Windhoek: Namibia joined other African nations in commemorating the Day of the African Child on Monday, with President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah emphasising that the well-being of youth must be integral to the development agenda. "On this Day of the African Child, let us prioritise our children's well-being, ensuring their protection, education, and empowerment for them to participate in society, to achieve their dreams and to become responsible citizens," she said in a statement.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Nandi-Ndaitwah said that the commemoration is an opportunity to reflect on the journey Namibia has travelled in child protection, recognising that children are the future of countries. Their well-being and inclusion in the development process are paramount for the attainment of Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want.

The annual event, which honours South African students who participated in the Soweto uprising in 1976, is being held under the theme 'Planning and Budgeting for Children's Rights: Progress Since 2010.' In line with the theme, she noted that Namibia has made commendable progress in terms of designing and funding policies and programmes aimed at advancing the welfare of the Namibian child.

"These commitments are reflected in our healthcare and education system, where the government provides free basic and secondary education and healthcare services to children," she said. The president also commended the Ministry of Gender Equality, Poverty Eradication, and Social Welfare for prioritising the development of early childhood development programmes, ensuring access to quality care learning environments, particularly in rural areas.

Despite achievements, Nandi-Ndaitwah said more remains to be done as children continue to face various challenges, including gender-based violence, child labour, and malnutrition. "I call on all stakeholders to work in the interests of the child by fostering cross-sector collaboration, sustained investments, strategic planning, continued public-private partnerships, and active participation from families, communities, and all other stakeholders," she said.