Addis Ababa, 1st November 2024 – The African Movement of Working Children and Youth (MAEJT) celebrated three decades of commitment and progress in defending the rights of Africa’s working children and youth. In honour of its 30th anniversary, a forum was held at the African Union headquarters in Addis Ababa, gathering representatives from 27 countries, including 25 MAEJT member countries and two observers, Morocco and Tunisia.
The opening ceremony featured a moving speech by Ms. Elisabeth Muyinganyiki, a representative from Rwanda, who highlighted the vision and journey of the movement: « MAEJT has established itself as a powerful voice for working children and youth across Africa. It has been three decades since young workers came together to demand respect for their rights and to make their voices heard. This journey is rooted in our shared vision of an Africa where every child feels safe and their rights are respected. »
Under the theme, « The Resilience of Groups of Children and Youth in a Multi-Crisis Context, » discussions focused on the many challenges facing African youth in a landscape marked by socio-economic, climate, health, and political crises. Senegalese facilitator Ms. Rosalie Diallo expressed MAEJT’s gratitude to its technical and financial partners, including Enda Jeunesse Action, Save the Children, Plan International, and Terre des Hommes, for their unwavering support and commitment to MAEJT’s mission. « Together, let us continue to build an Africa where every child can live in safety, with their rights respected and the means to realise their dreams, » she declared.
The presence of H.E. Minata Samaté Cessouma, Commissioner for Health, Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development of the African Union, underscored institutional support for this pioneering movement. Mrs. Samaté praised MAEJT’s role as a key player in empowering African youth and children, noting that MAEJT’s commitment « demonstrates that African children are not just passive beneficiaries of development policies, but also dynamic agents of change. »
The discussion panels covered essential topics, including the impact of climate change, forced migration, quality education, and the effects of inflation on children. Ms. Muyinganyiki highlighted the importance of African solidarity in facing these crises: « This theme reflects our call for peace and inclusive dialogue for lasting stability, as well as our desire to highlight young people’s strength to overcome the challenges they face. »
The forum also provided an opportunity for MAEJT to take stock of its past achievements, particularly in terms of improving schooling and protection against exploitation. « With support from partners like Enda Jeunesse Action, we have been able to provide a safe and enriching environment for thousands of children and young workers, » said Ms. Muyinganyiki, stressing Enda’s vital role in supporting the movement. Echoing this sentiment, a representative from Enda Jeunesse Action stated: « We have always believed in the power of young Africans to make a difference, and our support for MAEJT reflects this conviction. »
The discussions concluded with a unanimous call to strengthen cooperation between regional actors to build a resilient Africa, where the rights of children and youth are safeguarded. « Together, we have the power to transform Africa and give our youth the future they deserve. Let us continue to fight for every child and young person to dream, learn, and thrive safely, » Rosalie Diallo concluded.
MAEJT’s 30th anniversary not only celebrates the success of past actions but also marks the beginning of a new era of determination. The movement remains committed to supporting African children and youth for future, stronger generations. Aïcha Dramé
Aïcha DRAME
