PRESS STATEMENT FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Urgent Call to Protect Children amidst Escalating Crisis in Goma, DRC

31 January 2025
Maseru, the Kingdom of Lesotho

On the occasion of the International Day of Education 2025, which is being commemorated on ‘AI and education: Preserving human agency in a world of automation’, I would like to reiterate the importance of education in promoting children's rights and promoting a better future.

The African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (ACERWC/the Committee) expresses deep concern over the escalating violence in the Republic of Mozambique following the recent national elections. The post-election period has witnessed disruptions and conflicts that indeed affect children both directly and indirectly. Children bear the heaviest burden in such crises.

Day of the African Child 2024: “Education for all children in Africa: The Time is now”

Children’s Outcome Statement

On this 16th day of June 2024, as the United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child and the African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child, we come together to express our solidarity in the commemoration of the Day of the African Child.

The African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child’s Working Group on Children’s Rights and Business joins the world today in commemorating the 2024 World Safer Internet Day, under the theme, “Inspiring change. Making a difference, managing influence and navigating change online”.

The African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child’s Working Group on Children’s Rights and Business joins the world today in commemorating the World Day against Child Labour under the theme Social Justice for All: End Child Labour.

In 1973, the United Nations General Assembly designated June 5th as World Environment Day to emphasise the importance of  preserving and promoting environmental integrity. Hence, today marks the 50th anniversary of this auspicious milestone, which is celebrated following the recent adoption by the UN General Assembly of the right to a healthy and clean environment for everyone including children.