Dowa District Commissioner, Stallich Mwambiwa, has reaffirmed government’s commitment to safeguarding children’s rights in the district.
Speaking on Monday during the commemoration of the International Day of the African Child at Nkhamanga Primary School in Mponela, held under the theme “Planning and Budgeting for Children’s Rights: Progress Since 2010”, Mwambiwa says government is implementing strategies to ensure all children access quality education, regardless of gender, disability and economic background.
“Plans are underway to recruit over 800 primary school teachers to address the shortage of educators and improve learning standards in the district,” Mwambiwa said.
Dowa District Social Welfare Officer Jonathan
Bonongwe urged communities to work together in protecting children’s rights by ending harmful cultural practices that hinder their development.
Bonongwe pledged to ensure that perpetrators of child abuse are prosecuted and rescue those who are in early marriage.
“Currently six cases of child marriages are in court awaiting judgment,” he said
In her remarks, a Form Four student from Mponela Community Day Secondary School Sarah Kamvaunamwali pledged to become a champion for change in her community, advocating for the protection and promotion of children’s rights.
The day is commemorated annually on 16 June globally to reflect, advocate and renew commitment to building a safe, fair and empowering environment for every African child