The ministry of gender, youth, and social development in partnership with World Vision Lesotho and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Lesotho will today host the National Children’s Parliament Session at Thaba-Bosiu.
According to a statement issued yesterday, the event will provide a platform where 50 children’s rights advocates will contribute to public debate and influence decisions that affect their lives.
The event will also create a space for key stakeholders, policymakers, and decision-makers to hear first-hand the concerns for adoption in their mandate, focusing on this year’s theme: “Education for All: Challenges Facing Well-being and Development of Children in Lesotho.”
The event is designed to inspire collective action and support for the initiatives and recommendations presented by the children, emphasizing the government’s collective responsibility to invest in the future through children.
The Children’s Parliament is one of the initiatives implemented by government to create a safe, protective, and violence-free environment for children.
The minister of gender, youth and social development, Pitso Lesaoana said they were thrilled to see the voices of young leaders being amplified through “this important initiative”.
“The National Children’s Parliament not only empowers children, but it also ensures that their insights and solutions are heard and acted upon,” Lesaoana noted.
Since its commencement in 2011, there has been significant improvement in service delivery on issues affecting children, as well as considerations, evaluations, and amendments of child protection laws.
UNICEF Lesotho Country Representative, Deepak Bhaskaran said the organisation believes that children have the right to be heard on matters that affect them.
Bhaskaran pointed out that the organisation was committed to promoting children’s active participation and engagement – as resources with unique knowledge of their own and their communities.
It also views children as problem solvers and agents of change who have good ideas that can contribute to innovative solutions.
In addition, he noted, young people provide key input into UNICEF’s priorities, and are also its most crucial partners in achieving results and driving sustainable change.
On his part, World Vision Lesotho National Director, James Chifwelu said as a child-focused organisation, they prioritise the meaningful, safe, and appropriate participation of children and young people.
This is essential for sustained child well-being and for creating democratic societies with informed and engaged citizens, he pointed out.
The Parliamentary Session will be graced by deputy prime minister, Nthomeng Majara, and several ministers. Other distinguished guests include the Chair of Chairs (Parliamentary Cluster Committee), Princess ‘Maseeiso Mohato Seeiso, Heads of Diplomatic Missions, and Civil Society Organisations.
