Staff Reporter
PRESIDENT Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has called for renewed efforts to protect and empower children across Africa, urging governments, communities and families to uphold children’s rights and ensure access to education, healthcare, clean water and safe environments.
In a message marking the International Day of the African Child today (16 June 2026), Nandi-Ndaitwah paid tribute to the children of the 1976 Soweto Uprising, whose protest against apartheid-era policies became a defining moment in Africa’s liberation history.
The President said the tragic killing of schoolchildren, including Hector Pieterson, exposed the brutality of apartheid to the world and highlighted the determination of young people to fight for freedom, dignity and equal opportunities.
Photos: Namibian Presidency
She noted that the children of Soweto were not only protesting against a language policy, but also against a system that sought to limit their future prospects and deny them the opportunity to realise their full potential.
According to Nandi-Ndaitwah, their sacrifice helped secure many of the freedoms enjoyed by African children today and served as a reminder that access to education, opportunity and human dignity was hard won.
She added that the courage demonstrated by the children of Soweto inspired liberation movements across the continent, including Namibia’s struggle for independence, and strengthened the resolve of generations seeking justice and freedom.
Reflecting on this year’s theme, “Ensuring Universal Access to Water, Sanitation and Hygiene for Every Child in Africa,” the President stressed that access to clean water, proper sanitation and hygiene is a fundamental human right and an essential foundation for health, education and development.
She also raised concern about challenges that continue to affect children, including abuse, neglect, exploitation and violence, describing them as unacceptable violations of children’s rights.
“We must speak out against these injustices and work collectively to ensure that every child grows up in a safe, caring and supportive environment,” she said.
Nandi-Ndaitwah described children as one of Africa’s greatest assets, saying investment in children is an investment in the continent’s future.
She highlighted Namibia’s efforts since independence to expand opportunities for children through education, healthcare and social protection programmes, adding that the government remains committed to developing the country’s human capital.
The President also pointed to the Eighth Administration’s policy of subsidised tertiary education at public institutions as part of broader efforts to equip young people with the knowledge and skills needed to contribute to national development.
She emphasised that the responsibility to protect and empower children extends beyond government and requires the involvement of parents, families, educators, faith-based organisations, civil society and communities.
“As we mark fifty years since the Soweto Uprising, let us honour the legacy of those brave young people not only in remembrance, but through action,” Nandi-Ndaitwah said.
She called for the creation of a Namibia and an Africa where every child is safe, educated, healthy, respected and empowered to achieve their full potential.
