-as President urges them to be innovative
MILLICENT HUNGWE
Masvingo children joined their counterparts from across the country and the region for the historic World Children’s Day commemorations at the seventh wonder, Mosi-oa-Tunya.
The celebrations which were attended by Southern Africa Development Community leaders including its current chairman President Mnangagwa, newly elected Botswana President Duma Boko as well as representatives from other countries was held under the theme ‘Educate and Skill the African Child for Posterity’.
Fifty students from Masvingo, accompanied by two teachers, two police officers, and Provincial Physical Education Schools Inspector Frederick Matavikwa were in attendance at the event where they left an indelible mark with their unique superb displays.
The lifetime event which was held at Baobab Primary School in the premier tourist resort city of Mosi-oa-Tunya from November 15th to 17th, brought together children from seven SADC countries, including Botswana, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
In his keynote address President Mnangagwa urged children to take ownership of their future as tomorrow’s leaders, emphasizing education and skills development as key to shaping Africa’s future.
“Your potential is limitless, and it is up to you to unlock it,” he said.
The event kicked off with a vibrant procession through the streets of Mosi-oa-Tunya City, where thousands of children, dressed in colorful traditional attire, marched to the rhythm of the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services band.
The atmosphere was electric as Junior Members of Parliament and Junior Councillors took center stage, emphasizing the importance of youth involvement in governance and decision-making.
The celebration concluded with President Boko pledging to prioritize children’s demands and work together with them to address their concerns.
“Your demands will be mine to carry, together with you. We have fallen short, and truly we have. I pledge to you that we will intensify efforts to meet the demands placed before us today. We will do so together,” he said.
In solidarity, Vice President Retired General Constantino Chiwenga switched on the blue lights of hope at Mosi-oa-Tunya Bridge, joining the children of Africa in their call for continued attention to their rights.
This year’s World Children’s Day commemoration was a testament to the collective commitment of SADC leaders to empower children and ensure their voices are heard in shaping policies that impact their lives said one junior MP for Masvingo South Alex Mukungunugwa.
