In Soweto, South Africa, on June 16, 1976, about ten thousand black school children marched in a column more than half a mile long, protesting the poor quality of their education and demanding their right to be taught in their own language. Hundreds of young students were shot.
To honor the memory of those killed and the courage of all those who marched ,the day of the African child has been celebrated on 16th June every year since 1991, when it was first initiated by the organization of African Unity (African Union). The day also draws the attention to the lives of African children today. During the African Union Heads of states’ meeting of July 1990, it was resolved that June 16th be observed as the day of the African child. It was first observed in Kenya in 1991 and it has since become an annual event.
This year at Gilgil District, the event took place at Gilgil stadium and was flagged off by Rift Valley Director of children Services. Twenty three schools, children’s home, Non-Governmental Organizations and street children’s turned up for the event.
The team for the day was; the rights of children with Disabilities, the duty to protect, respect, promote and fulfill. Presentations dominated the day from the various groups, this comprised of; poems, skits and Songs .
Let’s join hands and ensure that children gets their right.
Shared from;
Community Education and Awareness Desk.