The Republic of The Gambia has hosted the the African Union Commission ministerial retreat of the Peace and Security Council on the protection of the rights and welfare of children in conflict.
The high-level convergence, held at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Center from 4th -5th December2023, discussed the situation of African children in conflict zones as the continent continues to be plagued by instability.
During the opening session, the Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad, H.E Dr Mamadou Tangara, highlighted that the retreat is well-suited to answer vital questions in furthering the rights and protection of the African child.
Honourable Tangara commended the African Union Commission and the various strategic partners for their great efforts in addressing the rights of children in conflict situations and post-conflict recovery.
FM Tangara further stressed that the Republic of The Gambia, as the home of the African Commission on Human and Peoples Rights (ACHPR), has a long affinity to the promotion and protection of human rights, and the rule of law,.
The Commissioner of Political Affairs Peace, Security and African Union Commission Ambassador Bankole Adeoye, praised the collaboration with member states, international partners and civil societies to build an environment on the continent i which every child has the right to protection and shared values.
Ambassador Adeoye further said he is convinced that they will have fruitful deliberations in the course of the sessions towards the realisation of the Agenda 2026, which is not only firmly committed to build Africa fit for its children but equally invest in children fit for a peaceful, secured and fully integrated Africa.
The Deputy Speaker of the National Children’s Parliament of Nigeria, Ibrahim Sunoma, reiterated the innocence and vulnerabilities of children during conflict, war and their voices have been echoed in speeches but empty promises alone cannot heal wounds of the children.
The young activist said this is not a mere gathering of dignitaries but a gathering where actions must be taken. “What we the children expect from this conference are concrete actions that will sow seeds of tangible change,” he said.