Crc@20 - Unicef And Partners In Western Uganda Commemorate 20 Years Of The Convention On The Rights Of The Child

CRC@20 Celebrations in Kabarole, Western Uganda FORT PORTAL, Tuesday, 24 November, 2009 - Speaker after speaker noted that this was a unique occasion where stakeholders from various backgrounds came together with principal stakeholders (the children) to discuss issues affecting children. They urged that this should become standard practice. RESIDENT DISTRICT COMMISSIONER, KABAROLE “The children engaged in genuine activities concerning them; they shared fresh ideas and were enthusiastic about identifying viable solutions to their challenges.” MINISTER OF STATE FOR YOUTH AND CHILDREN AFFAIRS, HON. LT. (RTD.) JESSICA ALUPO EPEL Explained the relationship of the CRC to national instruments and policies that create an enabling environment for the realization of children’s rights. She reiterated government commitment to the rights of children. She noted that “matters of children are not discussed by accident but by design”. She called upon all stakeholders to do their bit in ensuring the rights and responsibilities of children, rather than calling for the inclusion of every issue in the curriculum. ASSISTANT COMMISSIONER FOR YOUTH MGLSD, FRANCIS KYATEKA MONDO “We are a reflection of our parents’ efforts during our upbringing. We should therefore strive to raise generations that are better than our current generation.” “A majority of first born children in Uganda are born by accident.” THE HONORARY (JUNIOR) SPEAKER He was totally in charge and discharged his role with ease and a fine sense of humour.

CHILDREN’S RECOMMENDATION To have a children’s representative in Parliament

He gave highlights of the memorandum on CRC presented by children at the national consultative conference in Masindi. He guarded the debating space of the children very well and ensured that their voice was heard.

THE SUBSTANTIVE SPEAKER OF KABAROLE DISTRICT - Alluded to the First Call for Children endorsed by local leaders in Kabarole in 2008 - Noted that among other things so far done by Kabarole District Local Government towards making children’s rights a reality were: * inclusion in the district 3 year development plan * leveraging partnerships with other players especially civil society * upholding and implementing recommendations e.g. supporting Child Protection Committees at sub county and village levels; intensifying advocacy and sensitization; providing budget resources for ACSD. ROMAN CATHOLIC BISHOP OF FORT PORT PORTAL DIOCESE - Children have demonstrated leadership and capability. - Rated performance of the child speaker at 99% while the skits got 90% for their ability to evoke strong emotions among the audiences. - Urged children to stay in school and complete their education. When they hone their skills their potential will be actualized. - Pledged continued love and support for children. PHOTOS & TEXT: EMMANUEL KHABUSI. KAMULI, EDUCATION SPECIALIST, UNICEF UGANDA

unite for children

For once, speakers recognized the role of teachers in developing such skills among learners and commended them for a job well done.