Children in Mauritius”, which the Government of Mauritius acknowledged and contributed to establishing a national committee on child safety online.

In line with safeguarding, Halley Movement has operated an online helpline service since 2010 known as Helpline Mauritius. It offers support, guidance, empathy and hope to individuals in need. This service is free, confidential and private.

Halley Movement holds Consultative Status with the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), is an elected member of the African Union Economic, Social and Cultural Council (ECOSOCC), and since 2022, has served as Deputy Presiding Officer (East Africa) of ECOSOCC’s 4th Permanent General Assembly.

# Joy for Children Uganda (JFCU) (Uganda)

"As we commemorate the International Day of the African Child, JFCU's journey highlights the importance of collective action in safeguarding children's rights, fostering a future where every Ugandan child can thrive, learn, and fulfil their potential." Moses Ntenga , Founder & Director, JFCU

JFCU was founded in 2005 to promote the well-being and sustainable development of Uganda's children. With its head office in Kampala and field offices in Fort Portal City and Lira City, JFCU champions children's rights to peaceful, exploitation-free lives, quality free education, economic security, clean water, healthcare, and nutrition.

Since its inception, JFCU has served as a bridge between local communities and international organisations, providing project implementation and services backed by local knowledge and global development expertise. It provides leadership on societal issues affecting children, challenging outdated paradigms to benefit all.

JFCU is a leading agency against violence towards children in Uganda, using rights-based and gender-transformative approaches to improve well-being and empower young people. It emphasises meaningful youth engagement, encouraging adolescents to be active agents and make informed decisions.

JFCU has been instrumental in enacting child-friendly legislation and implementing protection programmes, transforming thousands of children's lives through educational support and healthcare initiatives. It remains devoted to empowering Uganda's children, embodying resilience, hope, and transformation in its mission.

Partnerships are central to JFCU's success. It hosts and coordinates Girls Not Brides Uganda, an alliance of 126 NGOs working to end child marriage and teenage pregnancies, and preserve the rights of girls and women. JFCU also coordinates activities of 34 Girls First Fund grantees at various levels in Uganda, leveraging alliances to influence policy changes.

# Kids & Teens Resource Centre (K&TRC) (Nigeria)

"K&TRC commemorates the Day of the African Child annually to raise awareness about the rights and welfare of Nigerian children. We use the day to inspire vulnerable and economically disadvantaged young people in rural and excluded communities to become active citizens, advocating for their rights and the rights of their peers." Martin-Mary Falana , Chief Executive Officer, K&TRC

K&TRC aims to advance, promote and support the efforts of the government and other stakeholders involved in children's and youth development activities. Founded in December 2002, it envisions a secure future, where young people are empowered to contribute to the sustainable development of their communities. Its mission is to create an enabling environment for equipping young people with knowledge and skills appropriate for self-actualisation and national development.

K&TRC's primary focus is on less-privileged, deprived, and vulnerable children, particularly those in rural, excluded, and marginalised communities. By working with the government, parents, teachers, health care providers, artisans, and community and religious leaders, K&TRC is making a significant impact on the lives of these children and youth.

K&TRC's thematic areas include adolescent reproductive health and rights, counselling, HIV testing and referrals, youth-friendly services, family planning activities, child rights, and community development. It uses various strategies in achieving its objectives, including advocacy, communication and social mobilisation; participatory learning in action for community development; participatory vulnerability analysis for conflict management; resource centre and information-sharing; comprehensive care and support for vulnerable children; child and youth-friendly approaches for health and rights; and capacity development.

K&TRC has successfully designed, implemented and managed innovative reproductive health and developmental projects across Nigeria through the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and other stakeholders. The transformation of K&TRC into a viable and innovative national NGO results from the involvement of its renowned and credible founders, complemented by skilled and dedicated staff rooted in community-based reproductive health and child-friendly and youth-friendly activities. It has also established functional kids clubs in rural and excluded communities, called "Children Hygiene and Sanitation Education (CHASE) Clubs", which champion activities to promote sanitation and hygienic practices among children at the community level.

K&TRC maintains a good working relationship with state actors, line- ministries and local authorities in Nigeria and is a member of the Partnership for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (PMNCH), the world's largest alliance for women's, children's and adolescents' health and well-being.

# Molo Songololo (South Africa)

"International Day of the African Child provides an opportunity for reflection on advances made, and remaining challenges, to implement the rights of the African child, especially the rights, protection, empowerment, and participation of the African girl child." Patric Solomons , Director, Molo Songololo

Molo Songololo is a Cape Town-based NGO aiming to advance children's rights, care, protection and participation through awareness, education, training, advocacy and support services. Its primary target audience is children from 12 to 17 years of age, with parents, caregivers, community members and service providers as a secondary audience. It focuses mainly on poor urban and rural communities of Atlantis, Delft, Beaufort West and surrounding areas.

Molo Songololo was founded as a direct result of interventions by community workers during the 1979 United Nations International Year of the Child initiative to act against Apartheid policies and state actions against children and to promote the rights and protection of children. Children from forced removal and migration settlements in Cape Town, such as District Six, Elsies River and Crossroads, were brought together to interact, share experiences and learn from each other to break Apartheid barriers and promote children's rights and equality.

Molo Songololo's main interventions include providing services (referrals, assessments, counselling, therapeutic, empowerment, monitoring and ongoing support) to child victims and those at risk of sexual abuse, child sexual exploitation (CSE) and child trafficking (CT); empowering children with child rights and responsibilities, life-skills, and leadership education and promoting children's participation in decision-making processes that affect them; building the capacity of service providers to improve practice standards to implement the rights of the child, and prevent and combat CSE and CT; and conducting awareness and advocacy to promote the rights and protection of children, and child rights monitoring and accountability.

Molo Songololo is involved in various national, regional and international forums. It has also engaged in multiple continental initiatives over the years, including promoting and reporting on the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of Children. It is a founder member and first president for over ten years of the Southern African Network against Trafficking and Abuse of Children (SANTAC), which pioneered the campaign against CT in Southern African countries.

# Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund (NMCF) (South Africa)

"On this International Day of the African Child, our commitment is renewed towards creating an Africa that enables children and youth to maximise their potential. We envision a continent where every child can live in good health, peace, security and comfort, and where their voices are heard and their rights are upheld. Together, we can build a brighter future for all African children." Dr Linda Ncube-Nkomo , Chief Executive Officer, NMCF

NMCF , founded in 1995, strives to change how society treats children and youth. This long-term vision captures society's central role in shaping children's lives. NMCF's mission is to give voice and dignity to the African child by building a rights-based movement.

Since its inception, NMCF has made important strides in improving the lives of children and youth across South Africa. Its efforts have led to better health outcomes, increased educational opportunities, and the empowerment of young leaders who contribute positively to their communities.

NMCF's key programmes include child safety and protection, child survival, development and thriving (CSDT), health systems strengthening, family outreach, community outreach, sustainable livelihoods, and youth leadership and empowerment. These programmes are crafted to tackle the complex challenges African children and youth encounter and to create a society where they can flourish.

Some of NMCF's significant initiatives include the establishment of the Nelson Mandela's Children's Hospital, the second children's hospital in South Africa which provides specialised healthcare for children, the Children's Parliament, a platform for children to voice their opinions and engage in decision-making processes, and the Efeng Bacha Initiative, which engages youth in leadership and advocacy and promotes active citizenship.

NMCF will host the Africa Children's Summit from 9-12 August 2024 in Johannesburg.

NMCF collaborates with various stakeholders, including government agencies, non-profit organisations, corporate partners and local communities, to maximise its impact and reach.

# One Voice Initiative For Women and Children Emancipation (OVIWCE) (Nigeria)

"The International Day of the African Child is a noteworthy day that aims to increase public awareness of the difficulties African children face, especially regarding education and general well-being. The day promotes the rights of African children. It serves as a reminder of the value of high-quality education for all students, highlighting the ongoing need to address systemic issues that impact their lives now and in the future." Olayinka Adebajo , Executive Director, OVIWCE

OVIWCE is a youth-led awareness, volunteer-driven campaign and advocacy organisation providing cutting-edge, innovative and sustainable solutions to issues affecting women's and children's well-being. Founded in March 2016, it focuses on issues such as menstrual health and hygiene management, girl child empowerment, research, advocacy and implementation, and women and children's emancipation from societal problems hampering growth.

OVIWCE aims to care for women, children and youth, including, but not limited to, the orphaned, underserved, out-of-school, less fortunate and motherless; to empower its beneficiaries to be self-dependent and goal-oriented; and to create awareness of the needs of its beneficiaries among the public.

OVIWCE's leading programmes and activities cover sexual and reproductive health rights (SRHR), water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) and violence against women and girls (VAWG).

OVIWCE is a member of various national, continental and international entities, including the Nigerian Network of NGOs, Association Against Child Sexual and Gender-Based Violence, African Coalition for Menstrual Hygiene Management, African Union and UNICEF Youth Reference Group, World Association of NGOs, Girls Not Brides, UN ECOSOC and the Partnership for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (PMNCH).

Some of OVIWCE's significant accomplishments and achievements include contributing to the passage of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Bill into Law in Oyo State, the Appeal to the Nigerian House of Representatives to End All Forms of Taxes on Menstrual Products (Menstrual Hygiene Bill) and the research on "Advocacy for Removal of Taxes on Sanitary Products in Five Countries."

# Raising Teenagers Uganda (RTU) (Uganda)

"The Day of the African Child creates awareness about the rights of African children, emphasising access to education, good health, protection from abuse and the right to a safe and violent-free environment. It also presents an opportunity to share best practices and stories of change that can inspire other people. Let's get into a habit of doing everything within our means to see every child enjoying their childhood so that in future, we can look back and smile at the difference we made when we still could." Hope Nankunda , Founder & Executive Director, RTU

RTU envisions a world where all girls feel fully confident and able to participate in their communities' social and economic development. Its mission is to provide a platform for teenage girls to engage on a wide range of issues impacting their lives and promote proper transition from childhood to adulthood.

RTU was founded in 2014 to empower teenage girls to stay in school until they complete their education. It targets girls between the ages of 10 and 19 years. It supports underprivileged girls who are denied the right to education because of poverty, cultural beliefs and norms that favour boy-child education over girl-child education. RTU focuses primarily on communities in the Kampala, Wakiso, Kamuli and Isingiro Districts. Through its education intervention, girls are enrolled in primary and secondary schools and provided with scholastic materials to attain their education comfortably.

In addition to education, RTU's focus areas include guidance and counselling, child protection and safeguarding, sexual reproductive health education, and gender equality. Education alone is not sufficient to address all the challenges linked to high school dropouts, defilement, exploitation and abuse in the home, schools and communities. RTU, therefore, designed a holistic programme that embraces education to support enrollment, retention and eventual completion of education. It involves crafting child protection approaches that include lobbying and advocating for children at all levels, providing psychosocial support to girls and their families, initiating school development projects to enhance the school environment and introducing menstrual hygiene management programmes in schools.

RTU has registered several achievements, including supporting over 45 000 girls with sanitary products so they can menstruate with dignity, stay in school, and complete their education. It has worked closely with the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development to disseminate, popularise and implement a national strategy to end teenage pregnancy and child marriage. It has also introduced several clubs in different schools that act as safe spaces for young adolescents to come together and share their challenges as they receive guidance in a supervised setting. To date, 640 girls and 285 boys have benefited from its school and community clubs.

RTU serves as the Central Region Coordinator for Girls Not Brides Uganda - The Ugandan Partnership to End Child Marriage, comprising 122 organisations from different parts of the country.

# Reach For A Deam Foundation (South Africa)

The Reach For A Dream Foundation seeks to instil hope in South African children between the ages of 3 and 18 battling life-threatening illnesses through the magic of dreams. These children are in desperate need of encouragement. Reach For A Dream offers them a magical moment to regain their childhood lost to an illness and brings joy and laughter to their difficult circumstances.

Founded in 1988, Reach For A Dream has been providing dreams to children nationwide for the past 36 years. These dreams - ranging from meeting personal heroes to experiencing new things for the first time - provide the children with a temporary escape from their illness and a much-needed distraction from often painful medical treatments. Most importantly, fulfilled dreams inspire hope, making children believe that tomorrow is worth fighting for.

Reach For A Dream’s roster of fulfilled dreams includes introducing children to international celebrities like Lewis Hamilton, Celine Dion, Ed Sheeran, Mo Salah, Cristiano Ronaldo and various South African presidents and celebrities. It fulfilled 2067 dreams in 2023 and more than 27000 since inception.

Reach For A Dream has launched several groundbreaking projects in recent years, including Laughter Heroes, Dream Rooms and the Dream Club. Laughter Heroes brings joy and laughter to children in hospitals through therapeutic entertainment, Dream Rooms transform sterile hospital rooms into vibrant and comforting spaces, and the Dream Club provides a platform for dreamers to connect, share their experiences, and support each other.

Reach For A Dream was awarded the CSI Legacy award for Best NGO in South Africa in 2022.

# Shamwari Yemwanasikana (SYS) (Zimbabwe)

"As we commemorate the Day of the African Child, we reflect on our ten-year journey focusing on SDG 4 and the challenges still being faced by young girls and women in accessing quality education. We implore the relevant authorities to monitor and implement policies to curb hindrances to quality education." Ekenia Chifamba , Founding Director, SYS

SYS is a pro-girl organisation that seeks to promote, protect and advance the rights and empowerment of the girl child. Established in 2014, its mission is to empower girls and young women to be active agents of their development by igniting the power within to reach their full potential. Its vision is a world where girls and young women lead their own development with productive lives.

SYS' work is guided by core values such as transparency, empathy, gender sensitivity and inclusivity. It operates in five of the ten provinces in Zimbabwe, and its target group is girls and young women (0-24 years). It has already reached over 50 000 primary and 30 000 secondary beneficiaries.

SYS focuses on information dissemination, capacity building, advocacy, and service provision. It operates under four strategic pillars, namely leadership, sexual reproductive health, child protection and sustainable livelihoods. SYS' work is deeply rooted in communities through participatory initiatives under flagship activities such as Dandaro Revasikana (girls' community clubs), Tsoka Dzeshamwari (community development committees), Dare Remachinda (men and boys' forums) and Shamwari (child rights clubs). It has also developed the Tariro Yedu One Stop Empowerment Centre, a safe haven for survivors of SGBV; the Donhodzo One Stop Empowerment Centre, which offers opportunities for teen mothers; Mhoro Shamwari Empowerment Centre, an entrepreneurship hub; and the Shamwari Leadership Hub, which focuses on mentoring girls on leadership skills and encourages them to take up leadership positions in communities and civic spaces.

SYS has been recognised and awarded with accolades such as the Teen Awards (2016), Gender Champions Award (2019), SRHR Champion (2020), Child Marriages Programming Champion (2022) and the NGO Communicator of the Year (2023). It is a member of various networks and coalitions that fight for the rights of the girl child at the national, regional and international levels, including MenEngage Zimbabwe & Africa, National Association of NGOs (NANGO), Girls Not Brides, GBV Network, Working Group on Girls and CIVICUS.

SYS has also been pivotal in the development of the National Action Plan and Communication Strategy on Ending Child Marriage and the Trafficking in Persons National Plan of Action (NAPLAC).

# Tanzania Early Childhood Development Network (TECDEN) (Tanzania)

"The International Day of the African Child commemoration is a significant platform for TECDEN to advocate for and create community awareness on the need to invest in early childhood development. For 2024, at the national level, TECDEN, in collaboration with the Ministry of Community Development, Gender, Women and Special Group (MoCDEGWSG), engaged the media to campaign for the Day of the African Child commemoration theme, while at the sub-national level, it has supported two of its members, Mwanza Youth and Children Network (MYCN) in the Mwanza region and Vijana Pambana Pata Maendeleo Rukwa (VIPAMARU) in the Rukwa region, to engage with regional governments to commemorate the day." Mwajuma Rwebangila , Executive Director, TECDEN

TECDEN , founded in 2000, works collaboratively with the government, other networks and coalitions, the private sector, development partners and other potential stakeholders to influence policies, programmes and practices related to early childhood development (ECD) in Tanzania. Its primary target audience is civil society organisations working on ECD across all 26 regions of Mainland Tanzania. TECDEN currently comprises 112 members, including 53 regular members, 14 strategic members and 45 affiliate members.

TECDEN's objectives are to advocate for policies, laws, regulations and frameworks that improve service delivery to young children through engaging in policy dialogue at all levels, mobilising TECDEN's members and other ECD stakeholders to actively promote ECD, collecting, generating and disseminating information, and strengthening the capacities of members and other ECD stakeholders.

TECDEN's comprehensive range of programmes and activities includes coordinating civil society organisations to contribute to and participate in national ECD meetings, conducting ECD advocacy at national and sub-national levels, providing capacity building and coaching to its members, conducting research and documentation, facilitating civil society organisations to implement the National Multisectoral Early Childhood Development Programme across all 26 regions of Mainland Tanzania, capacity strengthening to members on advocacy and coordination at the sub-national level, and improving systems for ECD performance measurement in the country. These activities are a testament to TECDEN's commitment to early childhood development in Tanzania.

TECDEN is a member of the Africa Early Childhood Network (AfECN), the Early Childhood Development Action Network (ECDAN), and an alliance member of the World Forum Foundation.

# Teddy Bear Foundation (TBF) (South Africa)

"We embrace the profound significance of the International Day of the African Child with utmost reverence. This day serves as a poignant reminder of African children's historical struggles and ongoing challenges, while also honoring their resilience, strength and boundless potential. As advocates for child welfare and education, we recognise the importance of this day in galvanising efforts to protect and promote the rights of every African child. It is a day to amplify their voices, champion their dreams, and reaffirm our collective commitment to creating a world where every child thrives." Dr Shaheda Bibi Omar, Director, TBF

Teddy Bear Clinic, now trading as Teddy Bear Foundation , was founded in 1986 in response to an urgent need for medical examinations for sexually abused children in South Africa.

Child abuse is a highly specialised field of expertise, requiring the highest level of sensitivity, care, and confidence in making diagnoses and subsequent decisions, thereby ensuring the best interests of the child. Over the past 38 years, TBF has grown into a unique, fully-fledged service for abused children. Its mission is to minimise harm and prevent secondary victimisation to children and their families when entering the child protection system by providing expertise, information and support to make their journey a healing one.

TBF's child protection services include kids court support, victim empowerment, counselling, forensic assessments, a support programme for abuse-reactive children, medical examinations, psychological assessments and training. While these encompass TBF's primary services, it also addresses child abuse through an innovative approach, utilising cutting-edge therapies such as canine therapy for court preparation, music therapy and various other expressive mediums to support and heal affected children.

TBF takes a holistic approach to children's health in relation to abuse, working closely with government departments and welfare societies under the Children's Act. This includes medical examinations, court referrals, police involvement or emergency care for at-risk children. It provides multi-level education to empower children about their rights, safe behaviours and risks like bullying, cyberbullying, sexting and trafficking. TBF trains educators, social workers and law enforcement officers and participates in national task teams to influence policy. Its social justice efforts include legal advocacy, such as decriminalising consensual sexual activities among minors and extending statutes of limitations on sexual offences, ensuring victims receive justice and support without further trauma.

# Watoto Watch Network (WWN) (Kenya)

"Today is the International Day of the African Child; we are advocating for more education towards child online protection, which is crucial in ensuring the safety and well-being of children in the digital age." Lillian Kariuki , Executive Director, WWN

WWN is a non-profit organisation that fosters a safer and more secure online environment for children and young people in Kenya. Founded in 2013, WWN endeavours to equip children and adults with the tools and knowledge necessary to navigate the online world securely through a multifaceted approach encompassing education, advocacy and collaboration.

Central to WWN's mission is delivering comprehensive training sessions tailored for various stakeholders, including children, parents, educators and law enforcement agencies. By raising awareness and providing practical guidance on online safety, WWN empowers individuals to recognise potential risks and adopt responsible digital behaviours. These efforts extend beyond formal settings, as WWN actively engages with communities and schools to ensure widespread access to essential information on digital literacy and safety measures. More than 90 000 children have already benefitted from its training programmes.

WWN is the convener of the Child Tech Counties Consortium, an alliance of Kenyan civil society organisations working with children committed to fostering digital inclusion and child online safety. The consortium recognises the power of collaboration and synergy and aims to ensure that all children in Kenya share equally the benefits of digital technology and safety. WWN is also a member of the We Protect Global Alliance, in which it collaborates with esteemed partners such as Meta, TikTok and the Kenyan government to advocate for robust policies and initiatives aimed at safeguarding children online.

WWN's commitment to its cause is further exemplified by its role as the national coordinator of the Global Safer Internet Day in Kenya and as the convenor of the Kenya Children's Internet Governance Forum.

(These profiles showcase the critical contributions of African NGOs focussing on children’s issues. However, this is not an exhaustive list of all such organisations, and many others do stellar work across the continent.)