In a powerful statement, King Mswati III of Eswatini has urged Southern African Development Community (SADC) nations to take a groundbreaking step: involve children directly in the process of reviewing laws that impact their lives. This bold initiative, delivered at the World Children’s Day celebration in Botswana, has sparked a much-needed conversation about children’s rights and participation.
But here’s where it gets controversial… Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla, representing the King, passionately advocated for immediate action on children’s concerns. She emphasized the need to be proactive rather than reactive, a sentiment echoed by the young voices present. But is it realistic to expect children to be involved in such complex legal processes? And how can their voices truly be heard?
The event, “My Day, My Rights: From Promises to Action,” united SADC leaders and children from diverse backgrounds. Among the attendees were Botswana’s President Duma Boko and Eswatini’s delegation, including 10 children, some with disabilities, and the ENOUGH Campaign Ambassador, Hlelo Nsibandze. The children’s participation was a powerful reminder that their perspectives are vital.
The children’s speeches were eye-opening, addressing disability inclusion, school inequality, and teacher preparedness. One child’s plea for accessible community centers as a means of fostering inclusion was particularly moving. These are the issues that matter to them, and their insights should not be overlooked.
President Boko’s response was a call to action, urging global leaders to reevaluate their approach to engaging with children and youth. He emphasized the region’s commitment to leaving no child behind, but is this a promise that can be kept?
As a symbolic gesture, President Boko passed the torch to Lesotho’s Head of Government, marking the transition of event responsibilities. The Eswatini delegation’s journey, from their departure on Friday to their anticipated return on November 16, 2025, symbolizes the ongoing commitment to children’s rights.
And this is the part most people miss… While the event celebrated children’s rights, it also exposed a complex reality. How can we ensure that children’s voices are not just heard, but also understood and acted upon? The challenge lies in translating these discussions into tangible changes in policy and legislation.
This news highlights the importance of inclusive governance and the potential for children to be agents of change. But it also raises questions about the practical implementation of such ideas. What do you think? Is this a step towards a brighter future for children, or a well-intentioned gesture that falls short of real impact?