“Leave No Child behind for African’s Development” which was localised to read “No Pikin Nor for Lef Behein For Salone E Betteh wan” is the theme that drew guests from various sectors including children to Bo district to commemorate this year’s Day of the African Child on 16th June 2018.

This august event was spearheaded by the Ministry of Social Welfare Gender and Children’s Affairs in collaboration with various partners including the National Commission for Children.

The advocacy event took place on Saturday 16th June, 2018 at the Bo District Council Hall.
Deputy Minister of Social Welfare Gender and Children’s Affairs Mr Mohamed Haji Kella delivered the key note address. In his statement, he said the new direction of the present government is poised to make children the center of development as it is very committed to children’s issues. He added that his government will provide the necessary support and attention needed to change the issues surrounding children in the country.

Statements were made by various key stakeholders all of whom called for concerted efforts and more commitment towards the protection, promotion and enjoyment of children’s rights.

The programme was chaired by Mr Joseph Bendu, Chairman of the Bo district council and co-chaired by a child Josephine Ngegba (newly appointed young female persons representative at the NCC board).

Prior to the advocacy event on 16th June, a National Children’s Conference was held on the 14th June at the Bo District Council Hall. Sixty children (boys and girls) from all 16 districts in the country participated in the event. The purpose of the conference was to develop a Position Paper on major issues affecting children and proffer recommendations that would prioritise their sustainable empowerment.

In a similar engagement, two elections were held on the 15th June at the same venue for members of the Children’s Forum Network and another for the young male and female representatives in the National Commission for Children board.
The following children emerged as the winners for the Children’s Forum Network executive: Mariam Samai – President, Osman Amadu Jalloh –Vice President, Sheka G. Koroma –Secretary General and Michaela Jamina – Public Relations Officers.

Mohamed Barrie went unopposed for the Young Male Persons representative in the National Commission for Children and Josephine Ngegba emerged the representative for Young Female persons.