“It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men.” – Frederick Douglass.
Children’s Day is recognized worldwide as a day dedicated to fostering cooperative exchange and understanding among children and taking actionable steps to promote their welfare globally. It’s an annual event that allows children to express themselves and experience happiness during their formative years.
South Saharan Social Development Organization, in partnership with ActionAid Nigeria, commemorated this year’s event, themed “Celebrating Creativity – The Power of Imagination” with community outreaches to Ihenyi and Orokoro communities in Isi-Uzo LGA and Ameke community in Aninri LGA. Stakeholders present include the LGA representative, President-General. Youth community leaders, parents, and teachers.
The children were educated about their rights and encouraged to report any incidents of abuse. Parents were urged to remain vigilant, especially when children exhibit signs of withdrawal or complain about abuse-related issues. The LRP program officer educated the children and parents on the importance of practising good hygiene behaviours and spoke about good environmental hygiene. The children participated in a marching parade, quiz competition, sack race, dance competition and a cultural display.
The team also used the medium to sensitize parents and children on the importance of keeping a clean environment in line with World Environment Day. In a participatory approach, participants identified environmental issues affecting the community. Everyone vowed to keep their environment clean and desist from open defecation, littering, and indiscriminate waste disposal.