Africa-Press – Botswana. 15 November 2025 marked a significant moment in Botswana. The front of Parliament turned into a lively scene filled with singing, dancing and ululations. Young parliamentarians from Botswana, Lesotho, Zambia, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Malawi, Mozambique, Eswatini and Namibia gathered to honor World Children’s Day. The theme was My Day, My Right, From Promises to Action.
You saw a strong sense of regional unity in the Parliament Chambers. Children from nine countries shared one platform and one purpose. Their presence showed the growing commitment to creating space for young voices in public decision making.
The Chairperson of the Botswana National Children’s Consultative Forum, Aumake Aaron, delivered the keynote address. She praised leaders for expanding participation across the region. She said future commemorations should reflect a united Africa with children who are healthy, confident and empowered.
She stressed that the theme pushes governments and partners to create safe environments for children at each stage of life. She pointed to gains made by governments. She also listed ongoing challenges. These included barriers to education, exposure to abuse, limited access to healthcare, food insecurity, malnutrition and a sharp rise in drug and substance abuse.
She called for stronger law enforcement and harsher penalties for offenders. She also urged investment in community awareness programs, safe schools, recreational spaces, neighborhood watch groups and family level protective services. Her points shaped the debate that followed. Child parliamentarians supported the same concerns and added their own experiences.
Botswana’s President, Advocate Gideon Duma Boko, addressed the gathering. He applauded the children for speaking clearly about the problems they face. He urged governments to respond quickly and act with purpose. He said children should see real change, not promises.
The event closed with an important announcement. Lesotho will host the 2026 Sub Regional World Children’s Day.
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