By: Mpho Shelile

Maseru – The Kingdom of Lesotho hosted the 44th Ordinary Session of the African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child, a significant event in the ongoing continental efforts to protect and promote the rights and welfare of children.

Her Majesty Queen ‘Masenate Mohato Seeiso, a staunch advocate for vulnerable children and the National Champion of Vulnerable Children in Lesotho, delivered a powerful keynote address at the opening ceremony of the session.

This session marked the launch of a continental study on the status of children with disabilities, a major milestone aimed at ensuring their inclusion and protection.

Welcoming delegates from across Africa, Her Majesty expressed commitment to advancing the rights and welfare of children not only in Lesotho but throughout the African continent. The Queen highlighted the importance of collaboration between the Committee and member states in addressing the challenges faced by children, particularly those with disabilities.

Her Majesty called for the widespread dissemination of the study’s findings, urging member states to implement best practices to address the challenges children with disabilities face.

As part of the session’s agenda, the Committee will host a two-day Child Rights Forum focused on the African Children’s Charter. The forum is also a preparation for the 35th Anniversary of the adoption of the Charter and the 10th Anniversary of Agenda 2040, set to be celebrated in 2025. Her Majesty reminded attendees of the importance of education for children, reflecting on the theme of the 2024 Day of the African Child, which called for “Education for All Children of Africa; the time is now.”

Her Majesty urged African nations to prioritize and invest in education, emphasizing that access to quality education is crucial for Africa’s future. “When investing in quality education for our children, we are surely changing the current status and working to achieve our aspirations,” she stated, further highlighting the need to ensure that children, regardless of their circumstances, can enjoy their right to education.

Her Majesty also underscored the importance of including children’s voices in matters that affect them, particularly children with special needs. She stressed that only by listening to their perspectives can their rights be fully protected and upheld.

The keynote address included praise for the Republics of Namibia and Zambia for submitting their state reports, which were tabled during the session. Her Majesty expressed confidence that member states would implement the recommendations and concluding observations from these reports to improve the situation of children in their respective countries.

On a national note, Her Majesty proudly acknowledged that the session coincided with a significant milestone for Lesotho—its 200-year celebration since the founding of the Basotho nation by King Moshoeshoe I. The Queen called on the nation to reflect on its history and work towards building a better future for the next generation. She committed to protecting Basotho children by ending all forms of violence and abuse against them.

In her concluding remarks, Her Majesty recognized the children of Africa as the “bearers of the continent’s legacy and hope for the future.” She called on member states, civil society organizations, and all stakeholders to work together to foster an Africa that is truly fit for children.

The session, which saw participation from various stakeholders across the continent, is expected to yield important discussions and decisions that will advance the rights and welfare of African children. Her Majesty’s address reaffirmed dedication to creating a better world for all children and served as an inspiring call to action for all participants.

This 44th session continues the work of the African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child, contributing to the broader vision of achieving an Africa where every child enjoys a safe, healthy, and supportive environment to thrive.