Fatshimetrie, October 26, 2024 (ACP) – A solidarity health march for the protection of children recently took place in Kinshasa, capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo, marking a further step towards raising awareness among the population of the importance of promoting and protecting children’s rights.
Organized by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), this initiative aims to highlight the need for a childhood without violence and to encourage the collaboration of all national and international actors to ensure the protection of children’s rights in the DRC. Ramatou Touré, head of UNICEF’s Child Protection program, stressed the organization’s commitment to continue working alongside the Congolese authorities in this crucial area.
This march, which brought together a variety of participants, including representatives of UNICEF, the government, international partners, community leaders and children themselves, demonstrated the unity of Congolese society in favor of protecting the most vulnerable.
Franklin Kinsweme, Director of Child Protection at the Ministry of Social Affairs, stressed the importance of the existing legal arsenal in the DRC to prevent and protect children from violence, highlighting the crucial role of the “Toyokana” Center as a reception and support point for victims of sexual violence.
The planned extension of the “Toyokana” center to Kinshasa and eventually to the entire national territory is a positive step in the fight against these scourges that too often affect children in the DRC.
Faced with these challenges, the organization of the first National Conference for the Elimination of Violence against Children in the DRC and its involvement of children and young girls in the development of a national strategy demonstrate the collective will to put an end to these injustices.
In conclusion, this solidarity health march for the protection of children in the DRC illustrates the commitment of all the actors involved to build a fairer and more secure future for Congolese youth. By working together and continuing to raise awareness, we can create an environment where every child can thrive and reach their full potential.
Fatshimetrie/UKB