{{Kigali, Rwanda, 19 December 2013}} – {“We have gained more confidence and knowledge with every summit” says Alex, 17 of the National Children’s forum during the pre-summit consultations. Since 2004, Rwanda has successfully organised National Children’s Summit to ensure meaningful child participation. As the summits evolved, children are gaining more confidence in expressing their opinions and dreams for the future of their nation. }
The 9th National Children’s Summit kicks off today – where 572 children representatives from all over the country are participating in a one day national consultative event simultaneously in all five provinces.
The representation considers the equity agenda too: children living with disabilities and those from refugee camps also participate in the forums and the national summit.
The children will be providing their contributions to the national priorities: programs and policies as well as influence decision making on issues affecting them.
The theme for this year’s summit is “Children and Self Reliance/Abana n’umuco wo kwigira”. Talking about the theme, Ms. Zaina Nyiramatama, Executive Secretary of National Commission for Children, said, “Self-reliance in children will be explored through the perspective of being responsible and hardworking by carrying out tasks appropriate to their age and adopting the culture of saving.
Children need to grow up to be responsible adults, should learn to feel, think, and act with respect for themselves and for other people. At an early age, they must pursue their own well-being, while also being considerate of the needs and feelings of others.”
UNICEF Rwanda is proud of how recommendations from children summits are integrated into the national and districts planning and implementation. “These forums are appreciated as it results in action. Children speak and Rwanda listens” said Ms. Noala Skinner, UNICEF Representative. “In the last Summit, the Rt. Honorable Prime Minister made a commitment that the summit recommendations would be considered in the planning of all public institutions at both national and district levels.” she added.
The National Children’s summit is organized by National Commission for Children in collaboration with Ministry of Gender and Family Promotion as well as provinces and Kigali City. International development partners that include UNICEF, Care International, Plan Rwanda and CHF International have provided support in terms of human resources and funds towards the organisation of the Children’s Summit.
“We are committed to keep on soliciting your views and opinions on national policies as well as other child rights protection interventions”, stated Ms. Gasinzigwa Oda, Honorable Minister for Gender and Family Promotion to children during the consultations.
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