The colorful event, held at Zaria Court on Friday evening, opened with an energetic performance by children from the Sherrie Silver Foundation, whose dance reflected the confidence and potential of a generation that has benefited from improved healthcare, education and protection.
The anniversary song was performed by UNICEF Champion Andy Bumuntu and brought to life through choreography by internationally acclaimed dancer Sherrie Silver, alongside children from her foundation. Their performance captured the voices and aspirations of young people determined to shape Rwanda’s future.
Over the past 40 years, UNICEF and the Government of Rwanda have worked together to improve child survival, expand immunization, strengthen maternal healthcare, increase school enrolment, improve nutrition and widen access to clean water and child protection services.
Through the anniversary campaign, UNICEF hopes to inspire renewed commitment from all sectors of society to continue investing in every child’s future.
Speaking during the celebration, UNICEF Rwanda Country Representative Lieke van de Wiel described the anniversary as a tribute to everyone who has contributed to improving children’s lives over the years.
“Today is about celebrating every partner, every family, every community and every young person who has helped shape a Rwanda where children have greater opportunities than ever before,” she said.
She added that she hopes the anniversary song will become part of children’s everyday lives.
“My dream is that children will be singing this song in schools while planting trees, in summer camps, on playgrounds and in their homes. When music becomes part of children’s daily lives, so too can the values of hope, unity and protecting every child’s future,” she said.
The celebration also unveiled several initiatives that will be implemented throughout the anniversary year, including the planting of 40 fruit trees in every primary school across Rwanda in partnership with government ministries.
UNICEF will also engage university students through nationwide competitions and dialogue sessions aimed at promoting children’s rights.
Minister of Youth and Arts Dr. Utumatwishima Jean Nepo Abdallah praised the long-standing partnership between Rwanda and UNICEF.
“For forty years, our partnership with UNICEF has helped ensure that more children begin life with hope and opportunity. Together we have chosen that every child receives healthcare, proper nutrition, quality education and protection,” he said.
While celebrating four decades of achievements, speakers emphasized that continued collaboration will be essential to address remaining challenges and ensure that every child in Rwanda has the opportunity not only to survive, but also to thrive and fulfil their potential.
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