Africa-Press – Angola. The President of Angola and pro tempore Head of the African Union, João Lourenço, called on Saturday for a firm renewal of the commitment of Member States to the implementation of the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child.
In his message on the occasion of the 350th anniversary of the Charter, João Lourenço argued that only in this way will it be possible to combat the challenges that still affect millions of children on the continent and that require urgent and coordinated responses.
It lamented that harmful practices, such as child marriage and female genital mutilation, continue to jeopardize the lives and futures of thousands of girls, posing a serious barrier to human development and building more just societies.
In his message, delivered by video at the Conference on the Ephemeris that took place in Mazeru, Lesotho, the President also expressed concern with the situation of children involved or affected by armed conflicts.
He criticized the recruitment and use of minors by armed groups, which remains one of the most serious violations of human rights and international humanitarian law.
Recognition of progress
Despite the challenges, the African Union leader acknowledged the “significant progress” achieved by several African States in harmonizing their laws and policies with the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child.
In this context, he mentioned efforts to prohibit child marriage, improve access to education, strengthen the inclusion of vulnerable children and increase social investment.
President Lourenço also highlighted the growing number of countries that have submitted regular reports to the African Committee of Experts and that, in so doing, strengthen collective responsibility in the protection of children’s rights.
Angola reaffirms commitment
During his message, João Lourenço said that the country instituted, in 2011, the 11 Commitments to Children, fully aligned with the African Charter and considered key instruments for the promotion of the rights and welfare of Angolan children.
Joint call for action
The President of the African Union further called on Member States to intensify cooperation with the Special Rapporteur on Children Affected by Armed Conflict, the African Committee of Experts and the African Platform dedicated to the issue, in order to ensure effective implementation of protection measures.
“The future of our nations depends on our ability to protect, educate and empower our children”, he said, adding that these constitute “the greatest wealth and hope of co-protection.
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