Oshana Governor Hofni Iipinge, says the Day of the African Child serves as a reminder of the courage demonstrated by the children of Soweto who, on 16 June 1976, stood up against injustice and demanded their right to quality education and human dignity.

Iipinge made these remarks while addressing learners and community members during the commemoration of the Day of the African Child at Okaku Primary School in the Okaku Constituency. 

Iipinge said the sacrifice made by the children of Soweto continues to remind Namibians that children's rights are not optional but rather a moral, legal, and developmental imperative for every nation, including Namibia.

He noted that Namibia has made significant progress in advancing the rights of women and children through policy reforms, social protection programmes, education support initiatives, and efforts to combat gender-based violence and violence against children.

Iipinge however, stressed that the progress achieved must now be matched by accelerated investment and implementation of programmes.

"A child's right to health cannot be fulfilled without safe water. A child's right to education cannot be fully realised if schools do not have adequate toilets, taps for drinking and washing hands, and menstrual hygiene support. A child's right to protection is weakened when poor sanitation exposes them to unsafe environments, disease, stigma, and exclusion."

He called on all stakeholders to continue working together to safeguard the rights and wellbeing of children and to create an environment where every child can grow, learn and thrive.

Learners also delivered speeches based on this year's theme.

"My fellow learners we are the future leaders, doctors, scientists and teachers of Africa, the students of 1976 did their part, they won the right to education, now is our turn we can do our part here at school by respecting teachers supporting others and protecting resources," added a learner of Okaku Primary School, Frieda Katoole.