Online Reporter
Mukudzei Chingwere in GABORONE, Botswana
VICE President Dr Constantino Chiwenga has called on the Zimbabwean youth delegation attending this year’s regional World Children’s Day celebrations to engage actively with their peers and derive effective youth development insights to implement back home.
In his address, VP Chiwenga said whatever good deeds are being done or are set to be done for children can be impacted and improved upon through peer review and by adopting successful initiatives from others.
He urged the delegation to be proactive participants rather than passive attendees at the international forum.
“Let me underscore that the event presents an opportunity for our children to engage in constructive dialogue with others in the Southern African region,” VP Chiwenga said.
“The children and adults they meet here represent the rich and diverse cultural heritage of our region. It is an opportunity for them to build networks with peers from across different nations.”
VP Chiwenga encouraged the youths to learn about the cultures and traditions of neighbouring countries fostering strong connections for future collaborations.
He reiterated the significance of the day describing it as a platform to champion the rights of children.
Although World Children’s Day is globally recognised on November 20, the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region is hosting its commemorations five days earlier to facilitate greater participation from member States.
VP Chiwenga representing President Mnangagwa will join delegates from Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Malawi, Eswatini, Lesotho, and South Africa.
As a global fixture on the calendar, this day serves as a reminder to leaders about their obligations to children while giving young people a platform to voice their perspectives on critical issues affecting their welfare.
Upon his arrival yesterday afternoon, VP Chiwenga emphasised the importance of Zimbabwe’s participation as the Government works towards enhancing children’s welfare and preparing them for meaningful adulthood.
“While this day is recognised as United Nations Children’s Day, our region has chosen to celebrate it together,” he noted.
“This day is an opportunity for children to interact, come together, and meet peers from different cultures. It is also a time for children to express their needs and expectations to leadership as they are the future leaders of tomorrow.”
The theme for this year’s commemorations is “My Day, My Rights – From Promises to Action.”
VP Chiwenga said this theme is fitting as it serves as a reminder to governments and communities of their responsibility to uphold children’s rights amidst growing regional unity and a shared commitment to the welfare of children.
