Monday 2^nd October 2024 - The National Child Development Agency (NCDA) and partners convened the 17^th National Children’s summit that took place in University of Rwanda, Huye Campus.

The summit that was held under the theme “I am the future” was attended by around 2000 children’s representatives from across the country.

Speaking at the summit, the children representative at National level, Asiimwe Sarah recognized the government of Rwanda for the platform where children express themselves and contribute to their development and wellbeing.

She highlighted the role of children in shaping the desired future.

“As children, we are the future leaders in different roles, taking appropriate decisions for children and the country in general. We are police and army officers who will protect country’s security, we are professional farmers who will ensure food security for all Rwandans. We are future pilots who will fly all Rwandans across the world among others.”

According to Asiimwe, attaining this, requires parents to allocate time for children, understand their concerns and befriend them. She requested teachers and mentors to train them on necessary skills that will help them shape their future.

Sarah reminded children on their responsibilities and requested them to thrive for success, discipline and avoid using alcohol, drugs and other reckless behaviors that would ruin their lives.

Speaking at the event, the Director General for NCDA, Ingabire Assumpta said that the summit is a platform for children to contribute on their own development and to remind them on moral behaviors, culture, to care for their nutrition among others.

“One of the reasons behind holding the meeting in this campus is to motivate our children for studying until they complete university”.

She recognized partners’ contribution in interventions that promote children’s wellbeing.

UNICEF Deputy Representative, Min Yuan highlighted the impact of having children’s voice heard in decision making process saying that children and youth have been considered in the National Strategy for Transformation (NST2).

“I believe you are not the leaders of the future; you are leaders of today, your discussion and issues, topics and your views are considered by leaders as well. I remember last year in the same event we discussed about NST2, I am happy to see with your voice, the child development priorities including early childhood development, reducing stunting, learning outcomes, skills development, prevention of violence in children and gender-based violence have been reflected in NST2 list”.

The Minister of Gender and Family Promotion (MIGEPROF), Consolée Uwimana emphasized the role of children in attaining their dreams.

She urged them on avoiding drugs, delinquency, adultery, gambling and peer pressure, however, the minister urged them on constructive behaviors.

“You have to obey parents and teachers, study with ambition, embody discipline and excel in your studies” she urged.

The meeting brought together different officials from government and non-government organisations.  

Children visited Ethnographic Museum in Huye District and held different entertainment, sports and inspiration sessions.

The National Children’s Summit is a consultative forum bringing together child delegates from all administrative districts and sectors, where they exchange views and ideas on child issues in Rwanda.

The forum began in 2004, when children requested H.E. President Paul Kagame to provide a platform for child participation and dialogue with decision-makers and development partners.