Kigali-16 June 2021-On Wednesday, Rwanda joins other African countries to mark the Day of the African Child under the theme: “Isibo, as a pivot to the child development/“Isibo, Igicumbi cy'Imikurire Myiza y'Umwana”. The celebrations were held countrywide at Isibo level to reflect on residents towards their role and responsibilities in child development and protection within their communities. At national level, celebrations took place in the Northern Province, Burera district, Rungagabari sector, where the Minister of Gender and Family Promotion and other officials joined residents of Nyanamo village, Isibo of Abaticumugambi.

In her message, the First Lady HE Jeannette KAGAME tweeted: ‘This year, as Rwanda focuses on the role of the community in promoting Early Childhood Development, we are calling on parents, partners, employers and everyone to continue supporting these efforts geared towards ensuring every child's access to quality education, care, health and protection.’

In line with celebrating the Day of the African Child celebration, the Government also launches a quarterly ECD day to increase awareness on integrated ECD services. Among other activities on this day, all Isibo conducted growth monitoring for children under 5 years old by measuring height and weight, suppling Vitamin A and deworming in efforts to ensure child development. These activities will be conducted for a period of one year.

As the Government ups efforts to promote child development, the Rwanda Health Demographic Survey Report indicates that stunting among children under five years has dropped to 33% in 2020 from 38% in 2015.

The Minister of Gender and Family Promotion Prof. BAYISENGE Jeannette noted: ‘As we celebrate this day, we need to remind ourselves that the role of everyone in ensuring children's development is paramount.’

She urges citizens to continue having open conversations on the root causes of malnutrition and seek long-lasting solutions within communities-Isibo. ‘We should also partake in all interventions that contribute to the child growth including integrated ECD services. Together, let us eradicate malnutrition and stunting among our children because they are the next generation.’ Added Prof. Bayisenge

The Day of the African Child comes as the Government recently in partnership with UNICEF and other partners embarked on a joint parenting month campaign.