Addis Ababa, 16 June 2025 – On the Day of the African Child (DAC), the co-conveners of the Africa Platform on Children Affected by Armed Conflicts (AP-CAAC), H.E. Ambassador Rebecca Amuge Otengo, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Uganda to the African Union and H.E. Ambassador Bankole Adeoye, Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security of the African Union Commission, together with Vice Chair, H.E. Ambassador Nts’iuoa Sekete, Permanent Representative of the Kingdom of Lesotho to the African Union, jointly reaffirm their commitment to advancing the rights and the protection, of every child in Africa, with particular focus on those in situations of armed conflict.

“Armed conflicts continue to devastate the lives of millions of children across the continent. Many are subjected to grave violations, including recruitment by armed groups, sexual violence, abductions, and attacks on schools and hospitals. These atrocities rob children of their safety, education, and future, leaving lasting trauma and hindering societal progress,” stressed the co-conveners of AP-CAAC.

This year’s DAC theme, “Planning and Budgeting for Children’s Rights: Progress Since 2010,” calls for reflection on past commitments and a renewed urgency for action. While Member States have made commendable strides in increasing domestic investments in child protection, education, and health, a significant gap remains between policy and practice, particularly for children in conflict zones.

AP-CAAC urges Member States and stakeholders to adopt child-sensitive planning and budgeting processes that prioritise the needs of children in situations of conflict. Adequate resources must be allocated to ensure access to education, health care, psychosocial support, food security and reintegration services. Strengthening child protection systems and investing in safe learning environments are critical to building sustainable peace and resilience.

As we mark this important day, we call on all actors to transform commitment into action, ensuring every child in Africa, regardless of their circumstances, grows up in a safe, dignified, and nurturing environment. Together, we must build an Africa truly fit for children.

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Dr Isabela Warioba, Partnerships and Child Protection Adviser | E-mail: wariobai@africanunion.org |Department of Political Affairs, Peace and Security | African Union Commission | Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

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