By Thoboloko Ntšonyane
MASERU- The ongoing political turmoil in Mozambique is reportedly disproportionately affecting the country’s most vulnerable children with widespread displacement, disrupted education, and increasing insecurity.
This ongoing post October 9, presidential elections continue to compromise the future of the country’s vulnerable populations, women and children triggering the Southern African Networks of Early Childhood Development (SANECD) and the Child Rights Network Southern Africa (CRNSA) to issue a plea to the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to intervene urgently.
These organisations have expressed their deep concern over the escalating political unrest in Mozambique and its devastating impact on children.
“The ongoing instability in Mozambique has led to widespread disruption, endangering the lives and futures of countless children. Women face increased violence and exploitation, while children suffer from the trauma of displacement and insecurity. This crisis exacerbates existing vulnerabilities and puts the lives of countless children at risk.
“We urge the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to take immediate and decisive action to address this crisis and prioritize the rights and well-being of children,” reads their joint statement.
This conflict has exacerbated pre-existing vulnerabilities. Reports indicate increased violence against women and the exploitation of children. Displacement has torn families apart, leaving children without access to basic necessities such as education, healthcare, and psychosocial support.
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) highlights that “the first victims of any conflict are always the most vulnerable members of society, our children.”
According to the reports coming from Mozambique, the Constitutional Council confirmed the ruling Frelimo party’s victory in the disputed October elections on December 23, the decision which has seemingly led to widespread protests and pockets of unrest in that country.
Prior to the court’s announcement, at least over 100 people were reportedly killed in violent clashes between protesters and security forces.
Also, the unrest has also resulted in a prison riot in Maputo, where about 33 inmates died, while 1,500 escaped.
Meanwhile, the situation remains volatile in that country.
The African Union (AU), in its Agenda 2063, underscores the importance of “silencing the guns” to achieve inclusive development across the continent. The African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, both oblige Mozambique to protect its children.
SANECD and CRNSA urge SADC leaders to:
urgently address the humanitarian needs of children and families affected by the unrest, including the provision of emergency education, food, healthcare, shelter, as well as the psychosocial support.
The further called for the mobilisation of the diplomatic and regional resources for facilitation of dialogue and a peaceful resolution to the political unrest, and ensuring that the protection of children remains a priority throughout the negotiations.
They further want Mozambique to be held accountable to its obligations under regional and international human rights frameworks, particularly the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, which it has ratified.
The pair also emphasised the importance of collaborating with civil society organisations, including SANECD and CRNSA, to ensure that children’s rights and perspectives are incorporated into SADC’s peace and security initiatives.
“The future of the children of Mozambique and the region depends on the immediate and decisive action of SADC leaders to prioritize their rights and well-being,” they said.