BY MORRIS NAFU
The Ministry of Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs (MWYCFA), in collaboration with UNICEF and other partners, marked World International Children’s Day 2025 at the Multi-Purpose Hall yesterday.
The event featured a morning parade of student participants from schools in Honiara and surrounding Guadalcanal schools.
The gathering commemorated 30 years since Solomon Islands ratified the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC).
It brought together government officials, development partners, children’s organizations, and young representatives to review advancements in child rights and pledge ongoing dedication to safeguarding every child’s entitlement.
Minister of MWYCFA, Cathy Nori addressed the crowd on the theme “Listen to the Future for Every Child for Every Right”.
She emphasized the need to hear children’s needs, voices, and aspirations with compassion, urging leaders to align actions with divine principles.
Nori highlighted progress over three decades, including the Child and Family Welfare Act 2017 for combating abuse and neglect, the Family Protection Act 2014 against domestic violence, and the National Children’s Policy 2023-2028 as a framework for rights promotion.
She acknowledged ongoing efforts in education, justice, policy, and welfare to enhance access to services, alongside partnerships with civil society, faith groups, and communities.
However, Nori noted persistent challenges, such as limited education and health access, violence, child sexual abuse, labour, early marriages, and climate impacts, particularly in rural regions.
Calling for renewed resolve, she stressed the importance of better coordination, resources, and monitoring to ensure equitable services for vulnerable children and to empower youth in decision-making.
“Every decision we make today shapes the future of our children,” she said, urging action on their hopes and fears.
Nori thanked partners including UNICEF, Save the Children, World Vision, Child Fund New Zealand, and Plan International for their support, pledging collective efforts to create a nurturing environment where every child thrives.
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