Urgent Need for Investing in Children Underscored at Africa Conference on Childcare

Addis Ababa, June 18, 2025 (ENA)— The urgent need for investing in children has been emphasized at the Africa Conference on Childcare that opened in Addis Ababa today.

UNICEF Representative to AU and ECA, Laila Gad, said the future of Africa depends on how we care for the children of the continent today.

According to her, more than 400 million children under the age of 18 across the vibrant African continent are facing challenges of poverty, malnutrition, lack of access to quality education, inadequate healthcare and exposure to violence and neglect.

The children lack access to essential health services, good nutrition and a safe nurturing environment, Gad, calling for decisive action to address the challenges.

 

“Without decisive action, millions of children will be left behind, deepening inequalities and limiting the continents growth potential. As we strive towards the aspiration of Agenda 2063 and the SDGs, it is clear that investing in our children in early years is not optional; it is essential. Early years are the most critical period for children’s development.”

Opening the conference under the theme: “Building Partnership for Accelerating Actions towards Quality and Inclusive Childcare in Africa”, Addis Ababa Mayor, Adanech Abebie emphasized the importance of collaboration and taking meaningful action for the future of African children.

The rights of children in Ethiopia are woven into the national priorities with universal access to primary and secondary education at the core, she said, noting that the city feeds hundreds of thousands of children in public schools two meals a day.

 

Despite these and other efforts, however, the reality across the nation and the continent at large remains severe as hundreds of millions are unable to access quality and affordable childcare, the mayor.

“No single actor can fix the challenges to ensure quality and affordable childcare alone, but together through shared learning we can build a childcare system that reflects our values and meets our needs,” she pointed out.

AUC Health, Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development Commissioner, Amma Twum-Amoah said the wellbeing of children is not a social imperative. It is an economic and moral responsibility that defies the strength and resilience of the society.

 

Across the African continent affordable quality childcare remains a challenge for many, particularly in under-served communities, she added, emphasizing that a strong maternal health system, adequate parental leave and integrated early childhood services are essential to ensuring that Africa’s children get the care they need for their earliest days.

 

In this regard, policy makers and advocates have to hold a professional responsibility to ensure that every child regardless of circumstances has the opportunity that every child has the opportunity to grow in a safe, nurturing and empowering environment.

“AU, in alignment with Agenda 2063 and SDGs, is committed to advancing policies that prioritize early childhood education, parental support and social protection for the youngest citizens. Investing in childcare is investing in Africa’s future workforce, health and prosperity.”

On her part, Africa Early Childhood Network (AfECN) Chairperson Mary Getui said access to quality childcare would enable families to ensure the children grow up in safe, stimulating and nurturing environments.

 

 The chairperson emphasized the need for collective commitment to work at ensuring that African children are given opportunity to thrive and unleash potential in all circumstances.

“AfECN is committed to strengthening partnerships and collaboration in advancing the childcare agenda, and supports all efforts of strengthening and building childcare systems.”