Children in Congo say no to violence

Celebrating the 34th anniversary of the International Day of the African Child was very unique in Kimbanseke, Kinshasa – Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

 More than 120 children, their teachers, parents and community members as well as national and international organisations, attended a ceremony to remember the hostile environments African children are living in.

The themes of the celebration were: “Planning and budgeting for children: our collective effort in a country celebrating its 50th anniversary of independence” and “Zero children living in Kinshasa streets”.

This celebration identified actions requested by children. Children advocated for a safe environment that protects them from all kinds of abuse and through sharing poems and performing drama, they denounced abuse.

 Kisala Makiese, a child delegate, appealed for the implementation of free and compulsory education for children. She called upon the government to increase the budget allocated to education and pay teachers a reasonable salary that enables them to better support children.

 The mayor of Kimbanseke agreed to disseminate the child protection law within his municipality, as requested by some children.

 Robert Kisyula, World Vision DRC national director, called upon children to value their talents and realise that their future depends on what they are doing now. Bruce Wilkinson, World Vision Southern Africa regional leader, encouraged parents to take care of their children by protecting them and respecting their rights. He confirmed that World Vision will work alongside the government to ensure that children’s rights to education, health, protection and participation are respected.