Arise Media 
The Embu County Child Protection Network (ECCPN), the Directorate of Children Services, and other partners are gearing up to commemorate the Day of the African Child, an event celebrated across the continent to honor the 1976 Soweto Uprising and promote children’s rights.
Although the Day is usually observed on the 16th of June every year, Embu County will mark it at Karurumo Primary School in Runyenjes Constituency on June 14th, 2024.
Sospeter Gitonga, the ECCPN Chairman said this year the actual day falls on Sunday, prompting the change to 14th.
“We shall be marking the day on 14th June 2024 to align with this year’s educational theme. Hosting it on a school day seamlessly emphasizes the importance of quality education as envisioned in Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4 and Kenya Education Strategic Plan,” he said.
This year’s theme, ‘Education for All Children in Africa: The Time is Now,’ underscores the urgent need to ensure inclusive and equitable education for every child.
“This is a significant event for us. It reminds us of our commitment to improving the lives of children in Embu and ensuring they have a voice in matters affecting their future,” added Davelyn Mundi, the County Coordinator of Children’s Services.
Faith-based organizations like Kimuri Radio have joined hands, providing resources and airtime to support the event.
The radio, broadcasting on 100.6FM has been instrumental in raising awareness about child rights and advocating for policy changes that promote educational access and quality.
Other organizations partnering with ECCPN include Kenya Redcross, Partners in Arts and Contemporary Development (PCOD), ActionAid, LUMOS Foundation-Kenya, St. John Ambulance, MWRO, and ACK Diocese of Embu.
Over the years, PCOD has partnered with USAWA AGENDA in Embu County to carry out the Foundational Literacy and Numeracy Assessment (FLANA).
The first FOUNDATIONAL LITERACY AND NUMERACY ASSESSMENT REPORT 2023 released early this year will be shared during the Day of African Child.
Other partners are Little Sisters of Sacred Heart (LSSH), Arise Media, Kenya Tenri Society, Maisha Youth, Equity Afia-Embu, Child Welfare Society of Kenya (CWSK), Ministry of Education, and the Ministry of Interior and Cordination-County Commissioner’s Embu office.
Local schools are participating actively, with students preparing poems, skits, and songs highlighting the day’s theme. Security measures are in place to ensure the safety of all participants.
As the day approaches, excitement is building among the community. The Day of the African Child serves as a poignant reminder of the progress made and the challenges in securing a better future for African children.
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