Zoundwogo: The High Commissioner of the Zoundwogo Province, Julien Oudraogo, invited children in Manga on Tuesday to cultivate the values of discipline, patriotism, solidarity, and excellence, on the occasion of the celebration of the Day of the African Child (DAC).
According to Burkina Information Agency, the ceremony was organized by the Zoundwogo Provincial Child Protection Network (RPE), in collaboration with Compassion International Burkina Faso and several grassroots community associations. The event, held under the theme “Equitable access to water, sanitation and hygiene: a fundamental right for every child in Africa”, saw the participation of over 500 children from different localities in the province.
The High Commissioner urged families to be more vigilant and supportive in protecting children from social ills and negative influences. He praised the collective efforts of non-governmental organizations, associations, and state services in advancing and safeguarding children’s rights. He also assured the children that their concerns and grievances would be addressed by the competent authorities.
“We invite you to cultivate the values of discipline, respect, patriotism, solidarity and excellence in order to become responsible citizens in service to the Nation,” Oudraogo stated.
Aime Yamogo, representing the president of the Provincial Child Protection Network, emphasized the importance of ensuring every child’s access to drinking water, hygiene, and sanitation, which are essential for their well-being and development. She stated, “just like education, access to water and sanitation is a fundamental right of the child.”
The celebration provided a platform for children to exhibit their talents and skills through various performances and was marked by acts of solidarity in support of vulnerable families. The Day of the African Child is celebrated annually on June 16th to commemorate the Soweto uprising in South Africa in 1976, where students demanded equal access to quality education and respect for their fundamental rights.