Africa-Press – Eswatini. Stakeholders from government, civil society, and development partners convened in Mbabane this week for a Child Participation Capacity Building workshop focused on strengthening how institutions engage with children in decision-making processes.
Organised by the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office in partnership with UNICEF and World Vision, the workshop highlighted growing momentum toward ensuring that children’s voices are not only heard but actively shape outcomes that affect their lives.
Participants from various sectors explored practical and ethical approaches to deepen meaningful engagement with children. The discussions emphasized moving beyond routine consultation toward inclusive systems where children contribute ideas that influence policies and programmes.
Speaking on behalf of the Deputy Prime Minister, Under Secretary Makhosini Simelane encouraged a shift in approach, noting the importance of creating spaces where children are directly involved in conversations that affect them.
UNICEF’s Chief of Youth and Adolescent Development, Ruben Pages, reinforced the importance of inclusion, stating that young people are eager to participate when systems are designed to welcome and value their input.
The workshop created a platform for reflection, learning, and collaboration, with stakeholders expressing optimism that it will inspire more effective and child-centered practices across institutions.
While participants acknowledged the need for continued progress, the engagement marked a positive step toward building a future where children are empowered contributors to national development.
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