It is often said that children are the future leaders. But for this to happen, they must be protected from all forms of harm that could deter their development. Issues such as rape, pedophilia, female genital mutilation or cutting, street begging, child trafficking, early marriages, child sex tourism, among others, are all detrimental to the well-being of the children.
We, therefore call for more serious measures and the fullest implementation of the child protection instruments in the country in order to protect our kids from all forms of abuses and exploitations.
It is our hope that the sub-regional meeting to be hosted by the country regarding children on the move would help boost our national efforts in addressing this phenomenon.
Protecting children from all forms of abuses and exploitations would no doubt help our young ones excel in life.
The Convention on the Rights of the Child outlines the fundamental rights of children, including the right to be protected from economic exploitation and harmful works, from all forms of sexual exploitation and abuses, and from physical or mental violence, as well as ensuring that children will not be separated from their family against their will.
These remind us all of the importance of protecting children from abuse and exploitation.
Consequently, the government and development partners must take adequate measures to safeguard our children from harm.
